Training men to fully minister the Word of God
“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” (Deuteronomy 6: 6-7) listen to chapter (Read by Marquis Laughlin. Provided by Sola Scriptura.)
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Curriculum
THE ACADEMIC CALENDAR
The School has a 13-week semester during the summer beginning in the first week of June. Most courses are taught one at a time in concentrated form by visiting professors. Each day a class will meet for two 65 minute sessions. A one semester hour course will meet for one week (5 days) for ten 65 minute sessions (a total of 650 minutes), and a final examination. This is the same length of time that most seminaries require for a one semester hour course. (A seminary semester is 13 weeks plus final exams.) A one semester hour class in the fall would meet for 50 minutes weekly for 13 weeks which is also a total of 650 minutes. In addition to concentrated classes, students who are in school for the entire summer may obtain two additional semester hours in: (1) Public Worship, a seminar class which meets for one and one-half hours weekly, and (2) a study in a book of the Bible which meets weekly for 50 minutes and a final examination.
The fall semester will usually begin on a Monday 10 days after the close of the summer semester and continue for 13 weeks plus one additional week for final exams. A one semester hour class would meet for 50 minutes weekly for 13 weeks and a two semester hour course would meet two times each week, etc.
Holidays: Because we have only two days of vacation during the entire school year (Thanksgiving and the following Friday), and only one week between semesters, we are able to complete two semesters in seven months without any sacrifice of classroom hours.
Summer Semester Schedule
2007 : June 4 – August 31
2008 : June 2 – August 29
2009 : June 1 – August 28
M T W Th F: 8:30 – 9:35;
9:45 – 10: 50 a.m.:
Main Courses.
Tuesday 11:00 – 12:00 a.m.: Study of a Bible Book.
Wednesday: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.: Public Worship.
Fall Semester Schedule
2007 : September 10 – December 14
2008 : September 8 – December 12
2009 : September 7 – December 11
MTThF : 8:00 – 9:05 a.m., 12:30 – 1:35 p.m.: Essentials of Biblical Greek or Hebrew.
Monday & Thursday: 9:15 – 10:05: Hermeneutics, Homiletics or Exegetical-Hermeneutical- Homiletical Process.
Tuesday & Friday: 8:00 – 8:50 a.m.: Greek Exegesis (odd-numbered years) or Hebrew Exegesis (even-numbered years).
Tuesday & Friday: 9:15 – 10:05 a.m.: Hebrew Exegesis (odd-numbered years) or Greek Exegesis (even-numbered years).
Wednesday: 8:00 – 8:50 & 9:00 – 9:50: Bible Survey.
Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00: Teaching, Preaching, Worship Seminar.
Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Chapel
SCHEDULE OF COURSES
Below is a schedule of courses leading to graduation with a Master of Divinity degree for college graduates, or a Diploma for those who have not completed college. This schedule would be for a student entering the summer semester of 2007. If a student enters at another time, the schedule will be taken in a slightly different order, because the first year courses in the Biblical languages are offered on alternate years. The Essentials of New Testament Greek is offered the Falls of 2007, 2009, and 2011. The Essentials of Old Testament Hebrew is offered the Falls of 2008, 2010 and 2012.
