COURSE DESCRIPTION

Human Growth and Development is an interdisciplinary study of human development across the lifespan from biblical, theological, psychological, and pastoral perspectives. The course examines physical, cognitive, emotional, social, moral, relational, and spiritual development from conception through childhood, adolescence, adulthood, later adulthood, and the end of life.

Particular attention is given to biblical anthropology—the theological understanding of humanity as created in the image of God, affected by the Fall, redeemed through Jesus Christ, and called toward spiritual maturity and Christlikeness. Students will examine major theories of human development and critically evaluate their assumptions and contributions in light of Scripture and Christian theology.

The course explores the relationship between developmental processes and faith formation, discipleship, Christian education, family relationships, pastoral counseling, leadership, congregational participation, and spiritual formation. Students will also examine how family systems, culture, socioeconomic conditions, trauma, grief, crisis, and major life transitions can influence human development.

Emphasis will be placed on preparing beginning ministers, pastors, Christian educators, and church workers to understand individuals within their developmental contexts and provide biblically faithful, compassionate, ethical, culturally aware, and developmentally appropriate ministry within an Apostolic/Pentecostal context.