CST Basic Plan
Course Descriptions
First Year
First Semester
(BIB112) Bible Study Methodology
This is a survey of the methods of Bible study. Included as a part of this study are the synthetic, inductive, biographical, historical, theological, and devotional methods. For this course, the inductive study method will be emphasized and will include the steps of observation, interpretation, application, and correlation. Principles in these steps are applied to biblical passages and books.
(MIN112) Spiritual Formation
The premise of Spiritual Formation is that Christian leadership must lead first from Christ-like character and spirituality before skill. Spiritual formation comes from cooperating with the Holy Spirit, particularly through intentional spiritual habits that improve character and healthy responses to God’s direction and power. This course emphasizes six habits or disciplines: forgiveness (receiving and giving), daily prayer (petition, intercession, worship), daily Bible study (read, meditate, memorize), fellowship (healthy relationships and corporate spirituality), vision (evangelism, mission), and giving (Lordship of Christ). The student will learn tools and methods (a daily prayer journal during the course) that assist in developing these habits.
(ENG112) Introductory Writing
Introductory Writing presents rules for the standard or acceptable use of the English language, especially in written form. This course introduces basic writing principles and examines the fundamentals of language such as parts of speech, sentence structure, usage, and punctuation. In addition, it explains the writing process, techniques of organization and development, and basic documentation.
(BIB122) Pentateuch
Pentateuch considers the origin of both the earth and humankind. From Genesis to Deuteronomy, the course will help the student trace the nation of Israel from its beginnings until the time of its entrance into the Promised Land. Included in the course are studies on the Creation theories, the Flood, and the concept of holiness as presented in the book of Leviticus.
(HIS112) History of the AG
This course deals with the origin, history, and development of the Assemblies of God in the USA and its expansion worldwide. It seeks to place the unique role of this Pentecostal church in perspective with the church universal. Special attention is given to the founders, trends, issues, revivals, and various programs of the movement throughout its history. Local AG history is to constitute one-fourth to one-third of the content of this course.
(LIT112) Old Testament Literature
This introduction and overview of the 39 books of the Old Testament explores the importance, structure, and canon of the Old Testament. The study examines book by book: the author, readers, date, literary style, context, outline, theme, purpose, key passages, and principles for today.
(MIN122) Evangelism Today
This course examines the biblical principles and modern techniques of effective evangelism. It emphasizes how God is working through His people today. Examples from many countries show how basic evangelism methods can be used in a variety of ways. The biblical teaching on sin and salvation is given as an essential part of the training in how to share the message. Methods of personal and mass evangelism point out ways in which all Christians in a local church can work together to evangelize their world.
(MUS112) Fundamentals of Music
Music is one of the methods effectively used in the world today to spread the gospel. David sang before the Lord. Paul the apostle wrote that the church should always come together with a psalm or a hymn. Music itself can move
the most calloused person, and it can be instrumental in leading people to the Lord. This course deals specifically with music in church services, in evangelism, in cross-cultural ministry, and as an adjunct to Christian
education. This course is profitable for the Christian who plans to lead the local church in the field of music. A set of DVDs integrates the theoretical with the practical.
First Year
Second Semester
(BIB132) Historical Books
This interpretive survey covers the historical books of the Old Testament—the books of Joshua through Esther. They deal with the period of about 1,000 years from the entrance of the nation of Israel into the Promised Land until its return after the Exile. The course especially emphasizes Israel’s messianic mission first described in God’s covenant with Abraham, father of the Hebrew nation. It examines the background, structure, and content of each book to provide an understanding of the times and their relationship to God’s purpose in redeeming the world through Jesus for living, and Jesus Christ and His Church as unifying themes.
(MIN132) Children’s Ministry
This is an A to Z study of why and how to minister to children. Focus on contrasting the structure and ministries of Sunday school and children’s church is considered. Then guidelines for curriculum, classrooms, methods of evangelism and discipleship, good communication, creative teaching methods, discipline, and a team for children’s ministry to bless the whole church are presented.
(COM112) Public Speaking
This course is designed to increase the student’s awareness of the importance of speech in all areas of life and human cultures. Its main emphasis is on the values of Christian ministry through speech. The units of the course deal
successively with speech and the speaker, resources available to the speaker, the speaker and his or her audience, and intercultural aspects of speech.
(BIB142) Synoptic Gospels
This course explores Matthew, Mark, and Luke—the Synoptic Gospels. It covers the background, purposes, and geography of the Gospels. Throughout this verse by verse approach we emphasize the context of Christ’s teachings and miracles. The content is arranged by a principle-centered method, which enables students to apply, preach, and teach these great timeless, cross-cultural truths.
