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Unchanging Gospel Message, Changing Context: Contextualization Strategies In The Lukan Paul, Irenaeus, And Athanasius, Joy Axelsson

MA in Religion Theses

This thesis examines how early Christian leaders strategically contextualized the gospel within the diverse sociohistorical contexts of the Roman Empire while maintaining theological consistency. Using a comparative synchronic methodology adapted from Michael Gorman, it analyzes five primary texts spanning the first through fourth centuries: the Lukan Paul’s missionary speeches in Acts (Pisidian Antioch, Lystra, and Athens), Irenaeus’s On the Apostolic Preaching, and Athanasius’s On the Incarnation. Each text is analyzed within its literary, historical, and cultural context to identify patterns of strategic constants and variables in gospel presentation. The analysis shows that central gospel elements, such as Christology, monotheism, …

Students In The Gardner-Webb University College Of Arts And Sciences Recognized In Awards Ceremony, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences recently presented awards to students in recognition of their hard work, dedication and excellence.

Session Iic: Religious Studies Presentation 3 - Prayer Benefits In Relation To Mental Health, Emma Beam

Life of the Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference

My presentation is on a research paper I wrote for my Adult Discipleship class in Fall 2024. It discusses the relationship between prayer and mental health by identifying ways prayer can have benefit on mental health, factors that are required in order for prayer to have benefit on mental health, different types of prayer and how they impact mental health, and different mediationg variables between prayer and mental health.

Session Iic: Religious Studies Presentation 1 - A Literary Analysis Of Job 1: 1-12, Crystal Aldridge

Life of the Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference

No abstract provided.

Session Iic: Religious Studies Presentation 2 - The Messianic Expectation Of The Psalms Of Ascents, Brock Nikkari

Life of the Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference

The presentation will look through the history and authorship of Books IV and V of the Psalms and their usage in Judaism. The main focus of the presentation will be on the defense for and against a messianic reading of the Psalms of Ascents. Then it will wrap up with a conclusion and a talking point of further research.

Securing His Future: Ignite Scholar Issa Cogdell Pursues Dream Of Entrepreneurship, Office Of University Communications, Makella Knowles

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Issa Cogdell, a student at Gardner-Webb University, is majoring in computer science and minoring in cybersecurity to fulfill his dreams of financial freedom and entrepreneurship. Originally an accounting major, Cogdell switched to the tech field after a friend shared his successful experience in cybersecurity. His friend knew about Cogdell’s love for computers since his seventh-grade coding and entrepreneurship class, and encouraged him to further develop that interest in college.

Training Small Group Leaders For Effective Discipleship At Ilive Ministries In Pacolet, South Carolina, Kadeem Antonio Ellis

Doctor of Ministry Projects

This project examined the need for discipleship training among small group leaders at iLive Ministries in Pacolet, South Carolina. A four-week workshop incorporating lectures, discussions, and interactive activities was designed and implemented. Evaluation tools included Pre- and Post-Tests, structured observation, and participant interviews. Findings demonstrated measurable growth in confidence, facilitation skills, and discipleship understanding. The project concluded that intentional training not only equips leaders with biblical grounding and practical skills but also highlights ongoing needs for mentoring, refined assessment, and sustainable support, strengthening iLive Ministries’ discipleship culture and offering a replicable model for other congregations.

Gardner-Webb Incoming First-Year Students Form Strong Bonds In Living-Learning Communities (Llc), Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

After successfully introducing Gardner-Webb University’s first living-learning community (LLC) last year, the Division of Student Success in collaboration with the Office of Housing and Residence Education added two more LLCs for the 2024 Fall Semester. Incoming first-year students could choose to participate in one of three LLCs: Faith, STEM or Honors.

Guided By Faith: Annagrace Earwood’S Dedication To Serving Others, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

As an undergraduate student at Gardner-Webb University, Annagrace Earwood’s favorite memory involves an act of service. She was vice president of the Religious Studies Association and volunteered with members at the Washington Outreach Ministry, a food pantry in Cherryville, N.C.

