Designing a Curriculum for Teaching Hermeneutics to Exiled Christian Leaders in Armenia

Abstract

This project is intended to resource persecuted pastors in the Middle East by refreshing Armenia Relief Mission’s (ARM’s) current ministry in Armenia. This process began by evaluating where the conference candidates were coming from through pre-conference surveys, visits, and interviews. The project reached its climax with two virtual three-day seminars in Armenia in October, 2021. One conference trained Iranians in Armenia, the other expat Iranians in Turkey. Participants in these conferences were asked to fill out surveys and rubrics in order to evaluate the impact of these conferences in their respective teaching ministries. Chapter 1 tells the genesis of ARM and introduces the present footprint the ministry has in Armenia and articulates the rationale, purpose, goals, research methodologies, and definitions of the project. Chapter 2 provides an exegesis of three passages of Scripture (1 Tim 4:11-16; 1 Pet 5:1-5; 1 Cor 2:1-5). Together, these passages serve as a basis for the character, conduct, and competency that is to accompany how pastors live, serve, and teach their people. Chapter 3 addresses the need for high-quality theological training for global leaders to be equipped in teaching the Bible effectively. Chapter 4 details the curriculum development process, the pre- and post-conference surveys, and the data collection. Chapter 5 concludes with an overall evaluation of the project as well as suggestions for improvement and further development.