The lay school is an inexpensive means by which those interested in furthering their education, knowledge, and understanding of Bible and related topics, but find that they do not or cannot attend formal classes at a Bible school. college, university, or seminary, may do so. The entire curriculum is designed to be administered in either a class setting at a church who wishes to open their facility as an adjunct campus, or as independent study. Interested parties may contact us through the form on the Contact Us page for more details on cost. Consider investigating whether your church would be interested in underwriting the nominal cost of such an education.
THE LAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM
POSSIBLE COURSE/LECTURE/SEMINAR OFFERINGS
Course numbering system: The letter denotes the department, first numeral indicates level, last two digits identify progression within the department.
Unless otherwise noted, the listings are for a full semester course. Studies of shorter duration are so notated.
Course numbers followed by an asterisk are recent additions to the curriculum outlined by the Holy Spirit during my week and a half of Pentecost.
BIBLE OVERVIEW Department
Bible For Beginners 101: BASIC Bible. This course starts with preliminary information that everyone should be confronted with that effects and impacts our Bible study: The New Testament doctrine of edification, Bible study tools, goals, and responsibilities. The general overview according to the Christian tradition will be compared and contrasted with the Hebrew tradition for the Old Testament. The reasons for Bible study will be explored in great depth with regard to the developments in secular societies and how those developments have affected Bible study. Emphasis will be placed upon the student developing a mental filing system for information, including the chronology within which the overview information may be assimilated. Important characters, stories, and passages will be catalogued within the filing system as a future reference tool so the student will know where to find them. Bible study methods will be compared and contrasted. [O101]
The Bible, Book By Book: the student will study each of the 66 Books of the Bible focusing on their historical data such as authorship; main themes; central characters; etc. The student will produce an outline of each of the books of the Bible to be retained as a “tool” for future Bible study. [O102]
Old Testament Overview: Genesis through Malachi; the student will be able to explain the general flow of Old Testament history and accurately place the 39 books contained therein within their proper perspective with regard to the overall chronology of the Old Testament. The student will be able to outline each of the books of the Old Testament and what is generally contained therein. The student will be able to explain the historical and biographical data concerning each book of the Old Testament, and also identify the major points of scholarly contention, if any, that surrounds each book, or any of the themes, events, or items contained therein. [O103]
New Testament Overview: Matthew through Revelation; The student will be able to compare and contrast the Gospels. The student will be able to explain the main themes, historical data, and significance of each New Testament book. [O104]
BIBLE HISTORY DEPARTMENT
The Pentateuch: Genesis through Deuteronomy; The student will be able to identify and explain the significant events in the lives of the main characters of the Pentateuch: Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Noah, Abram and Sarai, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and his brethren, Moses, Balaam, and others. The student will be able to identify which passages are part of the Mosaic Law, as well as the extent of the Mosaic Law. The student will be able to identify and explain the historical significance of, as well as the symbolic/figurative meaning of various aspects of the Mosaic Law: feasts, The Tabernacle including its adornments and the priesthood, etc. The student will be able to trace The Covenant and explain its significance for both Jews and Gentiles alike. [H201]
Old Testament History: Joshua and Judges; The Conquering of Canaan and the period of the Judges. The student will be able to explain the main themes of these two books offering sufficient detail, from the death of Moses through the birth of Samuel. A detailed study will be made of each book: the study of Joshua will outline the events that occurred in the actual conquest of Canaan; the study of Judges will outline each of the 15 Judges of Israel, the events that brought them to prominence, and the effect of their administration. [H202]
Old Testament History: The Theocracy: The student will be able to explain the period of Hebrew history referred to as the Theocracy by Bible Scholars: why it should be considered as a separate segment of Hebrew history, the prophecies concerning this period, if any, and their fulfillment. [H203]
Old Testament History: The United Kingdom: 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles; The student will be able to identify and explain the pertinent prophetic passages concerning the United Kingdom and their fulfillment. The student will be able to identify and discuss the main characters in this historical period. [H204]
Old Testament History: The Divided Kingdom: 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles; The student will be able to enumerate the reasons why the United Kingdom became a divided kingdom and how. The student will be able to produce a chart listing of the kings of each of the kingdoms; the years of their reign, the character of their reign, any notable events that occurred during their reign, and the judgment of God upon each of the kingdoms. The student will be able to identify which tribes were included in which kingdom, and identify the parcel(s) of land of the Promised Land distributed to each of the respective tribes. The student will be able to explain the significance of this time period to Bible Prophecy. [H205]
The Inter-Testamental Period: The Period of The Maccabbees: the student will be able to explain the political and historical events of this period of Jewish history, and what effect, if any, it had upon the Graeco-Roman world of the ministry of Jesus. [H206]
New Testament History: The Acts: The student will be able to outline and explain the major events, chronology, problems, and triumphs of the New Testament Church. The student will be able to enumerate the characteristics of the New Testament Church. The student will be able to identify the major characters of the early church period and delineate the contributions of each to the mission of the church. [H207]
Church Councils: The student will investigate the nature and occurrence of heresy which developed within the church which required the meeting of a church council, beginning in the Book of Acts and continuing down through modern times. [H208]
The Protestant Reformation: The student will investigate the causes, effects, and results of the Protestant Reformation with a focus on the origin of Baptists. [H209]
The Renaissance and Enlightenment: The student will investigate the relationship of the Protestant Reformation, The Renaissance, and Enlightenment with a specific focus toward the effects of each on modern society, especially in Religion. [H210]
Rebuilding The Temple: The student will investigate the return of the Jews to Jerusalem to rebuild the city and the Temple under Kings Darius and Cyrus the Great, and Ezra and Nehemiah. [H211]
The Church Age: The student will investigate the history of the church age focusing on the flow of history and how it coincides with the understanding of the seven letters to the churches in Revelation as historical periods. This course of study will provide an overview of the rise of the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, the church-state, the Medieval Church and its abuses, the Renaissance and Enlightenment, the Protestant Reformation, the Counter or Catholic Reformation, the Great Revivals beginning with the First Great Awakening, the rise of nationalism, denominationalism, and the ecumenical movement. [H212] *
