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Biblical and Ministry StudiesFaculty: Ralph Hampton, M.Div., Chair Ron Callaway, M.Div. F. Leroy Forlines, Th.M. (professor emeritus) Terry Forrest, M.S. Kevin Hester, Ph.D. John Murray, M.A. Dennis Owen, M.Div. (Missionary-in-residence) Barry Raper, M.Div. Matthew Pinson, Ed.D. in progress Garnett Reid, Ph.D. Matthew McAffee, M.Div. (part-time) Frank Giles, M.A. (adjunct) Richard Hendrix, D.Min. (adjunct) Jeff Manning, D.Min. (adjunct) David Outlaw, Ph.D. (adjunct) Stanley Outlaw, Ph.D. (professor in retirement) Ken Simpson, M.A. (adjunct)
The College’s mission as a Bible College requires both that the entire curriculum be Bible centered and that every student receive courses in Bible and Christian doctrine–enough to ensure a dependable and comprehensive knowledge of them. Underlying this is the confidence that the Bible is the Word of God and speaks with complete trustworthiness about the nature of man and the universe and about the meaning of human history and life. That being the case, a person is best educated who has a basic knowledge of the Bible’s teachings. The College’s mission also includes preparing students for employment in full-time Christian ministries. Included in this category are such offices as pastor, missionary, youth minister, evangelist, church planter, and minister of Christian education. The Department of Biblical and Ministry Studies offers programs of study that fulfill these two basic commitments. That Bible and ministry are linked together in one department implies: (1) that mastery of the Bible is the most important preparation for any ministry, professional or lay; (2) that the Biblical and ministry areas must directly inform each other; and (3) that all students at FWBBC, regardless of vocational intention, are being prepared for professional or lay ministry. Every bachelor’s degree program, therefore, includes a major in this area. This typically appears in either of two forms: (1) a major in Biblical and Ministry Studies, for one of the professional areas; (2) a major in Biblical Studies, required in other programs. Both are described below.
Biblical Studies: Objectives for All Programs Every program of study includes a concentration in Biblical and doctrinal studies. The objectives of this are essential to the College’s very reason for existence. Any graduate of the College should therefore be able to: (1) demonstrate a general and comprehensive knowledge of the Bible as a whole and in its major parts; (2) interpret the Bible consistently and persuasively according to sound hermeneutical principles; (3) apply Biblical truth in the formation of his or her own character in a manner consistent with a Christian worldview; (4) use the Bible effectively in the particular ministry he or she prepares for, or as a Christian layperson in more general Christian service.
Major in Biblical Studies For the accomplishment of the objectives listed above, the following 30 hours are required for all baccalaureate programs at FWBBC, except those included in the majors in Biblical and Ministry Studies (below): BI 120 Biblical Discipleship, 3 BI 101-2, 203-4-5 Bible Survey, 14 TH 201-2 Bible Doctrines, 6 (may substitute TH 301-2) Electives in Bible and Theology, 7 (including 3 Bible hours at the 400 level).
Major in Biblical and Ministry Studies The purpose of a program of study including this major is to prepare the student for a specific vocational ministry. This major may follow one of five tracks: (1) pastoral ministry, (2) missions, (3) Christian education, (4) youth ministry, or (5) general Christian ministries.
Pastoral Ministry Track Program Coordinator: Terry Forrest, M.S. This program trains preachers for leadership ministry, for Free Will Baptists especially, usually as pastors, church planters, or evangelists. Specific objectives include those stated above for Biblical Studies and those stated elsewhere for the General Education core (page 85). The graduate should also be able to: (1) matriculate a Biblical theology and philosophy of church life and ministry; (2) minister God’s Word effectively through preaching and teaching; (3) demonstrate competency in effective leadership and interpersonal skills; (4) develop and direct various church ministries centered around worship, evangelism, and edification. This program may be pursued either for the B.A. or for the B.S. Degree.
Requirements for the B.A.: 134 hours, with a C average (2.00 g.p.a.) overall and in each segment of the major. (1) General Education, 56 hours: BU 102 Microcomputer Applications, 2 EN 101-2 Basic English Grammar and Usage; and Basic English Composition, 6 EN 211-2 Masterpieces of World Literature, 6 HI 101-2 History of Ancient Civilization, 6 LA 201-2,303-4 Beginning, Advanced Koine Greek, 12 Mathematics elective, 3 PE 210 Lifetime Fitness and activity elective, 3 PR 200 Introduction to Philosophy, 3 (or HU 200 Appreciation of the Arts, 3) PS 200 General Psychology, 3 Science elective, 4 SP 100 Fundamentals of Speech, 3 SS 102 Freshman Orientation, 2 MI 220 Missions and Culture, 3 (or PS 230 Group and Interpersonal Relations) (2) Biblical and Ministry Studies, 76 hours: (a) Bible and Theology, 40 hours: BI 120 Biblical Discipleship, 3 BI 101-2, 203-4-5 Bible Survey, 14 BI 260 Biblical Interpretation, 3 TH 301-2 Systematic Theology, 8 TH 403 Eschatology, 2 Bible or Theology electives, 10 (including 6 Bible at the 400 level) (b) Pastoral Training, 36 hours: CM 210 Christian Stewardship, 2 HI 320 Church History, 3 MI 101 Local Church and World Missions, 2 PT 231-2 Introduction to/Strategies for Church Growth, 4 PT 301-2 Pastoral Ministry, 6 PT 311-2 Homiletics, 4 PT 360 Christian Counseling, 3 PT 410 Denominational Seminar, 2 PT 420 or 421-2 Pastoral Internship, 2 PT 460 Fundamentals of Effective Preaching, 2 PT 330 Current Topics in Pastoral Ministry electives, 6 (the student will select three 2-hour seminars on different topics taught by guest lecturers) (3) CM 100 Personal Evangelism, 2 hours
Requirements for the B.S.: 134 hours, with a C average (2.00 g.p.a.) overall and in each segment of the major. (1) General education, 50 hours–as above, minus LA 303-4 (2) Biblical and Ministry Studies, 82 hours–as above, with the following additional requirements: CE 200 Christian Education in the Local Church, 3 SS 310 Marriage and the Family, 3 (3) CM 100 Personal Evangelism, 2 hours
A Church Planting Emphasis is available within the Pastoral Ministry Track as an elective. Students who choose this emphasis will take PT 430 Church Planting in lieu of one of the pastoral seminars. PT 450 or 451-2 Church Planting Internship will be substituted for the regular Pastoral Internship.
Missions Track Program Coordinator: Ron Callaway, M.A. This B.A. program trains men and women for ministry as cross-cultural missionaries. Specific objectives include those stated above for Biblical Studies and those stated elsewhere for the General Education core (page 85). The graduate should also be able to: (1) articulate a Biblical theology and philosophy of missions that will be manifested in a methodology which will be directed at accomplishing God’s global missionary purpose; (2) comprehend, conform to, and effectively communicate God’s Word in a global context; (3) comprehend the nature, function, and history of the Church and relate this knowledge to cross-cultural church planting; (4) meet the educational qualifications necessary to serve with the Free Will Baptist Board of International Missions or similar organizations.
