MASTER OF ARTS IN BIBLICAL STUDIES (MA) - 39

 

All courses are 3 credit hours unless otherwise noted.
The Graduate Division of In His Image Bible Institute offers programs that prepare leaders for ministry and the marketplace. The curriculum seeks to develop in students those competencies required for ministry in contemporary society. It includes a strong emphasis on the Bible itself, a working knowledge of church history and systematic theology, as well as ministry skills. Programs and majors include the following: Master of Arts in Biblical Studies and Doctor of Ministry.

The Master of Arts with concentrations in Biblical Studies require 39 credit hours for completion. Each program encompasses 24 hours of core curriculum requirements and 15 hours in the area of concentration.

 

Student Learning Outcomes

• Exhibit an understanding of hermeneutical principles by using proper methodology in biblical    interpretation.

• Engage in the larger religious culture with a thorough understanding of world religions.

• Build a strong emphasis on understanding the Bible.

• Recognize and evaluate in light of biblical revelation the major schools of thought in historical and                            contemporary theology.

• State and defend a worldview that is consistent with biblical revelation and stated in theological terms.        

 

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Core Curriculum 24
Concentration 15
Total Hours 39

Core Curriculum – 24 credit hours (8 courses)
ATh 613 Theological Research Writing
(ATh 613 must be taken the first year.)
ATh 699 Biblical Studies Capstone
Bi 501 Old Testament
Bi 502 New Testament
Th 503 Theology Proper
Th 513 Christology
Th 601 History of Christian Thought I
Th 602 History of Christian Thought II
Th 607 Hermeneutics

Biblical Studies Bible / Theology Requirements – 9 hours (3 courses)
Students will choose 9 hours of curriculum study from the following list: 9 hours Bible, 6 hours electives (excluding leadership courses).
Bi 601 Interpretation of the Old Testament
Bi 602 Interpretation of the New Testament
Bi 603 Isaiah
Bi 604 Daniel
Bi 605 Mark
Bi 606 Romans
Bi 615 Early Hebrew History
Bi 616 Biblical Wisdom Literature
Bi 619 Survey of Matthew
Bi 620 Survey of Luke & Acts
Bi 621 Survey of John
Bi 622 Survey of Revelation
Bi 623 Survey of Genesis

Biblical Studies Electives 6 Hours (2 courses)
Students will choose 6 hours of curriculum study from the following list.
ATh 601 Introduction to Pastoral Care
ATh 602 Introduction to Preaching
ATh 603 Ethics and Society
ATh 604 Contextual Education Practicum
ATh 610 Introduction to World Mission
ATh 611 Ethics of Pastoral Leadership
ATh 612 Introduction to Evangelism
ATh 613 Theological Research and Writing
ATh 614 Spiritual Formation
ATh 616 Worship
ATh 620 Introduction to Global Chaplaincy
ATh 621 Prison / Jail Chaplaincy
ATh 622 Ministry Response to Crises and Disasters
ATh 624 Healthcare Chaplaincy
ATh 623 Sports / Athletics Chaplaincy
L 605 Hebrew 1
L 606 Hebrew II L 607 Greek I
L 608 Greek II
Mi 555 Mobilizing the Local Church for Missions
Th 603 Church Scholars (Soren Kierkegaard)
Th 604 Church Scholars (John Wesley)
Th 605 Church Scholars (Karl Barth)
SP 609 Expository Preaching
SP 615 Contemporary Biblical Preaching
Th 606 Women in Theology
Th 608 Introduction to World Religions
Th 609 Inclusive Theology
Th 610 Holy Spirit Throughout the Bible

COUSE CYCLE - MASTER OF ARTS BIBLICAL STUDIES
Fall Semester - August
ATh 613 Theological Research Writing
Bi 501 Old Testament
Bi 502 New Testament
Th 503 Theology Proper
Th 601 History of Christian Thought I

Spring Semester - January
Th 607 Hermeneutics
ATh 698 Biblical Studies Capstone Course
Th 513 Christology
Th 602 History of Christian Thought II
 
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS (MA)
Biblical Wisdom Literature - Bi 616
This course is a survey of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon. This material will be explored in relation to its ancient Near East historical and cultural setting, and involves a study of the nature of Hebrew poetry. The main themes of each book will be evaluated in the theological light of the New Testament.