Survey Of The Writings Of The Church Fathers: The student will investigate the writings of the early church fathers beginning with those who lived during and/or near the end of the church age, and continuing through the most important ante-Nicene and Post Nicene Church Fathers: Justin the Martyr, Irenaeus, Origen, Philo of Alexandria, Clement of Alexandria, Clement of Rome, Augustine, Ignatius, Theophilus, The Pastor, and Papias, just to name a few. [H213] *
Freemasonry And The Ancient Mystic Religions: The student will investigate the relationship between certain events in the church age, freemasonry, and the Ancient Mystic Religions. The student will develop an understanding of the claims of the esoteric and exoteric streams of interpretation prevalent in the Ancient Mystic Religions and how they were introduced to Rabbinic Judaism and its writings, as well as the early Christian Church, and the effects that such have had upon all of Judaism and Christendom. [H214] *
Flavius Josephus: The student will read and study the complete works of the Jewish historian, Flavius Josephus, who wrote during the first century A.D. and was part of the official court of the Caesars in Rome. [H215] *
The History Of The Baptists: The student will investigate the history of the Baptists and the controversy which has clouded their existence for centuries. [H216]
The Church History of Eusebius: The student will read and investigate the 10-volume collection of the Church History Of Eusebius in an attempt to understand his purposes and the effect that his work has had upon the remainder of the church age. [H217] *
BIBLE PROPHECY DEPARTMENT
The Major Prophets: Isaiah through Daniel; the student will be able to place the prophet in his historical context within the chronology of the Old Testament, as well as the period of the Divided Kingdom. The student will be able to summarize the prophet’s message and identify any particular parts of that message holding significance for an overall understanding of Bible Prophecy. The student will be able to explain Isaiah’s portraits of the Messiah. [P101]
The Minor Prophets: Hosea through Malachi; the student will be able to place the prophet in his historical context within the chronology of the Old Testament, as well as the period of the Divided Kingdom. The student will be able to summarize the prophet’s message and identify any particular parts of that message holding significance for an overall understanding of Bible Prophecy. [P102]
Bible Prophecy II: a study of the prophecies concerning the coming of the Jewish Messiah; the student will be able to trace and explain the two strains of Messianic Prophecies contained in the Bible. The student will be able to clearly identify and explain all pertinent Scripture references to help explain why the Jews missed their Messiah. The student will be able to clearly explain the rationale for the theology surrounding both. The student will be able to correlate the prophecy and its fulfillment giving the actual Scripture references for both. [P203]
New Testament Prophecy: The student will be able to intelligently discuss the three possible interpretations of the letters to the seven churches. The student will be able to identify and discuss the time period Bible Scholars call The Great Tribulation offering supporting Scripture references from the rest of the Bible. The student will be able to offer a defense of the use of the terms “The Great Tribulation”, “The Rapture”, “The Great White Throne Judgment” and “The Millenial Reign of Christ”. The student will be able to identify the world government empires, place them in proper chronological order and offer proof for the interpretation. The student will be able to discuss the significance of the Antichrist; the False Prophet; The Beast; and the Harlot, Mystery Babylon. The student will be able to identify the various groups of people mentioned in Revelation and offered proof for that identification. The student will be able to summarize the entire Bible with a discussion of Paradise and access to the Tree of Life. The student will be able to offer convincing evidence that the claim that Revelation is “full of symbolic language and imagery” is not quite true. The student will assimilate Scripture references to substantiate that, such things as the various judgments, theological concepts from above, and the New Heaven, New Earth, and New Jerusalem, are not only possible, but part of God’s plan from eternity past. [P305]
Bible Prophecy I: The focus of this class will be Daniel, Revelation, and The Olivet Discourse primarily but will also contain references in many other Biblical books; probably one of the most comprehensive and detailed of the courses offered. The student will be able to explain the general flow of the Bible’s prophetic passages concerning the end of time. The student will come to appreciate the depth to which this topic is addressed within the Bible. (Offered as either one massive study lasting approximately 18 study hours, or in six, smaller, sequential, more manageable segments: The Times of Preliminaries, The Times of The Jews, The Times of The Gentiles, The Times of The Amorites, and The Times of The End.) [P404]
THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT
The Apostles Doctrine: The student will compare and contrast the sermons of Peter, Stephen, and Paul as recorded in the Book of The Acts. The student will search the Scriptures, especially the Gospels, to compile a list of references as a resource for understanding the basic doctrines taught by the Apostles. [T101]
The Pauline Epistles: The student will be able to explain the historical background of each of Paul’s letters. The student will be able to explain what characteristics of Paul’s letters contain and how that can help in Biblical Archeology. The student will be able to identify and explain the basics as well as the deeper of the Pauline doctrines. The student will compare and contrast the ministries and theologies of Paul and Peter. [T202]
The General Epistles: The student will compare and contrast the letters of James, Peter, John, and Jude. The student will be able to identify and explain the main themes discussed by each writer. The student will be able to discuss the historical background of each book. [T303]
Millenialism: Lecture/Discussion; The student will investigate and debate each of the three theological viewpoints of millennialism: A-millenialism, Post-millenialism, and Pre-Millenialism. The student will be able to enumerate the historical background of each, the basic tenets of each, and how each and every person is millennial. [T404]
The Eternal Security of The Believer: Lecture/Discussion; The student will investigate and produce a documented argument utilizing Scripture and whatever else they can find to support AND/OR deny this doctrine. [T405]
Search For The Allegorical-Figurative-Symbolic Method Of Interpretation: The student will investigate the origins of these methods of interpreting The Bible, and trace its development and implementation in Judaism and Christianity. [T406] *
The Spiritual Interpretation Of Scripture: The student will investigate and focus attention upon this method of interpreting The Bible as opposed to the literal interpretation. [T407] *
CHRISTIAN LIFE STUDIES
The New Christian: the student will investigate the basic Christian doctrines of regeneration, justification, sanctification, consecration, called unto holiness, adoption, and the eternal security of the believer and how they are interrelated. [C101]
The Christian Life: an extensive and exhaustive survey of the New Testament Scripture references relating to what the Christian life is, what the Christian is supposed to do, how the Christian is supposed to act, etc. This course will locate and examine all the New Testament commandments relating to the Christian life. [C102]
The Spiritual Warfare: The student will search the Scriptures and assimilate a personal reference guide to this topic. [C103]