Requirements: 141 hours, with a C average (2.25 g.p.a.) overall and in each segment of the major. The student must make formal application to this program track during spring semester of the sophomore year. Requirements and procedures may be found in the Missions Program Handbook. (1) General Education, 56 hours: BU 102 Microcomputer Applications, 2 EN 101-2 Basic English Grammar and Usage; and Basic English Composition, 6 EN 211-2 Masterpieces of World Literature, 6 HI 101-2 History of Ancient Civilization, 6 (or HI 201-2 U.S. History) International Language elective, 12 Mathematics elective, 3 PE 210 Lifetime Fitness and activity elective, 3 PR 200 Introduction to Philosophy, 3 (or HU 200 Appreciation of the Arts, 3) PS 200 General Psychology, 3 Science elective, 4 SP 100 Fundamentals of Speech, 3 SS 102 Freshman Orientation, 2 MI 22O Missions and Culture, 3 (2) Biblical and Ministry Studies, 79 hours: (a) Bible and Theology, 40 hours: BI 120 Biblical Discipleship, 3 BI 101-2, 203-4-5 Bible Survey, 14 BI 260 Biblical Interpretation, 3 TH 301-2 Systematic Theology, 8 TH 403 Eschatology, 2 Bible/Theology electives, 10 (including 6 Bible at the 400 level) (b) Missions, 39 hours: MI 110 Biblical Basis of Missions, 2 MI 300 Missionary Principles, 2 MI 210 History of Missions, 2 MI 230 Evangelism Field Experience, 1 MI 311 Cross-Cultural Communications, 3 MI 312 Cross-Cultural Church Planting, 2 MI 313 Cross-Cultural Leadership, 2 MI 340 Preparation for Short-term Overseas Ministry, 1 MI 390 Overseas Missions Practicum, 12 MI 391 Post-overseas Missions Practicum, 1 MI 430 Strategy for World Outreach, 2 PR 340 Survey of World Religions, 3 (or PR 300, Introduction to Islam, 3, with permission) SS 310 Marriage and the Family, 3 HI 320 Church History, 3 (3) Missions Electives, 4: (students who plan to serve under the Free Will Baptist International Missions Board will need to take PT 311) (4) CM 100 Personal Evangelism, 2 hours
Christian Education Tracks Program Coordinator: Barry Raper, M.Div. Because our Christian Education programs are Bible-based and Christ-centered, we are committed to the following principles in formulating our model for Christian education in the local church. 1. Christian education ministry is of necessity family ministry. 2. The family is God’s basic building unit for the church and society. 3. Although the church has a broad mandate for Christian education, the prior and primary responsibility belongs to the parents. With help, they can do it better than anyone else. 4. The foremost educational task of the church and parents is to work together to build strong Christian families. The welfare of both the family and the church are bound together.
While all programs in this area are built around a family model, the gifts and callings of the individual college student are taken into account. Underneath the Christian Education umbrella, a student may major in Christian Education (a general degree) or Youth Ministry. The B.A. degree is available with minors in Christian Education, Children’s Ministry, or Youth Ministry. (See pages 54-56).
Christian Education Track (General) Program Coordinator: Barry Raper, M.Div. This B.S. program prepares the student to serve as a minister of Christian Education in a local church, as a pastoral associate, or for other church related vocations in the field of Christian education. The student may choose to use to use CE electives to focus on specific areas of special interest, such as children’s ministry or youth ministry. Specific objectives include those stated above for Biblical studies and those stated elsewhere for the General Education core (page 85). The graduate of this program should also be able to: 1. articulate a philosophy of Christian education that is Biblically based and philosophically sound; 2. develop a team approach to ministry which involves the organization and administration of resources and the equipping of volunteers for the work of the Gospel; 3. implement sound management principles for effective ministry.
Requirements: 126 hours, with a C average (2.00 g.p.a.) overall and in each segment of the major. (1) General Education, 47 hours: BU 102 Microcomputer Applications, 2 EN 101-2 Basic English Grammar and Usage; Basic English Composition, 6 EN 211-2 Masterpieces of World Literature, 6 HI 101-2 History of Ancient Civilization, 6 (or HI 201-2 U. S. History) Mathematics elective, 3 PE 210 Lifetime Fitness and activity elective, 3 PR 200 Introduction to Philosophy, 3 (or HU 200 Appreciation of the Arts, 3) PS 330 Child and Adolescent Development, 3 PS 230 Group and Interpersonal Relations, 3 (or MI 200 Missions and Culture) Science elective, 4 SP 100 Fundamentals of Speech, 3 SS 102 Freshman Orientation, 2 SS 310 Marriage and the Family, 3 (2) Biblical and Ministry Studies, 73 hours: (a) Bible and Theology, 40 hours: BI 101-2,203-4-5 Bible Survey, 14 BI 120 Biblical Discipleship, 3 BI 260 Biblical Interpretation, 3 TH 301-2 Systematic Theology, 8 TH 403 Eschatology, 2 Electives in Bible and Theology, 10 (including 6 Bible at the 400 level) (b) Christian Education, 33 hours: CE 100 Foundations of Christian Education, 2 CE 200 Christian Education in the Local Church, 3 CE 300 Children’s Ministry, 3 CE 310 Church Camping and Recreation Ministry, 2 CE 340 Teaching Methods in Christian Education, 3 CE 400 Professional Orientation to Ministry, 2 CE 410 Adult Ministry, 3 CE 460 (or 461,462) Christian Education Internship, 4 MI 101 The Local Church and World Missions, 2 PT 231 Introduction to Church Growth, 2 YM 210 Program and Curriculum of Youth Ministry, 2 (or YM 200 Philosophy of Youth Ministry, 2) Ministry Electives, 5 (may include YM or CE Courses; BU 200, 320; CM 210; LE 310, LE 350; PT 232, 311, 312, 360, 400, 410; MI 250, 300, 311-2, 340, 400) (3) CM 100 Personal Evangelism, 2 hours (4) Free Electives, 4 hours
Youth Ministry Track Program Coordinator: Barry Raper, M.Div. This B.S. program prepares the student for youth ministry in a local church, as an associate pastor, or for other church-related vocations in the field of youth ministry. Specific objectives include those stated above for Biblical studies and those stated elsewhere for the General Education core (page 85). The graduate of this program track should also be able to: (1) articulate a philosophy of youth ministry that is Biblically based and philosophically sound; (2) develop a team approach to ministry which involves the equipping of volunteers, both adult and youth, to evangelize and disciple students; (3) understand the impact that society has on the family and how this influences youth; (4) implement sound management principles for effective ministry.
Requirements: 127 hours, with a C average (2.00 g.p.a.) overall and in each segment of the major. (1) General Education, 48 hours: BU 102 Microcomputer Applications, 2 EN 102-2 Basic English Grammar and Usage; Literature and Composition, 6 EN 211-2 Masterpieces of World Literature, 6 HI 101-2 History of Ancient Civilization, 6 (or HI 201-2 U.S. History) MA Mathematics elective, 3 PE 210 Lifetime Fitness and activity elective, 3 PR 200 Introduction to Philosophy, 3 (or HU 200 Appreciation of the Arts, 3) PS 431 Child Development, 2 PS 432 Adolescent Development, 2 PS 230 Group and Interpersonal Relations, 3 (or MI 220 Missions and Culture) SC Science elective, 4 SP 100 Fundamentals of Speech, 3 SS 102 Freshman Orientation, 2 SS 310 Marriage and the Family, 3 (2) Biblical and Ministry Studies, 73 hours: (a) Bible and theology, 40 hours: BI 101-2, 203-4-5 Bible Survey, 14 BI 120 Biblical Discipleship, 3 BI 260 Biblical Interpretation, 3 TH 301-2 Systematic Theology, 8 TH 403 Eschatology, 2 Electives in Bible and Theology, 10 (including 6 Bible at the 400 level) (b) Youth Ministry, 34 hours: CE 100 Foundations of Christian Education, 2 CE 200 Christian Education in the Local Church, 3 CE 340 Teaching Methods in Christian Education, 3 CE 400 Professional Orientation to Ministry, 2 MI 101 The Local Church and World Missions, 2 PT 301 Pastoral Ministry, 3 PT 311 Homiletics, 2 PT 360 Christian Counseling, 3 YM 200 Philosophy of Youth Ministry, 2 YM 210 Programs and Curriculum of Youth Ministry, 2 YM 300 Youth Group Growth, 3 YM 460 (or 461-2) Youth Ministry Internship, 4 Ministry Electives, 3 (May include YM or CE courses, BU 200; 320; CM 210, LE 310, 350; PT 231-2, 302, 312, 400 (3) CM 100 Personal Evangelism, 2 hours (4) Free electives, 4 hours
General Christian Ministries Track This program of study is designed to prepare Christian leaders (both lay leaders and preachers) to perform various ministries within a local church context. In addition to the objectives stated for Biblical Studies and the general education core, the student will be able to: (1) articulate a practical, Biblical theology and philosophy of life and ministry, (2) demonstrate skills in a variety of local church ministries, (3) provide leadership in a local church through teaching/preaching, planning, organizing, and overseeing programs of outreach, growth, and maturing of new believers.
