​Contextualized Leadership Development (CLD)

Accredited Bible College Classes 

     Through Contextualized Leadership Development (CLD), Spurgeon College at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary partners with the Heartland Church Network to deliver accredited, accessible, and flexible ministry training to unique or underserved environments. Courses in the CLD program are equivalent to college courses offered at Spurgeon College, the undergraduate division of Midwestern. CLD courses are built to serve those who serve in a variety of roles: small group leaders, Sunday School teachers, ministry staff, pastoral residents, missionary team members, bi-vocational pastors, and more. In short, this program is meant for growing disciples and developing church leaders.

     The CLD Program offers a pathway to tuition-free undergraduate credit (1) applicable to a certificate, diploma, or degree (2) for qualified students.

Student Qualifications

   Qualified CLD students must have completed a high school diploma or equivalent, be 18 years of age or older, and successfully complete the CLD admissions and enrollment process. CLD students are designated as “non-degree seeking” regardless of their intention to complete a certificate or diploma or to later apply CLD credit to a degree program (unless they are concurrently enrolled in a degree program at Spurgeon College).

​CLD Diplomas and Certificates

​Admission, Graduation, and Fees
Diploma in Christian Studies
​Certificate in Christian Studies
Certificate in Biblical Studies
Certificate in Pastoral Ministry
  • Registration Fees: CLD students will pay $35 per class in registration fees. Payment can be brought to the first night of class or paid online.​         If paid online registration fee is $38.
  • Transcripts:  CLD students can order transcripts online: Order Transcript
  • Graduation: CLD students must apply for graduation with a Certificate or Diploma by contacting the Spurgeon College Registrar’s Office (registrar@mbts.edu) and paying the required fees to receive a mailed diploma

​Spring 2023 Courses

U-CE 360 Church Administration
​Instructor: Dr. Ralph Lassiter
January 10th, 2023 - May 9th, 2023
Tuesdays | 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM​
Location: TBD

A functional study of administrative approaches and principles with an emphasis on planning, organizing, and evaluating the work of the local church. Attention is given to office, financial, and facilities management.

Students who complete this course will be able to:
  1. Evaluate church meetings, facility management, and financial policies and procedures for effective stewardship.
  2. Explain the biblical and theological basis of church administration.
  3. Employ theological and functional principles for effective stewardship and fruitfulness in the local church.
  4. Equip believers to participate individually and in teams as faithful stewards in the work of the local church.

Instructor Contact Info: pastorlassiter@gmail.com
Additional Contact Info: 402.350.4800
U-HT 450 The Church
Instructor: Dr. Aaron Householder
Dates, Times. and Location: TBD

​A survey of the development of the Baptist identity and polity, with special reference to the essence, purpose, and governance of the New Testament church. Attention is given to the history and structure of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Students who complete this course will be able to:
  1. Evaluate ecclesiological positions and practices in light of evangelical Baptist convictions.
  2. Explain the historical developments and contemporary expressions of Baptist identity.
  3. Employ historical and theological understanding to apply evangelical Baptist convictions to ministry.
  4. Equip believers to participate in the local church and its cooperative efforts.