157 courses with the subject BIB, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
A survey of all the books of the Old Testament. The course introduces the student to the basic message of each book, their relation to each other, and their relation to Bible and world history. (Text course.)
A thorough textual study of “in the beginning.” The course provides the early history of men and nations, including the establishment of the nation of Israel. Emphasis is given to God’s creative power and providence in the life of his people. (Text course.)
The study of the books Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The course begins with the birth and call of Moses as God’s lawgiver, including Israel’s exodus from Egypt, the Ten Commandments, and the wilderness wanderings, concluding with the death of Moses on Mount
A survey of all the books in the New Testament. The course introduces the student to the basic message of each book, their relation to each other, and their relations to the Bible and world history. (Text course.)
A thorough textual study of the life of Jesus the Christ. Emphasis is given to his virgin birth, his message and ministry, his crucifixion, his resurrection, and his ascension, all leading to a greater awareness of his greatness as the Son of God and Savior of the world. Moral, doctrinal, historical, and practical aspects of the life of Christ are also emphasized. (Text course.)
The story of the early church in Acts. Attention is given to cases of conversion, the outstanding personalities in Acts, and the missionary journeys of Paul. This is the missions book of the New
Techniques of personal evangelism. Attention is given to preparation for campaigns as well as to personal evangelism in the local church.
An overview of God’s plan for the church in the world. The exploration of the roots of New Testament Christianity in Judaism, with a focus on its planning, prophecy, beginning, development, and crystallization in various cultures. The Bible is used as the basis of discussion. (Text course.)
An introduction to the Old Testament. Attention is given to geography, peoples, customs, and culture. Background information and location is studied for all major Old Testament events.
A survey of Old Testament and New Testament texts revealing God’s plan for world evangelism. Topics addressed include God, mankind, sin, Israel, the nations, Jesus, and the early church. The universal priesthood of believers and their responsibility in carrying out the Great Commission is also emphasized. 285
The history of Israel from its entrance into Canaan until the time of Samuel. The books of Joshua, Judges, and Ruth emphasize God’s faithfulness despite Israel’s repeated failures to maintain their covenant relationship with him. (Text course.)
Exploring the books of I and II Samuel. This course focuses on the kingship of David and its continuing significance. The reign of Saul provides the introduction and Solomon’s conclusion. The greater stress is on David’s remarkable career as Israel’s most beloved king. (Text course.)
A study of the books of Kings, Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. Beginning with the rebellion under Jeroboam, this course addresses the two kingdoms of Israel and Judah and the exilic and post-exilic periods. Outstanding characters include the prophets, Elijah and Elisha, prominent righteous kings of Judah, and the leaders in post-exilic restoration, Ezra and Nehemiah. (Text course.)
The Roman prison epistles of Paul. Study is made of the greatness of the church and the Christian life. (Text course.)
The ministry epistles of Paul. Attention is given to the second coming of Jesus in the Thessalonian letters and to the work of elders and evangelists in Paul’s personal letters to Timothy and Titus. (Text course.)
An introduction to the basic principles that are needed in creating a happy and successful marriage and family life. A biblical perspective is used to consider such topics as sex roles, dating, marriageability, mixed marriages, engagement, sex adjustment, in-law adjustment, financial adjustment, life insurance, divorce, reproduction, family planning, and child rearing. Same as FAM 230.
Introduction to principles and techniques of preparing and delivering sermons. Logical outlining and effective presentation of various types of sermons are emphasized. Prerequisite: COM 140 Speech Communication. Same as COM 231.
An overview of foundational teachings of missions. Attention is given to personal, spiritual, cultural preparations, and to concerns that are related to the work of the missionary, whether at home or abroad.
A study of Old and New Testament women. It includes as well a study of the woman’s role in the home, church, and society. (This course is for women only.)