Requirements for the B.S. degree: 124 hours, with a C average (2.00 g.p.a.) overall and in each segment of the major. (1) General Education, 42 hours: EN 101-2 Basic English Grammar & Usage, 3; Basic English Composition, 3 Humanities/Fine Arts/Literature, 9 (no more than 8 in one area) Natural Science/Mathematics, 9 (no more than 8 in one area) History, 6 Social/Behavioral Science, 9 (no more than 8 in one area) Physical Education, 3 (2) Biblical and Ministry Studies, 64 hours: (a) Bible and Theology, 40 hours: BI 120 Biblical Discipleship, 3 BI 101-2, 203-4-5 Bible Survey, 14 BI 260 Biblical Interpretation, 3 TH 301-2 Systematic Theology, 8 TH 403 Eschatology, 2 Bible/Theology electives, 10 (including 6 hours of Bible at the 400 level) (b) Ministry Studies, 24 hours: CM 100 Personal Evangelism, 2 CE 200 Christian Education in the Local Church, 3 MI 101 Local Church and World Missions, 2 PT 360 Christian Counseling, 3 Ministry Electives, 14 selected from any ministry area: PT, MI, YM, and CE (with at least 8 hours from courses at the 300 level or above) (3) General Electives: 18 hours (All free electives transferred from other institutions must meet the requirements for transfer credits set forth in this Catalog.)
Bachelor of Arts Degrees With Minors in Ministry Studies The student who wishes may simply major in Biblical Studies and minor in Missions, Youth Ministry, Christian Education, or Children’s Ministry. In this case, the objectives will include those stated above for Biblical Studies and those stated elsewhere for the General Education core (page 85). A minor will obviously not provide training for a specific ministry as thoroughly as the major in Biblical and Ministry Studies described above. The 30-hour major in Biblical Studies, combined with a minor in an area of ministry studies, is not considered full professional preparation for a full-time ministry. Those who definitely plan to be missionaries or to have a vocational Youth or Christian Education Ministry are advised to pursue the major in Biblical and Ministry Studies.
Requirements: 124 hours, with a C average (2.00 g.p.a.) overall and in each segment of the major. (1) Biblical Studies major, 30 hours (as above) (2) General Education, 58 hours: BU 102 Microcomputer Applications, 2 EN 101-2 Basic English Grammar and Usage; and Basic English Composition, 6 EN 211-2 Masterpieces of World Literature, 6 HI 101-2 History of Ancient Civilization, 6 (or HI 201-2 U.S. History) International Language elective, 12 Mathematics elective, 3 PE 210 Lifetime Fitness and activity elective, 3 PR 200 Introduction to Philosophy, 3 (or HU 200 Appreciation of the Arts, 3) PS 200 General Psychology, 3 PS 230 Group and Interpersonal Relations, 3 (or MI 220 Missions and Culture, required for Missions minor program) Science elective, 4 SP 100 Fundamentals of Speech, 3 SP 200 Advanced Oral Communication, 2 SS 102 Freshman Orientation, 2 Minors: (a) Missions, 27 hours: HI 320 Church History, 3 MI 110 Biblical Basis of Missions, 2 MI 300 Missionary Principles, 2 MI 210 History of Missions, 2 MI 230 Evangelism Field Experience, 1 MI 311 Cross-Cultural Communication, 3 MI 312 Cross-Cultural Church Planting, 2 MI 340 Preparation for Short-term Overseas Ministry, 1 MI 350 Cross-Cultural Field Studies, 3 or MI 440 Student Overseas Apprentice, 2 or an alternative faculty-approved cross-cultural experience, PR 340 Survey of World Religions, 3 (or PR 300, Introduction to Islam, 3, with faculty permission) Missions electives, 5 (May include CE 310,320, PT 231) (b) Youth Ministry , 22 hours: YM 200 Philosophy of Youth Ministry, 2 YM 210 Programs and Curriculum of Youth Ministry, 2 YM 300 Youth Group Growth, 3 CE 100 Foundations of Christian Education, 2 CE 200 Christian Education in the Local Church, 3 CE 340 Teaching Methods in Christian Education, 3 MI 101 The Local Church and World Missions, 2 SS 310 Marriage and the Family, 3 Youth Ministry elective, 2 (c) Christian Education, 22 hours: CE 100 Foundations of Christian Education, 2 CE 200 Christian Education in the Local Church, 3 CE 300 Children’s Ministry, 3 CE 310 Church Camping and Recreation Ministry, 2 CE 340 Teaching Methods in Christian Education, 3 MI 101 The Local Church and World Missions, 2 SS 310 Marriage and the Family, 3 PT 231 Introduction to Church Growth, 2 Christian Education elective, 2 (d) Children’s Ministry, 21 hours: CE 100 Foundations of Christian Education, 2 CE 200 Christian Education in the Local Church, 3 CE 300 Children’s Ministry, 3 CE 310 Church Camping and Recreation Ministry, 2 CE 340 Teaching Methods in Christian Education, 3 PS 330 Child & Adolescent Development, 3 SS 310 Marriage and the Family, 3 LS 301 Literature for Children through the Elementary and Middle Grades, 2 (3) CM 100 Personal Evangelism, 2 hours (4) Free electives, 13 hours (8 for Missions minor program)
Bachelor of Science Degree: Major in Biblical Studies (May be used for Secondary School Licensure) This program of study combines the College’s regular Biblical Studies major with a General Education core and a Professional Education core and has the purpose of preparing students to teach Bible at the high school level. The primary purpose in offering this program is to provide for those who plan to teach in Christian schools. It leads to licensure by the Tennessee State Department of Education to teach Bible in grades 7-12. Licensure also requires successful completion of the Praxis II Assessments (formerly National Teacher’s Examination), according to minimum scores set by the Tennessee State Department of Education. Specific objectives for this program include those stated above for Biblical Studies, those stated for the General Education core (page 85), and those stated for the common Professional Education core of all teacher education programs (page 133).