Capstone Courses (LS 698, ATh 698, ATh 699)
During the last semester of study before graduation from each program of study, and before being awarded a degree, the student will be required to complete this course in which the student produces a substantial writing assignment (generally 50-60 pages). This research paper will demonstrate comprehension and synthesis of the material covered over the course of the program of study and will address an area of interest, ministry, or future employment context, relating biblical concepts to ministry or leadership topics. A grade of C or better must be achieved in this course to earn a degree.

Case Studies in Biblical Leadership – LS 613
This course empowers students to look at biblical examples of leadership (both good and bad) to identify leadership “styles” and to distill leadership principles. It utilizes a case study methodology and thereby engages the student’s critical thinking and synthesis of key concepts related both to sound leadership practices and biblical models.
 

Christology - Th 513
This course examines Christology (the doctrine of Christ), that includes the names of Christ, His nature, humiliation, exaltation, and offices.
 

Church Planting - LS 609
This course will look at biblical basis, the historical background and the planting process of birthing churches in a number of contexts. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding the role of the church planter and the local and cultural context of the church plant.

Church Scholars: Soren Kierkegaard - Th 603
This course is an intensive study of the thought of Korean Kierkegaard. Special emphasis will be placed on Kierkegaard’s’ moral philosophy of religion and philosophy of human nature.
 

Church Scholars: Wesleyan Theology - Th 604
This course will focus on the primary writings of John Wesley, with an introduction to the works of Charles Wesley, and the rise of the Wesleyan Movement. Wesley will be placed within the larger theological context of Western Christendom, but with special emphasis placed on the development of his thought. Interaction over sections of primary readings will form a vital part of the course.

Church Scholars: Karl Barth - Th 605
This course will focus on a selected portion of the primary writings of Karl Barth’s theological views placed within a larger framework of his thought.

Conflict Resolution - LS 604
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 distinctive, implementing change and decision making leadership.
 

Contemporary Biblical Preaching - Sp 615
This course is designed to introduce various contemporary models of preaching in theory and to give the students the opportunity to practice these various models. Emphasizing sermon structure, students will be expected to acquire numerous ways of proclamation to enhance their pulpit ministry and to present topical sermons within the new models studied.

Contextual Education Practicum - A Th 604
Introduction into practical elements of ministry with special emphasis placed on career planning and field experience. This course requires a pre-project paper on the chosen project’s relativity to the student’s career path. The field experience is done “hands-on” in a ministry location with guidance by a ministry supervisor and the course instructor. Prerequisites: All Master of Divinity core courses (57).

Critical Thinking and Creative Problem Solving - LS 605
This course addresses critical thinking and how to use the cognitive skills or strategies that increase the probability of a desirable outcome. Students learn to interpret, analyze, and evaluate ideas and arguments and to develop strategies for critical thinking & problem solving. Students also learn how leaders acclimate to the reality that change is constant and how effective problem solving examines many ways to productively deal with change.
 

Daniel - Bi 604
This course will be an exposition, emphasizing the background issues, purpose, structure, and interpretation of prophetic literature and theological contributions of Daniel.
 

Elements of Greek I - L 607
This is an introductory course on the fundamental essentials of Koine Greek as reflected in the New Testament and the early Christian writings. The course will therefore focus on teaching the students basic vocabulary, grammar, and syntax required to read the New Testament.