A course on the fundamental principles of biblical lesson design and delivery for women within the context of biblical authority. Prerequisite: COM 140 Speech Communication. (This course is for women only.) 286
A study of the dynamics of communication across cultural boundaries. Special emphasis will be given to missiological applications. Topics to be considered will include understanding culture, contextualization, preparing culturally appropriate lessons, effective use of translators, and principles for language learning. Prerequisite: COM 140 Speech Communication. Same as COM 236.
An introduction to the role of the youth minister in the church, organization of the youth program, and activities designed for a youth group.
An introduction to computer and internet resources. This course will allow the student to use scholarly tools with confidence. The class is primarily directed toward the Bible or Youth Ministry major who does not plan to take Greek or Hebrew and the application of these tools to ministry.
A study of the varied aspects of missions in one geographical area (continent). The area of focus will be the one in which the course teacher (usually the missionary-in-residence) has done mission work. Mission principles will be applied to this particular mission field.
An emphasis on the English-based exegesis of the New Testament. Attention is given to the historical and grammatical features, development of an exegetical method, and detailed exegesis of selected New Testament passages. Prerequisites: BIB 121 Life of Christ AND BIB 122 Acts of Apostles.
A survey of Christianity from the New Testament period to the present. Attention is given to individuals and movements that influenced the religious development of the period, especially the various departures from the New Testament church, the attempts to reform Western Catholicism, the various attempts to unite the reformers, and the forms of Christianity in the modern age.
An introduction to the fundamentals of New Testament Greek. These courses focus on basic vocabulary, elementary grammar, and rudimentary translation. After completing both courses, students should be prepared to read the Johannine portions of the Greek New Testament.
An introduction to the fundamentals of biblical Hebrew. These courses focus on basic vocabulary, elementary grammar, and rudimentary translation. After completing both courses students should be prepared to read the narrative portions of the Hebrew Bible. Same as BIB 541, 542.
Opportunities for on-the-job training. Students may earn academic credit in various areas of ministry, including the pulpit, education, youth ministry, and campaign evangelism. 287
Opportunities for internship training. Students may earn academic credit under the guidance of a field supervisor in various areas of ministry including local ministry and youth ministry. (Prerequisite for internships in Youth and Family Ministry: BIB 237 Fundamentals of Youth and
A study of biblical and historical sites, select archaeological digs, Middle East cultures and customs, geographic influences on ancient and present Middle East civilizations, and related scripture references.
Taught in the FHU Abroad program only. A study of the rise of the Reformation Movement of the 16th and 17th centuries. Attention will be given to the historical developments precipitating the Reformation, key figures of the movement, and the broad effects upon religious life in Europe and beyond. (Text course.)
A background study of the New Testament. This course seeks to present the religious, social, economic, and political situation of the biblical world during the period 400 B.C to A.D. 100. (Cross- listed with BIB 508.)
A study of the question, “Why?” Specifically, “Why does God allow evil, pain, and suffering to occur?” Special attention is directed to (1) The atheist’s attempt to disprove the existence of God on the basis of evil and pain, (2) Bible insights for believers, and (3) suggestions for coping with suffering. Same as PHI 299A/399A.
A textual study of “the gospel of belief.” The fourth gospel provides an additional portrait of the Christ as the Son of God. (Text course.)
demand. An overview of short-term evangelism efforts. This is a missions course designed for those interested in less than two-year commitments to a field. Philosophy, methods, and strategies of short-term missions and gospel campaigns is evaluated. Attention is given to the cross-cultural teaching experience, integration of work with the local church, and basic church growth principles.
A survey of the biblical texts relating to the Christian’s hope. Millennial theories are considered with emphasis maintained upon the Bible’s teaching concerning the second coming, judgment, and eternity. (Text course.)
The role of women in mission work. This course emphasizes their activities as teacher, personal worker, wife, and mother in the context of cross-cultural living and serving. Attention is also given to single women in the mission field. (This course is for women only.)
A study of the biblical teachings of the Godhead. This course is also a critical examination of contemporary religious views. 288
Selections from the writings of the pre-exilic prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Amos, Hosea, Micah, Jonah, and Nahum. Major prophetic themes are emphasized along with the study of the nature and work of the prophets. (Text course.)
