Introduction to Hermeneutics: How to Interpret the Bible
This course will focus on the science and art of Biblical Interpretation. The aim is to foster and encourage a deeper understanding of the scriptures, as well as to engage the student in analysis and theological reflection through the use of various interpretive methods. The student will be given sample passages of Scripture to which he or she will apply the guidelines of biblical interpretation that they have learned.
**Materials Required: How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth, by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart.
Synoptic Gospels
This course is a study of the life of Christ from the viewpoint of the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This course will help students grasp the chronological progression and the spiritual significance of the important events in Christ’s life. It enables the student to preach and teach about Christ with greater understanding and effectiveness, and it challenges him or her to follow Christ personally with greater dedication and stronger devotion in service to Him.
**Materials Required: The Words and Works of Jesus Christ: A Study of the Life of Christ,, by J. Dwight Pentecost.
The Local Church in Evangelism
A study of the contemporary history and practices of evangelism in the church, with an emphasis on the techniques and methods used in personal witnessing. The course also trains students in the art of lifestyle evangelism.
**Materials Required: Spirit-Led Evangelism, by Che Ahn and The Way of the Master, by Ray Comfort.
Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine
An examination of the four cardinal doctrines of the Assemblies of God: Salvation, Baptism in the Holy Spirit, Healing, and the Second Coming of Christ are examined at length. The person, work, gifts, and ministry of the Holy Spirit are the topics examined in this biblical study. Among the questions discussed from both the Old and New Testaments are these: Who is the Holy Spirit? What is the baptism of the Holy Spirit? How do I live a Spirit-filled life? Special emphasis will be placed upon the Statement of Fundamentals of Truth of the Assemblies of God as the framework for this study.
**Materials Required: What the Bible Says About the Holy Spirit, by Stanley M. Horton.
Relationships and Ethics in Ministry
A biblical approach to the relationships that are important to the minister, both personally and professionally. It looks at temperament theory and its relevance to human relations. This course examines relationships and ethics in view of the minister’s personal growth, ministry challenges, people in the community, and other ministers.
**Materials Required: Ministerial Ethics: A Guide for Spirit-Filled Leaders, by T. Burton Pierce and Stanley Horton
The Book of Acts
A thorough study of the content, purposes, principles, and applications of Acts. The course emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the early church and today. Attention is given to the geographical, numerical, cultural, and theological growth of the church from Jerusalem to Rome. The journeys of Paul are examined as the background for his epistles.
**Materials Required: Acts: A Logion Commentary, by Stanley M. Horton
Prison Epistle: Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians, and Philemon
A practical study of the principles Paul wrote to the churches during his imprisonment. This course is an exegetical study of each book with special emphasis placed upon the doctrinal teachings of the Apostle Paul.
**Materials Required: Ephesians – Philemon (Expositor’s Bible Commentary, vol.12 Hardcover) by William Klein.
Assemblies of God History, Missions, and Governance
A study of the historical development and governing policies of the Assemblies of God. The Fellowship’s history in America and its worldwide missions program is told through stories of the personalities involved. Includes a study of the ecclesiastical structure of the Assemblies of God, with particular attention to the General Council Constitution and By Laws in relation to credentialed ministers, local churches, Ministry Networks, the General Council, and doctrines and practices that are approved and disapproved.
**Materials Required: People of the Spirit, by Gary McGee.
Spirit Empowered Churches
It's not a mystery why some churches grow, some remain stagnant, and others decline. The biblical principles for spiritual multiplication are evident in the pages of Scripture. This course points us to the heart of dynamic church growth: creating Spirit-empowered disciples who are involved in five activities—connect, grow, serve, go, and worship—to change individuals, families, and communities with the love and power of God’s mighty Spirit. Combining a strong biblical approach with inspirational insights and personal stories, Garrison shares the Acts 2 church model that can renew the spiritual vitality of your congregation. The church of Acts 2 turned the first-century world upside down for Jesus. God wants to use your church to do the same today.
**Materials Required: A Spirit-Empowered Church: An Acts 2 Ministry Model, by Alton Garrison
New Testament Survey
An examination of the development of redemptive history throughout the New Testament in the context of its geographical and cultural background. Key themes and selected critical issues are discussed with a view to aiding students develop a biblically-informed worldview.