Elements of Greek II - L 608
This is an intermediate course for students who have completed the prerequisite L 607 Elements of Greek I course who are interested in furthering their vocabulary, grammar, and syntaxical Koine Greek skills. Prerequisite: L 607 Greek I
 

Elements of Hebrew I - L 605
This is an introductory course on the essentials of Hebrew grammar, syntax, and vocabulary preparation for assisting the student in reading and understanding the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament.
 

Elements of Hebrew II - L 606
This is an intermediate course for students who have completed the prerequisite introductory course on the L 605 Elements of Hebrew I and desire further work in the areas of Hebrew grammar, syntax, vocabulary, criticism, and the reading of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament. Prerequisite: L 605 Hebrew I
 

Ethical Considerations of Leadership - LS 601
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.

Ethics and Society - A Th 603
This course introduces students to a general knowledge of the development of the literature of Christian ethics. It focuses on the impact of social sciences that inform the task of critical inquiry into the moral life through learning to analyze ethos and lay bare the roots of fundamental character of a community’s moral life.

Early Hebrew History - Bi 615
This course surveys the history and literature of Israel from Abraham through the end of the United Kingdom and studies the socio-political-religious culture which shapes the literature of this period. The course also deals with important issues such as the early formation of the canon and the authority of the Old Testament scriptures, and provides insights from related geographical, historical, and archaeological perspectives.

Ethics of Pastoral Leadership - A Th 611
This course examines the appropriate ethical conduct of Christian workers based upon the text of the New Testament. Of particular interest will be such contemporary issues as gender behavior in the workplace, confidentiality and liability, abortion, euthanasia, living wills, stem cell research, and genetic engineering.

Expository Preaching - Sp 609
In this course, a variety of texts from Scripture will be studied in order to understand structure, content, theology and contemporary relevance. A series of expository sermons will be developed by the students in order that the holistic mechanics of each sermon may be examined.

Financial Administration - LS 610
This course examines the challenges faced by ministers in small to medium-sized congregations. The course will deal with integrity in handling offerings, raising special offerings, planning for financial growth, budgeting, managing church debt, IRS reporting, IRS audits, records of contributions and designated giving.

Global Dimensions of Leadership - LS 602
This course will examine various models of leadership and their appropriateness for use within a community of faith. Once foundational material is presented, an analysis and critique of each model is performed resulting in practical application in ministerial settings.

Grief and Loss Counseling - A Th 624
This course will focus on the role of the chaplain during times of grief and loss, whether loss of life, career, or property. It will explore the psychological/emotional response of people to loss and how the chaplain can bring a healing presence during times of chaos and confusion.

Healthcare Chaplaincy - A Th 625
This course will focus on the needs, challenges and practices of healthcare chaplaincy. It will include the role of chaplains in hospitals, nursing homes, hospices and home healthcare settings. The student will explore the unique challenges associated with healthcare chaplaincy and the role of the chaplain with respect to patients, relatives of patients, and healthcare workers.

Hermeneutics - Th 607
A study of basic principles and specific guidelines of 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, biblical context, ancient culture, and different literary genre are studies in this course.

History of Christian Thought I - Th 601
This course is a study of the early church scholars and how each impacted Christian theology and doctrine. It deals with early church councils and the writings of church fathers.

History of Christian Thought II - Th 602
This course is a continuation of the study early church scholars and how each impacted Christian theology and doctrine. It deals with the Reformation and the history of various contemporary theologies.

The History of the Pentecostal Movement – Th 611
The purpose of this course is to survey the beginnings, growth, and current developments in the Pentecostal movement. The course will cover the beginnings of the movement and will be international in scope. Major attention will be given to the theological development of the first ten years of the movement from 1906 – 1916, the historic significance of the subsequent years, the major figures of the movement, and then shift to current events and personalities in the various Pentecostal denominations and movements from that period forward. The course will be concerned with the teachings and personalities of each movement and will attempt to evaluate their current and potential importance in world Christianity.

Holy Spirit Throughout the Bible - Th 610
This course surveys the role of the Holy Spirit throughout the Old Testament and New Testament. Special consideration is given to the function of the Holy Spirit within the Triune Godhead, His activity in regard to Creation, to miracles, and to His work in the lives of believers.