(ITE112) Information Technology I
This course covers the essential knowledge necessary to begin using computers as tools in personal ministry and in the church. It introduces the value of computer technology and shows the relationship between the various
components of the typical computer system, describing the basic operation of computers and important software. Students are encouraged to consider how they might use computers to enhance their effectiveness in ministry, whether in the church or in other areas. Finally, the course discusses the impact of rapidly changing technology on society and culture.
(BIB152) Principles of Biblical Interpretation
This course is divided into four units. The first unit presents fundamental truths that must be accepted before beginning a study of the Bible. The second unit deals with general principles of interpretation that are applicable to any type of literature. Specific rules that apply to special types of literature are overviewed in the third unit. In the final unit, the student is given sample passages of Scripture to which he or hew will apply the guidelines of interpretation that have been learned.
(LIT122) New Testament Literature
This introduction and overview of 27 books explores the canon, historical background, and geography of the New Testament. The study examines book by book: the author, readers, date, literary style, context, outline, theme, purpose, and key passages. It emphasizes principals for living, and Jesus Christ and His Church as unifying themes.
(ENG122) English Composition with Form and Style (MA)
This English course follows the Introductory English course (ENG112) in normal sequence. English Composition shows how an author’s point of view and choice of language determine style and influence the meaning of written communication. The course also covers more advanced grammatical principles and the application of sentence structure to improve written communication depending on one’s purpose of narration, description, explanation, or persuasion. Special topics include academic outlining, an orientation to research and report writing, and the writing of paraphrases and précis. Form and style from GU is included in this course.
Second Year
First Semester
(BIB212) Acts of the Holy Spirit
This is a thorough study of the content, purposes, principles, and applications of Acts. Emphasize is placed on the role of the Holy Spirit then and now. Attention is given to the geographical, numerical, cultural, and theological growth of the Church from Jerusalem to Rome. The journeys of Paul are examined as the background of his epistles.
(THE212) Systematic Theology I
The systematic study of the biblical doctrines of inspiration, God, trinity, and angels with appreciation of the history and development of Christian theology. Teaching on Scripture develops the case for its inspiration, authority, and infallibility as written revelation of God. Included are instructions on God’s attributes and angels as created spirit beings.
(MIN212) Pastoral Ministries
Focus is on the ministry of the pastor in three areas: Preparation-call, devotional life, and personal life; Responsibilities-preaching and teaching, worship, pastoral care, leading, training, forming cell groups, and special services; and Relationships-with lay leaders, team, work, and calling.
(MTH212) Mathematics
A course studying the fundamentals of the arithmetic of whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. Topics include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Students study percents, ratio and proportion, and solve equations.
(MIN222) Homiletics
This course is designed to teach pastors, evangelists, missionaries, teachers, and lay persons a Five Step Method to prepare expository sermons. Students learn to develop the problem and solution parts of the sermon by stating a principle, and then explaining, illustrating, and applying it. Illustrations are emphasized to move truth from the head to the heart.
(HIS212) Civilization Past and Present I
This course traces the rise of both western and eastern civilizations from their preliterate beginnings. Consideration is given to the development of civilization in China, India, the Greco-Roman world, Eastern Europe, and Russia. The student becomes acquainted with the rise of Islam and the beginnings of civilization in Africa, Europe, and the Americas. This foundation leads to an understanding of states and political systems. As the history of world civilization is developed, a number of global issues are considered, including migration, religion and government, location and identity, and technological exchange. This course concludes with a review of the scientific revolution and the Enlightenment.
(MIS242) History of Missions
A study of the methods, principles, aims, and progress of Apostolic missions. Various periods of the missionary endeavor through the rise of Islam, the Reformation, William Carey, and the period for modern missions are studied.
(ITE212) Information Technology II
This course covers knowledge necessary to use computers in the classroom, stewardship, and research. ITEII takes the student from computer application to classroom integration of PowerPoint and biblical software to managing monetary accounts to research techniques. Overall purpose is to learn how to make computers work for you.
Second Year
Second Semester
(BIB222) Pastoral Epistles
This course is a basic study of the Epistles of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus that describes God’s strategy for a healthy church. The student will learn about the personal life and duties of a pastor in finding and preparing leaders for service in the church. The student will study the various subgroups within a congregation and how to recognize and deal with error. Finally, the student will consider the essential nature of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
(THE222) Systematic Theology II
The systematic study of the biblical doctrines of creation, humanity, sin, Christ, salvation, and divine healing with appreciation of the history and development of Christian theology are considered.