Requirements: 130 hours, with a C (2.00 g.p.a.) average in the majors, the professional core, and a 2.50 g.p.a. overall (required for admission to the program, admission to student teaching, and licensure). (1) Major in Biblical Studies, 40 hours (as listed above in the Biblical and Ministry Studies Tracks; those obtaining licensure in a second area at the same time may take the 30 hour Biblical Studies major). Must include BI 230 Biblical Ethics. (2) General Education, 54 hours (plus BI 101-2, 6 hours in major above): BU 102 Microcomputer Applications, 2 EN 101-2 Basic English Grammar and Usage; and Basic English Composition, 6 EN 211-2 Masterpieces of World Literature, 6 HI 201-2 U.S. History, 6 HU 200 Appreciation of the Arts, 3 MA 201-2 Concepts of Mathematics, 6 PE 210 Lifetime Fitness and activity elective, 3 PE 415 Health and Safety Education, 2 PS 230 Group and Interpersonal Relations, 3 PS 330 Child and Adolescent Development, 3 Science elective, 4 SP 100 Fundamentals of Speech, 3 SS 102 Freshman Orientation, 2 SS 310 Marriage and the Family, 3 SS 340 World Geography, 2 (3) Professional Education core, 32 hours: TE 200 Introduction to Education, 2 PS/TE 210 Educational Psychology, 2 PS/TE 380 The Exceptional Child, 3 TE 365 Instructional Technology, 2 TE 420 School Assessment, 2 TE 430 Methods and Materials of Secondary Education, 3 TE 432 Teaching Reading and Writing in the Content Area, 3 TE 440 History and Philosophy of Education, 2 TE 445 Introduction to Student Teaching, 1 TE 450 Student Teaching Seminar, 2 TE 480 Enhanced Student Teaching, 10 (4) CM 100 Personal Evangelism, 2 hours (5) Free electives, 3 hours NOTE: Students preparing to teach in high school should be aware that they will probably need to be able to teach in more than one subject area. They are therefore advised to meet the requirements for licensure in English (page 80) or History (page 89), as well as in Bible.
Bachelor of Science Degree: Combination Emphasis in Church Music and Youth Ministry The purpose of this program of study is to prepare the student for a ministry as minister of music and youth in a local church. See the Department of Music (page 115) for a complete description.
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Degree: Combination Emphases (Personalized) In special cases, B.A. and B.S. degree programs may be individually tailored. Such a program will include a combination emphasis similar to the church music/youth ministry combination mentioned above. Combinations are available in only two fields of study where the College already offers concentrations and can be assured that 25% of the major will be taught by faculty with a doctorate. Such a program will be approved only when the desired combination fits a student’s special interests and is a realistic combination for Christian ministry. Possibilities involved include, but are not limited to: • Business/Youth Ministry, for those interested in serving as church secretary or bookkeeper and youth minister, or as business manager for a Christian school and youth minister, or in some similar dual role. • Missions/Church Music, for a lay missionary who will work as a music specialist. • Missions/Teacher Education, for a lay missionary who will work in an educational role. • Business/Church Music, for a dual ministry as church musician and church secretary/bookkeeper. • Missions/Youth Ministry or Christian Education, for a lay missionary who will serve as a specialist in youth ministry or Christian education. The missions emphasis requires: MI 110 Biblical Basis of Missions, 2 MI 210 History of Missions, 2 MI 220 Missions and Culture, 3 MI 220 Missions and Culture, 3 MI 300 Missionary Principles, 2 MI 311 Cross-Cultural Communications, 3 HI 320 Church History, 3 PR 340 Survey of World Religions, 3 MI 220 Missions and Culture and PR 340 Survey of World Religions can also be counted in the General Education core. The student interested in a combination program must first contact the Academic Dean, who will arrange for a faculty committee representing the departments involved to work with the student and design a program of study that meets the student’s needs, subject to the review and approval of the Academic Dean. Requirements will always include essentially the same Bible major and General Education core as in other degree programs, and a minimum total of 124 hours. The Bachelor of Arts degree program by definition will require 12 hours of language. All combination emphases and personalized degrees require approval of the Biblical and Ministries Studies Chair and faculty as well as the chair and faculty from the department which has oversight of the particular degree.
The Associate of Christian Ministries Degree This terminal program can be completed in three years and is for students who must complete a shorter course of study. It is intended to provide basic preparation for a ministry in one’s chosen field, but not for further education. Specific objectives of the A.C.M. program will include those stated above for the Biblical Studies component of all programs; and those stated elsewhere for the General Education core (page 85), except for objectives 6-8. The graduate should also be at least minimally prepared for a ministry in the area of specialty chosen, as follows: • Pastoral Ministry: the graduate should be able to formulate and implement a Biblical concept of pastoral ministry, including preaching, worship, evangelism, and administration. • Missions: the graduate should be able to serve effectively as a missionary in a cross-cultural context. The minimal educational requirement of the Free Will Baptist Board of International Missions is generally considered to be a minor in missions (page 54). See the missions emphasis requirement for the BS/BA degrees combination emphases (personalized). • Youth Ministry: the graduate should be able to formulate and implement a Biblical concept of youth ministry, including an understanding of contemporary youth culture and the practice of group dynamics in reaching and edifying youth. • Church Music: the graduate should be able to serve effectively as a minister of music in a local church and to integrate church music with the total ministry and purpose of the church. • Christian Education: the graduate should be able to organize and administer a Christian education ministry, in a local church, that is philosophically sound and Biblically based, and that equips the saints for the work of the Gospel.
Requirements: 98 hours (90 if approved for the 30-hour Bible major) with a C average (2.00 g.p.a.) overall. (1) General Education, 36 hours: BU 102 Microcomputer Applications, 2 EN 101-2 Basic English Grammar and Usage; Basic English Composition, 6 EN 211-2 Masterpieces of World Literature, 6 SP 100 Fundamentals of Speech, 3 SP 200 Advanced Oral Communication, 2 (except for pastoral students) PR 200 Introduction to Philosophy, 3 (or HU 200 Appreciation of the Arts, 3) PS 230 Group and Interpersonal Relations, 3 (or MI 220 Missions and Culture) SS 102 Freshman Orientation, 2 HI 101-2 History of Ancient Civilization, 6 (or HI 201-2 U.S. History) PS 200 General Psychology, 3 (2) Biblical Studies: the same 40 hours in Bible and theology included in the major in Biblical and Ministry Studies (above), except by approval for the 30-hour Biblical Studies major (above). (3) Ministry concentration, 22 hours, to include CM 100 Personal Evangelism and the equivalent of a minor in one of the five fields listed above, as approved by the department faculty involved. The pastoral student must include PT 311-2 Homiletics, PT 231 Introduction to Church Growth, PT 232 Strategies for Church Growth, PT 301-2 Pastoral Ministry, and PT 460 Fundamentals of Effective Preaching (instead of SP 200). (4) Two free electives if 30-hour Bible major.
The Evangelical Training Association (ETA) Diploma This diploma is provided in cooperation with the Evangelical Training Association and is granted by that association. The purpose is to recognize Bible college students prepared to train leaders in the local church. Students who complete many of the College’s bachelor’s degrees or associate of Christian ministries degree will automatically qualify for the E.T.A. diploma. These include all programs with concentrations in Pastoral Ministry, Missions, Youth Ministry, Christian Education, or Teacher Education. Students must make application for this certificate at the same time of making application for graduation.
Preparation for Seminary or Graduate School While most seminaries do not recommend one particular undergraduate major as best, they do have basic educational expectations. It is expected that an applicant for seminary education will have sound communication skills, a thorough knowledge of the English Bible, a broad general education that includes literature, philosophy, history, science, and the social sciences. In addition, one must either have a working knowledge of New Testament Greek or else acquire it upon entering seminary. Graduate schools of religion have their own individual prerequisites which must be met. Students planning on going to graduate school to pursue a degree other than one emphasizing an area in religion should make a preliminary examination of the requirements of schools they would like to attend and programs they plan to pursue. Like those who will attend a seminary, strong communication proficiency, a broad general education, 36 or more semesters hours in the major, and a strong g.p.a. is essential for acceptance into more reputable programs. Department faculty members are available to provide personal counsel to students who plan to continue their education beyond the baccalaureate level. If a student decides upon a particular seminary or graduate school early in the college program, his advisor can be of greater help in making course and program decisions. Most of our recent graduates who have gone on to seminary graduated with the Bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies, with a second major, such as English or Psychology. Whatever your program preference, your academic advisor will assist you in planning your educational career. Free Will Baptist Bible College is committed to helping you get the kind of education you need to serve Christ and His Church. Evangelical seminaries and graduate schools are looking for students with solid Christian character, commitment to Christian service, proven academic ability, and the study skills and work habits essential for success. We are here to help you prepare for your future.
