Course Descriptions
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Course Prefixes
Grace Baptist Bible College organizes its courses using letters and numbers. The letters designate course content and curricular structure, whereas the numbers represent in sequence the year (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior), level of difficulty (when necessary), and the semester (fall/spring). Courses are arranged in three general divisions of study (Biblical Education, General Education, and Practical Theology), which are identified by the first letter. The second and third letter narrow the course content down to a specific department or subdivision. Courses are also arranged on the basis of when students are expected to take this within their program of study. The first digit signifies the year and the third signifies the semester in which the course is taught. The second digit specifies the expected level of difficulty. The college reserves the privilege of withdrawing scheduled courses and making changes in the curriculum. General Education
GCO101 Introduction to Computers This course is designed to instruct the student in the basics of computer usage and then to apply those skills in a practical way. Students will get hands on instruction in the use of Microsoft Office and the Bible Study Library by Logos Software. This twofold approach will give students a great foundation upon which to build their academic endeavors and future ministries. (1 credit hour) GEN091 English Grammar This course is designed to enhance the student’s mastery of the English language in preparation for GEN101 and GEN102. (High School transcripts and ACT scores will be used to determine the need for this course.) (2 credit hours) GEN101 English Composition I This course reinforces basic grammar skills with a view for improvement of student facilities with prose writing. Various short, sample, written pieces (essays, devotionals, editorials, commentary, etc.) will give the student opportunity to exercise and apply these skills. Writing and grammar skills will be coordinated with a study of various written pieces which exemplify both technical skill and rhetorical clarity. (3 credit hours) GEN102 English Composition II This course serves as a continuation of GEN101 with an emphasis on writing for research purposes. It is designed to couple correct research and writing techniques with clarity and logic in argumentation. Integration of rhetorical analysis and application will further strengthen the student's research and writing skills. (Prerequisite: GEN101) (3 credit hours) GMU112 Fundamentals of Music This course is designed to introduce the student to fundamental aspects of music, especially as they relate to a church ministry. Rudimentary music theory, basic conducting patterns, and biblical principles to assist in music selection will all be included in course content. (3 credit hours) GHI101 World History I This is a survey course beginning in the Ancient Near East and culminating in the Renaissance. Various components include coverage of Creation-Evolution worldviews, Asian and African societies, Greco-Roman civilization, and the Medieval period with emphasis on the growth and development of their governmental, cultural, societal and religious institutions. (Though not required, students are encouraged to take GHI101 before GHI102) (3 credit hours) GHI102 World History II This continuation of GHI101 emphasizes the development of Western Europe from the Reformation era to the present. Various components include coverage of the Reformation, the Enlightenment, Nationalism, Romanticism, Industrialization, Colonialism, Latin America and major global conflicts. There is also a necessary emphases on the growth of worldwide European influence examining the development of its various political, economic, intellectual and cultural institutions. (Though there are no prerequisites, students are encouraged to take GHI101 before GHI102) (3 credit hours) GHI201 US History I A survey course on the growth and development of the American nation from its beginning through the Civil War and Reconstruction. Particular focus is given to the biblical basis of its founding documents. American political institutions, social and cultural character, economic patterns, and religious life are also studied in their relationship to the founding documents and the history of the nation. (3 credit hours) GHI202 US History II A survey of the developments in the United States from the era of reconstruction to the present. The issues of industrialization, urbanization, reform movements, depressions, world wars, and international relations are surveyed in this course. (3 credit hours) GHL101 Life Skills This course is designed to prepare incoming students for college and for life in ministry. Various practical subject areas including hygiene, finances, employment, study skills, resumes, and time management will be surveyed in this course. (1 credit hour) GLS101 Practical Spanish I This course is an introduction to the spoken and written Spanish language and is designed to assist students in becoming better able to communicate with Spanish speaking people. (3 credit hours) GLS102 Practical Spanish II This course is a continuation of