Studies from the writings of the exilic and post-exilic prophets: Ezekiel, Daniel, Joel, Obadiah, Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Major prophetic themes are emphasized along with the study of the life and the times of the prophets. (Text course.)
An analysis of Paul’s two letters to the Corinthians. Particular attention is given to the application of Christian principles to problems and conditions in the church at Corinth and to current challenges to Christian living. (Text course.)
An examination of two of Paul’s theological treatises. Attention is given to the major themes of the gospel message, salvation, and man’s responsibility to God. (Text course.)
A survey of the life of faith. Attention is given to the greatness of the Christ, the superiority of the gospel over the law, and the need to serve God faithfully. (Text course.)
This course focuses on reading and reflecting on the English translation of the entire text of Scripture. After completing this course, students will have read the whole Bible and produced a 13- week study which surveys the text of Scripture in a comprehensive fashion.
A study of the design and delivery of inductive sermons. Attention will be given to the structure and orientation of biblical lessons with an emphasis on narrative or discovery-based thought development.
This course will explore positions and practices of leadership (both positive and negative) from Genesis to Revelation, as well as, recent research on leadership with the goal to identify principles that can be applied to leadership in general and leadership in the church in particular.
The life and work of the preacher. Particular attention is given to the preacher’s individual improvement as a servant of Christ and improved service through preaching, teaching, visitation, and guidance.
The principles and techniques used in organizing and administering the educational program of the local church. The relationship that should exist between the elders, preacher, educational director, and membership is considered along with some attention to curriculum building. 289
A survey of mission efforts from the first century church to the present. This survey will include the mission efforts of the early church as well as those of the Roman Catholic and Protestant churches. Special emphasis is given to mission efforts of churches of Christ since 1900.
An exploration of teaching skills that conform to Scriptural educational principles. Instructional methods appropriate for teaching Bible stories and concepts to children, lesson planning, preparation, and evaluation will be studied. The student will be responsible for buying some supplies for this course. (This course is for women only.)
A study of the covenants chronicled in the Bible with emphasis on God’s scheme of redemption through Christ. Attention is given to God’s covenants with Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and Christ.
A study of the outstanding preachers in the history of Christianity. The course will consist of an examination of their lives, sermons, methods of preparation, and delivery.
A study of adolescent development (intellect, personality, morality, spirituality), curriculum development for youth group, how to teach teenagers, and basic “counseling triage.”
A study of the urban world. The course is designed to help ministers and missionaries better understand the complex structure of the large city and provide the skills needed to plant a growing church there.
A study of introductory principles of correct thinking. Inductive and deductive methods of reasoning are studied and application is made to biblical text and religious problems. Same as PHI 340.
A study of the principles and rules that make possible a correct interpretation of the Bible. Attention is given to examples of legitimate interpretation and opportunity is given for application of principles by students. This course includes a significant writing component.
A study of denominational doctrines in light of biblical teaching. Emphasis is given to the identity, establishment, and organization of the Lord’s church. The course is designed to help the Bible student be more equipped to discuss biblical teachings with denominational members. This course includes a significant writing component.
Examination of the theological and practical basis for the various avenues of worship. This course is designed for those who lead in worship and those who desire to gain more from worship.
A survey of biblical teaching concerning ethical conduct. Various systems of conduct that oppose biblical teaching are evaluated in light of the teachings of the Bible. Same as PHI 344. 290
The application of biblical teaching to the developing questions, issues, trends, and concerns of modern culture. The course will focus on religious and philosophical concerns of the church that Jesus built. This course includes a significant writing component. Prerequisite: 8 hours of earned Bible credit.
Foundational principles for the development of a personal faith. This course will challenge the student to engage the essentials of the Christian belief in God, the Bible, and Jesus Christ as they impact spiritual formation in our contemporary world.
An introduction and overview of the methods, history, and nature of Christian doctrine. Attention will be given particularly to the nature of God, revelation, humanity, Christ, the church, salvation, and last things with emphasis on the biblical foundation for each of these theological categories. This course includes a significant writing component.