Course Descriptions
NOTE: All students participating in courses requiring out-of-town and overseas internships or seminars must complete and file the appropriate insurance statements and other waivers in the Academic Dean’s office at least thirty days before the trip. All trips, including preaching trips, disaster relief assistance, short-term mission trips, and trips to out-of-town professional meetings require that proper documentation be filed with the trip director at least thirty days in advance of the trip. Students and supervisors should pick these documents up from the Academic Dean’s secretary at least sixty days in advance of the event.
A student may not take a course more than one number level beyond his classification.
Most courses in Bible are available through Lifetime Learning. Some are available online as recordings of actual and complete courses in session.
Courses in Biblical Studies
BI 101. OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY: LAW AND HISTORY A survey of the Old Testament books of law (Genesis through Deuteronomy) and history (Joshua though Esther), emphasizing introduction, canonical context, theme, content, chronology, and other subjects pertinent to Biblical narrative literature. Required of all students during the freshman year. Three hours, offered fall semester annually.
BI 102. NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY: THE GOSPELS A survey of the four gospel accounts of the New Testament, including (1) the political, social, and cultural background of first-century Palestine and the New Testament era; (2) the religious climate of the day, especially with regard to Judaism; (3) the chronological setting for the gospel events; and (4) introductory issues involved in the study of the gospels, including authorship, date of writing, purpose and theme, and content. Particular focus upon the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as portrayed by the gospel writers. Required of all students during the freshman year. Three hours, offered spring semester annually.
BI 120. BIBLICAL DISCIPLESHIP A Biblical study of the basics of the Christian life, designed to help students understand what it means to be Christ’s disciple, with primary attention to such things as the authenticity, cost, and rewards of discipleship. Other key topics include the disciple’s conversion, spirituality, worship, integrity, speech, thought life, stewardship, and witness. Required of all students during the freshman year. Three hours, offered spring semester annually.
BI 203. OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY: POETRY AND PROPHECY A survey of the Old Testament books of poetry and wisdom (Job through Song of Solomon) and prophecy (Isaiah through Malachi), emphasizing introduction, canonical context, theme and content, chronology, and other subjects pertinent to Hebrew poetry and to wisdom and prophetic literature. Required of all students during the sophomore year. Three hours, offered spring semester annually.
BI 204. NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY: ACTS AND PAUL A careful survey of the book of Acts and the thirteen Pauline letters in the New Testament, with emphasis on Paul’s personal background and ministry in Acts, followed by a detailed analysis of each of his letters in approximate chronological order. Required of all students during the sophomore year. Three hours, offered fall semester annually.
BI 205. NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY: GENERAL EPISTLES AND REVELATION A survey of the book of Hebrews, the letters of James, Peter, John, and Jude, and Revelation, with emphasis on such matters of introduction as authorship, setting and purpose, as well as theme, content, doctrinal concerns, and practical applications. Required of all students. May be taken during the sophomore or junior year. Two hours, offered fall semester annually.
BI 230. BIBLICAL ETHICS A Biblically-based approach to the Christian value system, founded on the centrality and authority of the Bible, the nature of God, the nature of man, and the doctrine of sin and redemption. The structure of thought built on this foundation includes attention to basic values, basic relationships, and the difference between the Old and New Covenant approaches to ethics, with practical application of these truths to real problems faced in a real world. Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
BI 260. BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION An introductory study of the key essentials for interpreting the Bible correctly. The classroom becomes a laboratory where the student is trained to discover the meaning of Biblical passages by applying correct principles and using proper tools, including word studies and paragraph analysis and how to draw, from the truths learned, principles for application to contemporary needs. Three hours, offered fall semester annually.
BI 300. OLD TESTAMENT THEMES Assists the student in developing a holistic approach to the message of the Old Testament centered around its major themes. The primary redemptive covenants of the Old Testament–the Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, and New–serve as an organizational grid to present this unified view, with the messages of the 39 books related to these covenants and to God’s plan for establishing His kingdom on earth. Two hours, offered on demand.
BI 310. THE HOLY SPIRIT Involves students in a Biblical study of the Holy Spirit–who He is and what He does, including some attention to His ministry during Old Testament times and more thorough investigation of the New Testament teaching regarding, for example, His relationship to the individual believer and to the Church as a whole. Emphasizes both the doctrinal and practical implications of the Holy Spirit for today’s world. Two hours, offered on demand.
BI 400. ISAIAH An inductive study of the background and message of the prophecy of Isaiah. Matters of introduction include an overview of the prophetic office, authorship, date, integrity, and setting for the book. Analysis of the book’s content focuses on exegesis and treatment of key themes, notably Isaiah’s messianic revelation. Geared toward helping the student make significant application of the text’s message to the ongoing process of spiritual formation. Prerequisite: BI 203. Three hours, offered fall semester even years.
BI 405. CHRIST IN THE OLD TESTAMENT An inductive analysis of predictive Old Testament material dealing with the person and work of Messiah. Areas addressed include key Old Testament Christological passages; methods of interpreting prophecy, typology, and Christophanies; Messianic titles; and the history of Old Testament Christological interpretation. Prerequisite: BI 101, 203. Two hours, offered spring semester odd years.
BI 410. ROMANS Thorough attention to the first third of the book, including detailed exegesis of words, phrases, and units of thought as a means of understanding the development of thought. A less thorough treatment of the last two-thirds of the book. Prerequisite: BI 204. Three hours, offered spring semester even years.
BI 415. JOB AND ECCLESIASTES An interpretive analysis of the two Old Testament books, with special attention to the world view they present as well as to how their messages apply to the modern age. Prerequisite: BI 203. Three hours, offered fall semester odd years.
BI 420. FIRST CORINTHIANS An exegetical approach to the book, including a brief historical treatment of background and authorship, application of the message of First Corinthians to modern life and thought, and emphasis on doctrinal and ethical teachings. Prerequisite: BI 204. Three hours, offered fall semester odd years.
BI 430. HEBREWS An exegetical analysis of this important New Testament book with attention to the themes of the book–the superiority of Christ and the need for Christian growth–and to important problems of introduction such as authorship and date. Prerequisite: BI 205. Three hours, offered spring semester even years.
BI 450. THE BOOK OF PSALMS Two concurrent modules of study. On one level, the student receives guidance through an inductive analysis of various model psalms. Secondly, through this inductive study, the student is introduced to significant features in the study of Psalms as a whole, including important themes, introductory matters, special interpretive problems, and the relationship of the Psalter to the entire Old Testament. Also receiving special attention are the literary composition of the Psalms and the devotional and practical application of the Psalms to the student’s needs. Prerequisite: BI 203. Three hours, offered spring semester even years.
BI 460. EPHESIANS AND COLOSSIANS An exegetical study of the book of Ephesians, with special attention to key parallel passages in Colossians and emphasis on the great doctrinal and practical themes of both. Examines the value of Ephesians in gaining a true understanding of the organic nature of the Church. Students learn how to use correct principles of interpretation and how to draw from their findings principles for application. Prerequisite: BI 204. Three hours, offered spring semester annually.
