Certificate of Biblical Studies course is designed to help any believer who wants to grow in a basic knowledge of the Bible, Bible doctrines and practical ministry skills to strengthen their own Christian life and contribute to their local church. It also provides a foundation for those who wish to pursue another course of study to enhance their ministry and earn an Associate Degree in Biblical Studies.
Diploma in Theology assists theological students and church workers to be empowered for the healing and transformation of both individuals and society. Those who wish to gain an understanding of the Christian faith would also benefit from this programme.In this course syllabus typically covers biblical studies, church history, theology, and practical ministry. It may include courses on Old Testament, New Testament, Christian doctrines, church history, homiletics (preaching), and Christian ministry.
Graduate in theology signifies someone who has pursued advanced studies in theology, a field that involves the systematic study of religious beliefs, doctrines, and practices. In this Program syllabus typically covers foundational theology, biblical studies, and practical aspects of ministry.
The Bachelor of Biblical Studies is designed for those who want a Bachelor’s Degree concentrating on Biblical content. It is suited for those who desire thorough training in the Word of God in order to enhance their present ministries or add to their existing professional expertise. It equips pastors, evangelists, or Christian workers for service in areas where the interpretation and proclamation of the Word of God is the major emphasis. This program is designed to complete a two-year program, and is meant to complement general studies obtained by the student from other academic institutions. The program concentrates on Bible and Bible-related subjects as well as courses in missions, evangelism, and practical training.
The Master of Biblical Studies is designed for those who desire to enhance ministry or teach at a college level. A bachelor’s degree from a generally recognized college or university is required. The program requires Biblical Studies , Bible, theology, historical studies and general electives. The Students are grouped into cohorts in a module format. Objectives of the program include a general knowledge of the Bible, a core understanding of a theology that is biblical and a biblical hermeneutic.
The Doctor of Theology is designed to prepare persons of exceptional ability and promise to conduct research at the highest level of expertise to strengthen service as pastor, seminary or college professors, and Christian leaders. A master’s degree in the field of theology from a generally recognized graduate school or seminary is required for entrance. A minimum of 6 hours of Greek and Hebrew is necessary. The completion of the program includes the written comprehensive examination. Objectives include demonstration of high level research, language skills, communication, and exhibition of a biblical hermeneutic with a theology that is biblical. The program is only offered in English.
The Bible is a collection of 66 sacred books, divided into the Old and New Testaments, considered by Christians to be God's revelation to humanity, offering insights into God, humanity, salvation, and guidance for Christian living. The Bible is a collection of religious texts and scriptures, held sacred by Christians, and also by other Abrahamic religions like Judaism, Samaritanism, Islam, the Baha'i Faith, and others.
Old Testament Survey is an introduction to the authorship and contents of the Old Testament books. This survey of all the books of the Old Testament provides a foundation for further Bible study. Larger themes relating to God’s plan for redemption and practical Christian living.
The Pentateuch, also known as the Torah in Hebrew, comprises the first five books of the Hebrew Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy) and is considered a foundational text for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, containing stories of creation, the patriarchs, and key religious laws.
The Book of Daniel, a 2nd-century BC biblical text with a 6th-century BC setting, is a mix of court tales and apocalyptic visions, featuring the prophet Daniel and his experiences in Babylon, emphasizing God's sovereignty and offering hope to those in exile.
The poetic books of the Bible, also known as the Sapiential or Wisdom books, are a collection of five books (Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon) that explore a range of human emotions, wisdom, and the nature of God. They offer a different perspective than the historical or prophetic books, focusing on the human experience and offering guidance on living a meaningful life.
Major Prophets is a study of the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel. Special attention is given to the major emphasis in each of the prophet's messages as pertaining historically to Israel, and prophetically to Christ and the Church.
Wisdom literature is a genre of writings, found across various ancient cultures, that focuses on offering practical advice, exploring the nature of life, and grappling with philosophical questions. It often takes the form of proverbs, sayings, and philosophical reflections, aiming to provide guidance on living a virtuous and meaningful life.
A chronological and comprehensive survey of the New Testament books of Matthew through Revelation, presenting a study of the Life of Christ in the Gospels, the early church stage, the transition to the epistle stage, and culminating in the prophecy of Christ’s return.
The Book of Acts, a sequel to the Gospel of Luke, chronicles the early church's growth and mission, focusing on the Holy Spirit's empowerment and the spread of the gospel from Jerusalem to Rome, highlighting the ministries of Peter and Paul.
