Establishing a Culture of Soul Care Based on a Baxter Model of Discipleship Counseling at Calvary Bible Church, Joelton, Tennessee

Abstract

ABSTRACT

ESTABLISHING A CULTURE OF SOUL CARE BASED ON A BAXTER MODEL OF DISCIPLESHIP COUNSELING AT CALVARY BIBLE CHURCH, JOELTON, TENNESSEE

Joseph Andrew Miller, D.Min.

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2015

Faculty Supervisor: Stuart W. Scott

This project was an attempt to establish a culture of soul care that is based on a Richard Baxter catechistic model of discipleship counseling. Chapter 1 defines the goals of this project as well as the rationale for the work.

Chapter 2 establishes a biblical and theological basis for a Baxter Model of biblical soul care. This is accomplished by examining the following biblical texts: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Col 3:10-14; Exodus 18:13-37; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Acts 2:40-47; and Acts 16:1-5.

Chapter 3 examines the life, conversion, education, and ministry of Richard Baxter as it pertains to soul care in the twenty-first century. In addition, a study of Baxter’s theological perspectives, his philosophy based on Acts 20:28, and his methodology for soul care are considered in order to facilitate a Baxter Model of discipleship counseling at Calvary Bible Church.

Chapter 4 briefly describes the methodology of other discipleship counseling programs. In addition, it outlines the content of the curriculum developed utilizing the Westminster Shorter Catechism, and details the stages needed to implement a 20-week, one-on-one soul-care to facilitate a Baxter Model.

Finally, in chapter 5, the results of the ministry project reveal the successful outcome. Further, theological and personal assessments are shared.