BIBLICAL EXPOSITION
BE 510 Women of Faith Three credit hours
This course explores the women of the Bible and the themes found in their roles in ministry.
BE 521 ESSENTIALS OF BIBLICAL EXPOSITION 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, effective delivery, and problems of exposition. Emphasis is upon the accurate interpretation of the text and its relevant application to a contemporary audience.
BE 522 PRACTICAL BIBLICAL COMMUNICATION Three credit hours
Prerequisite: BE 521
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 content, structure, and delivery.
BE 523 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 Preaching (BE 521).
BE 550 PASTORAL PREACHING Three credit hours
Prerequisite: BE 521
A study of the role of preaching as it relates to the office and ministry of the local church pastor. Course material and discussions will focus on the selection of Bible texts/books and the preparation of sermons to meet the needs of the contemporary church family. Topics studied will include understanding the congregation for pastoral preaching and biblical exposition with the role of the Holy Spirit in sermon planning and development as an effective means of extending the ministry of the pastor. A planned preaching program will be devised.
BE 610 ADVANCED BIBLICAL EXPOSITION Three credit hours
Key issues in sermon preparation are addressed including the interpretation of different types of biblical literature.
CHURCH MINISTRIES
CM 520 MINISTERIAL DUTIES Three credit hours
A study of the various administrative, pastoral, and ministerial roles of those who provide spiritual leadership to a local congregation. Practical methodologies of those serving in such roles, whether as senior pastors or staff ministers, will be explored. This study also looks at practical matters of the servant’s day-to-day personal, social, and professional life, how a declining moral culture can adversely affect these, and how such negative influence can be countered.
CM 711 INTERN PRACTICUM Three credit hours each
Prerequisites: TH 530, BE 521, OT 520, NT 520, TH 525, TH 526, TH 545, EV 520
The Intern Practicum is a practical application of ministry goals and skills through Ministry Action Assignments under field supervision.
DISCIPLESHIP COUNSELING
CO 526 FOUNDATIONS OF DISCIPLESHIP COUNSELING Three credit hours
This course introduces the student to the principles of Discipleship counseling. The course includes a study of the counseling process, the believer’s new identity, the nature of the flesh, characteristics of the flesh, journey to the cross, the believer’s victory, the Exchanged Life, Spirituotherapy, living in dependence on Christ, and growing in grace.
CO 528 DISCIPLESHIP COUNSELING AND HELPING SKILLS Three credit hours
This is a practical course designed to improve the student’s listening, helping, and communication skills. Students must complete this course on campus, either by the five-day intensive modular method or by attending a 15-week regular semester class at ALIS. The student may also obtain credit for this course by taking it or a comparable course on campus at another institution. Advanced approval by the Counseling Department is required to take this course at another institution (note the 9-hour transfer credit limitation).
CO 620 DISCIPLESHIP COUNSELING IN MARRIAGE & FAMILY Three credit hours
This course introduces the student to counseling couples and families from a Christ-centered perspective. The course includes a study of the complimentary biblical roles of husband and wife and the principles of biblical parenting. Living life as counselor, spouse, and parent by experiencing God’s empowering grace is emphasized. Different Christian models of counseling couples are studied.
CO 626 DISCIPLESHIP COUNSELING ISSUES, ETHICS, & LEGAL CONCERNS Three credit hours
Legal and ethical concerns such as confidentiality, privileged communications, duty to protect life, preventing suicide, warning intended victims, reporting abuse of children, and other critical concerns are studied.
CO 628 DISCIPLESHIP COUNSELING METHODOLOGY Three credit hours
Prerequisite: CO 526
The focus of this course is the techniques used in Discipleship counseling to lead others into identifying with Christ as Savior, Lord, and Life. Topics addressed include taking personal histories, assessing fleshly living patterns, conceptualizing core problems, the use of Scripture in counseling, the use of visual aids and homework in counseling, and counseling strategies.
CO 700 DISCIPLESHIP COUNSELING PRACTICUM Three credit hours
Prerequisites: CO 526, CO 528, CO 626, and CO 628
Prior to enrollment in the practicum, the student must secure permission from the ALIS Counseling Department. In this regard the practicum, except as noted below, must be completed at an Association of Exchanged Life Ministries (AELM) site. It may be completed by means of either an eight-week full-time practicum, extended part-time, or the combination two-week on site and video-based distance-education practicum. Students, who have already completed an AELM internship or AELM Advanced Training, may complete their practicum in a non-AELM setting.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
CS 501 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.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
ED 520 METHODS OF TEACHING Three credit hours
A survey course covering general methodology of instruction within the classroom. The methods considered will be appropriate for both church education and Christian day school classes. Attention will be given to aims and objectives, unit organization and preparation, study habits, and measuring the results of instruction. The course is designed to improve the ability of the Christian worker in the preparation and presentation of lesson materials. Emphasis will be given to creative and practical work, and age/grade differences will be considered. The use of the Bible in teaching all subjects will be strongly emphasized.
ED 530 EDUCATIONAL MINISTRIES Three credit hours
A general overview of Church Christian Education. The primary focus will be on the church and its organizations; however, related fields of biblical education and church ministry will also be examined.