It's a New Testament epistle that emphasizes the superiority of Jesus Christ over all things, including angels, prophets, the Old Testament Law, and even the Old Testament priesthood. It was written to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and were tempted to return to Jewish practices, encouraging them to persevere in their faith in Jesus. The book argues that Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God, the perfect High Priest, and the perfect sacrifice, offering a new and living way to approach God.
The "Minor Prophets" are a collection of twelve prophetic books in the Old Testament, also known as "The Twelve" or the "Book of the Twelve". These books, written during the 8th to 4th centuries BCE, offer insights into the spiritual and historical context of Israel, often challenging the status quo and urging repentance. The term "minor" refers to the length of the books, not their significance, as they contain important messages about God's character, justice, and hope.
A chronological and comprehensive survey of the New Testament books of Matthew through Revelation, presenting a study of the Life of Christ in the Gospels, the early church stage, the transition to the epistle stage, and culminating in the prophecy of Christ’s return.
The Book of Acts, a sequel to the Gospel of Luke, chronicles the early church's growth and mission, focusing on the Holy Spirit's empowerment and the spread of the gospel from Jerusalem to Rome, highlighting the ministries of Peter and Paul.
It's a New Testament epistle that emphasizes the superiority of Jesus Christ over all things, including angels, prophets, the Old Testament Law, and even the Old Testament priesthood. It was written to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and were tempted to return to Jewish practices, encouraging them to persevere in their faith in Jesus. The book argues that Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God, the perfect High Priest, and the perfect sacrifice, offering a new and living way to approach God.
The Book of Revelation, the final book of the New Testament, is an "unveiling" or "disclosure" (apokalypsis) of Jesus Christ's plan for the future, delivered through symbolic visions and prophecies to the author, John, who was on the island of Patmos
The life of Jesus Christ on earth as seen in the Gospels will be studied thematically and chronologically in the light of its historical background, geographical setting, political situation, and religious conditions. Special emphasis will be given to His mission and message. Attention will also be given to current issues relating to the historical Jesus debate.
The General Epistles, also known as the Catholic Epistles, are a collection of letters in the New Testament written to a general audience of Christians, rather than to specific churches or individuals, and include James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2 & 3 John, and Jude. The General Epistles are seven letters in the New Testament, distinct from the Pauline Epistles (letters written by Paul), and are named for their authors rather than the recipients.
The Pastoral Epistles, comprising 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus, are a group of New Testament letters written by the Apostle Paul to his fellow workers, Timothy and Titus, providing guidance on church leadership, doctrine, and Christian living. They are named "Pastoral" because they offer practical advice and instructions to young church leaders (pastors) on how to lead, care for their congregations, and maintain doctrinal purity within the church.
The "Prison Epistles" are four New Testament letters (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon) penned by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment in Rome, emphasizing Christ's supremacy and the believer's role in the church.
The Synoptic Gospels, Matthew, Mark, and Luke, are called "synoptic" because they share significant similarities in their narratives of Jesus' life, often presenting similar stories, sequences, and even wording, distinguishing them from the Gospel of John. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are grouped together as "synoptic" because they share a high degree of similarity in their accounts of Jesus' life, ministry, death, and resurrection. This similarity extends to the stories they tell, the order in which they present them, and sometimes even the wording used. The Gospel of John, while also a Gospel, stands apart from the synoptic Gospels, offering a distinct perspective and narrative structure.
Johannine literature encompasses the New Testament works traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, including the Gospel of John and the three Johannine letters (1, 2, and 3 John), exploring the life, teachings, and divinity of Jesus.
Pauline literature, encompassing the letters attributed to Paul the Apostle, forms a crucial part of the New Testament, offering insights into early Christian theology, ethics, and the development of Christian communities. These letters, while primarily correspondence, contain theological arguments, practical guidance, and historical context, making them vital for understanding the early church and its beliefs.
Cults are social groups characterized by intense devotion to a leader, unusual beliefs, and often, a high degree of control over members' lives, which can lead to harmful or destructive behaviors. A cult, in a broad sense, is a group with a strong, often charismatic leader, and a system of beliefs and practices that are often seen as unorthodox or extreme by mainstream society.
The word "heresy" originates from the Greek "haireis," which initially meant "choice" or "sect". Over time, it evolved to signify a belief or opinion that differs from the accepted doctrines or teachings of a particular religion or group. In religious contexts, heresy typically refers to a belief or practice that contradicts the core tenets or doctrines of a specific faith. It can involve denying or questioning established truths, or promoting alternative interpretations of religious texts or practices. In Christianity, heresy has historically been used to describe beliefs that challenge the divinity of Jesus, the nature of the Trinity, or other fundamental doctrines. Examples include Arianism, which denied the divinity of Christ, and Gnosticism, which promoted a dualistic view of the world.
