Adult Discipleship Classes
At Buck Run, we believe theological education belongs in the local church. We are tasked with passing on the “faith once for all delivered to the saints,” (Jude 1:3). To this end, Buck Run offers Adult Discipleship Classes that provide in-depth teaching on a variety of topics related to our faith using three Core Commitments: Christian Story, Christian Doctrine, and Christian Formation.
Adult Discipleship Classes
Join Us Sundays at 10:00 AM
We run several classes simultaneously each Sunday morning, each organized around one of our three Core Commitments: Christian Story, Christian Doctrine, or Christian Formation. Through our tracks and intentional planning, we strive to build a strong foundation of discipleship through our class offerings.
Need help choosing a class? Get in touch, and our staff will be happy to help.
Christian Story
The Bible tells the story of all things. From creation to the New Heaven and New Earth, the scriptures tell a story. Christian growth requires that one understand the major redemptive historical events in salvation history and be able to place him/her self in relation to those events. The study of the Christian story is focused on the contours, themes, and major events as they can be traced throughout the scriptures in order that one might know how the Lord has revealed Himself in this world.
Christian Doctrine
Throughout the history of the Church, Christians have read the Word and formulated doctrinal statements. As we study Christian doctrine, we will focus on the major doctrinal points of the faith. Christian growth requires that one be able to understand and articulate these foundational doctrines.
Christian Formation
With the help of the Holy Spirit, Christian story and doctrine work together to form believers into whole, mature Christians. Christian formation is all about understanding how we might be shaped and formed to look more like Christ. The study of Christian formation includes everything from personal and corporate spiritual disciplines to living life on mission. The goal of theological education is never simply head-knowledge, but life change.
Tracks
For each of our Core Commitments, we offer a set plan of classes that systematically covers that topic over the course of two years. The tracks are a tool to help guide us into well-rounded discipleship. You are free to follow along with a specific track or join classes under different commitments in each cycle.
Choosing a Class
Our Adult Discipleship Classes are usually offered in 6-week cycles. To join a class, simply pick a class you want to attend. If you are following along with a track, those classes will be clearly marked in their descriptions and signage. When choosing an individual class or track, consider what area you need to grow in as a disciple of Jesus in this season.
For example, are you struggling to understand the flow of the Bible? Join a Christian Story class where you’ll learn about the Bible as one big story focused on God. Are you confused about the Bible’s teaching on sin? Jump into a Christian Doctrine class exploring core beliefs. Do you need to grow in practical holiness? Check out a Christian Story class encouraging daily discipleship.
Current Classes
Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering
Leader: Richard Nelson
Location: Room 102
Core Commitment: Christian Formation
If God is good, why is there pain and suffering? We see brokenness and pain all around us on a daily basis. This is often a stumbling block to a secular world that sees this as proof that God is either indifferent to suffering or not strong enough to alleviate it. This class will follow Tim Keller's book Walking with God through Pain and Suffering. Understanding and facing our suffering, allowing God to work through it, and growing in the faith as we minister to others who are suffering, will be themes covered in this 3-week class.
Everyday Gospel Conversations
Leader: PK Spratt
Location: Room 103
Core Commitment: Christian Formation
We have the wonderful privilege and responsibility of sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with others. Yet we all struggle with the fears that can accompany evangelism: “What if I don’t know enough?”, “What if I say something wrong?”, "What if they reject me?”. There are many biblical tools and methods available that can help us tell others about Jesus with clarity and faithfulness. Join PK to learn how we can turn everyday conversations into gospel conversations by drawing 3 circles.
The Upside Down Kingdom
Leader: Ben Pinkston
Location: Room 101
Core Commitment: Christian Story
Jesus begins his Sermon on the Mount with a set of power-packed statements about life in the Kingdom of God. According to the standards of the world they are counter-intuitive and upside down. These blessings show us that Jesus offers a different way of living in this world. One that mirrors his own surprising ministry: strength through humility and life through death. Join Ben in an exploration of the Beatitudes as we seek to walk in the way of Jesus and live as citizens of his kingdom.
By the Water: 1-3 John
Leader: Wesley Noss
Location: Sanctuary
Core Commitment: Christian Story
Gather “by the water” (the section of sanctuary seats nearest the baptistry) to participate in a study through 1-3 John. What does real Christianity actually look like? In a world full of confusion, competing voices, and shallow spirituality, the letters of 1, 2, and 3 John cut through the noise with clarity and power. Written by the apostle John near the end of his life, these short letters tackle timeless questions every believer wrestles with. John writes like a loving spiritual father, urging believers to hold tightly to the truth about Jesus, to reject false teaching, and to live lives marked by obedience, love, and assurance. These three short letters may be small in size, but they carry life-changing clarity for the Christian life. Join us as we learn to walk in truth, live in love, and rest in the assurance of eternal life.
Class Archive
If you miss a week, you can watch a recording of that class below, in the Buck Run App, or on YouTube. Class handouts can also be accessed through each class's video link.