INTRODUCTION TO CHRIS TIAN EDUCATION AND FORMATION

Abstract

For the past fifteen years I have been privileged to hold the very first endowed chair at John Brown University. The McGee Chair of Biblical Studies and Chris tian Formation as provided me, especially in the last half-dozen years, both the necessary release time and the finances to create this Introduction to Chris tian Education and Formation. I have also been blessed with two Shipps’ Scholar Grants (2005 – 2006 and 2008 – 2009), along with a Summer Scholars Fellowship (2008). I thank the individuals who played a part in making those significant awards possible. My work study assistants also played prominent roles in bringing this project together. So I extend my appreciation to Jesse Aughenbaugh’s initial research and to the word-processing/proofreading of Jessica Swysgood, Brock Erdman, and espe cially Jennifer Johnson. An enormous blessing emerged from the opportunity to work with ten colleagues, designated “The Z Ten.” I experienced a taste of heaven’s diversity, unity, and com radeship by specifically collaborating with Faye Chechowich, John Dettoni, Cheryl Fawcett, Jennifer Jezek, Steve Kang, Kevin Lawson, Gary Parrett, Robert Pazmiño, Dave Rahn, and Jerry Root. Many thanks, team! Erin Healy and Bev Browning added their much-needed, excellent advice and editing skills through this challenging project. Three of Zondervan’s personnel, too, contributed through their areas of spe cialty: Paul Engle, vice president and publisher for Church, Academic and Reference Resources; Jim Ruark, senior editor-at-large; and Jesse Hillman, associate marketing director.