Marriage and The Family: Personal/Group Counseling; The student will investigate the Scriptural references and ramifications of the Biblical standard of monogamy as opposed to the historical world view of polygamy. The student will be able to offer an intelligent defense of the position that pre-marital sex is wrong in God’s eyes. The student will debate the “rightness” of the more current philosophy of living together. The student will come to understand and be able to defend the historical background of marriage and “falling in love”. This course would be ideal to meet the requirements of the new Tennessee state law that requires a $60 fee to marriage license applicants that do not attend counseling. [C104]
Parenting: Personal/Group Counseling; The student will investigate the meaning of “parenting” especially from a Biblical perspective including a comparative analysis of the analogies used in the Bible comparing God and parents. The student will search for, identify, and produce a listing of Scripture references concerning parenting, disobedient children, punishment, the Behaviorist solutions, and Special Needs children and the necessity of developing an intelligent, rational, educated, coherent, cohesive, strategy for accepting the challenge of parenting in the 21st century. [C105]
PRACTICAL STUDIES
How To Study Your Bible: Interactive Lecture; The student will investigate, and compare and contrast the various methods for studying the Bible, making sure to enumerate the strengths and weaknesses of each. The student will investigate the benefits of Bible Mnemonics. The student will assimilate the information presented by the lecturer as well as any information presented by students into a unified, personal, approach to Bible study. The student will be given several suggestive strategies on how to take notes during sermons, etc. [PR101]
The Study of the Bible through Topics: at the time of the writing of this course listing, 59 studies had been prepared covering a wide range of topics. Thousands of such studies and their outlines are in the possession of the Director. The student will learn how to engage in Bible study utilizing the “topical method”. [PR102]
Teaching A Sunday School Class: Practicum; The student will learn the methods, tools, and other necessities of preparing to teach a Sunday School class. The student will research, prepare, and teach a minimum of three lessons of their own choosing. [PR103]
Salvation and Soul Winning: Seminar/debate; The student will investigate the need for, the responsibility of Christians to engage in, and the methodology of Salvation and Soul Winning. The student will be confronted with role-playing opportunities to practice Soul Winning. The student will be confronted with variant philosophical beliefs and will utilize whatever they can to still attempt to witness. [PR104]
RELIGION
Religions of The World: The student will investigate the major religions of the world and their basic beliefs: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. The student will further compare and contrast the Eastern and Western branches of the Medieval church with the intention of delineating the effect of each on modern Christianity. The student will investigate the causes, effects, and results of The Protestant Reformation. The student will investigate the Catholic Reformation. The student will compare and contrast the Protestant and Catholic Reformations. The student will utilize all available resources to compare and contrast the major religions with a focus on the one defining difference. [R101]
Comparative Denominational Studies: The student will learn to use various study materials in order to evaluate the “Biblicity” of the tenets purported by various Christian denominations. [R202]
The Ancient Mystic Religions: The student will investigate, compare and contrast when and where possible the Ancient Mystic Religions, their origins, and their effects on events in Bible times, and any possible effect yet future. [R303]
The Sacred Writings Of Hinduism: The student will read and investigate the Vedic literature and the Upanishads focusing on the origin and development of “religion” and their relationship to all subsequent religions and the Ancient Mystic Religions. [R401] *
The Sacred Wiritngs Of Buddhism: The student will read and investigate The Gospel of Buddha and The Bhagavad-Gita focusing upon their relationship to certain writings of Rabbinic Judaism and Christianity. [R402] *
Zoroastrianism: The student will read and investigate the sacred writings of this ancient religion of the Medo-Persian period: The Zend-Avesta, The Bundahishn, and The Visperads. The focus will be upon the origins of this religion and its relationship and import to The Bible, Judaism, and Christianity. [R403] *
The Qur’an And Islam: The student will read and investigate the Qur’an, the life of Mohammed, and the emergence of Islam as the fastest growing religion in the post-modern world. One major focus will be the claims of the Qur’an concerning the sacred writings of both Judaism and Christianity, and the amount of material contained in the Qur’an which substantiates people and events recorded in The Bible. The student will come to understand that some of what is written in The Qur’an is a direct condemnation of the beliefs and practices of Roman Catholicism. [R404] *
The Book Of Mormon: The student will read and investigate The Book Of Mormon with a focus on the amount and quality of material which is contained within its pages which substantiates the Biblical record. The origins of this cult will be investigated as well as its alleged ties to freemasonry. [R406] *
GOSPEL: THE LIFE OF JESUS
The Synoptic Gospels: The student will be able to explain the life of Jesus from the perspective of “three years”. The student will be able to summarize the teachings of Jesus. The student will be able to list and explain the significance of the parables. The student will identify and list the miracles of Jesus. The student will be able to explain the “portraits” of Christ in each of these Gospels. [G301]
The Gospel of John: The student will be able to explain why the Gospel of John is not included in the Synoptic Gospels. The student will be able to explain John’s portraits of Christ. The student will be able to identify the unique features of the Gospel of John. [G302]
The Parables of Jesus: the student will investigate, identify, document, and prepare his own resource material on this topic. [G303]
The Miracles of Jesus: the student will investigate, identify, document, and prepare his own resource material on this topic. [G304]
MISCELLANEOUS
The Characters of The Old Testament: the student will investigate the Bible stories containing the more prominent Old Testament characters: Adam and Eve; Cain and Abel; Enoch; Noah; Ham, Shem and Japheth; Abram and Sarai; Isaac; Jacob; Joseph; Moses; Balaam; Joshua; Ruth; Samuel; David; Solomon; selected kings of both of the divided kingdoms; Elijah; Elisha; Ezra; Nehemiah; and any others deemed appropriate, focusing on the major events of their lives and any doctrinal and theological truths which can be “learned” from their lives. Particular emphasis will be made where appropriate to God’s ability to use people for His purposes, with or without their knowledge or consent. [M101]
The Characters of The New Testament: the student will investigate the Bible stories containing the more prominent New Testament characters including the twelve Apostles; and any others deemed appropriate, focusing on the major events of their lives and any doctrinal and theological truths which can be “learned” from their lives. Particular emphasis will be made where appropriate to God’s ability to use people for His purposes, with or without their knowledge or consent. [M102]
The Promises of the Bible: the student will investigate, identify, document, and prepare his own resource material on this topic. [M103]
The Golden Chapters: the student will survey the 73 Golden Chapters of the Bible; analyzing and extracting whatever spiritual truths are found therein. [M104]
The Wisdom Literature: Job through Song of Solomon; The student will investigate and learn to appreciate the variety of the Wisdom Literature. [M105]
The Soap Operas of The Old Testament: Ruth and Esther; The student will be able to summarize the stories of Ruth and Esther and explain why this Bible teacher calls them the Soap Operas of The Bible. [M106]
The Pendleton Manual: The student will read and investigate the premier manual on Baptist polity. [M107] *