**Materials Required: Encountering the New Testament: A Historical and Theological Survey, by Walter A. Elwell and Robert W. Yarbrough
Introduction to Theology
A study of bibliology—the doctrine of Scripture, with a focus on the nature of revelation and the inspiration and authority of Scripture and the development and transmission of the canon; Theology Proper—the doctrine of God’s existence, attributes, works, and the Trinity; Christology—the theology of the Person and work of Jesus Christ, including consideration of His names, nature, offices, humiliation, atoning death, resurrection, and exaltation; Anthropology—the theology of the human condition (origin, nature, and fall); and soteriology—the divine plan of salvation (regeneration, justification, adoption, sanctification, and deliverance) for the believer.
**Materials Required: Systematic Theology, by Stanley M. Horton
Introduction to Homiletics
A basic study of the principles of Christian preaching. The course emphasizes biblical exposition and deals with practical matters such as the preparation of sermons, the sources of materials, the construction of sermon components, the variety of sermon types, and the delivery of sermons.
**Materials Required: Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages, by Haddon W. Robinson
The Book of Romans
An in-depth study of the book of Romans. It focuses on Paul’s systematic explanation of the gospel to the Romans and offers insight into the doctrines of sin, salvation, and sanctification. Students will learn how union with Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit leads to spiritual growth.
**Materials Required: Romans: IVP New Testament Commentary, by Grant R. Osborne
Old Testament Survey
This course is an introduction to the study of Old Testament. This course is a study of beginnings. It shows how the ancient inspired Hebrew writers expressed in narrative form a record of God’s saving deeds from the beginning of God’s work with all humankind. From these narratives, students can see God’s unfolding plan of redemption through what Christians believe to be God’s revelation.
**Materials Required: Encountering the Old Testament: A Christian Survey, by Bill T. Arnold and Bryan E. Beyer.
Effective Leadership
The Twenty-first century is the most advanced age in history, but effective biblical leadership has never been more needed. This course is designed to provide a biblical approach to the principles of Servant Leadership. This course applies those principles to move each believer in corporate obedience and service to God, by sharing the tools and practical skills needed to be a servant leader with spiritual guidelines to live a life of integrity.
**Materials Required: Spiritual Leadership: Moving People on to God's Agenda, by Henry & Richard Blackaby
Eschatology
An advanced study of the doctrine of last things, including topics such as death, Resurrection and Rapture, views of the Tribulation, millennial views, judgment, and the final state of the righteous and the wicked.
**Materials Required: Our Destiny, Bible Teaching on the Last Things, by Stanley Horton
Introduction to Assemblies of God Missions
This course is an introduction in the science of missions. It is a survey of the theology, history, and methods of Christian missions in general and within the Assemblies of God in particular. Special emphasis is placed upon recent developments, critical issues, trends, and missions as they are carried out through national and local churches.
**Materials required: Missions in the Age of the Spirit, by John V. York
Conflict Management for Church Leaders
A biblical approach to conflict resolution. This course offers a scriptural way to deal with the inevitable occasions when conflict arises, particularly in a church setting. It offers practical principles for resolving the conflict in a manner that is pleasing to God. The lordship of Jesus Christ and his methodology in resolving conflict form the basis for this study.
**Materials Required: The Peace Maker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict, by Ken Sande
Prayer and Worship
An overview of the biblical teaching on prayer and worship leads to practical considerations for cultivating intimacy with Christ in every aspect of life, from personal, private prayer to corporate celebration. Students will discover the joys and benefits of a dynamic prayer life and gain a fresh appreciation for the many ways in which the Holy Spirit makes prayer and worship both meaningful and powerful. An examination of some of the common challenges of prayer, such as learning to hear God's voice, the problem of unanswered prayer, and what to do when it seems God is not speaking, is followed by practical insight for becoming more effective and fervent prayer warriors.
**Materials required: Penetrating the Darkness by Jack Hayford and The Reward of Worship, by Jack Hayford
Pastoral Ministry
An examination of pastoral ministry in three areas: preparation, responsibilities, and relationships. The unit on preparation focuses on a pastor’s qualifications, devotional life, and personal life. A unit on responsibilities analyzes preaching and teaching, worship, pastoral care, leading, training, forming cell groups, and special services. The final unit examines a pastor’s relationships with lay leaders, staff, work, and calling. This is a principle-centered study to lay a lifelong foundation for the pastoral ministry.
