The course descriptions for the the Bachelor of Biblical Leadership are listed below.
BI: BIBLE AREA
BI 101 OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY (Required) Three credit hours
An examination of the contents of the Old Testament with attention given to background, general analysis, and brief exposition of each book. Each book will be examined in its relation to the other canonical writings.
BI 102 NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY (Required) Three credit hours
An introductory survey of the contents of the New Testament, including its background, the Gospels, Acts, the Epistles and Revelation. The development of the central theme, general contents, purpose, historical setting, and spiritual value of each book will be examined.
BI 103 BIBLICAL RESEARCH METHODS (Required) Three credit hours
This course is designed to acquaint the student with various Bible-study procedures and methods. Various aspects of Bible research will be introduced. As this course will also deal with the topics of how to study and time management, the student is advised to take this course early in the degree program.
BI 210 WOMEN IN THE BIBLE Three credit hours
A study of the women in the Bible and their roles in ministry.
BI 303 GENESIS (Required) Three credit hours
An expository study of the first book of the Bible.
BI 310 RUTH AND ESTHER Three credit hours
This course is an expository study of the Ruth and Esther and the theological themes related to women in ministry.
BI 332 MINOR PROPHETS (Hosea – Malachi) Three credit hours
The background and analysis of the twelve Minor Prophets.
BI 401 LIFE OF CHRIST (Required) Three credit hours
A chronological and thematic study of the life, times, and teachings of Christ as presented in a harmony of the four Gospels with a view to application in the life and ministry of the student.
BI 402 ACTS (Required) Three credit hours
This is an expository study of the Book of Acts that deals with the formation of the early church and the dispensational transition in God’s program. Emphasis is placed upon the ministries of Peter and Paul.
BI 421 PASTORAL EPISTLES Three credit hours
Covering I and II Timothy and Titus, this is an expository study that examines doctrinal issues concerning church leadership, administration and ministry. As the only part of the New Testament which deals with church problems from an administrative viewpoint, this section of Scripture is studied with a view of practical application.
BI 431 GOSPEL OF JOHN Three credit hours
A study of the Gospel of John with emphasis on the two themes: 1) Proofs that Jesus Christ is indeed the Son of God, and 2) God’s plan of salvation through the Person and work of Jesus Christ. Attention is given to Johannine narrative techniques, theology, and history.
BI 435 ROMANS Three credit hours
A study of the background, theological themes, and an expositional analysis of the Book of Romans. Emphasis is placed on the theological context and development of the book.
BI 437 CORINTHIAN EPISTLES Three credit hours
A study of the two Corinthian epistles identifying the kinds of problems faced by the first century church and Paul’s solution to them. The student will recognize contemporary church life in studying these Epistles in addition to selected theological issues, discussion of structural features, historical setting, and the nature of Paul’s Apostleship and philosophy of church life is forthcoming.
BI 460 HEBREWS Three credit hours
An analytical and expository study of Hebrews, this course stresses a discussion of Christ as the believers’ high priest and a challenge to “go out to him outside the camp.”
BI 470 DANIEL & REVELATION (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the two major apocalyptic books of the Bible. The general analysis will be supplemented with historical, doctrinal, and eschatological materials emphasizing the relationship of the two prophetic books.
CS: COMPUTER SCIENCE AREA
CS 101 PRINCIPLES OF COMPUTER MANAGEMENT Three credit hours
A study of the use of software, such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). Emphasis will not be on the mechanics of the software but the use of the software to present ideas, for persuasion, and for analysis. Class size is limited.
ED: EDUCATIONAL MINISTRIES AREA
ED 201 SURVEY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION (Required) Three credit hours
A study of what Christian education is and its philosophical and historical backgrounds with an overview of the local church’s total educational program.
EN: ENGLISH AREA
EN 099 REMEDIAL ENGLISH Non-credit
This course is designed to help a student who needs additional work in English grammar prior to taking EN 101, as determined by academic background and the English placement test. The course will emphasize a basic review of grammar necessary to successful college level work. No credit will be awarded for this course, but the student will be billed a fee listed in “Tuition and Fees.”
EN 101 ENGLISH COMPOSITION I (Required) Three credit hours
Prerequisite: Exit or exemption from Remedial English
This course involves the use of English for written communication, including exposition, analysis, and argumentation. Topics include grammar, proper sentence structure, paragraph development, word usage, and essay preparation.