The Essenes: The student will investigate the obscure Jewish sect of the Essenes which originated in the aftermath of the Babylonian Captivity and flourished through the rise of Rabbinic Judaism into the early church age. The focus will be on their scribal activities in preserving many ancient texts, including those which were discovered in 1948 known as The Dead Sea Scrolls. Their amalgamation of Judeo-Christian sacred writings with Buddhism writings will also be a focus of this study. [M108] *
CHURCH LEADERSHIP STUDIES
Pastoral Ministry: The student will investigate the multitude of duties and responsibilities which accompany the office of Pastor. [M109] *
The Office Of Deacon: The student will investigate the multitude of duties and responsibilities which accompany the office of Deacon. [M110] *
COMPARATIVE TRANSLATIONS STUDIES
Comparative Translation Studies: The student will investigate, compare and contrast, the English translations of The Greek Septuagint, The Syriac Peshito New Testament, The Torah, The Neviim, The Ketuvim, and the King James Version of The Bible. [CT101] *
Comparative English Translations Of The Bible: The student will investigate, compare and contrast, the King James Version of The Bible with the Revised Version, the American Standard Version, the Amplified Bible, the New International Version, The Living Bible, and other translations. This study will begin with the development of the English Bible. [CT102] *
SACRED WRITINGS STUDIES
The Apocrypha: The student will read and investigate the books of the Apocrypha focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
The Lost Books Of The Bible: The student will read and investigate the books of The Lost Books Of The Bible focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
The Forgotten Books Of Eden: The student will read and investigate the books of The Forgotten Books Of Eden focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
The Pseudipigrapha: The student will read and investigate the books of The Pseudipigrapha focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
Other Hebrew Sacred Writings: The student will read and investigate the books of the Other Hebrew Sacred Writings focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
INDEPENDENT STUDY
The Student’s Choice: lecture/discussion; this course would be available for any student(s) who wish to study a particular topic not covered by any other course of study. It could very well serve as a springboard for Independent Study. [I101]
UNCLASSIFIED
Open Forum Round Table: Interactive Discussion; Designed for lay people and Bible students in The Lay School Classes to present questions which are not necessarily pertinent to other seminars. [U101]
Pastoral Round Table: Panel Discussion; Designed to be a forum for pastors and other church leaders to discuss problems, solutions, ideas, etc. with other pastors and church leaders. [U201]
PASTORAL STUDIES
Nouthetic Counseling: The student will investigate the value and practice of Nouthetic Counseling as a viable part of the Pastor’s duties. [PS301] *
Sermon Preparation And Delivery: The student will investigate the preparation and delivery of sermons. Content, form, and purpose of the sermon will be studied. How to study, write, and deliver sermons. [PS201] *
Pastoral Intern: The student will serve in the capacity of Pastoral Intern at a local church. *
Biblical Preaching: The student will investigate sermon types including expository preaching. The principles and techniques of biblical exegesis will be investigated and implemented. *
Christian Missions: The student will investigate the phenomenon of Christian mission work both at home and abroad. The history of evangelism and missionary work will be investigated. *
Church Administration: The student will investigate the multitude of facets of the management of the local church and its ministries. Leadership styles will be investigated. *
Contemporary Evangelism: The student will investigate the issues facing evangelism in the post-modern world. *
English Grammar: The student will hone their skills using English Grammar. This study will consist of the student writing short weekly papers to be evaluated by the teacher in order to hone the student’s English Grammar skills. *
Speech: The student will investigate the various facets of delivering sermons from viewpoints other than Biblical. This will be facilitated by the student preparing and delivering sermons for critique. Sermons will be audio-taped and videotaped for critique. *
Christian Ethics: The student will investigate the Biblical foundation for Christian responsibility in society. *
Church Music and Drama: The student will investigate the history of music as an integral part of Christian worship. Hymnology will be studied, as well as the various types of vocal and instrumental church music. The role of dramatic and choral productions within the church will be investigated. *
Singing And Song Leading: The student will investigate the roles of mere Song Leader to Christian Worship Minister. Basics of Christian song leading will be investigated. *
TECHNOLOGY IN THE MINISTRY OF THE CHURCH
Audio And Video Technology In The Church: The student will investigate the multitude of applications of audio and video technology for the church. Recording engineering, sound system engineering, and videography as ministries will be investigated. [TIM101] *
Computer Technology For the Pastor, Leadership, and Church: The student will be introduced to the wonderful and powerful capabilities of the personal computer for Bible study, sermon preparation, Sunday School lesson preparation, and various other ways that the personal computer can be utilized in the many facets of ministry within the church. [TIM102] *
Internet Ministry: The student will investigate the multifaceted ways that the internet can be utilized to help the local church setup and operate a website, and truly become a world-wide ministry. [TIM103]*
Women’s Ministry and Fellowship: The student will investigate ways to setup and manage a viable, effective Women’s Ministry. *
Youth Ministry: The student will investigate ways to setup and manage a viable, effective Youth Ministry. *
The Deaconship: *
The Pastor’s and Deacon’s Wives and Families: The student will investigate the various unique problems which Pastors Deacons, and their families encounter. *
Visitation Ministry For Sick, Shut-in, And Evangelism: The student will investigate the setup, management, and operation of viable visitation ministries and evangelistic endeavors. *
Practical Theology: The student will investigate the various facets of church ministry and operation including but not limited to Baptism, the Lord’s Supper, the officers of the church, and the government of the church. *
Planning The Work Of The Church: The student will investigate issues such as avoiding conflicts amongst leadership; encouraging leadership and laity to better and stronger unity and cooperation; benefits and liabilities of denominational involvement; working with volunteers; planning revivals, retreats, and other activities; motivating members to serve; cooperation without compromising convictions. *
Christianity Today: The student will investigate the current issues facing Christianity at large, the Baptist denomination, the local association, and the local church. *
Recognizing And Dealing With Serious Personal And Family Problems: The student will investigate various social and personal problems such as alcoholism, drug abuse, child abuse, spousal abuse (physical, emotional, and mental), child discipline, financial problems, work-related problems, medical problems, serious health issues, etc. and identify effective strategies to help those suffering from these; to identify, create, and implement ministries to assist those who are experiencing such; to compile a list of resources to assist the Pastor and the local church to minister to those suffering from/with these. *
Stress And Burnout For Church Leaders: The student will investigate methods to manage and minimize stress associated with ministry. *
POSSIBLE COURSE/LECTURE/SEMINAR OFFERINGS
Course numbering system: The letter denotes the department, first numeral indicates level, last two digits identify progression within the department.