**Materials required: Sheperding the Church: Effective Spiritual Leadership in a Changing Culture, by Joseph M. Stowell.
The Corinthian Correspondence
This course is an introduction to Paul’s first and second letter to the Corinthians. A study of I&II Corinthians which sets the letter in the context of Paul’s relationship with the church, the cultural context of the Corinthian church and the issues which prompted this letter. In studying each section the course will focus on identifying the issue in Corinth and then understanding Paul’s response.
**Materials required: 1 and 2 Corinthians, by Stanley M. Horton
Preaching in Cultural Context: 12 Perspectives on Communicating that Connects
The purpose of this course is to help students and preachers present life changing messages that connect with the world around them. The course will focus on presenting messages that are true, clear, interesting, and relevant. Students will be challenged to present messages that are true to the intent and power of Scripture. The course will also examine the post-modern culture and offer help in making messages relevant to the needs and concerns of this audience.
**Materials required: Text: Preaching To A Shifting Culture, by Scott Gibson
Poetic Books: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs
A study of the five books of poetry or wisdom—Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs. These books cover issues such as suffering, parenting, and the fear of the Lord, teaching us how to live. The course is designed to help the student in his or her own walk with God and in ministering to others who need instruction.
**Materials required: Introduction to Old Testament Poetic Books, by C. Hassell Bullock
The Pentateuch
An in-depth study of the first five books of the Old Covenant. This course will help the student to trace the nation of Israel from its beginnings until the time of its entrance into the Promised Land. Special emphasis will be devoted to God’s relationship with His creation, Covenants, and the revelation of God’s character are examined. The Pentateuch forms the foundation upon which the New Testament covenant is based and is an important study for anyone wishing to understand the entire Bible more completely.
**Materials Required: An Introduction to the Old Testament Pentateuch, by Herbert Wolf
Church Administration, Law, and Finance
An introductory study of many principles, procedures, and techniques used in today's business world as they apply to the local church and its leadership. Attention is given to organizing and staffing functions of the church, practical methods of raising money for the church's expenses, keeping good records, and managing the church's money, facilities, and equipment. It also gives students a practical understanding of the law in order to recognize and resolve legal questions confronting pastors and churches today.
**Materials required: Church Administration Handbook, by Bruce Powers
This course will focus on the science and art of Biblical Interpretation. The aim is to foster and encourage a deeper understanding of the scriptures, as well as to engage the student in analysis and theological reflection through the use of various interpretive methods. The student will be given sample passages of Scripture to which he or she will apply the guidelines of biblical interpretation that they have learned.
**Materials Required: How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth, by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart.
Synoptic Gospels
This course is a study of the life of Christ from the viewpoint of the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This course will help students grasp the chronological progression and the spiritual significance of the important events in Christ’s life. It enables the student to preach and teach about Christ with greater understanding and effectiveness, and it challenges him or her to follow Christ personally with greater dedication and stronger devotion in service to Him.
**Materials Required: The Words and Works of Jesus Christ: A Study of the Life of Christ,, by J. Dwight Pentecost.
The Local Church in Evangelism
A study of the contemporary history and practices of evangelism in the church, with an emphasis on the techniques and methods used in personal witnessing. The course also trains students in the art of lifestyle evangelism.
**Materials Required: Spirit-Led Evangelism, by Che Ahn and The Way of the Master, by Ray Comfort.
Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine
An examination of the four cardinal doctrines of the Assemblies of God: Salvation, Baptism in the Holy Spirit, Healing, and the Second Coming of Christ are examined at length. The person, work, gifts, and ministry of the Holy Spirit are the topics examined in this biblical study. Among the questions discussed from both the Old and New Testaments are these: Who is the Holy Spirit? What is the baptism of the Holy Spirit? How do I live a Spirit-filled life? Special emphasis will be placed upon the Statement of Fundamentals of Truth of the Assemblies of God as the framework for this study.
**Materials Required: What the Bible Says About the Holy Spirit, by Stanley M. Horton.
Relationships and Ethics in Ministry
A biblical approach to the relationships that are important to the minister, both personally and professionally. It looks at temperament theory and its relevance to human relations. This course examines relationships and ethics in view of the minister’s personal growth, ministry challenges, people in the community, and other ministers.
