Biblical Interpretation & Preaching Department

BIP501‒ Biblical Interpretation: Hermeneutics

Required for MDiv― 4 credits, rigorous. Admin Fee May Apply. No Prerequisite.

This course serves as an outstanding and solid foundation for the understanding how to read and study the Bible for accurate interpretation. The subject is introduced with perspective on textual criticism, the hermeneutical process, and the importance of historical, cultural, and literary contexts.

The primary focus is on the impact of BIBLICAL GENRES. Old Testament genres include Hebrew Historical Narratives, The Law, The Prophets, The Psalms, and The Wisdom Books. New Testament genres include Epistles and Letters, Historical Narratives, Acts, The Gospels, The Parables, and The Revelation.

The profoundly significant material supplies enough material to put students significantly ahead of the pack when it comes to conscientious Bible interpretation, and prepare students well for other courses in this department. The textbook also provides translation, study resources, and commentary recommendations. Chapter study guides assist students in quiz preparation. DETAILS

BIP502.1‒ The Principles and Practice of Biblical Exegesis 1 

Elective for MDiv or DMin― 3 credits, rigorous. No Prerequisite.

This course represents part one of this two-part series covering the first half of the material.

This course-series builds on its prerequisite, BIP501, by leading students to more deeply dig out passage truths through the EXEGESIS process. It is designed to equip students with the tools to read, interpret, and apply the Bible effectively. It offers a five-step Interpretive Journey to help students understand any passage in the Bible, alongside a thorough exploration of the different biblical genres and how to approach them.

The course begins by introducing biblical interpretation principles and then applies these to specific genres and contexts, bridging the gap between overly simplistic and overly technical approaches. Students will engage in hands-on exercises that guide them through the interpretation process, with an emphasis on real-life application. DETAILS

BIP502.2‒ The Principles and Practice of Biblical Exegesis 2

Elective for MDiv or DMin― 3 credits, rigorous. Prerequisite: BIP502.1‒ The Principles and Practice of Biblical Exegesis 1

This course represents part two of this two-part series covering the second half of the material.

This 2nd course in the series continues in leading students to more deeply dig out passage truths through the EXEGESIS process. It is designed to equip students with the tools to read, interpret, and apply the Bible effectively. It offers a five-step Interpretive Journey to help students understand any passage in the Bible, alongside a thorough exploration of the different biblical genres and how to approach them.

The course applies general interpretation principles to specific genres and passages, bridging the gap between overly simplistic and overly technical approaches. Students continue to engage in hands-on exercises that guide them through the interpretation process, with an emphasis on real-life application. DETAILS

BIP503‒ Biblical Preaching in Practice

Elective for MDiv or DMin― 2 credits, easy. Admin Fee May Apply. No Prerequisite.

For pastors, Sunday morning preaching is the pinnacle of each week’s ministry. Nothing is more visible. It’s how the congregation gets to know the pastor; and more importantly, it’s a fleeting opportunity to change lives. The course material combines the best of classic and foundational preaching techniques with common sense and timely tips… without unnecessary drudgery.

The textbook’s genius is in its compiling and condensing of best-practice preaching methods and focuses in an easy to comprehend manner. This is a great course for grounding or re-grounding yourself as a preacher.

Students compose  a homily (short sermon) for instructor and student evaluation. DETAILS

BIP504‒ Christ-Centered Expository Preaching

Elective for MDiv or DMin‒ 3 credits, rigorous. Admin Fee May Apply. Prerequisite― BIP501- Introduction to Biblical Interpretation & Genres

There are significant reasons to choose to employ expository over topical or topical-series preaching. Teaching the Bible verse by verse– whether through a chapter, several chapters, or book of the Bible brings incredible and practical insights to your congregation.

This course primarily breaks down in detail the foundational principles and steps of the preparation, organization, and delivery of such twenty-first-century expository preaching. And because biblical texts serve as starting points to inspire and motivate, discovering where to focus is among the important keys addressed comprehensively in the textbook.

But such preaching falls short if it’s not Christ-centered. The course helps students grasp just what that means and how to accomplish it. Students additionally explore practical and wise strategies for any ministry speaker- whether novice or seasoned. DETAILS

BIP505‒ Jesus: Teaching Methods & Messages

Elective for MDiv or DMin― 3 credits, comfortable. Prerequisite― BK502- Christian Origins & The New Testament

Did you know that Jesus was a master of the effective use of language? And that there are many types of parables?

This fascinating course serves as a much-needed detailed guide on “how” (and therefore “what”) Jesus taught. It proves beneficial in understanding how God speaks‒ therefore helping students better comprehend and appreciate the ways Jesus spoke in the New Testament, the Bible overall, and how He speaks today.

The course additionally provides an excellent analysis of the main schools of interpretation on the Kingdom of God as Jesus taught it, a critical topic. DETAILS

Doctorate-Level Course

BIP601‒ New Testament Greek: An Overview

Elective for MDiv or DMin― 4 credits, rigorous. No prerequisite.

Wish you understood the basics of Greek in order to study the Bible more fully? Thought a course in Greek from a Seminary would be too hard? This course is for you!

Reading the New Testament in its original language is one of the most effective ways to gain greater understanding of Scripture. This course provides just what you need to get started… not too much, not too little. It explains precisely how the Greek Language works and introduces the Greek alphabet, pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar.

By focusing on the content that most impact interpretation, this course equips students to have a working knowledge of biblical Greek for in-depth study of the New Testament. DETAILS