Course Descriptions – Term 1
The Pentateuch, Part 1 (BIB503) – 3 credits
The first five books of the Old Testament are commonly called the Pentateuch or Torah. They tell the story of the nation of Israel from creation to their preparation to enter the land of Canaan. But the Pentateuch is much more than a historical account of Israel’s origins. It is the collection of covenant documents that defines the character and vocation of God’s covenant people. This first half of our study focuses on the Book of Genesis and situates its original significance in relation to its first hearers, the Exodus community. Based on the lecture series The Pentateuch, produced by Third Millennium Ministries (thirdmill.org) and hosted by Dr. Scott Redd, this course engages critical and evangelical scholars about the origin of the Pentateuch. It requires graduate level readings, spiritual formation activities, faculty tutorials, and engagement with a local mentor to understand and communicate the aims of the Book of Genesis to shape the identity and vocation of ancient Israel. (Part 1 is the pre-requisite for The Pentateuch, Part 2).
Building Your Theology (THE501) – 2 credits
For many, theology seems complicated, dry, abstract, and disconnected from the practices of everyday life. This spiritual dryness indicates a lack of spiritual health, and a way of practicing theology that misses the mark of its true aim—applying Scripture to all of life. As an introduction to theological method, this course will help you build your theology on the sure foundation of Scripture for the purpose of forming the mind, affections, and practices of a follower of Jesus Christ. Based on the lecture series, Building Your Theology, produced by Third Millennium Ministries (thirdmill.org) and presented by Dr. Richard L. Pratt, Jr, this course employs graduate level readings, spiritual formation activities, faculty tutorials and engagement with a local mentor to explore resources for doing theology from general and special revelation with the aim of equipping local churches for its mission of discipling the nations.
Discipleship Practicum: Worship (MIS501) – 1 credit
Thirdmill Seminary offers three practicums to assist students with ministry activities that are faithful to God’s Word and fitting for their local context. The Worship practicum will give you time to explore the scriptural elements of Christian worship, the history of its theological development, and reflect on the practices of worship in your own tradition, as well as those of other Protestant traditions.
MDIV: Teaching and Preaching (MIS507) – 3 credits
This course enables the student to teach and preach the Word of God. It teaches biblical, theological and practical guidelines for these activities. The first half of the course focuses on teaching and learning together from Scripture with a focus on interaction in small groups. The second half of the course focuses on the preparation and delivery of sermons in corporate worship.