Inclusive Theology - Th 609
This is a graduate course which introduces the students to techniques for constructing their theological framework and worldviews around issues and challenges of doctrinal tradition and ecumenical movements in the contemporary Church.

Interpretation of the Old Testament - Bi 601
This course is an examination of the content, canon, text and interpretation of the Old Testament, including an introduction to various critical approaches to biblical studies. This course answers the questions who, what, when, why, to what extent, and how, of the Old Testament. Prerequisite: Bi 501 Old Testament

Interpretation of the New Testament - Bi 602
This course is 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 questions who, what, when, why, to what extent, and how, of the New Testament. Prerequisite: Bi 502 New Testament

Introduction to Evangelism - A Th 612
In this course you will study the biblical basis and theology of evangelism; as well as methods of developing evangelism as a part of the total mission of the congregation. Other aspects of the course include a comparison of evangelistic work of churches in different parts of the world and a survey of approaches needed to specific immigrant cultural groups in large cities.

Introduction to Global Chaplaincy - A Th 620
This course is designed to train and equip pastors, pastoral counselors, and lay workers for ministry in specialized settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, jails and prisons, rescue missions and shelters, law enforcement agencies, business and industry, detention centers, benevolence organizations, social services agencies, and other institutions. Students will be exposed to the theological and practical ramifications of specialized ministries in these settings and in a pluralistic and secular environment. The various aspects of chaplaincy to be taught include: defining Chaplaincy Ministry, History of Chaplaincy, Theology of Chaplaincy, Chaplain as Person, and various core skills such as Stress Management & Debriefing, Confidentiality, Workplace Etiquette, Suicide, Death Notifications, Grief, and more.
 

Introduction to Leadership – LS 600
This course introduces key leadership concepts and practices based on current theory and research. It is designed to help students to discover the knowledge and skills that are characteristic of effective leaders, as well as to encourage self-discovery of leadership strengths, weaknesses, and styles.

Introduction to Pastoral Care - A Th 601
This course will study ministry to the physically, emotionally or relationally ill, crisis ministry and ministry to the dying and bereaved.

Introduction to Preaching - A Th 602
This course is designed to bring together the theoretical and practical aspects of sermon development. Students explore a theological understanding of preaching along with a psychological and sociological analysis of the formal elements of sermon development, construction and delivery.

Introduction to World Missions - A Th 610
This is an introduction to the task of world mission in the light of biblical, theological, and historical foundations. Current mission trends and realities will be examined. The course will also highlight the role of the local church in world missions.

Isaiah - Bi 603
This course will be an exposition, emphasizing the background issues, purpose, structure, and interpretation of prophetic literature and theological contributions of Isaiah.

Laws of Leadership – LS 683
This course analyzes the fundamental laws of leadership. The emphasis is on the application of the laws, and the types and different approaches of leadership in day to day leadership scenarios. In addition, the students will gain an understanding as to how to integrate biblical principles of leadership into their life. The principles or “laws” of leadership can be seen in leaders within the Scriptures as well as throughout history.

Leadership, Technology, Job Design, Socio-technical Systems and Innovation - LS 608
Presents technology as the study of tools and methods and explores how leaders help followers interact with tools and methods to accomplish the organization’s objectives. This includes job design, human-computer interaction, understanding how new technology should cause current tools and methods to change, and how to help followers through the adoption and diffusion of the innovation process. The course also presents the organizational culture challenges that occur when technology begins to run the organization.

Leading Through Times of Crises - LS 617
This course provides an introduction to crisis management in organizations. It examines the types of crises encountered, potential impact on the organization and its stakeholders, and strategies for prevention, management, and recovery. Current events and cases will be presented to explore the ethical, legal, and human implications of these crises. Effective date Fall 2011.

