CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY CERTIFICATE/ELECTIVES OR DEGREE PROGRAMS

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"HISTORY OF THE CHURCH"

The course will provide students with a theological framework for thinking about Christian mission and the church in the contemporary context. Through a historical and ecumenical survey of approaches to ecclesiology, students will gain a critical understanding of the nature of the church and engage questions of church renewal, mission and contextualization.

And God put all things under Christ’s feet, and he gave him to the Church as head over all things. Now the Church is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. 

–Ephesians 1:22–23 

 Introduction to Biblical Doctrine:

Biblical “doctrine” refers to the teachings found in God’s Word. Solomon, renowned as the wisest man to have ever lived, imparted these crucial words to his children:

“Hear, my children, the instruction of a father, and give attention to know understanding; for I give you good doctrine… Get wisdom!” (Proverbs 4:1-2)

This study aims to delve into these timeless teachings, offering insights and understanding to guide your spiritual journey.

 The objective of this study:

Is to explore and understand the foundational teachings of Biblical doctrine as presented in God’s Word. By examining the wisdom imparted by Solomon and other biblical figures, participants will:
Gain Insight: Develop a deeper understanding of key biblical teachings and their relevance to contemporary life.

Apply Wisdom: Learn how to apply biblical principles to everyday situations, fostering spiritual growth and moral integrity.

Strengthen Faith: Enhance personal faith and relationship with God through the study of His Word.

Encourage Reflection: Promote thoughtful reflection on one’s own beliefs and practices in light of biblical teachings.

Foster Community: Build a supportive community of learners who encourage and uplift one another in their spiritual journeys. 

 What is HOMILETICS?

 The term homiletics comes from the word homily, which basically means “a sermon.” Homiletics is the art of preparing sermons and preaching. Those who study homiletics seek to improve their skill at communicating the gospel and other biblical topics. The discipline of homiletics falls under the umbrella of pastoral or practical theology.

Preaching and, therefore, homiletics have always been associated with the pastor of a church. A pastor is sometimes referred to as the “preaching elder,” based on 1 Timothy 5:17. However, a study of homiletics can be beneficial to anyone who teaches the Word of God. 

FTSSOM will teach and guide through tips and tools of rhetoric { the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing], as you gain a deeper knowledge of the Bible as you learn to apply these biblical preaching principles. 

Someone called to preach would do well “to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you” (2 Timothy 1:6), and homiletics is useful in that pursuit. It is a worthy study, but, at the same time, we must not forget that God can work through anyone, with or without formal training, to communicate Christ in everyday situations. 

 Christian morality has always been challenged and rejected by unbelievers. But today even many believers have lost their moral footing. Moreover, believers who want to live ethically are frequently confused by the complexities of ethical decisions. Even so, with proper study of the Bible’s system of ethics, Christians can learn how to evaluate problems in ways that lead to biblical solutions.

Course Goals: Describe the Bible’s system of morality in terms of ethical standards, goals and motives. Equip believers to understand the biblical standards that apply to modern dilemmas.

How can we live in a culture that's increasingly hostile to Christian values? How can we apply Scripture to the ethics of marriage and divorce, birth control, abortion, euthanasia, homosexuality, business practices, environmental stewardship, knowing God’s will, and other issues? 

 Why should I study Systematic Theology?

Systematic Theology enables us to fulfill the Great Commission.

Fulfilling the Great Commission includes teaching—not just evangelism. Jesus commanded his disciples to teach believers to observe all that He commanded:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” —Matthew 28:19–20

 HERMENEUTICS (E)  

APOLOGETICS (E)  

DEMONOLOGY  (E)