Gardner-Webb, The Magazine 2024, Fall (Volume 59), Noel T. Manning

Gardner-Webb, The Magazine

Gardner-Webb, The Magazine, previously titled The Webb Magazine, focuses on alumni news and campus events from Gardner-Webb College; now Gardner-Webb University. This issue includes articles on the regional economic impact of GWU, Double Dawg Day fundraising records, and GWU community giving. Features include student Makayla Jibben, alumni Tremayne Booker, and professor Dr. Wilson Hawkins.

Through Gardner-Webb Honors Experience, High School Students Engaged In Campus Life And Community Service, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Marnina Krist, a rising high school senior from Fuquay Varina, N.C., was one of 22 students who attended The Honors Experience at Gardner-Webb University this summer. Like some of the others, Krist had toured the GWU campus before, but wanted a chance to see for herself what the environment is really like. The immersive week introduced her to all aspects of life on the University’s campus—from going to class and chapel to dining and volunteering in the community.

Gardner-Webb Students Honored For Volunteerism, Service And Leadership, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Gardner-Webb University students recently received recognition for their volunteerism, service and leadership in campus departments and groups during the 2023-2024 academic year. The awards ceremony was hosted by the Office of Christian Life and Service.

2024 Spring Commencement Ceremony Especially Meaningful For Dr. Sophia Steibel, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

As the procession of Gardner-Webb students and faculty march into Spangler Stadium on Thursday, May 2, the moment will be savored by everyone.

For one professor, Dr. Sophia Steibel, the 2024 Commencement Ceremony will mark three significant milestones. Steibel is retiring after serving the University for 30 years, and she’s been named Professor Emerita in the M. Christopher White School of Divinity. Most importantly, the Brazilian native will reflect on the impactful day 50 years ago when she arrived on Gardner-Webb’s campus for the first time.

Gardner-Webb Honors Experience, July 14-19, Introduces Qualified High School Students To College Life, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

The Honors Experience at Gardner-Webb University this summer invites students to explore an array of topics through innovative learning techniques. Offered July 14-19, the program gives high-achieving high school students an opportunity to experience all aspects of life on the GWU campus from attending classes and chapel to staying in residence halls and eating at the many campus dining options.

Gardner-Webb College Of Arts And Sciences Recognizes Achievements Of Students, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Students in The College of Arts and Sciences recently received awards for their academic achievements in the 2024 Spring Semester. Dean Dr. Robert Prickett and Associate Dean Dr. Jennifer Buckner led the ceremony.

Gardner-Webb Divinity School And Religious Studies And Philosophy Department Host Baptist Women In Ministry Film Screening On April 15, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

The School of Divinity and the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy are sponsoring the screening of “Midwives of a Movement” on Monday, April 15, at 7 p.m. in Dover Chapel. Produced by Baptist Women in Ministry (BWIM), the film features the organization’s Executive Director, the Rev. Dr. Meredith Hare Stone.

Junior Izzy Castillo Crowned Miss Gardner-Webb, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Izzy Castillo was crowned Miss Gardner-Webb on March 24. She also won Most Photogenic and Miss Congeniality. Castillo, of Canton, Ga., is a junior elementary education major. Her talent was a country line dance to Footloose. She received a crown, sash, roses and $300.

Session Iiia: Religious Studies Presentation 2 - Women In Islam: Finding God In The Rubble: A Path For Spiritual Renewal In Evangelical Deconstruction (Graduate And Undergraduate), Abigail Hackworth

Life of the Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference

Analyzing the spiritual journey that takes place during theological deconstruction, and how to minister to people who are deconstructing.

Gardner-Webb Assistant Professor Dr. Wilson Hawkins Receives President’S Early Career Award, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Gardner-Webb University President Dr. William M. Downs has announced the recipient of the President’s Early Career Award for 2024. Receiving the honor is Dr. Wilson Hawkins, assistant professor of physics and director of the GWU Honors Program. Since Hawkins’ arrival to the University in 2021, he has demonstrated productivity in scholarship, creative discovery, and instruction that exceeds expectations. He also continues to pursue professional development and serve the campus community.

Miss Gardner-Webb Pageant On March 24 To Feature Nine Contestants, Office Of University Communications, Isabella Brown

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

The Miss Gardner-Webb Pageant will be held on Sunday, March 24, at 3 p.m. in Dover Theatre. Nine contestants have practiced enthusiastically for an opportunity to shine bright and show what makes them unique. From beautiful dresses to bold talents, these contestants plan to give the judges their best.