Unless otherwise noted, the listings are for a full semester course. Studies of shorter duration are so notated.
Course numbers followed by an asterisk are recent additions to the curriculum outlined by the Holy Spirit during my week and a half of Pentecost.
BIBLE OVERVIEW Department
Bible For Beginners 101: BASIC Bible. This course starts with preliminary information that everyone should be confronted with that effects and impacts our Bible study: The New Testament doctrine of edification, Bible study tools, goals, and responsibilities. The general overview according to the Christian tradition will be compared and contrasted with the Hebrew tradition for the Old Testament. The reasons for Bible study will be explored in great depth with regard to the developments in secular societies and how those developments have affected Bible study. Emphasis will be placed upon the student developing a mental filing system for information, including the chronology within which the overview information may be assimilated. Important characters, stories, and passages will be catalogued within the filing system as a future reference tool so the student will know where to find them. Bible study methods will be compared and contrasted. [O101]
The Bible, Book By Book: the student will study each of the 66 Books of the Bible focusing on their historical data such as authorship; main themes; central characters; etc. The student will produce an outline of each of the books of the Bible to be retained as a “tool” for future Bible study. [O102]
Old Testament Overview: Genesis through Malachi; the student will be able to explain the general flow of Old Testament history and accurately place the 39 books contained therein within their proper perspective with regard to the overall chronology of the Old Testament. The student will be able to outline each of the books of the Old Testament and what is generally contained therein. The student will be able to explain the historical and biographical data concerning each book of the Old Testament, and also identify the major points of scholarly contention, if any, that surrounds each book, or any of the themes, events, or items contained therein. [O103]
New Testament Overview: Matthew through Revelation; The student will be able to compare and contrast the Gospels. The student will be able to explain the main themes, historical data, and significance of each New Testament book. [O104]
BIBLE HISTORY DEPARTMENT
The Pentateuch: Genesis through Deuteronomy; The student will be able to identify and explain the significant events in the lives of the main characters of the Pentateuch: Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Noah, Abram and Sarai, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and his brethren, Moses, Balaam, and others. The student will be able to identify which passages are part of the Mosaic Law, as well as the extent of the Mosaic Law. The student will be able to identify and explain the historical significance of, as well as the symbolic/figurative meaning of various aspects of the Mosaic Law: feasts, The Tabernacle including its adornments and the priesthood, etc. The student will be able to trace The Covenant and explain its significance for both Jews and Gentiles alike. [H201]
Old Testament History: Joshua and Judges; The Conquering of Canaan and the period of the Judges. The student will be able to explain the main themes of these two books offering sufficient detail, from the death of Moses through the birth of Samuel. A detailed study will be made of each book: the study of Joshua will outline the events that occurred in the actual conquest of Canaan; the study of Judges will outline each of the 15 Judges of Israel, the events that brought them to prominence, and the effect of their administration. [H202]
Old Testament History: The Theocracy: The student will be able to explain the period of Hebrew history referred to as the Theocracy by Bible Scholars: why it should be considered as a separate segment of Hebrew history, the prophecies concerning this period, if any, and their fulfillment. [H203]
Old Testament History: The United Kingdom: 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles; The student will be able to identify and explain the pertinent prophetic passages concerning the United Kingdom and their fulfillment. The student will be able to identify and discuss the main characters in this historical period. [H204]
Old Testament History: The Divided Kingdom: 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles; The student will be able to enumerate the reasons why the United Kingdom became a divided kingdom and how. The student will be able to produce a chart listing of the kings of each of the kingdoms; the years of their reign, the character of their reign, any notable events that occurred during their reign, and the judgment of God upon each of the kingdoms. The student will be able to identify which tribes were included in which kingdom, and identify the parcel(s) of land of the Promised Land distributed to each of the respective tribes. The student will be able to explain the significance of this time period to Bible Prophecy. [H205]
The Inter-Testamental Period: The Period of The Maccabbees: the student will be able to explain the political and historical events of this period of Jewish history, and what effect, if any, it had upon the Graeco-Roman world of the ministry of Jesus. [H206]
New Testament History: The Acts: The student will be able to outline and explain the major events, chronology, problems, and triumphs of the New Testament Church. The student will be able to enumerate the characteristics of the New Testament Church. The student will be able to identify the major characters of the early church period and delineate the contributions of each to the mission of the church. [H207]
Church Councils: The student will investigate the nature and occurrence of heresy which developed within the church which required the meeting of a church council, beginning in the Book of Acts and continuing down through modern times. [H208]
The Protestant Reformation: The student will investigate the causes, effects, and results of the Protestant Reformation with a focus on the origin of Baptists. [H209]
The Renaissance and Enlightenment: The student will investigate the relationship of the Protestant Reformation, The Renaissance, and Enlightenment with a specific focus toward the effects of each on modern society, especially in Religion. [H210]
Rebuilding The Temple: The student will investigate the return of the Jews to Jerusalem to rebuild the city and the Temple under Kings Darius and Cyrus the Great, and Ezra and Nehemiah. [H211]
The Church Age: The student will investigate the history of the church age focusing on the flow of history and how it coincides with the understanding of the seven letters to the churches in Revelation as historical periods. This course of study will provide an overview of the rise of the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, the church-state, the Medieval Church and its abuses, the Renaissance and Enlightenment, the Protestant Reformation, the Counter or Catholic Reformation, the Great Revivals beginning with the First Great Awakening, the rise of nationalism, denominationalism, and the ecumenical movement. [H212] *
Survey Of The Writings Of The Church Fathers: The student will investigate the writings of the early church fathers beginning with those who lived during and/or near the end of the church age, and continuing through the most important ante-Nicene and Post Nicene Church Fathers: Justin the Martyr, Irenaeus, Origen, Philo of Alexandria, Clement of Alexandria, Clement of Rome, Augustine, Ignatius, Theophilus, The Pastor, and Papias, just to name a few. [H213] *