(MIN232) Expository Preaching
This is a practical course in the methodology of preaching that emphasizes the step-by-step process of constructing expository sermons. The author includes a brief treatment of basic types of sermons, procedures for building expository sermons, the analysis and exposition of Scripture passages, and the building of a preaching program. The students build sermons for their pulpit ministry from the Gospel of Matthew and 1 Corinthians.
(HIS222) Civilizations Past, and Present II
This course continues the study of world civilization from the time of the French political revolution and the Copernican scientific revolution. Consideration is given to the rise of eastern and western states and the development of modern nations. The student will witness early attempts to establish democratic governments and the formation of bipolar world that has continued through the twentieth century. Global issues include slavery, gender, world war, and international law. This course concludes with a review of world governance.
(MIS232) Modern Cults
The doctrines of the most common modern cults will be reviewed. The teachings of Christian Science, Spiritism, Mormonism, and Jehovah’s Witnesses among others, are contrasted to orthodox theology. Scriptural refutation is offered, including the biblical plan of salvation and suggested soul winning techniques for evangelizing cult members.
(HIS232) Church History I (From Pentecost to the Reformation)
This is an introductory study of Christianity from its birth to the beginnings of the Reformation. The course provides an introduction to history as a scientific discipline and emphasizes the importance of history in relation to the Christian faith. The course deals with the apostolic church, the early church fathers, the ecumenical councils, the emergence of medieval theology and church practice, and the beginning of the Renaissance in Europe. Course content includes a consideration of the contribution of major Christian theologians, the relationship of the church and state, and the rise of monasticism and missions.
(MIN252) Human Relations
Human Relations involves an analysis and application of the commandments given by the Lord in Matthew 22:34–40. The theme is love as typified by the Greek word agape. In this course the author examines the agape concept thoroughly and applies it to every kind of human relationship. Based on a biblical model, this course focuses on practical applications for individuals in all of their relationships: with God, with others, and with themselves.
(MIN262) Christian Counseling
Christian Counseling is a paraprofessional approach to Christian counseling. Humankind is viewed as the creation of God with a capacity to know Him and have fellowship with Him. In Christian Counseling the students gain an understanding of the agape theory approach to counseling. This helps them follow Christ’s command to love one another. This course is not a theoretical approach; rather, it is a means to practical Christian counseling.
(PSY212) Introduction to Psychology: A Christian Perspective
This course traces the development of the science of psychology to the beginning of the twenty-first century. Students will learn the basic scientific principles and methodologies of psychology from a Christian perspective. This interpretive study of psychology enhances the student’s understanding of intrinsic values, motivational responses, relationships, and other psychological concepts as they apply to all aspects of Christian life and service.
Third Year
First Semester
(THE312) Systematic Theology III
The systematic study of the biblical doctrines of the Holy Spirit, the Church, and last things with appreciation of the history and development of Christian theology are considered.
(MIN352) Pastoral Counseling
Most students have noticed that people around them have emotional, spiritual, economic, and physical problems. Even the most persuasive sermon may not be heard by someone with serious personal problems. The Christian student, layperson, pastor, or religious worker must find ways to help people with their problems. This course looks at the different perspectives from which pastoral counseling may be seen. It emphasizes the necessary steps in preparing to become a pastoral counselor and gives attention to legal and practical ramifications of counseling. It also examines some of the issues faced by the pastoral counselor, seeking to find a balance between the clinical and spiritual, with the Bible as the final authority. This course investigates some of the current approaches to counseling and sets guidelines for counseling settings and sessions.
(HIS312) Church History II (From the Reformation to the Present)
This course provides an introductory study of the history of Christianity from the Reformation, in the sixteenth century, to the present day. The student will consider renewal periods, organizational matters, theological issues, and geographic expansion. The student will also examine the lives and contributions of significant Christian preachers, leaders, and theologians, concluding with an assessment of current trends such as the charismatic renewal and non-Western missionary outreach. The lessons are structured to enable the student to apply insights learned from the past to contemporary situations.
(BIB312) Major Prophets
The major prophets, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, spoke God’s message to His people many years ago. Yet their message is as important for us today as it was then. In this course, the student gains an understanding of who these men were, why God called them to be His messengers, what their messages were, and how to apply these messages.
(MIN312) Church Education
Pastors or those responsible for the educational program in the local church will find The Church’s Educational Task a valuable course. It examines what the Bible has to say about such concepts as teaching, training, and religious instruction. In general, the course discusses the church’s role and responsibility to train and instruct its members and families in the Word of God.