Joe Waller Receives Full-Tuition Scholarship From The Gwu School Of Divinity, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

A!er graduating in May 2023 with a psychology degree from Gardner- Webb University, Joe Waller enrolled in the School of Divinity. He is pursuing a dual degree—the Master of Mental Health Counseling and Master of Divinity. Waller, who minored in biblical studies, is the 2023 recipient of the Dean’s Fellow Scholarship Award, given annually by the GWU School of Divinity.

Gardner-Webb Honors Experience Introduces Qualified High School Students To College Life, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

While experiencing life on the Gardner-Webb campus, high-achieving high school students attending this summer’s Honors Experience can learn about writing with sound, the physics of everything, or other topics. More importantly, the program will incorporate scholarship and service by involving students in activities to help neighbors in need.

Gardner-Webb Students Receive Academic And Service Awards, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Gardner-Webb University recently recognized students for academic excellence and community service. Winners of these awards exemplify the University’s core values of faith, service and leadership in their classrooms and communities.

Gardner-Webb Assistant Professor Dr. Erin Cook Receives President’S Early Career Award, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Gardner-Webb University President Dr. William Downs has announced the recipient of the President’s Early Career Award for 2023. Dr. Erin Cook, assistant professor and program coordinator for human services, was selected for the honor based on her productivity in scholarship, creative discovery, and instruction that exceeds expectations.

Session Iiia: Religious Studies Presentation 4 - Reading Rahab Through The Lens Of Colonization, Rebecca Majorel

Life of the Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference

In the biblical narrative of Rahab, Rahab is colonized by the existing imperial powers, the patriarchal values of Israel, and the army of Joshua. In this assessment colonization is evaluated on four criteria: the control the colonizer exerts over material, cultural, symbolic, and religious resources of the colonized. Under these qualification, Rahab is a victim of colonization, and therefore, the decisions made by Rahab in the narrative may be read as acts of self-preservation.

Gardner-Webb Undergraduate And Graduate Students Present Research In Annual Event, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Gardner-Webb University students will present their undergraduate and graduate research on March 4 at the annual Life of the Scholar-Multidisciplinary Conference (LOTS-MC). The event begins at 8:30 in Stewart Hall, Tucker Student Center, with remarks by Professor of English and Director of Undergraduate Research Dr. June Hobbs, Digital Scholarship and User Experience Librarian Holly Mabry and Professor of English Dr. Shea Stuart.

Gardner-Webb Alumnus Selected As Vp And University Chaplain For Christian Life And Service, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

Gardner-Webb University President Dr. William Downs has announced that Gardner-Webb alumnus, Dr. Josh Parrott, will serve as the new Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service. Selected after a national search by a committee representing the Gardner-Webb community, Parrott will begin on Feb. 15.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses And Healthcare Disparities: Understanding The Impact Of Implicit Bias, Marla Lepley-Starr

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Introduction: Disparities in healthcare have long been a challenge for physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, and other interdisciplinary team members. More recently, population health-focused efforts have been implemented to manage everincreasing rates of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, as well as lack of transportation, limited access to care, and poverty (North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services [NCDHHS], 2019). Racism, sexism, ageism, sizeism, etc., are present in the healthcare setting and manifests in implicit bias during care delivery. This can manifest as beliefs, behaviors/practices, and emotions of the provider (Paradies et al., 2014). Research is limited related to the …

2023-2024, Gardner-Webb Academic Catalog, Gardner-Webb University

Academic Catalogs (Combined Undergraduate & Graduate)

2023 - 2024, Gardner-Webb University Academic Catalog. William Downs, president.

Gardner-Webb, The Magazine 2022, Fall (Volume 57), Noel T. Manning

Gardner-Webb, The Magazine

Gardner-Webb, The Magazine, previously titled The Webb Magazine, focuses on alumni news and campus events from Gardner-Webb College; now Gardner-Webb University. This issue includes articles on the launch of the new Bulldog brand, new provost Dr Aubrey, new VP for Athletics Dr. Goodrich, and record setting golfer Zach Byers.