BI 470. DANIEL AND REVELATION An inductive study of these Old and New Testament books with a focus on interpretive methodology and results, including analysis of (1) the historical and biographical narratives and prophetic and apocalyptic sections of Daniel, and (2) major interpretive readings of Revelation from the historicist, preterist, futurist, and symbolic perspectives. Incorporates application of eschatological literature to contemporary life and spiritual formation, and assists the student in formulating a position on the interpretation of key issues in the text. Prerequisites: BI 203, 205. Three hours, offered spring semester odd years.
BI 490. RESEARCH PROJECTS IN BIBLICAL STUDIES A guided research in Biblical or theological studies for students at the junior or senior level as approved by the faculty of the Biblical and Ministry Studies Department. To be supervised by an appropriate faculty member within the department. Requires a substantial research project. Involves regular meetings with the teacher and, where applicable, other students in the course for sharing and exchanging of ideas. May be repeated for a significant extension of the original study or for a separate study not to exceed a total of three hours. One to three hours, offered as approved upon demand.
Courses in Christian Education
CE 100. FOUNDATIONS OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION A survey of the historical, educational and theological foundations of Christian Education. This course will examine philosophies, both past and present, especially those which have affected the education of the Christian, helping the student form their own Biblical philosophy of Christian education. Two hours, offered fall semester annually.
CE 200. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION IN THE LOCAL CHURCH Explores the factors essential to the effectiveness of a local church’s Christian education program: administration, organization, recruitment and training, goals and objectives, the giftedness of personnel, personality types in ministry, and facilities. CE 100 recommended. Three hours, offered spring semester annually.
CE 220. SUNDAY SCHOOL MINISTRY An exploration of the history of Sunday School ministry in light of the purpose that brought it into existence and the role Sunday School has filled, challenging students to define the present needs and future impact of the Sunday School. Principles of growth, organization, equipping and leadership empowerment will be discovered with emphasis on application of these principles. CE 100 recommended. One to three hours, offered on demand.
CE 300. CHILDREN’S MINISTRY A study of the physical, spiritual, and psychological development of children and the best means of providing proper Christian training. Considers instructional materials, teaching methods, evangelism, worship, and the administration of children’s work. The student will develop a Biblically-based philosophy of children’s ministry. CE 200 recommended. Three hours, offered fall semester annually.
CE 310. CHURCH CAMPING AND RECREATION MINISTRY The history and philosophy of church camping and recreation ministry, focused on preparing the student to plan, organize, and administer a successful church camp and recreation ministry. Attention to such matters as scheduling, programming, counselors, the camp kitchen and dining hall, recreation, crafts, promotion, sportsmanship, evangelism, follow-up, and curriculum. CE 200 recommended. Two hours, offered fall semester, even years.
CE 320. A WILDERNESS JOURNEY (SEMINAR) A small group experience in a guided wilderness environment exploring the role of group process, challenging experiences, facilitative leadership and decision-making responsibility in promoting Christian maturity; and its application to various ministry settings (wilderness, urban, family, church, and residential programs). Same as PE 340; can count as either CE or PE. One to two hours, offered summers on demand.
CE 340. TEACHING METHODS IN CHRISTIAN EDUCATION An overview of the relationship of teaching and learning to the total Christian education program of the local church; the Biblical basis of teaching and learning; principles and methods involved in teaching and learning; the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Christian education and the use of curriculum materials and instructional media. Prerequisite: CE 200, SP 100. Three hours, offered spring semester annually.
CE 400 PROFESSIONAL ORIENTATION TO MINISTRY This course will direct students to understand the specific roles of vocational ministry within the local church. These roles include an overview of the basic management responsibilities of the minister, and their application to their specific ministry program. This course will emphasize staff development, goal setting, time and financial management, family relationships, personal holiness and other related church ministry duties. Development of a 24-month calendar of ministry planning will be required. Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
CE 410. ADULT MINISTRY Focuses on the ministry of the church to adults and equipping them to minister to others, leading to understanding of the changing challenges and needs faced by adults throughout life. Special attention to the various stages of adulthood, singles ministry, family ministry, and senior adults ministry. The student will develop a Biblically-based philosophy of adult ministry. CE 200 recommended. Three hours, offered fall semester, odd years.
CE/YM 460 (or 461, 462). CHRISTIAN EDUCATION INTERNSHIP Approved junior or senior students are placed with qualified pastors for ten weeks full time during the summer (460) or for two semesters (461,462), under the supervision of the pastor and the CE professor for a defined program of educational duties. Requires weekly reports by the student and a written evaluation by the pastor, including assigned reading. Required either two semesters of 2 hours each or one summer of four hours. Prerequisite: 12 hours of CE, a minimum g.p.a. of 2.0 in both Bible and Christian Education, and approval of the CE professor and recommendation from the CE/YM committee. Four hours, offered annually by individual approval.
Courses in General Christian Ministry
CM 100. PERSONAL EVANGELISM Examines the Biblical basis of evangelism and studies the man, methods, message, and means of evangelism. Emphasis on leading an individual to Christ in personal confrontation, with useful Bible verses memorized and attention to typical errors and difficulties. Required of all students during the first year. Two hours, offered each semester.
CM 210. CHRISTIAN STEWARDSHIP As a foundation for the course, students will be led in a discovery of a biblical theology of stewardship of life. Emphasis given to the practical application of biblical stewardship principles to all of life with special attention to what the Bible teaches about the Christian and his material possessions. Financial support and operation of the local church and all its ministries will be another major focal point. Approach will be biblical and practical throughout. Two hours, offered fall semester even years.
Course in Ministry Research
MS 490. RESEARCH PROJECTS IN MINISTRY STUDIES A guided research study in ministry studies (Christian education, youth ministry, missions, or pastoral ministry) for students at the junior or senior level, as approved by the faculty of the Biblical and Ministry Studies Department. Supervised by an appropriate faculty member. Requires a substantial research project. Involves regular meetings with the teacher, and where applicable, with other students in the course for sharing and exchange of ideas. Students are encouraged to develop a project, plan, and any accompaniments which they can use in the particular ministry for which they are preparing. May be repeated for a significant extension of the original study or for a separate study, not to exceed a total of three hours. One to three hours, offered as approved upon demand.
Courses in Missions
MI 101. THE LOCAL CHURCH AND WORLD MISSIONS Introduces students preparing to be pastors, Christian educators, and youth ministers to a study of the Biblical basis of world missions, the missionary nature and task of the church, and the role of the local church minister in world missions. Outlines a program of missionary education in the local church and stresses the important relationship between the local church and the Board of International Missions and its missionaries. When possible, this course will be taught as a seminar by qualified missions professionals. Two hours, offered fall semester annually.
MI 110. BIBLICAL BASIS OF MISSIONS The teaching of both Testaments about the world mission of the church, focusing on the nature, task, and the agencies of world missions. Presents the dynamics of missions: the Word, the Holy Spirit, the place of prayer, and spiritual warfare. Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
MI 210. HISTORY OF MISSIONS A historical survey of missions from Pentecost to the present day, with emphasis on spiritual, social, and political elements and issues that have helped and hindered the progress of missions. Two hours, offered fall semester annually.
MI 220. MISSIONS AND CULTURE An introductory study of the nature of missions as it relates to the purpose, function, and patterns of culture, including language and theory. Designed to give missionary candidates an orientation toward peoples and cultures of other lands for the sake of imparting the Christian witness in indigenous, rather than western forms. Should be equally helpful to other church workers and laymen in better addressing the spiritual needs of various subcultures in American society. Three hours, offered spring semester annually.