GLS101. (3 credit hours) GLT201 American Literature Survey This course surveys the literature of the United States of America. It includes a study of authors and works from the Colonial period to the present. It will examine the gradual shift from reliance upon European models to indigenous and original forms of literature and themes. There is also an examination of the unique influence Christianity has exercised in American arts and letters. There will also be components which touch upon Native American and African-American contributions to the American canon. (3 credit hours) GLT203 World Literature Survey This course surveys the historical development of great literature across the globe. In addition to the traditional Western Canon (Great Books), coverage would also extend to the notable works and authors of Asia, Africa, Australia, Latin America, and the Middle East. (3 credit hours) GLT205 British Literature I This course is an overview of the literature of the British Isles. Components for this section of British Literature would include an overview of the history and development of the English language, as well as a study of the Anglo-Saxon period to the early Romantic era. Each of these works will be examined in the context of broader events in English history. (3 credit hours) GLT207 British Literature II This course is an overview of the literature of the British Isles. It specifically focuses on works resuming with the later Romantic era, through the Victorian works into the Modern periods. Other emphases would include the development of the English novel, the Victorian sermon, and public rhetoric. (3 credit hours) GMA202 Introduction to Mathematics This course is a study of the fundamental concepts of mathematics, basic concepts of algebra, standards of measurement, geometry, and consumer mathematics. (3 credit hours) GSC301 Principles of Biology This course is a survey of basic chemistry, cell biology, metabolism, genetics, taxonomy, ecology, diversity and other related topics. (3 credit hours) GSC303 Physical Science A study of the laws of motion, gravity, temperature, weather, energy sources, the solar system, and environmental concerns. A lab is required. (3 credit hours) GSP201 Speech This course is designed to be a practical examination and application of those skills related to public speaking. Opportunities to deliver various types of speeches will assist the student in developing both the techniques as well as the art of public speaking. To aid in this, each student will learn the components of making a speech: from mental organization and written formulation to its platform presentation. (3 credit hours) Bible
BNT101 Life of Christ This course is a study of the earthly life and ministry of Christ as revealed in the four Gospels. This study, which places value on the harmony of the Gospels, emphasizes the role of Christ as Messiah and Revealer. Special attention is given to Christ’s identification, authentication, presentation, and rejection in light of promises given to Abraham. (3 credit hours) BNT102 Acts This course is an expositional analysis of the Book of Acts with emphasis on the origin, expansion, and organization of the early church. Special attention will also be given to the transitional nature of this time with reference to the dispensational programs, the teachings within this transitional period that concern the Holy Spirit, and the biblical basis for missions by focusing on the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul. (3 credit hours) BNT201 Pauline Epistles I This course is an expositional analysis of Paul’s missionary epistles (Galatians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, and 1 & 2 Corinthians). This analytical study, which places value on the historical relationship of these writings to the context of Paul’s life, will give attention to the historical background of each book, the contribution of each book to the rest of the Bible, and the major themes within each of them. (3 credit hours) BNT202 Pauline Epistles II This course is an expositional analysis of Paul’s prison and Pastoral Epistles (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon, 1 Timothy, Titus, 2 Timothy). This analytical study, which places value on the historical relationship of these writings to the context of Paul’s life, will give attention to the historical background of each book, the contribution of each book to the rest of the Bible, and the major themes contained within them. (3 credit hours) BNT311 Romans Paul’s epistle to the Romans is considered by many to be the crown jewel of the New Testament. This course is an intensive verse by verse study of the book examining its theological arguments (chapters 1-11) and the practical implications (chapters 12-16) resulting from those arguments. (2 credit hours) BNT401 General Epistles This course is a study of the New Testament epistles known as the General Epistles (Hebrews, James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2, 3 John, and Jude). It emphasizes the theme, historical setting, recipients, and the argument for each book. Special attention is also given to covenants, Christological themes, and eschatological implications. (3 credit hours) BNT402 Daniel & Revelation This