Catechizing the Members of Creek Road Baptist Church in Sharonville, Ohio, in the Decalogue: A Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

CATECHIZING THE MEMBERS OF CREEK ROAD BAPTIST CHURCH IN SHARONVILLE, OHIO, IN THE DECALOGUE: A MIXED METHODS STUDY

David Bruce Smith, DEdMin

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2019

Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Joseph C. Harrod

This project was designed to catechize the members of Creek Road Baptist Church in Sharonville, Ohio, in the Decalogue. Chapter 1 presents the context, rationale, purpose, goals, and methodology of the project. Chapter 2 sets forth the biblical and theological basis for catechizing Christians in the Decalogue. This chapter presents a translation of Exodus 20:1–17, a brief look at textual witnesses, an overview of the New Testament’s commentary, and an examination of the commandments. Chapter 3 delves into the theoretical, historical and practical issues of using catechesis to teach the Decalogue. A chronological review of selected catechisms is conducted, followed by an argument for podcasting as a tool for the modern-day catechist. Chapter 4 describes the podcast and curriculum development, recruitment of participants, and the implementation of the project. Chapter 5 evaluates the successful results of the project; its strengths, weaknesses, and concludes with some personal reflections.