(PHL312) World Religions
After the introduction to the concept of religion, the course surveys ten of the prominent living religions of the world: animism of the Third World and religions of India (Hinduism and Sikhism), of East Asia (Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism, and Shintoism), and of the Middle East (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam). The course treats the origins, development, tenents, and literature of each and evaluates each in the light of Christian concepts. The course concludes with an analysis of the departure of heretical sects from orthodox Christian principles.
(BIB322) Romans and Galatians
Paul’s Salvation Letters: Galatians and Romans gives the student a deep appreciation of the apostle Paul. In the midst of church planting, he explains the gospel, confronts false teachers, distinguishes between law and grace, and shows how the gospel is rooted in Old Testament Scripture. His systematic explanation of the gospel to the Romans gives the student insight into the major doctrines of sin, salvation, and sanctification. The student also learns how union with Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit enable him or her to mature spiritually and live victoriously.
(THE322) Biblical Theology of Prayer
This is a study of the great prayers of the Bible and the lessons that can be learned for our prayer ministry today. The course stresses the importance of and impact of prayer in contemporary life and encourages students to pray regularly and fervently.
Third Year
Second Semester
(MIN322) Youth Ministries
An introduction to youth ministry through the local church and parachurch organizations. Students gain a working knowledge of youth ministry philosophies, strategies, and programming models. Students also investigate theological principles that undergird youth ministry development and strategy.
(EDU312) Principles of Teaching
This course presents a Christian philosophy of education based on the concepts implied in Luke 2:52: “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” The first unit deals primarily with the characteristics and needs of students at different ages and considers ways Christian teachers can meet these needs. The second unit looks into the fundamental responsibilities of the teacher and how to fulfill them. Unit three provides practical help in the use of contemporary educational methods. The last unit presents the steps in preparing, presenting, and evaluating lessons.
(BIB332) Wisdom Literature
This course introduces the student to the ancient pursuit of wisdom, both in Israel and among her neighbors, and the genre, content, and social context of the wisdom writings. The course examines Old Testament wisdom books and wisdom writings produced in the period between the Testaments. Attention is given to themes that run throughout the wisdom tradition and the ways these themes develop and change in successive wisdom writings. The course also considers the ways wisdom writings helped shape the New Testament and continue to influence the church today.
(MIN332) Ministry Internship
Ministry Internship requires each student to work with a local pastor in a local church during each term of the third academic year. The student will have opportunity to apply and integrate academic studies through exposure to a well-rounded overview of the ministries of a church and the work of a pastor through observation, experience, and directed readings. Specifics of the internship plan will be worked out by the assigned Bible school mentor and the local pastor who jointly supervise and monitor the student’s progress. The plan should cover basic pastoral functions of shepherd, teacher, and leader, including the pastor’s devotional life, family life, time management, and personal health. The plan for church life should cover worship/prayer, reaching/teaching/counseling, developing relationships in the church, handling conflicts, marriage/family, organizing and mobilizing ministries, training leaders, evangelism, discipling new converts, and missions. In addition, the plan should include practical aspects of special ceremonies, administration, finances, and working with leaders.
(SOS312) Marriage and Family
This is a practical survey of marriage and family, from dating to being a grandparent. We explore: ways to choose a mate, guidelines for the engagement and wedding, communication principles, sexual fulfillment, making decisions, how to be a good spouse and parent, tough issues, and the final years.
(BIB342) Prison Epistles
Analysis of Colossians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Philemon, all written while the author was in chains. Attention will focus on the light these letters shed on Paul’s life and thought, as well as on the challenge of their message, and to the relation of Christ to the church.
(MIN452) Ministerial Ethics
Historical as well as current moral/ethical issues and the ethical aspects of major Pentecostal doctrines are outlined. Guidelines for proper relationships with the congregation and with fellow ministers are highlighted. The course concludes with the practical application of ethics to the minister’s home life and ministry.
(HSC312) Foundations for Health
Foundations for Health is a study of the principles of health and hygiene. With the theme of illness prevention, it examines nutritional needs, immunizations, environmental hygiene, and other methods of disease control. The course focuses on practical methods for protecting health, such as safety in the home, safe care during pregnancy and childbirth, and water purification. It also stresses how to recognize symptoms of many common ailments and how to treat these problems to prevent further sickness or complications. The course concludes with instructions on basic first aid for emergency situations.
Fourth Year
(SOS412) Cultural Anthropology
This course is a study of the cultural values and differences of the various peoples of the world. The study seeks to develop an understanding of, and an appreciation for, the ways people of various cultural backgrounds perceive reality and relate to each other. Particular application is made on how these insights prepare individuals for cross-cultural living and ministry.
