Course Curriculum
The Certificate in Biblical Studies is a program that is scheduled to be completed within a 12 to 15-month period, The curriculum covers the following courses:
1. SF 101: Spiritual Formations
2. ST 101: Introduction to Systematic Theology
3. ED 101: Evangelism and Discipleship
4. OT 101: Old Testament Survey
5. NT 101: New Testament Survey
6. HE 101: Hermeneutics
7. HM 101: Introduction to Homiletics & Ministerial Ethics
1. Spiritual Formations
This focuses on the basic Christian discipline that guarantees success in life and ministry. It provides the necessary godly foundation for a fruitful ministry. There is always a constant need to regularly reexamine the foundation of our faith and the core of our beliefs as believers in Christ because we become what we believe. (2 Corinthians 13:5) This class is designed to help the students review their Christian foundation, cultivate the character of Christ and develop the daily disciplines required to live a life that truly honors God.
2. Introduction to Systematic Theology
This class is an introductory review of the basic theological concentrations of the Christian faith. It centers on studying the entire scope of the Bible to gather everything Scripture teaches about a particular topic or issue. The class will give a general overview of Theology Proper, Christology, Pneumatology, Soteriology, Ecclesiology, Angelology, Bibliology, Eschatology etc. After the class, the student should have a good understanding of the basic thematic areas of the Scripture discussed.
3. Evangelism & Discipleship
Every minister of the gospel is called to win and preserve souls. (John 15:16) This class would seek to equip the students with relevant practical and contemporary skills and strategies for effective soul-winning. This is expected to ignite the passion for souls and their conservation in the heart of every student. This will be a mandatory elective without which the student cannot graduate from the program.
4. Old Testament Survey
This class gives a general overview of each book of
the Old Testament portion of the Bible. Students will
gain an understanding of the historical background,
central theme or purpose, literary design, cultural
context, and applicable message for contemporary
believers. The purpose is to prepare the student for
more intensive studies in the Old Testament. Emphasis is placed upon gaining an overview of the Old Testament through a survey of geographical and historical backgrounds and a book-by-book study for a clearer understanding of the central themes. It would help the student value the Old Testament as the revelation of God to His people and challenge them to think through the structure of the books of the OT and why each author organized the material the way they did. It would increase the hunger of the students to love and study the Scripture on a regular basis.
5. New Testament Survey
This class gives a general overview of each book of the New Testament portion of the Bible. Students will gain an understanding of the historical background, central theme or purpose, literary design, cultural context, and applicable message for contemporary believers. It would challenge the student to think through the structure of the books of the NT and why each author organized the material the way they did. It would increase the hunger of the students to love and study the Scripture on a regular basis.
6. Hermeneutics
Hermeneutics is the branch of Christian theology that deals with the interpretation of the Bible. This course will discuss the importance of context, historical setting, geography, figures of speech and biblical poetry. It will differentiate between drawing out the intended meaning of a passage (exegesis) versus reading into a passage a meaning that is not there (eisegesis). In the end, students would be familiar with the important principles that must be followed to interpret, understand and apply God’s word, correctly. They will also be better equipped to preach and teach the word with greater confidence and relevance.
7. Introduction to Homiletics and Ministerial Ethics
Homiletics is the art of crafting and communicating life application messages. In this class, we will discuss the principles and processes of forming and presenting life-changing sermons. The class is designed to enable every student to learn the principles of effective communication of the gospel in any setting, either in a local church setting or other gatherings. It would also discuss the essential attitudes and practices that make the presentation of the gospel acceptable. (2 Timothy 2:15).
Application Guide
Pre-Application
You need the following to complete your application.
● Submitted online application form
● A passport-sized photograph
● A non-refundable application fee of $50 (can be paid later)
● Commitment to completing the program by signing the Oath of Completion.
Application
You need to upload the following documents along with your application
● A Letter of Recommendation from your local pastor.
● Statement of Purpose (A 300-word essay on why you are applying to the seminary and what you hope to gain
● A copy of your GED, High School, Undergraduate or Graduate school transcripts or diplomas. (PDF or JPG, under 10MB)
Post-Application
● All applicants will receive a confirmation email within 1-2 business days once all application materials are received. You may be asked to submit supplemental responses or documents, as applicable.
● All applicants will receive an email notifying them of the Admission Review Committee’s decision.
● Once considered for admission, students will receive a copy of the curriculum including all materials needed for their courses.
Tuition Information
Tuition – $50/ Credit
Required Credits – 18 Credits = $900
Technology fees: $50.
Application Review Process
● All applications will be reviewed by the Admission Review Committee.
● Applicants may be asked to submit supplemental responses or documents, as needed.
Other Requirements
- All students must be true believers in Christ and commit to a local assembly.
- All students must commit to completing the program.
- All students must demonstrate proficiency in the English language (i.e., able to read and write)
- All students must have an accessible computer and be able to use a computer efficiently.
- All students must have an accessible computer with a webcam and be able to use a computer efficiently.
- All students must have reliable internet access
Please note that enrollment and attendance at the GOFAMINTNA Seminary is not a replacement for service or commitment to the local church.
Apply Now
Begin your application for the Certificate in Biblical Studies now