An introduction to the practical study of the classical spiritual disciplines as found in Scripture. The course will provide academic resources and practical experience in the disciplines with the goal of lifelong spiritual formation. This will be an experiential course in which significant practice of the disciplines will be expected, accompanied by thoughtful reflection on these experiences.
This course will explore the growing scholarly connection between religion, faith, and family life. Special attention will be given to the impact of religious involvement and faith on marital stability and satisfaction, parenting styles, coping patterns, and transformational processes such as prayer and forgiveness. This course will examine the factors and processes impacting the intergenerational transmission of faith. Students will be introduced to the theory and practice of life ministry. Same as FAM 349.
A study of the principal ideals, doctrines, and religious practices of the American Restoration Movement. Students will critically engage the philosophical and theological core of the movement, beginning with the writings of Thomas Campbell, Alexander Campbell, Barton W. Stone, and Walter Scott, and examine the factors that have affected the unity and diversity of the movement up to the present.
An examination of basic anthropological insights with application to the missionary enterprise. Culture change and cross-cultural adaptation will be addressed, as well as world view, urbanization, modernization, and westernization of less-developed cultures. Same as BIB 550.
A survey of Christian theology beginning with the Apostolic Fathers (roughly 100 C.E.) and ending with the Council of Chalcedon in 451 C.E. Attention will be given to fundamental developments in Christian self-definition, church organization, scriptural exposition, and political engagement throughout the first five centuries of the Christian movement. 291
An exploration of leaders in the Restoration Movement, especially evangelists, educators, and writers. Analysis will distinguish between characteristics of the leaders, what they did, and the impact of their work.
An exploration of various topics that lie at the intersection of men, faith, and families. Attention will be given to issues such as: men and marriage, sexual wholeness, fathering, gender roles, balancing work and family, men and money, male spirituality, mentoring relationships, and spiritual leadership in the family. Same as FAM 360.
An emphasis on translating selected Greek New Testament passages. Attention is given to intermediate Greek grammar, vocabulary building, using the textual apparatus, and application of grammatical principles for interpretation. Prerequisites: BIB 261 and BIB 262 (New Testament Greek I and II).
An emphasis on the translation and exegesis of the Greek New Testament. Attention is given to translation, advanced grammatical features, development of an exegetical method, and detailed exegesis of selected New Testament passages. Prerequisites: BIB 261 and BIB 262 (New Testament Greek I and II) AND BIB 361 New Testament Greek Readings.
The origin, authorship, outline, and religious values of Old Testament books. Thorough study is made of critical problems concerning the Pentateuch, Isaiah, and Daniel. Some attention is given to general introduction to the Old Testament. This course includes a significant writing component.
Selected portions of the poetical literature of the Old Testament. Attention is given to the moral and religious values to be gained from the study of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. (Text course.)
The origin, background, authorship, and design of New Testament books. Attention is given to the synoptic problem and to general introduction of the New Testament. This course includes a significant writing component.
A study of the books of James; I and II Peter; I, II, and III John; and Jude. Special attention is given to the purpose and content of each book. Moral and religious values of the books are stressed. (Text course.)
An in-depth study of the closing book of the New Testament. Attention is given to its background, various approaches to its interpretation, and a careful reading of the contents. (Text course.)
This course considers the perceived antagonism between modern science and the Bible. Philosophical and hermeneutical foundations will be discussed, along with potential solutions to well-known problems such as the age of the earth, evolutional biology, the historicity of Genesis, and other points of contention. 292
An overview of the methods used to plant and develop churches. This is a capstone course that builds on information presented in other missions courses. This course will help the student prepare specific plans and strategies for implementation on his/her chosen mission field. Principles of church growth, time-oriented goals, team dynamics, and planting indigenous churches will be some of the topics addressed. Prerequisites: BIB 200 Bible Basis of Missions AND BIB 232 Missionary Principles and Practices.