**Materials Required: Ministerial Ethics: A Guide for Spirit-Filled Leaders, by T. Burton Pierce and Stanley Horton
The Book of Acts
A thorough study of the content, purposes, principles, and applications of Acts. The course emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the early church and today. Attention is given to the geographical, numerical, cultural, and theological growth of the church from Jerusalem to Rome. The journeys of Paul are examined as the background for his epistles.
**Materials Required: Acts: A Logion Commentary, by Stanley M. Horton
Prison Epistle: Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians, and Philemon
A practical study of the principles Paul wrote to the churches during his imprisonment. This course is an exegetical study of each book with special emphasis placed upon the doctrinal teachings of the Apostle Paul.
**Materials Required: Ephesians – Philemon (Expositor’s Bible Commentary, vol.12 Hardcover) by William Klein.
Assemblies of God History, Missions, and Governance
A study of the historical development and governing policies of the Assemblies of God. The Fellowship’s history in America and its worldwide missions program is told through stories of the personalities involved. Includes a study of the ecclesiastical structure of the Assemblies of God, with particular attention to the General Council Constitution and By Laws in relation to credentialed ministers, local churches, Ministry Networks, the General Council, and doctrines and practices that are approved and disapproved.
**Materials Required: People of the Spirit, by Gary McGee.
Spirit Empowered Churches
It's not a mystery why some churches grow, some remain stagnant, and others decline. The biblical principles for spiritual multiplication are evident in the pages of Scripture. This course points us to the heart of dynamic church growth: creating Spirit-empowered disciples who are involved in five activities—connect, grow, serve, go, and worship—to change individuals, families, and communities with the love and power of God’s mighty Spirit. Combining a strong biblical approach with inspirational insights and personal stories, Garrison shares the Acts 2 church model that can renew the spiritual vitality of your congregation. The church of Acts 2 turned the first-century world upside down for Jesus. God wants to use your church to do the same today.
**Materials Required: A Spirit-Empowered Church: An Acts 2 Ministry Model, by Alton Garrison
New Testament Survey
An examination of the development of redemptive history throughout the New Testament in the context of its geographical and cultural background. Key themes and selected critical issues are discussed with a view to aiding students develop a biblically-informed worldview.
**Materials Required: Encountering the New Testament: A Historical and Theological Survey, by Walter A. Elwell and Robert W. Yarbrough
Introduction to Theology
A study of bibliology—the doctrine of Scripture, with a focus on the nature of revelation and the inspiration and authority of Scripture and the development and transmission of the canon; Theology Proper—the doctrine of God’s existence, attributes, works, and the Trinity; Christology—the theology of the Person and work of Jesus Christ, including consideration of His names, nature, offices, humiliation, atoning death, resurrection, and exaltation; Anthropology—the theology of the human condition (origin, nature, and fall); and soteriology—the divine plan of salvation (regeneration, justification, adoption, sanctification, and deliverance) for the believer.
**Materials Required: Systematic Theology, by Stanley M. Horton
Introduction to Homiletics
A basic study of the principles of Christian preaching. The course emphasizes biblical exposition and deals with practical matters such as the preparation of sermons, the sources of materials, the construction of sermon components, the variety of sermon types, and the delivery of sermons.
**Materials Required: Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages, by Haddon W. Robinson
The Book of Romans
An in-depth study of the book of Romans. It focuses on Paul’s systematic explanation of the gospel to the Romans and offers insight into the doctrines of sin, salvation, and sanctification. Students will learn how union with Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit leads to spiritual growth.
**Materials Required: Romans: IVP New Testament Commentary, by Grant R. Osborne
Old Testament Survey
This course is an introduction to the study of Old Testament. This course is a study of beginnings. It shows how the ancient inspired Hebrew writers expressed in narrative form a record of God’s saving deeds from the beginning of God’s work with all humankind. From these narratives, students can see God’s unfolding plan of redemption through what Christians believe to be God’s revelation.
**Materials Required: Encountering the Old Testament: A Christian Survey, by Bill T. Arnold and Bryan E. Beyer.
Effective Leadership
The Twenty-first century is the most advanced age in history, but effective biblical leadership has never been more needed. This course is designed to provide a biblical approach to the principles of Servant Leadership. This course applies those principles to move each believer in corporate obedience and service to God, by sharing the tools and practical skills needed to be a servant leader with spiritual guidelines to live a life of integrity.
