Practical Theology
Theology and Practice of Prayer PRT 101 (2 units)
A study of the various aspects and types of prayer with a view to practical application to personal life and ministry. Confession, petition, supplication, and intercession are central to the prayer experience as it relates to the life of the Christian and the ministry of the Church.
Theology and Practice of Worship PRT102 (2 units)
A study of the Biblical and practical aspects of worship and music in Christian ministry. Personal and corporate types of worship and the basic skills for both are the focus of this class. The goal is to train students to facilitate the worship of God, depending upon and cooperating with the Holy Spirit.
Christian Leadership (Time and Money Management) PRT 203 (2 units)
This course builds upon biblical principles to help students develop a proper concept of time and money and how to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to them. Personal management is taught as foundational to management of churches or other ministry organizations. Practical emphasis is on developing and implementing a budget for both time and money.
Spiritual Warfare PRT204 (2 units)
An exegetical and practical study of the vital subject of spiritual warfare. Satan, demons, the heavenly kingdoms, and their reality in Scripture and life experience are examined. This course helps one understand and overcome evil in all three dimensions: the world, the flesh, and the devil. Students will be equipped and encouraged to win the spiritual war.
Pastoral Theology PRT 205 (2 units)
A practical overview of the pastor's qualifications and calling, the church's invitation and termination, the pastor's personal life, the nurture and care of the church, spiritual and administrative duties (including communion, water baptisms, weddings, funerals, infant dedication services, hospital visitation, business meetings, building programs, missions conventions, etc.).
Biblical Ethics PRT 206 (2 units)
An examination, in light of the teachings of Scripture, of the moral principles governing human conduct. Special attention is given to 1) the minister's code of ethics in relating to his family, fellow-ministers, congregation, community, and denomination; and 2) contemporary personal, economic, and social moral problems.
Bible Study and Interpretation PRT 107 (2 units)
An introductory study of the principles and methods of correctly ascertaining the meaning of a biblical text and properly applying it to the contemporary situation. Special attention will be given to the interpretation of Scripture in its grammatical, historical, cultural, and theological context. Concordances, Bible dictionaries, commentaries, and other reference tools will be introduced.
Sermon Preparation PRT 208 (2 units)
A basic study of how to prepare and deliver messages which are based on the meaning of the original author of the Scripture used for the sermon, and which address contemporary human needs. Introduces students to the various types of sermons (e.g. topical, textual, and expository) and how to construct each type. Special attentions is given to the art, science, and spirit of the preaching event in the context of the worship.
A study of step-by-step process for building expository sermons. It includes the process for working through a Scripture passage for exposition, steps in building expository sermons, the use of various types of sermon patterns, the use of context for proper exposition, and the help of a preaching plan in expository preaching.
Leadership in Christian Education PRT 210 (2 units)
A study leading to the development of a theology of Christian education and an understanding of its central role in accomplishing the mission of the church. Planning, programming, budgeting, staffing, and evaluation are considered in relation to the organization and administration of Christian education in the local church.
Church Leadership and Administration PRT 211 (2 units)
A study leading to the development of a biblical theology of leadership and an understanding of the pastor's administrative responsibilities. Consideration is given to identifying leadership traits and developing leadership skills such as: clarifying and advocation corporate vision; operationalizing that vision through a mission statement and organizational structure; planning and managing change in an organization; managing conflict; and motivation people. Overviews basic aspects of church administration such as: staff relations (including development of job descriptions and an organizational flow chart), boards and committees, office administration, public relations, time management, accounting, budgeting, financial record-keeping and reporting, tax responsibility, plant/property management, and insurance.
Church and Law PRT 212 (2 units)
A study of laws affecting clergy and churches in such matters as incorporation procedures, contracts, deeds, bonds, insurance, legal liabilities, negligence, taxation, estate planning, and criminal law as it relates to clergy malpractice and pastoral counseling. Examines the relationship between church and state.
A study of step-by-step process for building expository sermons. It includes the process for working through a Scripture passage for exposition, steps in building expository sermons, the use of various types of sermon patterns, the use of context for proper exposition, and the help of a preaching plan in expository preaching.
Creative Communication Skills (2 units)
Communication is influence. This is an excellent course for those desiring to be effective communicators. Whether you're an aspiring preacher, teacher or writer, you will learn the secrets of how to tell a good story, the dynamics of Pentecostal preaching, and insights on how to become a published writer.