MI 230. EVANGELISM FIELD EXPERIENCE A domestic field experience working with persons whose first language and culture are significantly different than the student’s. Seeks to aid the student in developing cross-cultural relationship and evangelism skills essential for International ministry. The student will be assigned to a qualified supervisor and will work 3-5 hours per week with a Nashville-based, full-time, cross-cultural Christian ministry. Prerequisites: MI 110 and MI 300. One hour, offered on demand.
MI 250. PERSPECTIVES ON THE WORLD CHRISTIAN MOVEMENT A 16-week comprehensive examination of missions from four perspectives: the Biblical foundation for mission theology; historical progress of the gospel; cross-cultural communication; and strategies for reaching unreached peoples. Hosted on campus (or in a local church) and taught by visiting lecturers. Three hours, offered as scheduled locally by the U.S. Center for World Missions.
MI 300. MISSIONARY PRINCIPLES Examines the life and work of the missionary, including the missionary call, qualifications and preparation for service, spiritual walk, spiritual gifts assessment, cultural adaptation and adjustment, and effective interpersonal relationships. Two hours, offered fall semester annually.
MI 311. CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION Communication theory and skills in the cross-cultural context, with emphasis on understanding major people groups and their corresponding worldviews, and including practical application of communication with non-western peoples. Recommended that MI 110 and 300 be taken first. Three hours, offered fall semester annually.
MI 312. CROSS-CULTURAL CHURCH PLANTING The Pauline model of planting churches cross-culturally in the Book of Acts, with consideration given to alternative models for multiplying growing indigenous congregations. Recommended that MI 110, 200 be taken first. Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
MI 313. CROSS-CULTURAL LEADERSHIP Examines cross-cultural indigenous leadership development from Biblical and contemporary models. Challenges the student to think in new paradigms when considering the dynamics of applying Biblical principles to spiritual leadership in different cultural contexts. Encourages the student to become a more effective leader himself, as well as a trainer of effective leaders. Prerequisite: MI 312. Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
MI 340. PREPARATION FOR SHORT-TERM OVERSEAS MINISTRY Practical preparation for students planning for an overseas summer ministry or short-term service to enable them to obtain maximum benefit from experience or study in a cross-cultural environment. One hour, offered spring semester annually.
MI 341. STUDENT OVERSEAS APPRENTICE In cooperation with the Free Will Baptist International Missions Board, approved junior or senior students are placed with missionaries for 7-10 weeks. Under the supervision both of the missionary and the program coordinator, the student experiences directed cross-cultural ministry. Includes reports on assigned reading and written evaluations by the missionary supervisor. Prerequisite: MI 340. Three hours, offered each summer.
MI 350. CROSS-CULTURAL FIELD STUDIES In cooperation with the Free Will Baptist International Missions Board, approved sophomore, junior, or senior students with a minimum cumulative g.p.a. of 2.00 will form a team to spend four to five weeks of intensive study and field observation in a International culture under the direction of missionaries. Exposes students to both the theoretical and practical dimensions of cross-cultural ministry. Prerequisite: MI 340. Three hours, offered each summer according to missionary supervision availability.
MI 390. OVERSEAS MISSIONS PRACTICUM The student will spend the year between his junior and senior year on a International field under the direct supervision of qualified missionary personnel. Significant parts of the student’s time abroad will be spent in language and culture acquisition, mission operation orientation, and ministry participation. A complete journal and personalized plan of ministry will be required. Prerequisites: MI 110, 200, 311, 340, 220, official acceptance into the ministry track (see FWBBC Missions Handbook), and an approved application for the internship. Twelve hours, offered on demand.
MI 391. POST-OVERSEAS MISSIONS PRACTICUM Student and professor construct a personalized educational, spiritual, and ministry development program based on the post-field evaluations for MI 390. Prerequisite: MI 390. One hour, offered fall semester on demand.
MI 400. MISSIONS SEMINAR: CONTEMPORARY ISSUES A study of some of the special issues confronting the contemporary missionary, such as restricted access nations, post-communist nations, Romanism, Ecumenism, syncretism, pluralism, economics, how to do area studies, and the ìChristianî cults, with each subject presented by a lecturer with expertise in the field. One hour, offered annually.
MI 430. STRATEGY FOR WORLD OUTREACH Strategies for expansion in world evangelization and principles and methods of church growth, with special consideration to contemporary strategies in general, and past and current Free Will Baptist methods of outreach. Prerequisite: MI 110, 200. Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
MI 490 GUIDED RESEARCH IN MISSIOLOGICAL STUDIES A guided research in missiological studies for students at the senior level as approved by the mission program department. To be supervised by an appropriate faculty member within the mission department. Requires a substantial research project. Involves regular meetings with the teacher, and where applicable, other students in the course for sharing and exchanging of ideas. May require presentation before a committee selected by the faculty-of-record. May be repeated for a significant extension of the original study or for a separate study not to exceed a total of six hours. Prerequisite: Senior standing and departmental approval. One to three hours, offered as approved upon demand.
Courses in Pastoral Ministry
PT 231. INTRODUCTION TO CHURCH GROWTH Emphasizes the nature and purpose of the church as foundational for developing a Biblical philosophy of church growth. Some attention is given to the history of the Church Growth Movement, as well as to more specialized topics such as a theology of church growth, hindrances to church growth, and measuring success in church growth. Two hours, offered fall semester even years.
PT 232. STRATEGIES FOR CHURCH GROWTH This course seeks to define the pastor’s role in church growth and explores the basic components of a church outreach program. Students will see step-by-step plans for implementing an outreach program. Subjects will include the pastor’s role as a personal soul-winner and mentor of soul-winners, church analysis, planning, methods of evangelism and means of sustaining growth. Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
PT 301, 302. PASTORAL MINISTRY Focuses on the basics of pastoral life and ministry, emphasizing the importance of a Biblical approach to ministry, dealing with the practical how-to of pastoral ministry. First semester deals with the pastor’s character, call, personal life, family and ministry relationships, and his pastoral tasks in the church and community. Includes such basic concerns as the pastor’s calling to ministry, his leadership role in directing worship services, administering the ordinances, and conducting weddings and funerals. The spring semester is devoted to the pastor’s role in the local church as an organization, with attention to the pastor as leader, administrator, and trainer of lay leadership. Three hours each semester, offered annually.
PT 311, 312. HOMILETICS Developing skill in the preparation and preaching of effective Biblical sermons. First semester is devoted to understanding and mastering the fundamental principles of sermon building. Second semester is a preaching laboratory where these principles are applied in the actual preparation and preaching of sermons. Prerequisite: BI 260, SP 200. Two hours each semester, offered annually.
PT 330. CURRENT TOPICS IN PASTORAL MINISTRY These lectures will cover such topics as expository preaching, church health and church growth, lay leadership development, and current issues as identified and approved by the Department of Biblical and Ministry Studies. Typically, two seminars will be conducted each year utilizing guest pastors with graduate degrees in Bible, theology, or ministry. The lectures will take place in a seminar format with guests coming to the campus for presentations from two to three times within a semester. Students must pre-register since syllabi, books, and assignments will be distributed several weeks prior to the first session. Advance reading and other assignments will be due at the first class. No topic may be repeated for graduation credit. Two hours each semester, offered annually.
PS/PT 360. CHRISTIAN COUNSELING Acquaints the student with basic principles involved in Christian counseling, with attention to Biblical principles involved, the place of counseling in the local church, and problems facing the pastor and others as they attempt to help people through counseling. The student will develop an understanding of counseling philosophy, skills, and technique appropriate to a local church setting. Three hours, offered fall semester annually.