Summer, 2007 Semester Hours
| Old Testament Poetry | 2 |
| Church History II | 2 |
| Doctrines of Christ, Holy Spirit and Eschatology | 3 |
| New Testament Theology | 2 |
| Biblical Archeology | 1 |
| Biblical Geography | 1 |
| Church Leadership | 1 |
| Church Evangelism | 1 |
| Public Worship | 1 |
| Book of Malachi | 1 |
| Subtotal | 15 |
Fall, 2007 Semester Hours
| Essentials of Old Testament Hebrew | 10 |
| Greek Exegesis | 2 |
| Homiletics | 2 |
| Preaching, Teaching, Worship Seminar | 2 |
| Prophets and Writings (I Kings – Malachi) | 2 |
| Subtotal | 18 |
Spring, 2008 Semester Hours
| Hebrew Exegesis | 3 |
| Spring Teaching or Preaching | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
Summer, 2008 Semester Hours
| Church History III | 2 |
| Biblical Ethics | 2 |
| Doctrines of the Sacraments, Church & Salvation | 3 |
| Apologetics | 2 |
| Christian Education Leadership | 1 |
| Pastoral Duties | 2 |
| Church Music | 1 |
| Public Worship | 1 |
| Book of Colossians | 1 |
| Subtotal | 15 |
Fall, 2008 Semester Hours
| Greek Exegesis | 2 |
| Greek Seminar | 2 |
| Hebrew Exegesis | 2 |
| Hebrew Seminar | 2 |
| Exegetical-Hermeneutical- Homiletical – Teaching Process | 2 |
| Preaching, Teaching, Worship Seminar | 2 |
| New Testament Survey | 2 |
| Subtotal | 14 |
Summer, 2009 Semester Hours
| Church History I | 2 |
| Missions | 1 |
| Pastoral Counseling | 2 |
| Doctrine of Inspiration, God & Man | 3 |
| Biblical Issues | 1 |
| New Testament Introduction | 2 |
| Old Testament Theology | 2 |
| Public Worship | 1 |
| Book of Galatians | 1 |
| Subtotal | 15 |
Fall, 2009 Semester Hours
| Essentials of New Testament Greek | 10 |
| Hermeneutics | 2 |
| Preaching, Teaching, Worship Seminar | 2 |
| Pentateuch and Historical Books (Gen. – 2 Sam.) | 2 |
| Subtotal | 16 |
Spring, 2010 Semester Hours
| Greek Exegesis | 3 |
| Spring Teaching or Preaching | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
Total Semester Hours 105
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
The following is a description of each course according to its theological category. The particular teacher and dates of each course can be found in the annual program . Prerequisites are indicated where needed.
Biblical Theology
BT 311 Old Testament Survey – Pentateuch and Historical Books (2 Credit Hours)
This is the first of three Bible survey courses. It is a study of the contents of Genesis through 2 Samuel, considering the authorship, dates, purpose(s), significant persons, theology and peculiarities of each book.
BT 321 Old Testament Survey – Prophets and Writings (2 Credit Hours)
This is a continuation of the study of the Old Testament given the previous fall considering the books of I Kings through Malachi, with the exception of the five so-called poetic books, which are studied in a separate course.
BT 331 New Testament Survey (2 Credit Hours)
This is the third and final part of the survey of the Bible. The entire New Testament will be covered. A study will be made of authorship, dates, objective(s), significant persons, theology and peculiarities of each book. Students are required to read the New Testament for this course.
BT 341 New Testament Introduction (2 Credit Hours)
This course is concerned with the background and setting of the New Testament. Its recording, manuscripts, canon, transmission and various translations are studied.
BT 351 New Testament Theology (2 Credit Hours)
Consideration is given to the theology as it is presented progressively in the New Testament. Students will explore the unfolding of Christian doctrine from John the Baptist to John the Apostle. The events of the New Testament will be studied for their theological importance.
BT 361 Old Testament Theology (2 Credit Hours)
Consideration is given to theology as it is presented progressively in the Old Testament. Special attention is given to the progression of redemption in the covenant.
BT 381 Book of Colossians (1 Credit Hour)
From the English Bible a study of the book of Colossians is considered. After examining the authorship, the date of writing, purpose, problems and style, a study of the book itself will be made with an application of its truths.
BT 384 Book of Galatians ( 1 Credit Hour )
This course is a study of Galatians using the English Bible, considering the authorship, background, objective, outline, progression and literary form as well as its message for today.
BT 385 Book of Malachi (1 Credit Hour)
Using the English Bible, a study will be made of Malachi including the authorship, background, purpose, problems, style, etc.; then the teachings of the book will be applied to contemporary living.
BT 391 Hebrew Poetry ( 2 Credit Hours)
In this course a study is made of the various elements which comprise Hebrew poetry. Poetic literature of the Old Testament is studied for its poetic structure and message.
Exegetical Theology
ET 112 Essentials of Old Testament Hebrew (10 Credit Hours)
This is the basic course in Old Testament Hebrew. The text, Biblical Hebrew , by Page Kelley, will be used. After the introductory grammar is completed, students will translate from one of the Minor Prophets and learn how to make an exegetical workbook. Emphasis will be placed upon the practical use of Old Testament Hebrew in sermon preparation.
ET 123 Hebrew Exegesis (Spring) ( 3 Credit Hours)
Students who have attended the seminary during the previous fall and have completed the course in Essentials of Old Testament Hebrew must take this study course. It will consist of the student’s preparing an exegetical workbook on an Old Testament book. The student will write a translation and write an exegetical commentary on the book. The completed workbook is due during the first week of the fall semester.