course gives an expository analysis of the two major apocalyptic books of the Bible, emphasizing the historical, doctrinal, and eschatological elements. Special attention is given to the covenants, the Christological implications, and the unfolding of God’s purpose for Israel, the Nations, and the Church. (3 credit hours) BOT111 Pentateuch I The book of Genesis is foundational for understanding the rest of the Bible. This course sets a foundation for understanding the beginnings of creation, mankind, sin, government, nations, and the nation of Israel. It places special emphasis on the Abrahamic Covenant and its implications for understanding the rest of Scripture, and it covers significant persons and events in the program. (2 credit hours) BOT112 Pentateuch II This course surveys the next four books of the Old Testament following Genesis (Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy). It places special emphasis on the development of the theocratic program of God and on significant persons and events in the program. (3 credit hours) BOT211 Historic Books This course is a synthetic study of the historic books of the Old Testament (Joshua-Esther). Special attention is given to the history from the conquest under Joshua to the period after the return from exile. (3 credit hours) BOT212 Prophetic Books This course surveys each book of the Major and Minor prophets of the Old Testament. Major themes are developed in light of the historical context with special attention given to covenant, eschatological, and Christological implications. (3 credit hours) BOT311 Poetic Books This course surveys each poetic book in the Old Testament (Job-Song of Solomon). Major themes are developed in light of the historical context with special attention given to its doctrinal and practical value. (3 credit hours) Exegesis, Theology, & Church History
BIN101 Hermeneutics This course will introduce students to the basics of normal, plain, consistent, and literal interpretation, its history, and the principles that adhere to the grammatical, historical, and contextual parameters within the setting of the text. Special emphasis will be placed on the coordination and unity of the various parts of the Bible. (3 credit hours) BIN302 Dispensationalism This course studies the various eras of biblical history that are progressively revealed through the Bible. It uncovers God’s plan for the ages by emphasizing the various covenants God made with Israel, a clear distinction between Israel and the Church, and God’s eternal purpose and plan for these two entities. (Prerequisite: BIN101) (3 credit hours) BGR301 Greek I As an introduction to the forms and syntax of Koine Greek, this course concentrates on learning the nominal declensions as well as the basic components to a verb. (3 credit hours) BGR302 Greek II As a continuation of the beginning Greek course, this course completes the introduction to all grammatical elements in Koine Greek while gaining familiarity with translation practice (Prerequisite: BGR311) (3 credit hours) BGR411 Greek III This course begins with a review of the elements of grammar and syntax learned in the first two semesters of Koine Greek. It will give special attention to various syntactical constructions within the Greek New Testament and will unfold exegetical principles as students read selected portions from the Greek New Testament. (Prerequisite: BGR312) (3 credit hours) BGR412 Greek IV As a continuation of Greek III, this course continues to unfold exegetical principles as the students read other selected portions from the Greek New Testament. Special attention will be given to the study of textual criticism and exegetical analysis. It will also place special emphasis on the practical and pastoral use of the Greek language in personal study and public ministry. (Prerequisite: BGR411) (3 credit hours) THE201 Systematic Theology I This course is a systematic study of God and His Word with relation to certain topics within it. It will specifically cover these topics: Prolegomena, Bibliology, Theology Proper, and Angelology. (3 credit hours) THE202 Systematic Theology II This course is a systematic study of God and His Word with relation to certain topics within it. It will specifically cover these topics: Pneumatology, Anthropology, and Hamartiology. (3 credit hours) THE301 Systematic Theology III This course is a systematic study of God and His Word with relation to certain topics within it. It will specifically cover these topics: Christology and Soteriology. (3 credit hours) THE302 Systematic Theology IV This course is a systematic study of God and His Word with relation to certain topics within it. It will specifically cover these topics: Ecclesiology and Eschatology. (3 credit hours) THE401 Biblical Apologetics & Worldview This course is a survey of philosophical systems beginning with Socrates and the Greeks extending to the present day with emphasis on the influence of these systems on the Church. Emphasis is placed on a biblical view enabling students to develop a proper biblical apologetic. (3 credit hours) THI201 Church History I This course is a survey of the development of the Church from the apostolic age through the medieval period culminating in the German reformation period. Special