### Syllabus for Bachelor of Theology (B.Th) – Bible Training
#### Course Overview:
The Bachelor of Theology (B.Th) program provides a comprehensive study of the Bible, theology, and Christian ministry. The program aims to equip students with a deep understanding of biblical texts, theological concepts, and practical ministry skills.
#### Program Structure:
The B.Th program is typically structured over four years, with each year divided into two semesters. The following syllabus outlines the core courses and electives that will be covered throughout the program.
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### Year 1
#### Semester 1:
1. **Introduction to the Old Testament**
– Overview of the Old Testament
– Historical and cultural context
– Major themes and narratives
2. **Introduction to the New Testament**
– Overview of the New Testament
– Life and teachings of Jesus
– Early Christian communities
3. **Biblical Hebrew I**
– Introduction to Biblical Hebrew grammar
– Basic vocabulary and syntax
4. **Christian Theology I**
– Introduction to Christian doctrine
– The nature of God, Christology, and the Holy Spirit
5. **Spiritual Formation**
– Personal spiritual development
– Practices of prayer, meditation, and worship
#### Semester 2:
1. **Pentateuch Studies**
– Detailed study of the first five books of the Old Testament
– Themes, laws, and narratives
2. **Gospels and Acts**
– In-depth study of the four Gospels and the Book of Acts
– Historical and theological analysis
3. **Biblical Hebrew II**
– Continuation of Biblical Hebrew grammar and syntax
– Translation of selected Old Testament texts
4. **Christian Theology II**
– Continuation of Christian doctrine
– Ecclesiology, eschatology, and sacraments
5. **Church History I**
– Early church history to the Reformation
– Key figures and movements
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### Year 2
#### Semester 1:
1. **Historical Books of the Old Testament**
– Study of Joshua to Esther
– Historical and theological themes
2. **Pauline Epistles**
– Examination of Paul’s letters
– Theological and ethical teachings
3. **Biblical Greek I**
– Introduction to Biblical Greek grammar
– Basic vocabulary and syntax
4. **Systematic Theology I**
– Overview of systematic theology
– Methodology and key doctrines
5. **Homiletics I**
– Principles of preaching and sermon preparation
– Practical exercises in sermon delivery
#### Semester 2:
1. **Wisdom Literature and Psalms**
– Study of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon
– Literary forms and theological themes
2. **General Epistles and Revelation**
– Study of Hebrews, James, Peter, John, Jude, and Revelation
– Theological and eschatological themes
3. **Biblical Greek II**
– Continuation of Biblical Greek grammar and syntax
– Translation of selected New Testament texts
4. **Systematic Theology II**
– Continuation of systematic theology
– Advanced theological concepts and contemporary issues
5. **Church History II**
– Church history from the Reformation to the present
– Key figures and movements
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### Year 3
#### Semester 1:
1. **Major Prophets**
– Study of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel
– Historical context and prophetic messages
2. **Minor Prophets**
– Study of the twelve minor prophets
– Themes and relevance for today
3. **Biblical Interpretation (Hermeneutics)**
– Principles and methods of biblical interpretation
– Application to various genres of biblical literature
4. **Ethics in Christian Perspective**
– Christian ethical principles and decision-making
– Contemporary moral issues
5. **Pastoral Care and Counseling I**
– Introduction to pastoral care
– Basic counseling techniques and skills
#### Semester 2:
1. **Intertestamental Period and Apocrypha**
– Historical and literary study of the intertestamental period
– Apocryphal books and their significance
2. **Theological Issues in the New Testament**
– Exploration of key theological themes in the New Testament
– Christology, soteriology, and pneumatology
3. **Advanced Biblical Exegesis**
– Advanced techniques in biblical exegesis
– Exegetical study of selected biblical passages
4. **Christian Education**
– Principles and methods of Christian education
– Curriculum development and teaching strategies
5. **Homiletics II**
– Advanced preaching techniques
– Development of preaching style and voice
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### Year 4
#### Semester 1:
1. **Biblical Theology**
– Integration of biblical themes and theology
– Canonical approach to the Bible
2. **Contemporary Theology**
– Study of modern theological movements and thinkers
– Impact on contemporary Christian thought
3. **Missiology**
– Theology and practice of Christian missions
– Cross-cultural ministry and evangelism
4. **Leadership in Ministry**
– Principles of Christian leadership
– Practical skills for leading a church or ministry
5. **Pastoral Care and Counseling II**
– Advanced pastoral care techniques
– Specialized counseling areas (e.g., grief, marriage, crisis)
#### Semester 2:
1. **Capstone Project or Thesis**
– Independent research project or thesis
– Presentation and defense
2. **Christian Apologetics**
– Defense of the Christian faith
– Addressing contemporary challenges to Christianity
3. **Practical Ministry Internship**
– Supervised practical ministry experience
– Integration of academic learning with practical ministry
4. **Worship and Liturgy**
– Study of Christian worship practices
– Design and leading of worship services
5. **Elective Course**
– Selection of an elective course based on student interest
– Options may include topics like church planting, family ministry, or advanced biblical languages
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### Evaluation Methods:
– **Exams and Quizzes**: Regular assessments to test comprehension and retention of course material.
– **Research Papers and Essays**: In-depth written assignments to develop critical thinking and theological analysis.
– **Practical Assignments**: Application of learned skills in real-world ministry contexts.
– **Capstone Project or Thesis**: Comprehensive research project demonstrating mastery of theological and biblical studies.
### Recommended Reading:
– The Holy Bible (various translations)
– “Systematic Theology” by Wayne Grudem
– “Introduction to the Old Testament” by Raymond B. Dillard and Tremper Longman III
– “Introduction to the New Testament” by D.A. Carson and Douglas J. Moo
– “Biblical Interpretation: Past & Present” by Gerald Bray
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This syllabus provides a structured approach to studying the Bible and theology, preparing students for effective ministry and deeper engagement with their faith.
