Course Descriptions

Bible
Courses studying books of the Bible cover all of the chapters in the books listed.  The entire Bible will have been studied upon completion of both curriculums (Basic and Advanced Bible Studies).                 

Apologetics & Evangelism
This is an introductory course designed to enhance the student’s ability to witness to a dying world. Alvin Reed’s Introduction to Evangelism is just the resource needed to begin to sharpen the student’s awareness and ability to be an ambassador for Christ. The apologetics portion of the class will help the student strengthen their ability to “defend the faith.”
 
Cults
Cults is a course designed to study the definition, concept, characteristics, and cultic roots in world religions. Dr. Larson’s “Book of World Religions and Alternative Spirituality,” is a comprehensive look at the dark and mysterious world of cults and presents the information in a reliable encyclopedia format.
 

Bible Study Methods
BSM focuses on the art and science of reading (studying) the Bible. A threefold method is taught to help the student gain the skills necessary to properly observe, interpret and apply the Word of God. This course walks you through the writings of Dr. Howard Hendricks acclaimed book, “Living By the Book.” In a simple, step-by-step fashion the author explains how to glean truth from Scripture. This method has proven successful for Bible readers all over the world.

Spiritual Life
This course outlines eleven spiritual disciplines for the Christian life. A book by Donald Whitney encourages us to move from “babes in Christ” to ferocious disciplined Christians with his easy read, yet practical writing. Discipline without direction is drudgery. The old standard, “He That Is Spiritual” is also used and adds the element of Holy Spirit dependence that is vital to the Christian life.

New Testament Survey
This course presents an introduction to the entire New Testament by placing its books, theme, events, and main characters in a historical manner. Undergirded by Dr. Robert Gromacki’s New Testament Survey, students gain a working understanding of the message of the New Testament books without getting involved in technical discussions.  God's purpose, plan, and program throughout the ages as it relates to the New Testament will be clearly demonstrated through this course of study.      

Old Testament Survey
The Old Testament is the historical, typological, and redemptive introduction to the New Testament.  The person and work of Christ is the unifying theme and inseparable subject of all books in the Old Testament. This course allows the student to interact with each Old Testament book in a succinct manner. This course is supported by Dr. Norman Geisler’s “Old Testament Survey. Illustrated with photos, charts, and maps, and written in an easy, informal style, this survey will be enjoyed by all who want to enrich their understanding of Old Testament people and events.

Doctrine          
An introductory study of some of the most vital and practical doctrinal themes of the Bible.  Subject covered are as follows:

Doctrine I:       The Bible as the inspired revelation of God; God the Father; the person and works of God the Son.

Doctrine II:      God the Holy Spirit; Dispensations; Angels; Satan; Creation and fall of man

Doctrine III:     Sin; Salvation; Sanctification; Divine Election; the Members, Purpose, Service and Organization of the Church

Doctrine IV:     History & Prophecy of Gentiles and Israel; Rapture; Tribulation; Second Coming of Christ; Judgment of Angels and Sinners  

Minor Prophets
A study of the last twelve books of the Old Testament.  Each of these prophetic books contains a primary application for the audience of its time and a secondary application to believers today. 

Prayer
Christians have direct access to God through prayer.  Learn how to communicate to God through prayer by considering the necessity, the approach, and the hindrances to prayer.  Also, the types of prayers will be studied through examples in the Scriptures. 

Church History
The history of the Christian church is intensely interesting, dramatic, instructive, and inspiring.  The courses covered are:

Church History I:      A study of the church from birth through the reformation

Church History II:    A study of the different denominations and sects after the Reformation; A look at the African-American church in the United States of America.

Contemporary Issues
America is a civilization in crisis.  The Word of God has answers to the problems of our nation.  A Christian response to homosexuality, feminism, euthanasia, abortion, and other issues will be discussed.

Theology
Theology is 'the very Words of God' (Roman 3:2).  The study of theology is concerned with the collecting, arranging, comparing, and defending of all facts from every source concerning God and His works.

Theology I:      Soteriology, the doctrine of salvation will include, but not be limited to:  What the Death of Christ has accomplished for man; Atonement; The grace of God; Regeneration; and Eternal Security.     

Theology II:     Pneumatology, the doctrine of the Holy Spirit will consider the deity, personality, and various ministries of the Spirit.        

Theology III:    Theology proper, the doctrine of God, will include the study of the existence, revelation, attributes, names, Trinity, and decrees of God.

Theology IV:   Angelology (the doctrine of angels, Satan, and demons) will include the study of the definition, nature, attributes, classification, and ministry of angels.  Included is the focus upon the existence, personality, origin, nature, activity, and judgment of Satan and demons.     

Teaching Methods I
This course will help you to prepare to teach the Word of God by emphasizing subjects covering 'knowing yourself, your purpose, your students, and your subject matter.'  Other topics will include how to develop lesson plans, teaching by impressions and expression; evaluation of students and instructors.

Teaching Methods II
The student will practice the principles learned in 'Teaching Methods I.'

Childhood Education       
A biblical basis for authentic and creative youth work is the focus of this course.  Subjects include a historical survey of youth work; adolescence; organizing, evangelizing, and disciplining youths; Bible study, worship, music, and recreation programs.

Prison Epistles
This course will explore the writings of Paul during his Roman imprisonment. The prison epistles include an exegetical study through the books of Ephesians, Colossian (Prison Epistles I) and Philippians, Philemon (Prison Epistles II).

General Epistles
A study of the lesser-known biblical writers is examined in this course. The general epistles include an exegetical study through the books of James, Peter (I & II), John ( I, II, & III), and Jude. Attention is given to the socio-historical backgrounds, critical issues, and theological themes of these books with application in how to communicate the timeless messages contained in them with relevance for Christians today.