The principles, techniques, and procedures for personal counseling. Relevant scriptural principles are utilized extensively.
Study, in seminar form, of significant issues and problems of relevance to the Bible major. Content will vary with the group in the seminar. This course includes a significant writing component.
An examination of the expository method. Emphasis is placed on preaching from the Bible text; opportunity is given for practice, evaluation, and correction. Prerequisites: BIB/COM 231 Preparation and Delivery of Sermons AND BIB 330 Congregational Ministry, OR permission from the department chair. Same as BIB 529.
The history of Islam, the Koran, and basic Muslim doctrines. These teachings will be compared and contrasted with Bible doctrine. This is a study of evangelism among Muslims.
A study of the roles of the family, the church, and the youth minister in the lives of adolescents. The class builds the case for a family-based youth ministry model and gives practical tips on how to support families in a congregational setting. This course discusses the inner-workings of a congregation from the youth and family minister’s perspective. The class is also designed to prepare the student for graduation (including interview skills, resume preparation, leadership principles, etc.).
To enable ministerial students to think critically. The focus is on equipping students with the logical tools to help them to identify and evaluate evidence that leads to conclusions that are proposed as being true, to use these same tools to identify logical fallacies, to aid them in communicating their beliefs clearly and accurately through critical thinking, and to aid in decision making that will glorify God and promote His kingdom.
The study of world religions. These include: Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Shintoism, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The origin, historical development, and major doctrines of each religion are studied. This course includes a significant writing component.
An examination of evidences that prove the Christian faith is from God. Attention is given to systems of thought that oppose the Christian faith, and a response to each is offered. The arguments for the existence of God, the inspiration of the Bible, and the deity of Jesus are considered in detail. This course includes a significant writing component. 293
Politics, society, culture, philosophies, and religions of the Greco–Roman world of the time of Christ. Attention is given to backgrounds of early Christianity, history and archeology from the second century B.C. to the second century A.D. This course includes a significant writing component.
An exploration of value issues and opportunities for further learning in the liberal arts and sciences. This course will focus on Christian perspectives in value questions that the graduate will confront in art, music, literature, economics, science, politics, and other related areas. Prerequisite: Senior standing. Same as HUM 495.
See “Academics: Courses Available in All Departments.”
A study of the Dead Sea Scrolls in their historical, literary, and cultural context. Special attention will be given to Jewish sectarianism, biblical text, canon, interpretation, and early Christian backgrounds.
This course seeks to present an introduction to the religious, social, economic, and political situation of the biblical world during the period 400 BC–100 BC.
A study of selections from the writings of the pre-exilic prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Amos, Hosea, Micah, Jonah, and Nahum. Major prophetic themes are emphasized along with the study of the nature and work of the prophets. (Text course.)
Studies in the text of the exilic and post-exilic prophets: Ezekiel, Daniel, Joel, Obadiah, Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. The cultural and theological impact of the exile is emphasized, along with the historical and theological backgrounds of the prophets. (Text course.)
A preliminary to the Law of Moses, Genesis introduces the entire redemptive covenant message of Scripture. This Old Testament course probes the text and theology of this crucial book as foundational for understanding the life and thought of the ancient Hebrews. (Text course.)
An overview of the themes and theology of the books of Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon followed by exegesis of select passages from each book. Special attention is given to the poetic nature of this literature, as well as to its relationship to cognate literature from the ancient Near East. (Text course.)
This Old Testament text study probes the historical significance and the practical relevance of the book of Job. Special emphasis is given to the sovereignty of God and to the problem of suffering. (Text course.) 294
A systematic study of Matthew, Mark and Luke. In addition to exploring the purpose, life, teaching, death, and resurrection of Jesus; attention will be given to source theories and authorship, issues related to similarities and discrepancies between the accounts, the unique purpose of each account, and application of the story of Jesus to the 21st century world and church. (Text course.)
The major introductory questions to the Gospel of John will be discussed. The seminar will focus on an in-depth study of key passages. Applications for the 21st century minister will be emphasized. (Text course.)