Christian doctrine of the Trinity, a core belief, states that God exists as one being in three co-eternal persons: Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit, each fully God, distinct yet united. The Trinity affirms that there is only one God, but this God is not a solitary entity; rather, God exists as three distinct persons who are equally divine an co-equal. God the Father is often understood as the creator and source of all things, the one who is the Father of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. The Son Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is believed to be fully God and fully human, who lived among humanity, died for the forgiveness of sins, and rose again. The Holy Spirit is understood as the divine presence of God, who empowers believers, guides, and comforts them.
Dispensationalism is a theological system that interprets the Bible by dividing history into distinct periods, or "dispensations," where God interacts with humanity in different ways, often with specific tests, failures, and judgments. Dispensationalism views God's interaction with humanity as unfolding in distinct stages or "dispensations," each characterized by a specific test of obedience and a corresponding revelation of divine truth.
Biblical archaeology is a specialized field that studies archaeological sites and artifacts from the Ancient Near East, particularly the Holy Land, to understand the cultural and historical context of the biblical texts and the people, places, and periods mentioned within them. Biblical archaeology focuses on the archaeological remains of the peoples, cultures, and periods in which the biblical texts were formed, primarily in the Middle East and Mediterranean world.
Bible Geography is designed and produced to help students grasp the content of the Bible in its geographical, cultural and historical settings. The course also shows how a proper knowledge of the geography of the Bible land helps in better comprehending the content of the Bible.
Church history, or ecclesiastical history, is the academic study of the development and evolution of Christianity, encompassing its origins, key events, influential figures, and impact on society. It examines the Christian Church's history, from its inception to the present day, exploring its missionary activities, organizational structures, theological doctrines, and influence on human life. Church history begins with the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, followed by the emergence of the early Christian church and its spread through the Roman Empire. Significant periods include the rise of the Roman Empire, the early church's persecution, the development of Christian doctrine (such as the Nicene Creed), the rise of monasticism, the Crusades, the Reformation, and the Enlightenment.
Evangelism, or witnessing, is the act of sharing the Christian gospel, the message and teachings of Jesus Christ, with the intention of converting others to Christianity. It involves proclaiming the "good news" of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Evangelism, rooted in the Greek word "euangelion" meaning "good news," is the act of sharing the gospel message with others. The core purpose of evangelism is to invite people to experience the transformative power of Jesus Christ in their lives.
Personal evangelism is sharing the message and teachings of Jesus Christ with others, aiming to lead them to faith and a relationship with Him, often through personal conversations and actions. Personal evangelism, also known as witnessing, is the act of a person sharing the Christian gospel, the message and teachings of Jesus Christ, with the intention of converting others to Christianity.
The theology of mission explores how God's actions and the church's role in the world relate to God's overarching purpose and how the church participates in that mission, emphasizing both biblical foundations and practical application. The core of theology of mission is the understanding that God, not humanity, initiates the mission. The Bible portrays a God who actively seeks to reconcile the world and invites people to participate in that reconciliation. Theology of mission draws heavily from biblical narratives and teachings, particularly the story of God's actions throughout history and the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Moral theology, a branch of theological study, explores how Christian beliefs guide actions and decisions in the world, offering a framework for living a life of virtue and acting in accordance with God's will. Moral theology examines the principles and practices of Christian morality, drawing upon scripture, tradition, and reason to understand how to live a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to others. It deals with the "how" of Christian living, focusing on actions, choices, and moral decisions, in contrast to dogmatic theology, which focuses on "what" one believes.
Systematic theology, or systematics, is a discipline of Christian theology that formulates an orderly, rational, and coherent account of the doctrines of the Christian faith. It addresses issues such as what the Bible teaches about certain topics or what is true about God and his universe.
Bibliology, also known as the Doctrine of Scripture, is the systematic theological study of the nature, character, and authority of the Bible. It examines the Bible's origins, composition, inspiration, interpretation, and transmission.
Theology is the academic study of religious beliefs, particularly focusing on the nature of divinity and the relationship between the human and divine, often explored through the lens of specific religious traditions like Christianity, Islam, or Judaism. Theology is the study of religious faith, practice, and experience, with a particular emphasis on the nature of God and God's relationship to the world.
Theology proper, a branch of systematic theology, focuses on the study of God himself, encompassing his being, attributes, and works, particularly within a Trinitarian context (God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Theology proper is the systematic study of God, examining his nature, essence, and actions, both as one God and in the three persons of the Trinity.
Christology, derived from the Greek words "Christos" (meaning "anointed one") and "-logia" (meaning "study of"), is the theological study of the person and work of Jesus Christ, exploring his humanity, divinity, and the relationship between them, as well as his role in salvation.