Freemasonry And The Ancient Mystic Religions: The student will investigate the relationship between certain events in the church age, freemasonry, and the Ancient Mystic Religions. The student will develop an understanding of the claims of the esoteric and exoteric streams of interpretation prevalent in the Ancient Mystic Religions and how they were introduced to Rabbinic Judaism and its writings, as well as the early Christian Church, and the effects that such have had upon all of Judaism and Christendom. [H214] *
Flavius Josephus: The student will read and study the complete works of the Jewish historian, Flavius Josephus, who wrote during the first century A.D. and was part of the official court of the Caesars in Rome. [H215] *
The History Of The Baptists: The student will investigate the history of the Baptists and the controversy which has clouded their existence for centuries. [H216]
The Church History of Eusebius: The student will read and investigate the 10-volume collection of the Church History Of Eusebius in an attempt to understand his purposes and the effect that his work has had upon the remainder of the church age. [H217] *
BIBLE PROPHECY DEPARTMENT
The Major Prophets: Isaiah through Daniel; the student will be able to place the prophet in his historical context within the chronology of the Old Testament, as well as the period of the Divided Kingdom. The student will be able to summarize the prophet’s message and identify any particular parts of that message holding significance for an overall understanding of Bible Prophecy. The student will be able to explain Isaiah’s portraits of the Messiah. [P101]
The Minor Prophets: Hosea through Malachi; the student will be able to place the prophet in his historical context within the chronology of the Old Testament, as well as the period of the Divided Kingdom. The student will be able to summarize the prophet’s message and identify any particular parts of that message holding significance for an overall understanding of Bible Prophecy. [P102]
Bible Prophecy II: a study of the prophecies concerning the coming of the Jewish Messiah; the student will be able to trace and explain the two strains of Messianic Prophecies contained in the Bible. The student will be able to clearly identify and explain all pertinent Scripture references to help explain why the Jews missed their Messiah. The student will be able to clearly explain the rationale for the theology surrounding both. The student will be able to correlate the prophecy and its fulfillment giving the actual Scripture references for both. [P203]
New Testament Prophecy: The student will be able to intelligently discuss the three possible interpretations of the letters to the seven churches. The student will be able to identify and discuss the time period Bible Scholars call The Great Tribulation offering supporting Scripture references from the rest of the Bible. The student will be able to offer a defense of the use of the terms “The Great Tribulation”, “The Rapture”, “The Great White Throne Judgment” and “The Millenial Reign of Christ”. The student will be able to identify the world government empires, place them in proper chronological order and offer proof for the interpretation. The student will be able to discuss the significance of the Antichrist; the False Prophet; The Beast; and the Harlot, Mystery Babylon. The student will be able to identify the various groups of people mentioned in Revelation and offered proof for that identification. The student will be able to summarize the entire Bible with a discussion of Paradise and access to the Tree of Life. The student will be able to offer convincing evidence that the claim that Revelation is “full of symbolic language and imagery” is not quite true. The student will assimilate Scripture references to substantiate that, such things as the various judgments, theological concepts from above, and the New Heaven, New Earth, and New Jerusalem, are not only possible, but part of God’s plan from eternity past. [P305]
Bible Prophecy I: The focus of this class will be Daniel, Revelation, and The Olivet Discourse primarily but will also contain references in many other Biblical books; probably one of the most comprehensive and detailed of the courses offered. The student will be able to explain the general flow of the Bible’s prophetic passages concerning the end of time. The student will come to appreciate the depth to which this topic is addressed within the Bible. (Offered as either one massive study lasting approximately 18 study hours, or in six, smaller, sequential, more manageable segments: The Times of Preliminaries, The Times of The Jews, The Times of The Gentiles, The Times of The Amorites, and The Times of The End.) [P404]
THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT
The Apostles Doctrine: The student will compare and contrast the sermons of Peter, Stephen, and Paul as recorded in the Book of The Acts. The student will search the Scriptures, especially the Gospels, to compile a list of references as a resource for understanding the basic doctrines taught by the Apostles. [T101]
The Pauline Epistles: The student will be able to explain the historical background of each of Paul’s letters. The student will be able to explain what characteristics of Paul’s letters contain and how that can help in Biblical Archeology. The student will be able to identify and explain the basics as well as the deeper of the Pauline doctrines. The student will compare and contrast the ministries and theologies of Paul and Peter. [T202]
The General Epistles: The student will compare and contrast the letters of James, Peter, John, and Jude. The student will be able to identify and explain the main themes discussed by each writer. The student will be able to discuss the historical background of each book. [T303]
Millenialism: Lecture/Discussion; The student will investigate and debate each of the three theological viewpoints of millennialism: A-millenialism, Post-millenialism, and Pre-Millenialism. The student will be able to enumerate the historical background of each, the basic tenets of each, and how each and every person is millennial. [T404]
The Eternal Security of The Believer: Lecture/Discussion; The student will investigate and produce a documented argument utilizing Scripture and whatever else they can find to support AND/OR deny this doctrine. [T405]
Search For The Allegorical-Figurative-Symbolic Method Of Interpretation: The student will investigate the origins of these methods of interpreting The Bible, and trace its development and implementation in Judaism and Christianity. [T406] *
The Spiritual Interpretation Of Scripture: The student will investigate and focus attention upon this method of interpreting The Bible as opposed to the literal interpretation. [T407] *
CHRISTIAN LIFE STUDIES
The New Christian: the student will investigate the basic Christian doctrines of regeneration, justification, sanctification, consecration, called unto holiness, adoption, and the eternal security of the believer and how they are interrelated. [C101]
The Christian Life: an extensive and exhaustive survey of the New Testament Scripture references relating to what the Christian life is, what the Christian is supposed to do, how the Christian is supposed to act, etc. This course will locate and examine all the New Testament commandments relating to the Christian life. [C102]
The Spiritual Warfare: The student will search the Scriptures and assimilate a personal reference guide to this topic. [C103]
Marriage and The Family: Personal/Group Counseling; The student will investigate the Scriptural references and ramifications of the Biblical standard of monogamy as opposed to the historical world view of polygamy. The student will be able to offer an intelligent defense of the position that pre-marital sex is wrong in God’s eyes. The student will debate the “rightness” of the more current philosophy of living together. The student will come to understand and be able to defend the historical background of marriage and “falling in love”. This course would be ideal to meet the requirements of the new Tennessee state law that requires a $60 fee to marriage license applicants that do not attend counseling. [C104]