**Materials Required: Spiritual Leadership: Moving People on to God's Agenda, by Henry & Richard Blackaby
Eschatology
An advanced study of the doctrine of last things, including topics such as death, Resurrection and Rapture, views of the Tribulation, millennial views, judgment, and the final state of the righteous and the wicked.
**Materials Required: Our Destiny, Bible Teaching on the Last Things, by Stanley Horton
Introduction to Assemblies of God Missions
This course is an introduction in the science of missions. It is a survey of the theology, history, and methods of Christian missions in general and within the Assemblies of God in particular. Special emphasis is placed upon recent developments, critical issues, trends, and missions as they are carried out through national and local churches.
**Materials required: Missions in the Age of the Spirit, by John V. York
Conflict Management for Church Leaders
A biblical approach to conflict resolution. This course offers a scriptural way to deal with the inevitable occasions when conflict arises, particularly in a church setting. It offers practical principles for resolving the conflict in a manner that is pleasing to God. The lordship of Jesus Christ and his methodology in resolving conflict form the basis for this study.
**Materials Required: The Peace Maker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict, by Ken Sande
Prayer and Worship
An overview of the biblical teaching on prayer and worship leads to practical considerations for cultivating intimacy with Christ in every aspect of life, from personal, private prayer to corporate celebration. Students will discover the joys and benefits of a dynamic prayer life and gain a fresh appreciation for the many ways in which the Holy Spirit makes prayer and worship both meaningful and powerful. An examination of some of the common challenges of prayer, such as learning to hear God's voice, the problem of unanswered prayer, and what to do when it seems God is not speaking, is followed by practical insight for becoming more effective and fervent prayer warriors.
**Materials required: Penetrating the Darkness by Jack Hayford and The Reward of Worship, by Jack Hayford
Pastoral Ministry
An examination of pastoral ministry in three areas: preparation, responsibilities, and relationships. The unit on preparation focuses on a pastor’s qualifications, devotional life, and personal life. A unit on responsibilities analyzes preaching and teaching, worship, pastoral care, leading, training, forming cell groups, and special services. The final unit examines a pastor’s relationships with lay leaders, staff, work, and calling. This is a principle-centered study to lay a lifelong foundation for the pastoral ministry.
**Materials required: Sheperding the Church: Effective Spiritual Leadership in a Changing Culture, by Joseph M. Stowell.
The Corinthian Correspondence
This course is an introduction to Paul’s first and second letter to the Corinthians. A study of I&II Corinthians which sets the letter in the context of Paul’s relationship with the church, the cultural context of the Corinthian church and the issues which prompted this letter. In studying each section the course will focus on identifying the issue in Corinth and then understanding Paul’s response.
**Materials required: 1 and 2 Corinthians, by Stanley M. Horton
Preaching in Cultural Context: 12 Perspectives on Communicating that Connects
The purpose of this course is to help students and preachers present life changing messages that connect with the world around them. The course will focus on presenting messages that are true, clear, interesting, and relevant. Students will be challenged to present messages that are true to the intent and power of Scripture. The course will also examine the post-modern culture and offer help in making messages relevant to the needs and concerns of this audience.
**Materials required: Text: Preaching To A Shifting Culture, by Scott Gibson
Poetic Books: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs
A study of the five books of poetry or wisdom—Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs. These books cover issues such as suffering, parenting, and the fear of the Lord, teaching us how to live. The course is designed to help the student in his or her own walk with God and in ministering to others who need instruction.
**Materials required: Introduction to Old Testament Poetic Books, by C. Hassell Bullock
The Pentateuch
An in-depth study of the first five books of the Old Covenant. This course will help the student to trace the nation of Israel from its beginnings until the time of its entrance into the Promised Land. Special emphasis will be devoted to God’s relationship with His creation, Covenants, and the revelation of God’s character are examined. The Pentateuch forms the foundation upon which the New Testament covenant is based and is an important study for anyone wishing to understand the entire Bible more completely.
**Materials Required: An Introduction to the Old Testament Pentateuch, by Herbert Wolf
Church Administration, Law, and Finance
An introductory study of many principles, procedures, and techniques used in today's business world as they apply to the local church and its leadership. Attention is given to organizing and staffing functions of the church, practical methods of raising money for the church's expenses, keeping good records, and managing the church's money, facilities, and equipment. It also gives students a practical understanding of the law in order to recognize and resolve legal questions confronting pastors and churches today.
**Materials required: Church Administration Handbook, by Bruce Powers