Pneumatology, derived from the Greek word "pneuma" meaning "wind," "breath," or "spirit," is the theological study of the Holy Spirit, focusing on His personhood, deity, and works, as revealed in the Bible. Pneumatology is a branch of Christian systematic theology that deals with the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity.
Angelology, derived from the Greek words "angelos" (messenger) and "logos" (word), is the theological study of angels, encompassing their origin, nature, roles, and relationship to humanity and God. Angelology, in the context of Christian systematic theology, is the study of the biblical doctrine of angels, including their origin, existence, nature, classifications, service, and the existence, activity, and judgment of Satan and demons (as fallen or wicked angels).
Hamartiology, derived from the Greek word "hamartia" (meaning "sin" or "missing the mark"), is the theological study of sin, encompassing its origin, nature, transmission, effects, and consequences. Hamartiology is the systematic study of sin within a theological framework.
Soteriology, derived from the Greek words for "salvation" and "study," is the theological study of salvation, examining its nature, methods, and implications within different religious contexts. Soteriology is the branch of theology that investigates the concept of salvation, encompassing questions like: who is saved, by whom, from what, and by what means.
Ecclesiology, derived from the Greek word "ekklesia" (meaning "church" or "assembly"), is the theological study of the Christian church, encompassing its nature, identity, mission, and role in God's plan. Ecclesiology examines the church as a community of believers, its structure and governance, its relationship with God and the world, and its role in salvation and the ongoing mission of Christ.
Homiletics, the art and practice of preaching, involves the study and delivery of religious discourses, including sermons, homilies, and catechetical instruction, focusing on the analysis, preparation, composition, and delivery of these messages. Homiletics is the study of preaching, encompassing both the creation and delivery of religious messages.
Hermeneutics, derived from the Greek word "hermeneuein" meaning "to interpret," is the study of interpretation, encompassing the theory and methodology of understanding and communication, particularly in areas like theology, law, history, and literature. Hermeneutics is the study of how we understand and interpret texts, actions, and events, focusing on the principles and methods involved in finding meaning.
This course deals with basic ideas and practices in the area of church administration. The church requires good administration to be effective. This course equips the student to understand these issues and be a good leader and administrator of a local church.
A study of the nature, methods, and issues of biblical interpretation. This course will expose students to a variety of different approaches, demonstrate the crucial importance of the proper hermeneutic and the impact of literary elements upon interpretation, and assist them to understand and use a "normal" hermeneutical method.
Christian philosophy explores philosophical questions through a lens of Christian beliefs and doctrines, encompassing topics like the nature of God, the Trinity, and the relationship between faith and reason. It aims to reconcile faith with reason and examine the implications of Christian theology on various philosophical issues. Christian philosophy, often referred to as philosophical theology, is the application of philosophical methods and concepts to understand and interpret Christian doctrines and beliefs.
Pastoral psychology is the application of psychological principles and techniques to the ministry of pastoral care, drawing on insights from human sciences, therapeutic methods, and biblical/theological resources to address the spiritual, emotional, and practical needs of individuals within religious communities.
This course offers an exploration of the empirical scientific literature on the psychological study of religion. The course will embrace the major psychological perspectives on religion, faith, and religious experience. In addition, the course will also accord students the opportunity to explore the empirical, scientific literature related to the psychological study of religion. It provides an academic environment for discussion of issues and topics in the realm of psychology of religion. Finally, the psychological study of religion within theological institutions across the globe and Zambia in particular will illustrate tensions and opportunities that exist between psychology and religion.
Pastoral counseling is a form of counseling that integrates spiritual care with mental health support, offering a faith-based and therapeutic approach to help individuals navigate life's challenges and crises. Pastoral counseling combines theological understanding, psychological principles, and spiritual guidance to address emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs within a religious or spiritual framework.
Pastoral care is a form of support that addresses the emotional, spiritual, and practical needs of individuals, particularly during times of crisis or significant life events, aiming to help them navigate challenges and find meaning. Pastoral care is a ministry of care and support, often provided by chaplains or pastoral care providers, that addresses the emotional, spiritual, and personal needs of individuals, regardless of their religious beliefs or stage of life.
Christian stewardship is a way of life that recognizes everything belongs to God and is entrusted to our care, calling us to use our resources – time, talents, and possessions – wisely and responsibly for His glory and the good of others. The foundational principle of Christian stewardship is the understanding that God is the ultimate owner of everything, including our lives, resources, and abilities.
