Curriculum for Master in Biblical Studies

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Master of Arts and Sciences in Biblical Studies: Great Commission and Jesus’ Discipleship Model

This curriculum focuses on the Great Commission and Jesus’ discipleship model to produce disciples who emulate Jesus (“little Jesus”) all over the earth. It meets or exceeds the standards of accredited schools in America, providing advanced and comprehensive studies in biblical theology, practical ministry, and discipleship.

Core Biblical Studies Requirements (36 credit hours):

1. Advanced Biblical Studies (12 credit hours):
   • BIB 601: Theological Themes in the Old Testament (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 602: Theological Themes in the New Testament (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 603: Advanced Biblical Hermeneutics (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 604: Biblical Theology and Contemporary Issues (3 credit hours)
2. Life and Teachings of Jesus (9 credit hours):
   • BIB 611: The Historical Jesus and His Context (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 612: Advanced Studies in the Parables and Teachings of Jesus (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 613: The Passion Narratives: Exegesis and Theology (3 credit hours)
3. Discipleship and the Great Commission (12 credit hours):
   • BIB 621: Jesus’ Discipleship Methods and Models (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 622: Spiritual Formation and Discipleship Practices (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 623: Evangelism in a Postmodern World (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 624: Strategic Leadership in Ministry (3 credit hours)
4. The Holy Spirit and Empowerment (6 credit hours):
   • BIB 631: The Role of the Holy Spirit in Scripture and Tradition (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 632: Empowerment for Ministry through the Holy Spirit (3 credit hours)
5. Kingdom Authority and Power (9 credit hours):
   • BIB 641: Kingdom Authority and Leadership in the Gospels (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 642: Power Dynamics in the Acts of the Apostles (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 643: Spiritual Warfare and Kingdom Authority (3 credit hours)

Elective Courses (6-12 credit hours):

Students can choose from the following electives to deepen their understanding of specific areas or to gain practical ministry skills:

1. Advanced Biblical Studies (3-6 credit hours):
   • BIB 651: Studies in the Major Prophets (3 credit hours)
   • BIB 652: Wisdom Literature and Its Application (3 credit hours)
2. Church History and Theology (3-6 credit hours):
   • HIS 601: Early Church History and Development (3 credit hours)
   • HIS 602: Reformation and Modern Church Movements (3 credit hours)
3. Ethics and Apologetics (3-6 credit hours):
   • ETH 601: Christian Ethics in Contemporary Society (3 credit hours)
   • APO 601: Advanced Apologetics and Worldview Analysis (3 credit hours)
4. Practical Ministry (3-6 credit hours):
   • MIN 601: Advanced Pastoral Ministry and Leadership (3 credit hours)
   • MIN 602: Global Missions and Evangelism Strategies (3 credit hours)

Thesis or Capstone Project (6 credit hours):

1. Thesis or Capstone Project (6 credit hours):
   • BIB 699: Master’s Thesis in Biblical Studies (6 credit hours)
     • A comprehensive research project focused on a topic related to Jesus’ discipleship model and the Great Commission, demonstrating scholarly research, critical thinking, and practical application.
   • OR
   • BIB 698: Integrative Capstone Project (6 credit hours)
     • A practical ministry project integrating academic knowledge with hands-on application in a real-world context, centered on the themes of Jesus’ discipleship model and the Great Commission.

Total Credit Hours: 48-54

This curriculum ensures a strong foundation in advanced biblical studies, theology, and practical ministry skills. It prepares students for academic research, teaching, or leadership roles in ministry, with a strong emphasis on discipleship and the Great Commission, reflecting Jesus’ methods and model for making disciples of all nations.