PT 400. EXPOSITORY PREACHING The methods of preparing expository sermons, directing the student in the preparation of various sermons, discussing techniques and evaluating students’ efforts. Audio and videotaped sermons by great preachers are used as teaching models. Prerequisites: BI 260, PT 311. Two hours, offered on demand.
PT 410. DENOMINATIONAL SEMINAR A brief survey of the history of the Free Will Baptist movement and exposure to all aspects of the program of the denomination, with extensive use of visiting lecturers from the agencies of the National Association of Free Will Baptists. Two hours, offered spring semester on demand.
PT 420 (or 421, 422). PASTORAL INTERNSHIP Approved pastoral students, usually seniors, are placed with experienced pastors for ten weeks full time during the summer (420) or two semesters (421,422) to work under the pastor’s supervision and expose the student to the various aspects of pastoral ministry. The student meets for weekly conferences with the pastor for instruction, guidance, and counseling and makes weekly reports to the designated faculty supervisor. The pastor submits written evaluations. Prerequisite: PT 301-2, 311-2. Note: In order to provide a supervised field experience for the student who is presently the pastor of a church in the area, the Coordinator of the Pastoral Studies Program will serve as mentor to the student pastor to enable him to do his internship in his own church. Two hours, offered annually by individual approval.
PT 430. CHURCH PLANTING An introductory course in how to start a church, confronting the student with the urgent necessity of church planting in order to fulfill the Great Commission as well as to maintain the growth and vitality of the Church. Includes acquaintance with the literature on the subject and exposure to experienced church planters, evaluation of various contemporary models of church planting, stages in the church planting process. Attention to the gifts, abilities, and personality traits needed by church planters in order to help the student consider becoming a church planter. Two hours, offered on demand.
PT 450 (or 451, 452). CHURCH PLANTING INTERNSHIP Approved pastoral students (usually seniors) will work in conjunction with an approved home missionary or church planter/builder for two semesters, approximately 15 weeks each semester (451,452), or for 10 weeks full time during the summer (450). The semester internship will entail approximately 14 hours per week. Students should plan their schedules so as to accommodate this level of involvement. Internship will involve such things as consulting one hour per week with the faculty supervisor, being in the regular service times of the church when assigned responsibilities, setting aside appropriate preparation time, mentoring by the missionary and on the job training with the missionary and program coordinator. The intern will make weekly reports to the faculty supervisor. The missionary and faculty supervisor will cooperatively evaluate the performance of the intern. Prerequisites: PT 301-2, PT 311-2, PT 430. Two hours, offered by individual approval.
PT 460. FUNDAMENTALS OF EFFECTIVE PREACHING The course presumes a basic knowledge and skill in sermon preparation and Bible exposition. The focus of the course will be on those elements that make for effective preaching. Physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual preparation will be addressed. The course will enable the student to build upon the skills already possessed in ways that make for more effective preaching. Opportunities will be provided to hone preaching skills through observation of others, practice, and self-evaluation. Prerequisite: PT 311-2. (By special permission of the teacher, senior students may take PT 312 and PT 460 concurrently.) Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
Courses in Theology
TH 201, 202. BIBLE DOCTRINES A Biblical study of ten essential doctrines of the Christian faith–the Bible, God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, man, salvation, the Christian life, the Church, angels, and last things. Attention is given to the doctrinal material in the Free Will Baptist Treatise. The student is helped to gain an understanding of these doctrines so as to reflect, in daily life, the Biblical passages from which they come. Three hours each semester, offered annually.
TH 301, 302. SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY A topical study of the whole of Christian truth, using any and all sources of truth but primarily the Bible, with a view of seeing the parts as making up an integrated and harmonious whole, resulting in a Christian worldview. The fall semester deals with prolegomena, bibliology, theology, angelology and anthropology. The spring semester deals with Christology, soteriology, and ecclesiology. Five hours fall semester and three hours spring semester, offered annually.
TH 403. ESCHATOLOGY A study of end events, with some attention given to postmillennialism, but more to amillennialism and premillennialism as more commonly held today, focusing on the redemptive covenants and how they contribute to a person’s view of eschatology. Two hours, offered spring semester annually.
TH 495/BI CREEDS AND COUNCILS OF THE EARLY CHURCH This course will trace the historical context and development of Christian thought as presented in the creeds and conciliar statements of the early church. Heavy emphasis will be placed upon the biblical nature of these creeds and the way scriptural exegesis from the theological movements resulted in the church councils. The backdrop outlines for this study will be the dynamic nature of early Christianity and the way in which the tradition of the Church became more and more reified in dialogue and disagreement with heterodox Christianity and secular, Greco-Roman culture. Items receiving particular attention will be Trinity, Christology, free will and grace, and the development of the Christian canon of Scripture. This course will employ readings of primary sources in translation and problem-based learning exercises. Church History is recommended but not required. Three hours, offered on demand.
Courses in Youth Ministry
YM 200. PHILOSOPHY OF YOUTH MINISTRY A survey of the development of youth work from its beginnings to the present, including history of both church and para-church youth ministry. Strong emphasis on philosophy and principles for youth ministry. Students will be able to develop and implement a comprehensive youth ministry that is based on a Biblical, sociological and familial model. Prerequisite: CE 200 or permission of instructor. Two hours, offered fall semester, odd years.
YM 210. PROGRAMS AND CURRICULUM OF YOUTH MINISTRY Develops and arranges program activities and curriculum content, investigating scope and sequence in the area of curriculum. Topics include adolescent self-image, rebellion, interpersonal relationships and how these impact curriculum and activity programming. Students will have the content and ability to program a youth ministry for several months. YM 200 recommended. Two hours, offered spring semester, even years.
YM 300. YOUTH GROUP GROWTH Principles of growing a youth group, including concepts of building a successful student evangelistic and discipleship program, tools for training students in outreach and peer discipling, church growth principles, the training of adults to disciple students, and addressing cultural factors that impact evangelism and discipleship. YM 200 recommended. Three hours, offered spring semester, odd years.
YM 320. HIGH SCHOOL AND CAMPUS MINISTRY Evangelism and discipleship ministries to the secular and Christian school campus, with focus on programs that do not create friction with the school’s administration. Includes exposure to the legal issues surrounding ministry to school campuses. Focuses on content and philosophy of programs like Young Life, Campus Crusade, and others which program outreach to campus structures. YM 200 recommended. Two hours, offered fall semester, even years.
YM 420. SEMINAR: CONTEMPORARY YOUTH ISSUES A study of some of the special issues confronting the contemporary youth minister, such as breakdown of the family, the influence of media, cults, post-modernism, substance abuse, depression, divorce, materialism, and peer pressure, with each subject presented by a lecturer with special knowledge in the area of the concern addressed. One hour, offered fall semester annually with continuation into spring semester.
CE/YM 460 (or 461, 462). YOUTH MINISTRY INTERNSHIP Experience in a local church, either part time during the school term (451-2) or full time for ten weeks during the summer (450), leading to demonstrated ability to lead youth meetings, plan and work with other church staff, lead lay workers within the youth ministry structure, fit into an existing youth ministry program, grow spiritually and intellectually while ministering, and live godly while dealing with the pressures associated with ministry. Required either two semesters of 2 hours each or one summer of four hours. Prerequisite: 15 hours of YM and CE courses, a minimum g.p.a. of 2.0 in both Bible and Youth Ministry, approval of the youth ministry professor, and recommendation of the YM/CE committee. Four hours, offered on demand. |
