School of Theology
Introduction
Welcome to the ‘School of Theology’. We would like to give you a brief overview of the reason for, and the aims of the school, plus an outline of the courses planned and the typical questions you may ask when considering taking a course module.
Reason for the school
The ‘School of Theology’ exists to compliment other church meetings in the training and equipping of the saints in the work of ministry. Its focus is to cover certain subjects in more depth and detail than can be allowed for in other church meetings and environments.
Aim
The aim of the school is not to turn its pupils into academic theologians or train people for full time ministry. Rather, its aim is to help each student in the process of becoming a well-grounded saint, able to ‘rightly divide the Word of God’ and ‘explain the way of God – accurately’. As a consequence, we expect each student to effectively contribute to the maturing growth of their church community and the expansion of the Kingdom of God.
What is the entry level requirement?
Students will need to have reading and writing abilities of at least year 10 level of schooling with comprehension and reasoning of year 12 and upwards. However, we encourage believers of all abilities to try at least one module, as most people do far better than they expect.
What is the typical study load for each module?
The study modules vary in length from one term to three terms, but generally have the same study load, which is: Listening to a 1 hr Mp3 lecture, 2 hrs of reading, 1 hr of assignment writing and 1 hr class discussion, making a total of 5 hrs per week per module.
When do the courses run?
The School of Theology runs in correspondence with normal school term times. Courses are designed to cover one or more terms depending on the subject. Each course group meets once a week with their tutor for their 1 hr discussion time on Sunday afternoon.
What is the cost?
There are no fees for the courses currently running. The only cost to the student will be the purchase of the required reading materials (which can be purchased from either the Koorong or Christianbook.com or Amazon.) Into the future some lectures may also need to be purchased. However, you will be advised of this ahead of time. A typical guideline of book costs per course would be between $50-$100. The purchase of Mp3 lecture material may cost between $50-$80.
Is it possible to do only some of the modules?
Yes, you do not need to do all the course modules that are available; you are free to choose any one or more. However, there are some modules, which we think are foundational and would like all students to study, but the choice is yours.
Course modules that will be on offer:
- The History of Christianity – 3 terms
- The Historical Development of Church Doctrine – 2 terms
- Survey of Biblical books – OT & NT - 4 terms
- The Bible as ‘Narrative Story’ – 1 term
- Systematic Theology – 3 terms
- Hermeneutics – 1 Term
- Inductive Bible Study Methods – 1 term
- Greek Tools for Bible Study – 1 term (depending on interest level)
- Biblical Hebrew – Learning to read – 1 term (depending on interest level)