EV 701 CHURCH MINISTRY AND MANAGEMENT Three credit hours
A study of the officers of the church–both staff and lay personnel. Specific duties of church officers and staff will be closely examined. The concept of team ministries will be studied along with a view of the role of individual responsibilities within the team. The role of the pastor will be examined in relationship to other members of the staff as well as to lay workers in the church. The place of church doctrine within the church administration and ministry will also be emphasized.
ED 705 FINANCIAL PLANNING Three credit hours
A study of church stewardship planning based on biblical principles. It is a study of what God has to say about financial practices coupled with standard bookkeeping methodology. It defines the work of the church treasurer, financial secretary, budget, finance committee, and other church financial officers and terms.
EV 725 FAMILY EDUCATION MINISTRIES Three credit hours
A course designed to teach the scope and purpose of the multiple ministries of the local church to the family. Some church-related family ministries which may reach beyond the confines of the church will also be discussed. The Christian school and other avenues of ministry to children and youth will also be treated.
EVANGELISM
EV 520 INTRODUCTION TO EVANGELISM Three credit hours
An introductory survey of the supreme task of evangelism. The theology of evangelism, methods of evangelism for personal witnessing and for church outreach, and contemporary challenges to evangelism are discussed. A practical component of the course contributes to the cultivation of an evangelistic mindset and lifestyle, moving the study from theology to praxis.
EV 710 CHURCH GROWTH PRINCIPLES AND STRATEGY Three credit hours
A study of various means which promote church growth.
GREEK/HEBREW
GR 501 INTRODUCTION TO NEW TESTAMENT GREEK Three credit hours
An introduction to Koine Greek. The alphabet, verbs, participles, infinitives, nouns and cases, prepositions, and articles are studied from the perspective of practical application.
GR 531 GREEK GRAMMAR I Three credit hours
This is an introduction to basic Greek grammar, vocabulary, and translation.
GR 532 GREEK GRAMMAR II Three credit hours
This course is a continuation of GR 531, emphasizing third declension nouns, secondary tenses, moods, and irregular verbs.
GR 620 GREEK SYNTAX I Three credit hours
Prerequisite: GR 532
This is an advanced study introducing Greek syntax that emphasizes noun cases and verb moods.
GR 621 GREEK SYNTAX II Three credit hours
Prerequisite: GR 620
This continues GR 620, emphasizing verb tenses, participles, infinitives, and clauses.
HE 530 HEBREW GRAMMAR I Three credit hours
An introduction to the fundamentals of Hebrew grammar and syntax. In this course, the student will develop basic skills in translation and will assimilate a vocabulary of the most common biblical Hebrew words.
HE 531 HEBREW GRAMMAR II Three credit hours
Prerequisite: HE 530
A continuation of Hebrew I with an increased emphasis upon efficiency in the use of lexical and exegetical tools.
HE 620 HEBREW SYNTAX Three credit hours
Prerequisite: HE 531
A study of advanced grammar and syntax designed to increase the student’s ability in the translation and analysis of the Old Testament Hebrew text.
CHURCH HISTORY
CH 522 CHURCH HISTORY Three credit hours
An overview of church history from the Apostolic Age to the present, noting doctrinal developments, major movements, and key figures in the history of the church.
HI 622 AMERICAN CHRISTIANITY Three credit hours
A study of the origin, growth, and contributions of Christianity in America.
LEADERSHIP
LD 501 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 502 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 503 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 504 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 505 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 506 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.
MISSIONS
MI 520 MISSIONS PERSPECTIVES Three credit hours
A survey of the theology, history, problems, and strategies of the Christian missionary movement.
MI 625 MODERN CULTS Three credit hours
A study of the history and theology of the major cultic groups in comparison with biblical Christianity. Strategies for reaching cult members with the true Gospel are discussed. A counter-cult apologetic is developed.
MI 630 MISSIONS PRACTICUM Three credit hours
A mission trip to a foreign country to acquaint the student with missionary life and work. Assignments include detailing the history and culture of the target people group and a variety of practical hands-on ministries, depending on the needs of the mission team.
NEW TESTAMENT
NT 520 NEW TESTAMENT INTRODUCTION Three credit hours
An examination of the content, canon, text, and interpretation of the New Testament, including an introduction to various critical approaches to biblical studies. This course answers the who, what, when, why, to what extent, and how, of the New Testament.
NT 523 LIFE OF CHRIST Three credit hours
A chronological and thematic study of the life, times, and teaching of Christ as presented in a harmony of the four Gospels with a view to application in the life and ministry of the student.
NT 524 FIRST CORINTHIANS Three credit hours
An exegetical/expository study of Paul’s First Epistle to the Corinthians. Topics include the apostle’s ministry, church controversies, Christian relationships, church discipline, the ordinances, spiritual gifts, resurrection, and stewardship.
NT 525 LIFE OF PAUL Three credit hours
An in depth study of the life of the apostle Paul, giving attention to his historical and cultural roots, conversion, personal experiences, writings, and missionary journeys.