(MIS412) Missionary Principles and Practices
This course introduces the student to modern methods in missions. The missionary policies and practices of the Assemblies of God are examined. Central to the course is a review of the indigenous church principles in governing, supporting, and perpetuating the church on the mission field. The course considers how a missionary candidate may raise funds, develop relationships, and work with her or his district and or General Council.
(LDR412) Guidelines for Leadership
The selection and development of Christian leaders is one of the major challenges the church faces. This course provides students with a contemporary theology of Christian leadership. It discusses leadership theory, presents servant-leadership as a model for Christian leaders, discusses biblical principles of leadership, and describes the major functions of leadership.
(BIB422) Daniel and Revelation
This is a study of the historical setting, symbolism, and meaning of the last book of the Bible. Related passages in Daniel and other biblical books are explored, interpreted, and integrated. There is a pastoral focus of understanding, illustrating, and applying the timeless scriptural truths of this prophetic book.
(LDR422) Managing Conflict
This course is a study of the effective managing of conflict, particularly in the church. The course draws from a scriptural foundation with input from contemporary Christian and leadership literature. It begins by exploring the definition of conflict and its stages, emphasizing why managing conflict is a key part of a leader’s role in helping the church’s mission. Conflict is understood further by examining sources of conflict, communication, and approaches to conflict. A key part of the course includes scriptural perspectives on conflict from Jesus’ teaching and biblical case studies. The leader’s role in managing conflict is considered, beginning with the leader’s heart and moving to strategies for managing and reducing conflict, as well as how churches, organizations, and leaders can grow during conflict.
(BIB423) John’s Gospel and Letters
The author examines the life, character, and ministry of Jesus Christ. This examination includes not only the historical context but also the divine perspective presented by John the Evangelist. The study of this course increases the student’s understanding of John’s Gospel and the Letters and aids her or him in there interpretation.
(BIB433) The Corinthian Letters
How does one relate the Bible to contemporary church life? In the Corinthians Study Guide, the author helps the student do this through as in-depth study of the Corinthian letters. He begins with exegesis, teaching the student how to use this method of Bible study to understand the problems faced by first-century Corinthian believers. Then, for each major problem the apostle Paul dealt with, the author suggests a possible solution or an interpretation that can be applied to the church today. This course is especially helpful to those who wish to preach and teach as it demonstrates a methodology of Bible interpretation. An overview of 2 Corinthians is also included in this study.
(THE433) Old Testament Biblical Theology
In this course the Study Guide traces the development of major Old Testament doctrines. This study deals with what the Old Testament teaches about God, creation, humanity, sing, the Messiah, revelation, inspiration, angels, Satan, the various testaments and covenants, judgment, and life after death. It provides a wealth of material for preaching and teaching from the Old Testament.
(THE443) Pneumatology
The person, work, gifts, and ministry of the Holy Spirit are the topics examined in this biblical study. Among the questions discussed from both the Old and New Testaments are these: Who is the Holy Spirit? What is the baptism of the Holy Spirit? How do I live s Spirit-filled life? Students are encouraged to apply these and other related biblical teachings to their own teaching and preaching ministries.
(THE453) Apologetics
Is there a procedure for dealing with doubt? Can Scripture be verified? Are miracles possible? Where is history taking us? The author discusses these and other questions in Apologetics. Faith and knowing are the two consistent themes of this course. The Study Guide examines and explains the relationship between them. This course will help the student persuade others that there is no better way to follow than that of faith in, and obedience to, the God of the Christian Scriptures.
(BIB452) Hebrews
A Study in the Book of Hebrews uses both analytical and topical studies to develop the main themes in the Epistle to the Hebrews. An introductory study of the structure of the book helps the student see more clearly its relationship to the Old Testament and the pattern of its development. Historical information on the background of the book gives an understanding of its warnings and exhortations. Numerous charts and outlines emphasize the main truths of the Epistle and are of great value to those who wish to preach or teach from Hebrews.
(MIN342) Church Organization and Parliamentary Law
The organization and administration of the
church are considered. Subject considers church polity including presbyterial, congregational, and episcopal forms. Specific attention is given to the structure and organization of the Assemblies of God. In addition to the organization, parliamentary law is discussed and dramatized.
(COM453) Cross-Cultural Communications
How do cultural differences affect the way people interact? How might one improve his or her communication skills in a shrinking world? Cross-Cultural Communications attempts to help the student discover answers to these current problems. Perhaps the most important aspect of this course relates to the word mission. The course is dedicated to helping the student become a sent one to present Christ and His kingdom in an environment other than his or her own. To do this, the course addresses how communication and culture relate, how to reach people where they are, how different people think and express ideas across cultures and subcultures, and how the thoughts and expressions of people affect their behavior.
Rev120112