ET 132 Hebrew Exegesis I (2 Credit Hours)
The prerequisite for this course is Essentials of Old Testament Hebrew or its equivalent. A detailed study based on the Hebrew text will be made of the book of Joel. Students are required to make an exegetical notebook of Joel. There will also be a study of the Hebrew vocabulary, grammar and syntax.
ET 142 Hebrew Exegesis II ( 2 Credit Hours)
This course is the same as the one by the same title given the previous year except that the book of Amos will be studied. Essentials of Old Testament Hebrew is a prerequisite.
ET 192 Hebrew Seminar (2 Credit Hours)
This semi-independent study for seniors will be conducted in conjunction with the Hebrew Exegesis course. Seniors must work on special assignments in Joel and be prepared to give oral reports on their independent research.
ET 212 Essentials of New Testament Greek ( 10 Credit Hours)
Using Ray Summers’ Essentials of New Testament Greek Revised and the teacher’s workbook, students will learn the essential elements of New Testament Greek. While covering the above text, students will also learn the essentials of Greek syntax. After this is completed, students will learn how to make an exegetical workbook based on the Greek text.
ET 223 Greek Exegesis (Spring) (3 Credit Hours)
Students who have been at school during the previous fall and have completed the course in Essentials of Old Testament Greek must take this study course. It is a study of a New Testament book. The student must describe the verbals , make a translation and write a commentary on the book. A workbook containing these must be turned in during the first week of the fall semester. Instructions on how to do this will be given during the previous fall semester.
ET 232 Greek Exegesis I (2 Credit Hours)
A prerequisite for this course is Essentials of New Testament Greek or its equivalent. There will be a detailed study of the book of Galatians based on the Greek text. Vocabulary, grammar and syntax are also studied.
ET 242 Greek Exegesis II ( 2 Credit Hours)
This course is the same as the one by the same title given the previous year except that the book of Romans will be studied. Essentials of New Testament Greek is a prerequisite.
ET 292 Greek Seminar ( 2 Credit Hours)
Seniors will do research on the book of Galatians in conjunction with the Greek Exegesis course and will be responsible to make reports on their findings.
ET 251 Exegetical Competence, M.A.E.T. Thesis (4 Credit Hours)
The Thesis Project for the Master of Arts in Exegetical Theology is the final requirement for this degree. Through this four-semester hour project the student will demonstrate a competence in exegesis in either the Old or New Testament. The student may submit a proposal of his own project in an area of exegetical study that is of particular interest to him.
ET 622 Hermeneutics ( 2 Credit Hours)
Not only are the principles of Biblical interpretation studied, but examples of how they are used are explored by the students.
ET 632 Exegetical-Hermeneutical- Homiletical -Teaching Process (2 Credit Hours)
This course combines many separate subjects which are studied in seminary and puts them into a logical process resulting in a propositional sermon or Bible lesson.
Historical Theology
HT 631 Biblical Archeology (1 Credit Hour)
The study of archeology and its bearing on the Bible is enhanced by slide or video presentations of digs and explanations of the process of research and evaluation.
HT 641 Biblical Geography ( 1 Credit Hour)The principal objective of this course is to show how a better understanding of the geographical environment in which the Bible was written and the Biblical events that took place sheds light on the interpretation of Scripture Texts.
HT 712 Church History I (2 Credit Hours)
The study of church history is divided into three courses which do not need to be taken consecutively. This course considers the history of the church from the New Testament (Acts) to the sixth century. Besides the book assignments there will be research on special topics.
HT 722 Church History II (2 Credit Hours)
The history of the church is studied from the sixth century through the Reformation of the sixteenth century.
HT 732 Church History III (2 Credit Hours)
The history of the Church is studied from the Reformation to contemporary times.
Pastoral Theology
PT 531 Christian Education Leadership (1 Credit Hour)
How should a Sunday School be administered? Various approaches are studied of how to manage a Christian Education program in the light of Biblical principles.
PT 541 Church Music (1 Credit Hour)
A Biblical and historical background of church music is examined. A study is made of some outstanding hymn authors and composers. Suggestions for effective use of music in various phases of present day church work (worship services, Sunday School, evangelism, etc.) are considered.