Managing Organizational Change - LS 607
This course leads students through a biblical, organizational and psychological understanding of leadership, motivation, planning, evaluation, change principles and organizational development.

Mark - Bi 605
This course will be an exposition, emphasizing the background issues, purpose, structure, and interpretation of prophetic literature and theological contributions of Mark.

Ministry in Crises and Disasters - A Th 622
This course is designed to equip chaplains in addressing the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of individuals following a major natural or manmade crisis, such as a tornado or a terrorist attack. It will explore theories of shock, coping mechanisms, and post-traumatic stress as a result of a critical event affecting a large population. Further it will equip chaplains as part of a first responder team, as well as, in ministry to first responders as they cope with spiritual and emotional needs.

M. L. King Jr and the Church as a Social Agent for Change Th 615 (can also be used as a leadership elective)
The course entitled, "Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Church as a Social Agent of Change will explore and examine the theological, ethical and philosophical foundations of the life, work, and thought of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Attention will be given to King’s understanding of God, Christ, the Church, the move of the Holy Spirit and G-D's mandate to and for humanity along with how the interplay of these conceptions informed his quest to critique, contest and transform North American civilization and the emerging global order. Students will be asked to explore and examine the cultural and social dynamics that shaped King’s identity as a minister/theologian, preacher of the Gospel, and his understanding of the church's role and significance as GOD's agent of transformation in and to the world. The Course will also examine Martin Luther King Jr.'s impact on international theology, his cultural legacy, and his engagement with historical theologians, the theologians of his day, historical ethicist and the ethicist of his day, and the prevalent thought and attitudes concerning race, gender, class, and justice.

Mobilizing the Local Church for Missions - Mi 555
This identifies and highlights the theological and practical foundations for missions. The course addresses the methods proven to educate and mobilize the local church for involvement which moves beyond financial and material gifts. Students will learn the long term value of short-term mission projects and how to keep congregations engaged in meaningful mission activity.

New Testament - Bi 502
This course gives a broad overview of the entire New Testament in the context of history, geography, and culture of its time. The chief events, characters, and teachings of each book will be studies in reaction to God’s ongoing plan.
 

New Testament Exegesis (Discontinued effective Fall 2012) - Bi 618
This course is designed to help the student read and interpret the New Testament. Using the tools of biblical exegesis and redaction criticism, in particular, students will examine the historical and background issues, as well as theological approaches in the texts. Particular attention will be given to theological implications and how they apply to contemporary issues of today’s church. Prerequisite: L 607 Greek I
 

Oak Seed Executive Leadership - LS 590
To train successful global leaders in biblical principles, practical leadership, business and economic development skills that are transferable cross-organizationally.

Old Testament - Bi 501
This course gives a broad overview of the entire Old Testament in the context of history, geography and culture of its time demonstrating how each book fits into the whole story of redemption.

Old Testament Exegesis (Discontinued effective Fall 2012) - Bi 617
This course is designed to examine particular themes, motifs and passages from the books of the Old Testament using the tools of exegesis for proper translation, interpretation and application of the texts. Particular attention will be given to the historical background, composition and structure of the texts. Prerequisite: L 605 Hebrew I
 

Organizational Administration - LS 606
This graduate level course is designed to sharpen managerial skills for leadership in ministry settings. It will deal with principles of good leadership based upon biblical norms, streamlining the organization for effectiveness, staff development, planning for the future, and leading with vision.

Organizational Communication - LS 603
This course examines organizational communication including dyadic, small group, formal and informal communication, as well as the relationship of communication to organizational satisfaction and effectiveness. In addition, students study how communication defers in leader-member exchange and mass-communication of charismatic leader/large group interaction.

Prison/Jail Chaplaincy - A Th 621
This course will focus on the needs, challenges and practices of prison/jail chaplaincy. It will include the role of chaplains in prisons, jails, and other law enforcement arenas. This course will address both ministry to inmates and their families, as well as to law enforcement officers. It will explore the unique role of the chaplain in the law enforcement and rehabilitation contexts and foundational theoretical concepts relative to this role.
 