Christian discipleship is a lifelong journey of following Jesus, learning from Him, and striving to live like Him, ultimately becoming a mature follower of Christ and helping others do the same. Discipleship is about more than just attending church or knowing Bible facts; it's a personal commitment to following Jesus, learning from his teachings, and modeling your life after his example. Jesus called his followers to make disciples of all nations, emphasizing the importance of sharing the faith and helping others grow in their relationship with God.
Christian leadership is a dynamic, relational process where individuals, guided by the Holy Spirit, serve and lead others to achieve God's purposes through a Christ-centered approach, emphasizing servant leadership and discipleship.
Christian education is a Bible-based, Christ-centered teaching and learning process that aims to guide individuals towards spiritual growth and equip them for effective ministry, focusing on discipleship and living out faith in all aspects of life. Christian education is rooted in the teachings of the Bible, which serves as the ultimate authority and guide for faith and practice.
Christian ethics, also known as moral theology, is a framework for understanding and applying moral principles based on Christian beliefs and teachings, particularly focusing on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing love, compassion, and service to others
Christian stewardship is a way of life that recognizes everything belongs to God and is entrusted to our care, calling us to use our resources – time, talents, and possessions – wisely and responsibly for His glory and the good of others. The foundational principle of Christian stewardship is the understanding that God is the ultimate owner of everything, including our lives, resources, and abilities.
Christian apologetics is the intellectual defense of the Christian faith, aiming to provide rational arguments and evidence for its truth, while also addressing objections and criticisms. It seeks to equip believers with the ability to articulate their faith and engage in reasoned discussions with those who hold different beliefs. Apologetics, derived from the Greek word "apologia" meaning "defense" or "speech in defense," is a branch of Christian theology focused on defending and explaining the Christian faith.
An introduction to the elements of the Greek language of the New Testament (koine and Hellenistic). The course is designed to give the student an understanding of the basic structure of the text. It includes an overview of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, enabling the student to begin reading the New Testament in its original language.
This course builds upon Elementary Greek Grammar I, and fully introduces the elements of New Testament Greek grammar and continues introducing the Greek language and vocabulary of the New Testament (koine and Hellenistic). It is designed to enhance the student’s understanding of the structure and syntax of the text. The course includes a further development of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, enabling the student to begin reading the New Testament in its original language and expands the student’s understanding of the Greek verb system. Its goal is to develop skills necessary to read the Greek text and to use it efficiently in Bible study and sermon preparation. The student will learn how to use of lexical and exegetical tools. The pre-requisite for this course is Elementary Greek Grammar I.
This course is the first of three courses in a basic, but thorough, study of New Testament Greek. Special attention is paid to lexical study (vocabulary and word meanings), grammatical study (Greek forms and their basic functions), and practical application.
This course is the second of three courses in a basic but thorough study of New Testament Greek. Special attention is paid to lexical study (vocabulary and word meanings), grammatical study (Greek forms and their basic functions), and practical application (i.e. the ability to derive some exegetical significance from the original language).
This course is the third of three courses in a basic, but thorough, study of New Testament Greek. Special attention is paid to lexical study (vocabulary and word meanings), grammatical study (Greek forms and their basic functions), and practical application (i.e. the ability to derive some exegetical significance from the original language). This section of the course will also focus on application of all that has been covered by translating the book of 1 John.
This course is an introduction to the Hebrew language of the Old Testament and is designed to give the student an understanding of the basic structure of the text. The course includes an overview of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, enabling the student to begin reading the Old Testament in its original language. In this course, the student will develop basic skills in translation and will assimilate a vocabulary of the most common biblical Hebrew words.
This course builds upon Elementary Hebrew Grammar I and continues to introduce the Hebrew language of the Old Testament. It is designed to give the student a basic understanding of the structure of the text (second semester). The course includes a further development of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, enabling the student to begin reading the Old Testament in its original language. This course expands the student’s understanding of the verb system. Its goal is to develop skills necessary to read the Hebrew text and to use it efficiently in Bible study and sermon preparation. The student will learn how to use of lexical and exegetical tools. The pre-requisite is Elementary Hebrew Grammar I.
This course deals with the essentials of the Old Testament biblical Hebrew with an emphasis on phonology and vocabulary. Emphasis will be placed on pronunciation of letters and vowels, vocabulary words and verbal forms.
This course covers the second part of biblical Hebrew. The student will be encouraged to memorize new vocabulary words and be acquainted with new tenses and grammatical study. Special attention will be given to translating certain parts of the Old Testament Hebrew Bible.
This covers the third part of biblical Hebrew. The student will be encouraged to read Hebrew fluently, translate more effectively, and faithfully exegete the Scriptures.