PT 612 Homiletics ( 2 Credit Hours)
A study is made of the principles of preaching with a special emphasis on expository, propositional preaching. Topical and textual sermons will also be considered. Many of the outstanding textbooks on preaching will be read to determine what elements are essential for Biblical preaching. Tapes of well-known preachers are reviewed.
PT 811 (821, 831) Public Worship I (II, III) (1 Credit Hour)
This is a laboratory class. A weekly worship service is conducted by one of several ministers. After the service is completed there will be a critique and discussion of how the worship was led and the philosophy of worship and preaching. The purpose of this course is to give models which students may use when they prepare worship services and preach.
PT 812 (822, 832) Preaching, Teaching and Worship Seminar I (II, III) (2 Credit Hours)
During this laboratory course students will teach Bible topics and passages, conduct worship and preach, and make an application of their presentation. A critique is conducted after each session, and a feedback form is completed by all present.
PT 813 (823) Spring Teaching or Preaching I and II (3 Credit Hours)
As a means of practically using the Spring Exegesis course, students must write ten lessons or sermons from their Old or New Testament Exegesis and teach or preach them to an audience of their choosing. The lesson plans and sermons are to be turned in the first week of the fall semester.
PT 841 Pastoral Duties (2 Credit Hours)
Some of the duties which are required of a pastor are discussed and practiced, i . e., communion, weddings, funerals, baptisms, church promotion, public relations, filing systems, church bulletins, ecclesiastical relations, youth work, official boards, innovative services and outreach.
PT 851 Pastoral Counseling (1 Credit Hour)
This is an introductory course in pastoral counseling. Different philosophies and methods of counseling will be studied and evaluated in the light of Biblical principles. Students will also role play various counseling situations.
PT 861 Missions ( 1 Credit Hour)
The purpose, philosophy, methods, history and geographical points of missions will be considered. Usually a veteran missionary who is in the United States will be the teacher of this course.
PT 871 Church Evangelism (1 Credit Hour)
This is a study of the Biblical teachings on evangelism and the various methods which are used today. Students will be encouraged to examine what they have done and plan to do in the area of evangelism.
PT 881 Church Leadership (1 Credit Hour)
How to lead church meetings, follow parliamentary procedures, and use The Book of Church Order are skills covered in this course.
Systematic Theology
ST 411 Doctrines of Biblical Inspiration and God ( 2 Credit Hours)
An exposition of the doctrine of the Scriptures with special attention given to the matter of Biblical inerrancy. This course also provides an examination of theology proper, the doctrine of God, His nature, existence, attributes, decrees, creation and providence.
ST 421 Doctrine of Man (1 Credit Hour)A study of the doctrine of man: his origin as a covenant creature and covenant breaker, need of salvation, redemptive state and glorification.
ST 431 Doctrines of Christ and the Holy Spirit ( 2 Credit Hours)
An examination of the doctrine of Christ: His nature, states of humiliation and exaltation, three offices and atonement. This course will also consider the person and work of the Holy Spirit as the third person of the Trinity who applies the redemption purchased by Christ.
ST 441 Doctrine of Salvation ( 1 Credit Hour)
A study of the doctrine of salvation, dealing with calling, election, regeneration, justification and sanctification.
ST 451 Doctrines of Church and Sacraments (1 Credit Hour)An exposition of the doctrine of the Church, visible and invisible, its power, purpose, offices, ministry and the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. The study of the sacraments will explore the biblical and historical teachings of the meaning, means and recipients of the sacraments.
ST 461 Doctrine of Eschatology (1 Credit Hour)
This is an examination of the doctrine of Last Things. Special attention is given to contrasting views of the millennium.
ST 471 Biblical Ethics ( 2 Credit Hours)
Such a study presents the Christian view of value, virtue and obligation, with some investigation of secular theories. Areas explored include the development of behavioral norms. Biblical principles are applied to various contemporary situations for practical discussion to aid students in ethical decision-making.
ST 611 Apologetics (2 Credit Hours)
This is an introduction to Christian Apologetics, a defense of the Christian faith to the world. There is also an examination of the apologetic principles of the New Testament, the early Church Apologists, and early Church Fathers. A survey is made of Apologetics in church history and of contemporary issues in this field.
ST 614 Biblical Issues ( 1 Credit Hour)
This study will compare the differences between various biblical issues and theological approaches. Covenant theology, dispensationalism, views of creation and the charismatic movement will be examined biblically.