Research Writing in Biblical Studies - A Th 609
An introductory survey of basic research and writing skills that is required of graduate students. Topics will include library research, theological tools, internet research, writing formats, documenting sources and common writing errors.

Romans - Bi 606
This course will be an exposition, emphasizing the background issues, purpose, structure, and interpretation of prophetic literature and theological contributions of Romans.

Servant Leadership – LS 618
This course explores servant leadership theory along with biblical integration and practical application. As a theory, servant leadership is supported by a growing body of academic literature that demonstrates the positive potential effect that a servant leadership approach can have in a variety leadership venues. As a practice, servant leadership was exemplified in the life of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate model

Spiritual Formation - A Th 614
In this course you will explore ways to develop ministry or educational experiences which will enable spiritual development and formation in various age groups. Areas covered include learning theory, human developmental growth and Christian nurture theories. As you understand them you will be encouraged to integrate them into your own ministry model.

Sports Chaplaincy - A Th 623
This course is designed to train and equip pastors, pastoral counselors, and lay workers for ministry in the specialized the setting of sports. The chaplaincy focus of this course will include collegiate and professional sports programs and the issues and challenges related to serving athletes, coaches, managers, administrators, etc., who are connected with a sports program. It will address emotional, financial, marital, and moral issues often associated with high profile sports programs at both the amateur and professional levels.

Survey of Genesis - Bi 623
This course examines the structure of the book of Genesis, its theological message and the implications of its message today. The student will be led through an analysis of this foundational book of the Hebrew canon, including an intensive look at the first four narratives

Survey of John - Bi 621
This course is designed to help students examine the Fourth Gospel’s relationship, style and theology, to the Synoptic Gospels; and a portrait of Jesus as presented in the text. Particular attention will be given to authorship, purpose and the writer’s doctrine of spirituality.

Survey of Luke / Acts - Bi 620
This course will allow the students an opportunity to explore primary themes such as the role of women, wealth and poverty and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Close attention will focus on the authorship, history, literary style and theological implications of the texts.

Survey of Matthew - Bi 619
This course will examine the theological approaches and the history of the book and the writer of the book of Matthew. Analysis and synthesis will be used to explore the motifs, literary style and Matthew’s relationship to the Old Testament and the other Synoptic Gospels.

Survey of Revelation - Bi 622
In this course you will study the nature of apocalyptic literature in the New Testament era and examine the structure and message of the Book of Revelation against its historical background. Emphasis will be placed upon the significance of this book for church in the world today.

Theology Proper - Th 503
This course serves as an introduction to the nature and source of theology, the inspiration and verification of the Scriptures, the doctrine of God, the creation and doctrine of man, and the doctrine of the angels. Study includes God attributes, God’s names and Trinitarians.

Theological Research and Writing - A Th 613
This course will enable the student to conduct meaningful theological research as well as give attention to the planning, preparation and writing of graduate-level research papers. Attention will be given to grammar, clarity and style. The format and documentation of scholarly writing will also be addressed.

Worship - A Th 616
This foundational course explores the history of the Western World’s worship renewal movements in the last half century and deals with shifting focus on the Word and the Ordinances of Communion and Baptism; in comparison to renewal movements in the Two-Thirds World. Also covered will be the theology of contemporary music, acoustics, and the theological focus of contemporary weddings and funerals.

Women in Leadership - LS 611
This course will explore the roles, responsibilities and challenges of women in leadership or those called to leadership positions, from a biblical perspective. Particular attention will be given to help students learn their leadership style along with providing strategies for leadership skill development.

Women in Theology - Th 606
This course examines the historical roots, key ideas and trajectories of women in theology and philosophy, the passions and contradictions of these women and their effects on various social practices and religious institutions.
 

Introduction to World Religions - Th 608
This course will study the historical ethnic religions with special emphasis on their comparison and encounter with Christianity.

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