Parenting: Personal/Group Counseling; The student will investigate the meaning of “parenting” especially from a Biblical perspective including a comparative analysis of the analogies used in the Bible comparing God and parents. The student will search for, identify, and produce a listing of Scripture references concerning parenting, disobedient children, punishment, the Behaviorist solutions, and Special Needs children and the necessity of developing an intelligent, rational, educated, coherent, cohesive, strategy for accepting the challenge of parenting in the 21st century. [C105]
PRACTICAL STUDIES
How To Study Your Bible: Interactive Lecture; The student will investigate, and compare and contrast the various methods for studying the Bible, making sure to enumerate the strengths and weaknesses of each. The student will investigate the benefits of Bible Mnemonics. The student will assimilate the information presented by the lecturer as well as any information presented by students into a unified, personal, approach to Bible study. The student will be given several suggestive strategies on how to take notes during sermons, etc. [PR101]
The Study of the Bible through Topics: at the time of the writing of this course listing, 59 studies had been prepared covering a wide range of topics. Thousands of such studies and their outlines are in the possession of the Director. The student will learn how to engage in Bible study utilizing the “topical method”. [PR102]
Teaching A Sunday School Class: Practicum; The student will learn the methods, tools, and other necessities of preparing to teach a Sunday School class. The student will research, prepare, and teach a minimum of three lessons of their own choosing. [PR103]
Salvation and Soul Winning: Seminar/debate; The student will investigate the need for, the responsibility of Christians to engage in, and the methodology of Salvation and Soul Winning. The student will be confronted with role-playing opportunities to practice Soul Winning. The student will be confronted with variant philosophical beliefs and will utilize whatever they can to still attempt to witness. [PR104]
RELIGION
Religions of The World: The student will investigate the major religions of the world and their basic beliefs: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. The student will further compare and contrast the Eastern and Western branches of the Medieval church with the intention of delineating the effect of each on modern Christianity. The student will investigate the causes, effects, and results of The Protestant Reformation. The student will investigate the Catholic Reformation. The student will compare and contrast the Protestant and Catholic Reformations. The student will utilize all available resources to compare and contrast the major religions with a focus on the one defining difference. [R101]
Comparative Denominational Studies: The student will learn to use various study materials in order to evaluate the “Biblicity” of the tenets purported by various Christian denominations. [R202]
The Ancient Mystic Religions: The student will investigate, compare and contrast when and where possible the Ancient Mystic Religions, their origins, and their effects on events in Bible times, and any possible effect yet future. [R303]
The Sacred Writings Of Hinduism: The student will read and investigate the Vedic literature and the Upanishads focusing on the origin and development of “religion” and their relationship to all subsequent religions and the Ancient Mystic Religions. [R401] *
The Sacred Wiritngs Of Buddhism: The student will read and investigate The Gospel of Buddha and The Bhagavad-Gita focusing upon their relationship to certain writings of Rabbinic Judaism and Christianity. [R402] *
Zoroastrianism: The student will read and investigate the sacred writings of this ancient religion of the Medo-Persian period: The Zend-Avesta, The Bundahishn, and The Visperads. The focus will be upon the origins of this religion and its relationship and import to The Bible, Judaism, and Christianity. [R403] *
The Qur’an And Islam: The student will read and investigate the Qur’an, the life of Mohammed, and the emergence of Islam as the fastest growing religion in the post-modern world. One major focus will be the claims of the Qur’an concerning the sacred writings of both Judaism and Christianity, and the amount of material contained in the Qur’an which substantiates people and events recorded in The Bible. The student will come to understand that some of what is written in The Qur’an is a direct condemnation of the beliefs and practices of Roman Catholicism. [R404] *
The Book Of Mormon: The student will read and investigate The Book Of Mormon with a focus on the amount and quality of material which is contained within its pages which substantiates the Biblical record. The origins of this cult will be investigated as well as its alleged ties to freemasonry. [R406] *
GOSPEL: THE LIFE OF JESUS
The Synoptic Gospels: The student will be able to explain the life of Jesus from the perspective of “three years”. The student will be able to summarize the teachings of Jesus. The student will be able to list and explain the significance of the parables. The student will identify and list the miracles of Jesus. The student will be able to explain the “portraits” of Christ in each of these Gospels. [G301]
The Gospel of John: The student will be able to explain why the Gospel of John is not included in the Synoptic Gospels. The student will be able to explain John’s portraits of Christ. The student will be able to identify the unique features of the Gospel of John. [G302]
The Parables of Jesus: the student will investigate, identify, document, and prepare his own resource material on this topic. [G303]
The Miracles of Jesus: the student will investigate, identify, document, and prepare his own resource material on this topic. [G304]
MISCELLANEOUS
The Characters of The Old Testament: the student will investigate the Bible stories containing the more prominent Old Testament characters: Adam and Eve; Cain and Abel; Enoch; Noah; Ham, Shem and Japheth; Abram and Sarai; Isaac; Jacob; Joseph; Moses; Balaam; Joshua; Ruth; Samuel; David; Solomon; selected kings of both of the divided kingdoms; Elijah; Elisha; Ezra; Nehemiah; and any others deemed appropriate, focusing on the major events of their lives and any doctrinal and theological truths which can be “learned” from their lives. Particular emphasis will be made where appropriate to God’s ability to use people for His purposes, with or without their knowledge or consent. [M101]
The Characters of The New Testament: the student will investigate the Bible stories containing the more prominent New Testament characters including the twelve Apostles; and any others deemed appropriate, focusing on the major events of their lives and any doctrinal and theological truths which can be “learned” from their lives. Particular emphasis will be made where appropriate to God’s ability to use people for His purposes, with or without their knowledge or consent. [M102]
The Promises of the Bible: the student will investigate, identify, document, and prepare his own resource material on this topic. [M103]
The Golden Chapters: the student will survey the 73 Golden Chapters of the Bible; analyzing and extracting whatever spiritual truths are found therein. [M104]
The Wisdom Literature: Job through Song of Solomon; The student will investigate and learn to appreciate the variety of the Wisdom Literature. [M105]
The Soap Operas of The Old Testament: Ruth and Esther; The student will be able to summarize the stories of Ruth and Esther and explain why this Bible teacher calls them the Soap Operas of The Bible. [M106]
The Pendleton Manual: The student will read and investigate the premier manual on Baptist polity. [M107] *