EN 102 ENGLISH COMPOSITION II (Required) Three credit hours
Prerequisite: EN 101
This course emphasizes effective writing in a variety of contexts with attention to critical analysis, interpretation, evaluation, and research. Literature such as novels, short stories, and poetry will be used.
EN 201 PUBLIC SPEECH (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the requirements for effective oral communication. Topics will include selecting a speech topic, researching the topic, outlining, and organizing the speech, use of visual aids, persuasion, analyzing the audience, and critiquing the speech.
EV: EVANGELISM AREA
EV 101 PERSONAL EVANGELISM (Required) Three credit hours
A study designed to prepare students for involvement in witnessing for the Lord. Importance is attached to the memorization of Scripture and actually engaging in personal work.
EV 203 SPIRITUAL FORMATION (Required) Three credit hours
Spiritual Formation is a practical study of the theology of life in the image of Christ and some Biblical principles that guide the development and maintenance of that Christlike life, in the lives of Christians. The study will include consideration of the Biblical directions for appropriating the spirituality and victory that Jesus Christ gives for faithful Christian living.
EV 210 INTRODUCTION TO CHURCH GROWTH Three credit hours
This course is an introductory study of Church Growth beginning with the Biblical teachings on the subject. In addition, it is a consideration of the history and characteristics of the Church Growth Movement begun by Donald McGavran. The course also looks at how theology relates to the Church Growth concept with an application of the study to the local church.
GR: GREEK
GR 301 GREEK GRAMMAR I Three credit hours
This is an introduction to basic Greek grammar, vocabulary, and translation.
GR 302 GREEK GRAMMAR II Three credit hours
Prerequisite: GR 301
This course is a continuation of GR 301, emphasizing third declension nouns, secondary tenses, moods, and irregular verbs.
GR 401 GREEK SYNTAX I Three credit hours
Prerequisite: GR 302
This is an advanced study introducing Greek syntax that emphasizes noun cases and verb moods.
GR 402 GREEK SYNTAX II Three credit hours
Prerequisite: GR 401
This continues GR 401, emphasizing verb tenses, participles, infinitives, and clauses.
HI: HISTORY AREA
HI 101 WORLD CIVILIZATIONS I (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the development of civilization from the beginning of recorded history to the Reformation. Emphasis will be placed on the historical contributions from Egypt, Babylonia, China, India, Persia, Palestine, Greece, and Rome.
HI 102 WORLD CIVILIZATIONS II (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the development of civilization from the Reformation to present day. Emphasis will include the development of Europe, the U.S., the World Wars, and the fall of Communism.
CH 202 CHURCH HISTORY (Required) Three credit hours
An overview of the history of the Church from the first century AD to the present.
HI 401 AMERICAN HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT Three credit hours
A study of the political, social, and economic development of the U.S., with emphasis on the growth of the democratic tradition. Topics will include the founding fathers, voting behaviors, the judicial branch, civil rights, civil liberties, the legislative branch, the presidency, and the role of religion.
LD: LEADERSHIP AREA
LD 401 THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS OF LEADERSHIP Three credit hours This course involves a study of foundational theological principles related to the development and exercise of Christian leadership. Combining the use of proper biblical exposition and an understanding of leadership in the first century church, students will learn fundamental concepts that distinguish biblical leadership from secular models. Special attention is given to Christians as ministers and leaders in society.
LD 402 LEADERSHIP VALUES AND ETHICS Three credit hours This course focuses on how values and ethics are established and managed in ministry and how they are influenced by the personal beliefs, values and ethical standards of the individual leader. This study examines how an organization with Christian leaders can induce changes in the values and ethical behaviors of the communities and cultures within which they reside and operate.
LD 403 PRINCIPLES OF STRATEGIC PLANNING Three credit hours This course examines the critical elements involved in strategic thinking and planning, particularly as it relates to the mission of the church. Students will learn to apply the principles of systemic thinking and action to move churches, organizations, ministries, departments, and other groups toward the fulfillment of their God-given vision. Attention is given to the development of mission statements, values, vision and strategy.
LD 404 SERVANT LEADERSHIP Three credit hours This course involves a study of biblical “servanthood” and spiritual formation as the essence of effective Christian leadership. In light of contemporary interest in the subject, students will examine biblical models of this transformational approach to leadership and develop a ministry philosophy for practicing “the paradox of servant leadership.”
