Seminar in Church Leadership Connects and Equips Leaders Across Continents

HARBINGER INSTITUTE (Online via Zoom)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — September–October 2025 — The Nashville Church of Christ, through its educational ministry Harbinger Institute, continues to expand its global commitment to leadership development with the successful completion of the “Seminar on Church Leadership."

Led by Dr. Shawn D. Mathis, an elder of the Nashville Church of Christ, the eight-week seminar brought together 32 students from across the brotherhood, with participants primarily representing congregations in India and Africa. The course was delivered virtually via Zoom, reflecting the growing global reach of the Church and the increasing use of technology to equip leaders for effective ministry.

Dr. Mathis was joined by co-instructors Dr. Larry D. Mathis, also an elder of the Nashville Church of Christ, and Dr. Eppechal T. Smalls, Sr., an instructor at Harbinger Institute and member of the congregation. Leading together, the ministerial team provided a learning experience that combined biblical principles, scholarly insight, and practical application.

The seminar was designed as part of a broader leadership training initiative to equip elders, preachers, teachers, and other servants of the Lord’s Church for faithful and effective ministry.

Throughout the eight weeks, students engaged in a comprehensive exploration of leadership rooted in both Scripture and sound research. Core topics included leadership theory, strategic thinking, evidence-based leadership, leading change, power and influence, organizational culture, and the pursuit of excellence in ministry. Emphasis was placed on developing “scholar-practitioners”—leaders who combine deep biblical study with practical ministry application.

One of the defining themes of the course was the integration of faith and disciplined inquiry. Students were encouraged to approach leadership as both a spiritual calling and a learned discipline, drawing on scriptural models such as the Bereans in Acts 17:11, who examined the Scriptures daily. This approach reinforced the importance of thoughtful decision-making and careful discernment in all aspects of church leadership.

The seminar also addressed the challenges of leading change within congregations, highlighting the need for wisdom, patience, and strategic clarity. Participants explored how culture shapes congregational life and how leaders can guide transformation while remaining grounded in biblical truth. In addition, the course emphasized the responsible use of influence, encouraging leaders to model Christlike character while guiding others toward spiritual growth.

A distinctive feature of the seminar was its global perspective. With students joining from multiple continents, discussions reflected diverse ministry contexts while reinforcing the unity of purpose found in the Great Commission. The collaborative nature of the course strengthened relationships among leaders and laid the groundwork for continued partnership in gospel work.

Upon completion, participants who fulfilled course requirements received certificates of completion recognizing their commitment to leadership development. More importantly, they left equipped with tools and insights to strengthen their local congregations and contribute to the broader mission of the Church.

This seminar reflects the commitment of the Nashville Church of Christ, through its educational ministry, Harbinger Institute, to the training and development of global church leadership, preparing faithful servants to lead with knowledge, conviction, and Christ-centered purpose.