The Essenes: The student will investigate the obscure Jewish sect of the Essenes which originated in the aftermath of the Babylonian Captivity and flourished through the rise of Rabbinic Judaism into the early church age. The focus will be on their scribal activities in preserving many ancient texts, including those which were discovered in 1948 known as The Dead Sea Scrolls. Their amalgamation of Judeo-Christian sacred writings with Buddhism writings will also be a focus of this study. [M108] *
CHURCH LEADERSHIP STUDIES
Pastoral Ministry: The student will investigate the multitude of duties and responsibilities which accompany the office of Pastor. [M109] *
The Office Of Deacon: The student will investigate the multitude of duties and responsibilities which accompany the office of Deacon. [M110] *
COMPARATIVE TRANSLATIONS STUDIES
Comparative Translation Studies: The student will investigate, compare and contrast, the English translations of The Greek Septuagint, The Syriac Peshito New Testament, The Torah, The Neviim, The Ketuvim, and the King James Version of The Bible. [CT101] *
Comparative English Translations Of The Bible: The student will investigate, compare and contrast, the King James Version of The Bible with the Revised Version, the American Standard Version, the Amplified Bible, the New International Version, The Living Bible, and other translations. This study will begin with the development of the English Bible. [CT102] *
SACRED WRITINGS STUDIES
The Apocrypha: The student will read and investigate the books of the Apocrypha focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
The Lost Books Of The Bible: The student will read and investigate the books of The Lost Books Of The Bible focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
The Forgotten Books Of Eden: The student will read and investigate the books of The Forgotten Books Of Eden focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
The Pseudipigrapha: The student will read and investigate the books of The Pseudipigrapha focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
Other Hebrew Sacred Writings: The student will read and investigate the books of the Other Hebrew Sacred Writings focusing on the Biblical doctrines, if any, which can be found within their pages. [SW101] *
INDEPENDENT STUDY
The Student’s Choice: lecture/discussion; this course would be available for any student(s) who wish to study a particular topic not covered by any other course of study. It could very well serve as a springboard for Independent Study. [I101]
UNCLASSIFIED
Open Forum Round Table: Interactive Discussion; Designed for lay people and Bible students in The Lay School Classes to present questions which are not necessarily pertinent to other seminars. [U101]
Pastoral Round Table: Panel Discussion; Designed to be a forum for pastors and other church leaders to discuss problems, solutions, ideas, etc. with other pastors and church leaders. [U201]
PASTORAL STUDIES
Nouthetic Counseling: The student will investigate the value and practice of Nouthetic Counseling as a viable part of the Pastor’s duties. [PS301] *
Sermon Preparation And Delivery: The student will investigate the preparation and delivery of sermons. Content, form, and purpose of the sermon will be studied. How to study, write, and deliver sermons. [PS201] *
Pastoral Intern: The student will serve in the capacity of Pastoral Intern at a local church. *
Biblical Preaching: The student will investigate sermon types including expository preaching. The principles and techniques of biblical exegesis will be investigated and implemented. *
Christian Missions: The student will investigate the phenomenon of Christian mission work both at home and abroad. The history of evangelism and missionary work will be investigated. *
Church Administration: The student will investigate the multitude of facets of the management of the local church and its ministries. Leadership styles will be investigated. *
Contemporary Evangelism: The student will investigate the issues facing evangelism in the post-modern world. *
English Grammar: The student will hone their skills using English Grammar. This study will consist of the student writing short weekly papers to be evaluated by the teacher in order to hone the student’s English Grammar skills. *
Speech: The student will investigate the various facets of delivering sermons from viewpoints other than Biblical. This will be facilitated by the student preparing and delivering sermons for critique. Sermons will be audio-taped and videotaped for critique. *
Christian Ethics: The student will investigate the Biblical foundation for Christian responsibility in society. *
Church Music and Drama: The student will investigate the history of music as an integral part of Christian worship. Hymnology will be studied, as well as the various types of vocal and instrumental church music. The role of dramatic and choral productions within the church will be investigated. *
Singing And Song Leading: The student will investigate the roles of mere Song Leader to Christian Worship Minister. Basics of Christian song leading will be investigated. *
TECHNOLOGY IN THE MINISTRY OF THE CHURCH
Audio And Video Technology In The Church: The student will investigate the multitude of applications of audio and video technology for the church. Recording engineering, sound system engineering, and videography as ministries will be investigated. [TIM101] *
Computer Technology For the Pastor, Leadership, and Church: The student will be introduced to the wonderful and powerful capabilities of the personal computer for Bible study, sermon preparation, Sunday School lesson preparation, and various other ways that the personal computer can be utilized in the many facets of ministry within the church. [TIM102] *
Internet Ministry: The student will investigate the multifaceted ways that the internet can be utilized to help the local church setup and operate a website, and truly become a world-wide ministry. [TIM103]*
Women’s Ministry and Fellowship: The student will investigate ways to setup and manage a viable, effective Women’s Ministry. *
Youth Ministry: The student will investigate ways to setup and manage a viable, effective Youth Ministry. *
The Deaconship: *
The Pastor’s and Deacon’s Wives and Families: The student will investigate the various unique problems which Pastors Deacons, and their families encounter. *
Visitation Ministry For Sick, Shut-in, And Evangelism: The student will investigate the setup, management, and operation of viable visitation ministries and evangelistic endeavors. *
Practical Theology: The student will investigate the various facets of church ministry and operation including but not limited to Baptism, the Lord’s Supper, the officers of the church, and the government of the church. *
Planning The Work Of The Church: The student will investigate issues such as avoiding conflicts amongst leadership; encouraging leadership and laity to better and stronger unity and cooperation; benefits and liabilities of denominational involvement; working with volunteers; planning revivals, retreats, and other activities; motivating members to serve; cooperation without compromising convictions. *
Christianity Today: The student will investigate the current issues facing Christianity at large, the Baptist denomination, the local association, and the local church. *
Recognizing And Dealing With Serious Personal And Family Problems: The student will investigate various social and personal problems such as alcoholism, drug abuse, child abuse, spousal abuse (physical, emotional, and mental), child discipline, financial problems, work-related problems, medical problems, serious health issues, etc. and identify effective strategies to help those suffering from these; to identify, create, and implement ministries to assist those who are experiencing such; to compile a list of resources to assist the Pastor and the local church to minister to those suffering from/with these. *
Stress And Burnout For Church Leaders: The student will investigate methods to manage and minimize stress associated with ministry. *