LD 405 CONFLICT RESOLUTION Three credit hours
Change is considered inevitable in leadership; however it remains a major source of conflict. This course equips students to apply biblical principles to personal, pastoral, and group conflict, and considers effective models for leading congregational change with preventive measures to minimize conflict. Attention is given to understanding personality distinctives, implementing change, and decision-making in leadership.
LD 406 LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Three credit hours The purpose of this course is to help students understand the internal, external, and divine influences impacting leaders’ development. Leadership training is only one component of leadership development. This course gives attention to the leaders’ role in developing themselves and those around them through spiritual formation, transformational processes, and mentoring.
MA: MATHEMATICS AREA
MA 099 PREALGEBRA Non-credit
This course provides a transition from arithmetic to algebra. Emphasis is on the use of mathematics to analyze and solve real-life problems. No credit will be awarded for this course, but the student will be billed a fee listed in “Tuition and Fees.”
MA 102 APPLICATION OF FUNDAMENTAL MATHEMATICS Three credit hours
An introductory study of mathematics emphasizing the practical application of mathematics to every day life. Topics covered include, taxes, insurance, investment, as well as fundamental mathematical manipulations.
MA 201 COLLEGE ALGEBRA (Required) Three credit hours
Prerequisite: Exit or Exemption from MA 099
A study of algebraic concepts, including linear functions, systems of linear equations, scientific notation, exponential functions, functional notation, and graphing.
MI: MISSIONS AREA
MI 202 INTRODUCTION TO MISSIONS (Required) Three credit hours
An introductory course dealing with the philosophy of world evangelization. Attention is given to what missions is, the qualifications of the missionary, his call, and methodology.
MI 430 MISSIONS PRACTICUM Three credit hours
An exposure in selected world areas for the purpose of acquainting students firsthand with some of the problems, needs, duties, conflicts, and cultural barriers of the missionary as he works with the national church.
MU: MUSIC
MU 102 MUSIC APPRECIATION (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the development of music as revealed in major compositions of representative composers from each major period. This course is designed for students who desire to expand their appreciation and understanding of music. Prior knowledge of music is not required.
PA: MINISTRY AREA
PA 301 LEADERSHIP (Required) Three credit hours
This course will introduce students to practical leadership techniques. Students will evaluate strategic leaders from the past as well as contemporary leadership lessons from today‟s theorists. Students will evaluate their personal leadership styles in the context of understanding how to incorporate effective leadership techniques along with Christian values in established and future environment.
PA 302 MINISTERIAL DUTIES Three credit hours
A study of the call, qualifications, and duties of the minister with emphasis on the duties of preaching, teaching, evangelism, counseling, visitation, and administration. Administrating the ordinances of the church and funeral and wedding services are covered.
PA 310 PRINCIPLES OF BIBLICAL EXPOSITION (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the nature of biblical exposition and principles of message construction. Attention is given to the basic materials of the message, methods of preparation, and delivery, and problems of exposition.
PA 312 CHRISTIAN RHETORIC Three credit hours
The purpose of this course is to train students who do not sense a call to the pastorate in the elementary exercises of relating biblical concepts and utilizing Christian persuasion and exhortation for a variety of ministry settings. Aspects and principles of hermeneutics, homiletics (preaching), and delivery will be studied. This course is designed to be an alternative to Essentials of Biblical Exposition (PA 310).
PA 313 PRINCIPLES OF BIBLICAL COMMUNICATION Three credit hours
Prerequisite: PA 310
Basic principles of voice, articulation, oral interpretation of Scripture, and expositional delivery are considered. Opportunity for practice is given in each of these areas and constitutes the basis for additional study in sermon content, structure, and delivery.
PA 320 BIBLICAL COUNSELING (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the model of biblical counseling developed by Lawrence Crabb.
PA 401 PRINCIPLES OF CHURCH ADMINISTRATION (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the responsibilities of the church staff members and their relationship to lay leaders in the church. Attention is given to the concepts of team ministries, a mutual understanding of role responsibilities, training, counseling, and church doctrine as it relates to church administration.
PA 405-406 INTERN PRACTICUM I & II Three credit hours each
The Intern Practicums are practical applications of ministry goals and skills through Ministry Action Assignments under field supervision.
