Woodmen
Discipleship Institute
Purpose
As a church, Jesus calls each of us to make disciples. (Matthew 28:18-20).
The word disciple means learner. If we're to be disciples who make disciples, education and
equipping are essential to be faithful and fruitful in the mission the Lord has given us.
The Woodmen Institute desires to serve men and women who want to grow as disciples in their
knowledge of the Bible and theology and want to have this knowledge transform their everyday
lives. The Bible is for everyone. Our goal is to make the Bible and theology accessible to everyone
through transformative learning environments.
The Woodmen Institute focuses on three fundamental aspects of Christian discipleship:
• Christian Story
• Christian Belief
• Christian Formation
In each class, we’ll spend extensive time together in the Scriptures. We'll study the doctrines Christ-followers have held throughout the history of the church and we'll consider together how our
participation in the Christian story invites us into a life of worship and mission.
Courses
Christian Story
This class traces the story of the whole Bible from Genesis to Revelation and considers how it all fits together. It's a deep and compelling story that centers on God’s wonderful plan to save the world through Jesus Christ. The goal of this class is to help disciples of Christ understand, explain and participate in God's grand and true story.
Christian Belief
This class will explore the foundational, orthodox beliefs of Christianity. Together we'll discuss the essential truths that have united Christ-followers throughout history. The goal of this class is to help disciples of Christ understand, explain and apply the core confessions of the Christian to their everyday lives and relationship with God.
Christian Formation
This class covers the essential habits and practices that shape the Christian life. Together, we'll discover the biblical life-rhythms that have sustained and enriched the lives of God's people through the centuries. The goal of this class is to help disciples understand, value, and employ these practices in their own lives as a means of grace and growth in godliness.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Woodmen Institute is designed for anyone who desires to grow in their love and knowledge of
God. Our vision is for every man and woman who calls Woodmen home to participate.
Classes will be held in-person, weekly on Mondays from 6:30-8:30 PM with no virtual
option. Each class runs nine weeks and will require about two hours of homework per week,
compromised of reading and may include written assignments. Course materials will be provided
during the first week. Your attendance and participation are vital as we seek to grow in learning and
community.
Class sessions are comprised of cohort discussion, lecture, and formation exercises. A critical
component of the Institute is participating in a table cohort of approximately eight people. This could
be with people from your Woodmen Community Group or we will match you with a new group. Because
we believe it's important to do theology in community, we want to be in conversation with the
cohort about what we're learning in class. Making a commitment to the cohort is a foundational part of
the learning experience.
Registration opens for Christian Story in August. Class begins in September and finishes in November.
Registration opens for Christian Belief in December. Class begins in January and finishes in March.
Registration opens for Christian Formation in February. Class begins in March and finishes in May.
Core Classes will run from September to May.
Each class will cost roughly $20-$30 depending on class materials.
Have more questions? Reach out to Nick Stapleton for more information.