NT 530 NEW TESTAMENT THEOLOGY Three credit hours
An examination of the dominant themes and the development of theological concepts of the New Testament. The unique marks of each author are seen as complementary, contributing to the unified theology of the New Testament canon. Emphasis is upon the progressive revelation of God.
NT 605 JOHN Three credit hours
An analytical and expository study emphasizing the miracles and discourses of Christ and John’s portrayal of the deity of Christ. Attention is given to the simple yet profound theological value of the book.
NT 606 ACTS 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.
NT 610 ROMANS Three credit hours
An analytical and expository study of Romans emphasizing the theological development, structure, and doctrines of Paul’s magnum opus. The themes of sin, righteousness, grace, law, justification, and sanctification are discussed with a view toward practical applications.
NT 701 REVELATION Three credit hours
An analytical and expository study of Revelation, examining the historical, symbolic, doctrinal, and prophetic elements. Emphasis is placed on the unique interpretive problems of the book and what message the church needs to hear today.
OLD TESTAMENT
OT 520 OLD TESTAMENT INTRODUCTION Three credit hours
An examination of the canon, text, and interpretation of the Old Testament, including an introduction to various critical approaches to biblical studies. The study refutes naturalistic, higher critical understandings of the text and defends the historic Christian view of the Old Testament Scriptures (2 Tim 3:16).
OT 530 OLD TESTAMENT THEOLOGY Three credit hours
An examination of the dominant themes and the development of theological concepts of the Old Testament. The unique marks of each period and author are seen as complementary, contributing to a unified theology of the Old Testament canon. Emphasis is upon the progressive revelation of God.
OT 615 MINOR PROPHETS Three credit hours
A general survey of the Old Testament minor prophets focusing on the historical background, authorship, analysis, and expositional value of each book.
OT 620 GENESIS Three credit hours
A study of the historical background, authorship, and analysis of the first book of the Bible with a special emphasis being given to the expository treatment of the text. This course also will deal with many of the critical issues pertaining to this historical book.
OT 622 ISAIAH Three credit hours
An analytical and expository survey emphasizing the historical setting, authorship, and prophetic nature of the book of Isaiah.
OT 624 DANIEL Three credit hours
An analytical study of Daniel from the premillennial standpoint, noting the historical and cultural context of the book and its relationship to the Book of Revelation. Emphasis will be given to the prophetic sections of the book.
RESEARCH AND WRITING
RW 500 INTRODUCTION TO THEOLOGICAL RESEARCH & WRITING No credit
An introductory survey of basic research and writing skills that are required of graduate 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.
THEOLOGY
TH 525 SURVEY OF THEOLOGY I Three credit hours
A systematic study of the following doctrines: Bibliology, Theology Proper, Christology, Pneumatology and Angelology.
TH 526 SURVEY OF THEOLOGY II Three credit hours
A systematic study of the following doctrines: Anthropology, Hamartiology, Soteriology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology.
TH 530 HERMENEUTICS 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.
TH 535 APOLOGETICS Three credit hours
A study of the defense of the Christian faith against counter-claimants to truth. Specific objections are dealt with and general methodology questions are discussed. The student is equipped to follow Peter‟s injunction, “be ready to give an answer (apologia) to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Pe 3.15).
TH 545 SPIRITUAL FORMATION 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.
TH 561 VALUES AND ETHICS Three credit hours
A study of Christian morality from a biblical perspective. This course surveys the complex moral issues faced by modern men and women and provides Bible-based solutions to the ethical dilemmas of contemporary life in a post-modern age.
TH 710 ECCLESIOLOGY Three credit hours
An examination of the distinctive nature of the church–its origin, mission, and destiny.
TH 720 ESCHATOLOGY Three credit hours
An examination of the foundations of premillennialism; Israel, the nations, and the church in prophecy; the rapture; the tribulation; the millennium; the judgments; and the eternal state.
TH 730 CREATIONISM Three credit hours
A study of the theory of evolution and biblical creationism.
WOMEN’S MINISTRIES
WMIN 501 Theological Foundations of Women’s Ministries Three credit hours
This course explores the Biblical foundations for women in ministry.
WMIN 502 Women’s Ministry in the Local Church Three credit hours
This course examines women of faith in the Bible and in Church history.
WMIN 503 Leadership in Women’s Ministry Three credit hours
The philosophy, psychology, and theology of leadership and gender issues for women in leadership roles in Christian ministry are explored in this course.
WMIN 504 Evangelism and Discipleship for Women Three credit hours
This course examines current approaches and strategies for developing evangelism and discipleship in women.
WMIN 505 Women’s Issues in Ministry Three credit hours
This course studies the practical and realistic problems that impact women in ministry including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual issues.
WMIN 506 Developing and Building a Women’s Ministry Three credit hours
This is a practical course requiring students to plan and design a women‟s ministry program.
WMIN 506 Married Women’s Ministry Three credit hours
A study of the varying and changing needs for married women ministry is examined.
WMIN 507 Single Adult Ministry Three credit hours
This course studies the women‟s ministries for single adults and educational and programming needs unique to this group.
WMIN 508 Women’s Ministry Internship Three credit hours
One semester internship working with an established women‟s ministry.
This course examines women of faith in the Bible and in Church history.