Study will be given to the background of the epistles and then verse-by-verse exegesis will be done with special attention to problems like the second coming of Christ. (Text course.)
Emphasis will be placed on the authorship and the background of the epistles and then a verse-by- verse exegesis will be done with attention to the “false teachers” and other such problems mentioned in the epistles. (Text course.)
Study will be given to the background of the epistles and then a verse-by-verse exegesis will be done with special attention to problems like the Lord’s Supper, the woman’s veil, the resurrection, etc. (Text course.)
The course will examine the life, thought, work, and influence of Paul of Tarsus through a study of primary literature (his own letters) and secondary literature (letters about him; i.e., Acts of the Apostles). It will especially be concerned with placing Paul, the communities he addressed, and the literature by or related to him within their religious and social-historical contexts in the Greco– Roman world. (Text course.)
Introductory matters, including questions of chronology, destination, audience, and occasion will be treated. The student will be led through an exegesis of selected passages, consideration of difficult texts, and attention to the teaching of the Gospel, salvation, and man's responsibility to God as presented in this epistle. (Text course.)
An exegetical seminar in Acts of the Apostles. Students will be introduced to the major historical, literary, and theological issues related to the contemporary study of Acts. Students will research, write, and discuss exegetical projects applying contemporary scholarship in the interpretation of the text. (Text course.)
A verse-by-verse exegesis of the letter to the Hebrews. Attention is given to the superiority of Christ, the superiority of the New Covenant over the Old Covenant, and the need to serve God faithfully. (Text course.) 295
A thorough study of the closing book of the New Testament. Special attention is given to the first century background, to modern interpretive approaches, and to a careful reading of the book’s contents. (Text course.)
An examination of communication as it is employed in ministry. Attention will be given to interpersonal and group dynamics, written correspondence and publications, use of media, and use of technology in church settings.
The preparation and presentation of topical, textual, and expository sermons in the context of local preaching. Training will include preparation for weddings, funerals, and speaking for special occasions.
The origin, background, authorship, theology, and design of New Testament books with some special attention to biblical criticism.
Politics, society, culture, philosophies, and religions of the Greco–Roman world of the time of Christ. Attention is given to backgrounds of early Christianity, history, and archeology from the second century B.C. to the second century A.D.
Study is made of the expository method; emphasis is placed on preaching from the Bible text; opportunity is given for practice, evaluation, and correction. Same as BIB 435.
A study of the structure and flow of inductive preaching. Attention will be given to developing and presenting lessons which lead audiences to discovery, including narrative, and other plot-oriented structures.
This course includes a study of forms, vocabulary, elementary syntax and it also includes reading/translation of some of the less difficult books of the New Testament.
A continuation of BIB 531. Prerequisite: BIB 531 Elementary Greek I.
Readings in selected books of the New Testament (A=John; B=principally from Paul). Different New Testament books will be rotated each semester so that the student may take the course a second time as an elective. Emphasis is on vocabulary and grammar and development of facility of reading. Prerequisites: BIB 531 and BIB 532 (Elementary Greek I and II).
Work on exegeting even more difficult passages of the New Testament by emphasis on history, methods, and tools of New Testament exegesis. Prerequisites: BIB 531 and BIB 532 (Elementary Greek I and II) AND BIB 533 Greek Readings. 296
The development of family enrichment programs with a view to ministering to the needs of each family. It will also teach the student how to get each family involved in the life and activity of the congregation.
Current theories and practices in pastoral counseling are needed by ministers and clergypersons, church leaders, and Christian counselors. Topics that have special application to a church or faith- based clinical setting will be pursued, e.g., pastoral diagnosis and assessment, basic pastoral counseling skills, marital and family counseling (including abuse, infidelity, and divorce), counseling in the hospital, anger and conflict management, crisis counseling, spiritual disorders, pastoral therapy ethics, and referral procedures. Pastoral counseling role-plays will be facilitated to practice and develop stronger pastoral therapy skills. Same as COU 536.
