Theological Education
Why ECHO?
The Apostle Paul challenged Timothy to entrust biblical truth to faithful believers who would be equipped to teach others as well (2 Timothy 2:2).
This is the pattern of biblical discipleship: truth received, truth lived, truth passed on.
ECHO is built on that principle. What is learned in one generation of leaders should echo into the next. Through theological education, discipleship, and ministry training, ECHO seeks to create a multiplying movement of faithful leaders who will teach, disciple, and invest in others.
What begins in the classroom should never remain in the classroom. As leaders grow in their understanding of Scripture and theology, that growth echoes into sermons, Bible studies, discipleship classes, small groups, mission fields, homes, and future generations.
What Is ECHO?
The Pulaski Baptist Association is partnering with Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to provide accessible theological education for church leaders across our association. Using Midwestern Seminary’s Contextualized Leadership Development (CLD) model, ECHO brings accredited theological training directly to Central Arkansas.
Participants receive instruction rooted in Scripture, shaped by Baptist conviction, and designed to strengthen both ministry effectiveness and spiritual maturity.
ECHO exists to help churches develop leaders from within. Whether you are a pastor, ministry staff member, Sunday School teacher, small group leader, ministry volunteer, or someone sensing a call to ministry, ECHO provides a pathway for deeper biblical knowledge, theological understanding, and ministry preparation.
Unlike traditional seminary programs that often require relocation or a significant disruption to ministry responsibilities, ECHO is designed for leaders already serving in the local church.
Who Is ECHO For?
- Pastors
- Bi vocational pastors
- Ministry staff
- Sunday School teachers
- Small group leaders
- Deacons
- Church members seeking deeper theological training
- Men and women preparing for future ministry opportunities
Why Study Through ECHO?
Accessible: Receive seminary training without relocating or leaving your ministry context.
Practical: Learn from experienced pastors and ministry leaders serving in local churches.
Accredited: Earn academic credit through Midwestern Seminary’s Contextualized Leadership Development program.
Multiplying: What you learn today can shape the lives of those you teach tomorrow.
Receive Accredited Academic Credit
Students who successfully complete the CLD admissions process and course requirements receive accredited undergraduate credit through Spurgeon College, the undergraduate school of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Up to 36 credit hours earned through ECHO may be applied toward an associate or bachelor’s degree at Spurgeon College.
Students who later pursue a master’s degree at Midwestern Seminary and meet the required academic standards may be eligible for Advanced Standing consideration.
Areas of Study
Biblical Studies
- Introduction to Scripture
- Old Testament Survey
- New Testament Survey
- Introduction to Hermeneutics
Theology & History
- Church History
- Christian Doctrine
- Biblical Theology
- Christian Ethics
- Worldviews
- World Religions
- The Church
Ministry Leadership
- Personal Evangelism & Discipleship
- Sermon Preparation
- Sermon Delivery
- Pastoral Care & Ministry
- Global Missions
- Church Planting & Church Growth
- Christian Leadership
- Church Administration
- Principles of Christian Teaching
- Apologetics
Class Schedule
Classes meet on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-9:00 p.m., beginning September 8, 2026, and concluding December 15, 2026.
Classes will not meet during Thanksgiving week.
Each session will combine biblical instruction, discussion, and practical application as students develop a deeper understanding of sound biblical interpretation and its role in faithful ministry.
First Course: Introduction to Hermeneutics
Learn the principles of biblical interpretation and apply them to real passages of Scripture. This foundational course will equip you to handle God’s Word accurately and faithfully in your study, teaching, and ministry.
Tuesdays • 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
September 8, 2026 - December 15, 2026
No class during Thanksgiving week
Questions?
For more information about ECHO, course registration, academic credit, or future cohorts, contact:
Dr. Jonathan Curtis
Executive Director
Pulaski Baptist Association