RW: RESEARCH AND WRITING
RW 100 INTRODUCTION TO THEOLOGICAL RESEARCH & WRITING No credit
(Required)
An introductory survey of basic research and writing skills that are required of undergraduate students. Topics include: Library research, theological tools, internet research, Turabian formatting, writing a term paper, documenting sources, and common writing errors. This course is taken independently (online). Students must take the course prior to their second semester of classes.
SC: SCIENCE AREA
SC 103 GENERAL PHYSICAL SCIENCE (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the concepts, laws and theories of physics and astronomy. Topics include motion, gravity, temperature, electricity, the solar system, nuclear physics and their application to the modern world.
SO: SOCIAL SCIENCES AREA
PS 101 AMERICAN GOVERNMENT Three credit hours
Introduction to American Government. The historical development and current political systems of the American political system of government is studied. The Biblical principles that inspired the founding fathers and that continue to permeate American government are explored and discussed from a Christian worldview.
SO 102 CONTEMPORARY ETHICS Three credit hours
A study of the complex moral issues faced by contemporary society with emphasis on relevant theories and their application to ethical dilemmas. Topics include war, euthanasia, divorce, capital punishment, ethical decision making by leaders, and civil disobedience.
201 PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGY AND COUNSELING Three credit hours
A study of the major elements of psychology, including theories and applications. Topics will include human development, learning, perception, memory, personality, and behavior.
SO 204 PRINCIPLES OF SOCIOLOGY Three credit hours
A study of theories, methods, and concepts of sociology, focusing on the critical issues of society. Topics will include poverty, inequality, aging, violence, sexuality, work, technology, and drug abuse.
SO 302 PRINCIPLES OF PHILOSOPHY Three credit hours
A study of the contributions, from antiquity to the 21st Century, from writers in philosophy. Topics include reality, knowledge, science, ethics, politics, art, and the mind.
SO 401 WORLD RELIGIONS Three credit hours
A study of the major world religions, including their impact on the culture where they began and upon the world. Religions covered include Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam.
TH: THEOLOGY AREA
TH 201 THEOLOGY SURVEY I (Required) Three credit hours
A general survey of Bible doctrine dealing with five of the ten major areas of systematic theology including Bibliology, Theology Proper, Christology, Pneumatology, and Angelology. Also covered is an introduction to and the value of the study of systematic theology.
TH 202 THEOLOGY SURVEY II (Required) Three credit hours A general survey of Bible doctrine dealing with five of the ten major areas of systematic theology including Anthropology, Hamartiology, Soteriology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology. This course, although a logical extension of TH 201, does not require TH 201 as a prerequisite.
TH 310 CREATIONISM Three credit hours
A study of origins from the perspective of scientific creationism and biblical theology.
TH 321 CHRISTOLOGY (Required) Three credit hours
A study concentrating on the Person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. Particular consideration is given to the deity and the humanity of Christ, messianic prophecy, His work in the Old Testament, His salvific work on the cross, His literal resurrection, His ascension and present work in Heaven, and His future coming again. Attention is also given to modern assaults on the biblical portrayal of Christ.
TH 401 ECCLESIOLOGY Three credit hours
An examination of the New Testament church with particular attention given to its origin, distinctive nature, mission, government, offices, ordinances, and destiny.
TH 402 ESCHATOLOGY Three credit hours
A study of the prophetic revelation of the plan and purpose of God. Intensive study is given to the rapture of the Church, the tribulation, the second coming of Christ, and the millennium.
TH 441 HERMENEUTICS (Required) Three credit hours
A study of the basic principles and specific guidelines of biblical interpretation. Some attention is given to the historical schools of interpretation, but the focus of the course is on historical-grammatical interpretation and legitimate application of the Scriptures. General principles, such as reliance on the Holy Spirit; paying attention to context; knowing the ancient culture; and recognizing the different types of literary genre, are covered. Specific rules regarding the interpretation of types, symbols, poetry, proverbs, parables, and prophecy are also given.
WMIN: WOMEN’S MINISTRY AREA
WMIN 101 Introduction to Women’s Ministries Three credit hours
This course provides an overview of the varying types and roles for women in ministry.
WMIN 201 Evangelism in Women’s Ministries Three credit hours
An examination of women’s role in evangelism and promoting Christianity.
WMIN 202 Leadership and Women Three credit hours
This course explores the various styles of women in leadership and the impact of gender roles and societal norms on women in leadership positions.
WMIN 401 Practical Women’s Ministries Three credit hours
This course examines practical and effective methods for women in Christian ministry to reach and teach both women and men.