The origin, background, authorship, theology, and design of Old Testament books with special attention to problems of biblical criticism.
Exploration of the roots of New Testament Christianity in Judaism, its planning, prophecy, beginning, development, and crystallization in various cultures is the focus. The course is designed to give an overview of God's plan for the church in the world. Students in biblical programs will present and defend the results of their assigned research projects on major themes central to living in the modern/post-modern world.
An introduction to the fundamentals of biblical Hebrew. These courses focus on basic vocabulary, elementary grammar, and rudimentary translation. After completing both courses students should be prepared to read the narrative portions of the Hebrew Bible. Same as BIB 263, 264.
A study in the translation and exegesis of select narrative and poetic passages from the Hebrew Bible. Special attention is given to advanced Hebrew syntax and its application to Old Testament interpretation. Prerequisites: BIB 541 and 542 (Elementary Hebrew I and II).
Work on exegeting even more difficult passages of the Old Testament by emphasis on history, methods, and tools of Old Testament exegesis. Prerequisites: BIB 541 and BIB 542 (Elementary Hebrew I and II) AND BIB 543 Hebrew Readings.
Leadership principles from the business world and from Scripture applied to the church, qualifications of effective spiritual leaders and methods of developing them, and consideration of the urgency of developing leaders.
Attention to the principles used to develop and strengthen the education program of the church. Goals, organization, curriculum, facilities, and teachers are major units of study that are included. 297
The biblical basis of missions, its practice in history, in Catholicism, in Protestantism, and in churches of Christ. The practical principles which need to be mastered to be effective in missions, and anthropological/cultural aspects of mission work.
An examination of the critical issues involved in presenting and applying the Gospel in other cultural contexts. Particular emphasis will be given to balancing faithfulness to the biblical text with meaningfulness within culture.
An examination of basic anthropological insights with application to the missionary enterprise. Culture change and cross-cultural adaptation will be addressed, as well as world view, urbanization, modernization, and westernization of less-developed cultures. Same as BIB 351.
A survey of the history and beliefs of the major world religions, with a special emphasis on their practice in an increasingly diverse American landscape. Special attention will also be given to missiological principles for more effective Christian evangelism.
A study of contemporary theories in philosophical ethics with an emphasis on biblical applications to current problems in values.
This course requires extensive time spent in practical “hands-on” work in a supervised program of some local church. The student may choose any internship for which the corresponding classroom course has already been completed. The particular church, program, and supervisor must be approved by the course instructor and the director of the Graduate School of Theology. Approximately forty (40) hours of preparation, work, and evaluation, exclusive of travel, will be required for each hour of credit. Check with director for availability.
To enable ministerial students to think critically. The focus is on equipping students with the logical tools to help them to identify and evaluate evidence that leads to conclusions that are proposed as being true, to use these same tools to identify logical fallacies, to aid them in communicating their beliefs clearly and accurately through critical thinking, and to aid in decision making that will glorify God and promote His kingdom.
Human suffering is one of the most difficult experiences to understand and endure. Those in counseling and ministry are frequently faced with the psychological and physical problems of human suffering. This course explores how we deal with concerns in our own lives and the lives of others. It combines both theory and practice in an examination of the various elements of suffering. This course is an attempt to find value in suffering from a Christian perspective and help formulate a “theology of suffering” from Scripture that will result in successful interventions of the sufferer.
Advanced apologetics: the study of evidences which prove the Christian faith is from God. Attention is given to systems of thought which oppose the Christian world view, and possible responses are considered. Classical and contemporary arguments for the existence of God, the inspiration of the Bible, and the deity of Christ are considered in detail. 298
rotation. A study of the nature and origin of the biblical text (including a brief consideration of textual criticism), the definition and extent of the canon, and the definition and nature of inspiration.
The thesis for the M.A. in New Testament/Master of Divinity is written under the guidance of a faculty mentor and allows the student to do deeper research on a topic in his/her area of interest.
A study of Christian theology from the period of the Apostolic Fathers (ca. 100 C.E.) to the Council of Chalcedon (451 C.E.). The course will focus upon the theological development of four primary Christian themes: ecclesiology, Christology and the Trinity, orthodoxy/heresy, and Tradition and Scripture. Attention also will be given to the intersection of these developments with social, political, and geographical elements.
The events, teachings, and leading figures of the Reformation Movement from its beginning to 1800. Particular attention is given to separation from Catholicism, the development of various denominations, and the rise of the restoration plea.
The events, teachings, and leading figures of the Restoration Movement from its beginning until the present. Focus is made on the origins, geographical spread of the movement, and various departures.
A study of the history of the Bible's development with emphasis on its translation into the English language. Modern English translations will be surveyed and evaluated within the context of their stated goals and methodologies.
An introduction to systematic theology, including its necessity, method, and nature. The nature of God, revelation, and humanity are studied with an emphasis on the biblical foundation of each.
The nature of Christ, the church, salvation, and last things are studied with an emphasis on the biblical foundations of each.
This course studies the general principles requisite for proper biblical interpretation. It also examines special principles necessary for properly interpreting different types of literary genre. Attention is given to examples of legitimate interpretation and opportunity is given for application of principles by students.
The graduate student undertakes a research project of a practical nature under the direct supervision of a member of the graduate faculty. The number of hours credit will be determined by the length of the study and the extent of the student’s involvement in the study. 299
A study of a significant topic of current interest to several students and an instructor. Topical seminars are offered on sufficient demand and may not be scheduled each year.
A required orientation to the D.Min. program; this course introduces students to the scholarship of ministry. Structured reading and writing assignments guide the student through the qualitative and quantitative research methods that will be utilized throughout the program of study. This course includes a significant writing component. The student must take this course in the first semester of enrollment.
An orientation to the principles and practices of religious spiritual formation. Insights are drawn from biblical, historical, psychological, and religious traditions of practicing the spiritual disciplines, and of living a balanced and healthy spiritual life.
An introduction to ministry as service to God. Biblical and historical principles of ministry are discussed to aid students in shaping their personal philosophy of ministry, leading to a more effective practice of the discipline.
An examination of anthropological, biblical, and sociological methods to minister effectively in a world of increasing ethnic, racial, religious, and social diversity. Focus will fall on how the church can navigate cultural change while maintaining the transcendent authority of scripture.
An investigation of the ethical problems associated with the practice of ministry. Situational dilemmas will guide student exploration of appropriate behaviors, “border lines” for conduct, and virtuous practices to keep the minister’s conduct beyond reproach.
An examination of best practices for communication in diverse public speaking contexts. Emphasis will fall on how the speaker can most effectively “contextualize” the message to the greatest persuasive effect.
An investigation of the integrated ministry model. Emphasis will fall on small group responsibilities within the church to train successive generations, as well as methods to “de-silo” congregations in an effort to develop collaboration of diverse populations for the unity of the body.
An examination of the principles and practices of preparing spiritual leaders. Focus will fall on the church’s pattern of leadership, and how congregations can implement best practices to train future leaders.
A biblical, cultural, and sociological investigation of the church’s work “outside the walls.” Theories, principles, and best practices of benevolence, evangelism, and community engagement are discussed to help students make their churches a model of healthy, sustainable growth. 300
First semester of mentored research and writing of the doctoral dissertation. Included is an introduction, a comprehensive literature review, and a discussion of research methodology. Prior to this course, an accepted research prospectus must be submitted to the director of the Graduate School of Theology and approved by a dissertation approval group. This group will assign a mentor for the dissertation.
Second semester of mentored research and writing of the doctoral dissertation. Included is a presentation and synthesis of research materials, a record of results and findings from the study, and an analysis of the data for the purpose of application in a congregational setting. Defense of the dissertation includes a successful oral presentation to an audience of FHU faculty, administrators, and student colleagues.
Source: Freed-Hardeman University's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 59