emphasis is placed upon its outstanding leaders, theological controversies, various forms of organization, and historical doctrines. (3 credit hours) THI212 Church History II This course is a survey of the development of the church from the Swiss reformation period through the present day. Emphases in this course include, but is not limited to, the Reformation, Puritanism, Revivalism, Fundamentalism, Neo-Evangelicalism, Pentecostalism, and Ecumenism. (3 credit hours) THI301 Baptist History This course is a study of the development of Baptist churches and principles including an examination of the advent of the Baptist church as well as a survey of various Baptist churches, groups, agencies and denominations. This study is set against the larger background of developments within Christendom and world history. Special emphases include Baptist distinctives, the fight for religious liberty, involvement in world missions, the Fundamentalist/Liberal conflict and the relation of Baptists to current theological trends. (3 credit hours) Practical Theology
MBC402 Biblical Counseling This course offers a consideration of the theological issues that form the basis of a biblical approach to personal ministry. It will consider the theological, anthropological, and soteriological presuppositions of treatment theory and seek to bring a thoroughly biblical critique to their foundational assumptions and methodology. Special attention will be given to how counseling theory and skills can further the purpose of God in the context of a local church. (2 credit hours) MIN301 Homiletics This course provides basic training in the art of sermon preparation and delivery. Course includes a study of the various types of sermons, how to research for them, prepare outlines and/or texts, and practice in delivering. (Prerequisite: GSP201) (3 credit hours) MIN302 Expository Preaching Building on MIN301, this course concentrates on expository preaching as delineated in the Pastoral Epistles. Emphasis is placed on the centrality of the biblical text and its proper application into expository sermonic form. Students are introduced to proper methods of textual analysis and outline construction and will prepare messages that are delivered for critiquing by peers and the professor. (Prerequisite: MIN301) (2 credit hours) MIN303 Teaching Methods & Strategies A variety of specific teaching methods will be defined and demonstrated. Creative ways to include technology and a variety of support materials in the teaching process will also be included in course content. (Prerequisite: GSP201) (3 credit hours) MIN304 Office Management This course is a study designed to prepare the student for duties expected in a churches office. Students must demonstrate independence and organizational decision making abilities in the performance of a wide range of office activities. Units in ten-key, transcription, telephone, and filing will be emphasized as well. (3 credit hours) MIN305 Technology in Ministry This is an introductory course that presents multiple uses of technology in a local church ministry. Special attention is given to website development, audio or video-taping, membership management software, and Biblical library software. (3 credit hours) MIN306 Bible Teaching Practicum This course provides opportunities for students in each of the ministry tracks to prepare and teach lessons on assigned Bible passages (Prerequisite: MIN301 or MIN303) (2 credit hours) MIN308 Youth Ministries The middle school and high school years are difficult times at best. The church must do its part to provide guidance through this crucial stage of life. A variety of options to impact the lives of the youth will be explored with an emphasis on biblical principles as a basis for maturing and making daily life related decisions. (2 credit hours) MIN310 Pastoral Internship I This course involves the student in a period of intense observation of the mentoring pastor in all aspects of his duties including, but not limited to Sunday & Wednesday services, youth, senior saints, children’s ministries, administrative duties, and visitation. It also incorporates a development of a planning outline in anticipation of the second semester internship. The primary emphasis is on observing the pastor more than the church. (1 credit hour) MIN312 Missions Internship I This course involves the student in a local church ministry which will help and guide them in their mission internship program. This segment of their internship will focus on writing a doctrinal statement and defending it, making preparations to be approved by their local church and mission agency in preparation for deputation work in the second segment of their internship. (1 credit hour) MIN314 Church Ministry Internship I This course involves an intense observation of four areas of support ministry to the local church; Children, youth, adult ministries, and office management. Approximately four weeks will be devoted to each of the above areas. (1 credit hour) MIN316 Youth Pastor Internship I This course is the first of three practical, "hands on" internships under a supervising Youth Pastor. The emphasis will be on observation and entry level participation in planning. (1 credit hour) MIN401 Leadership & Ethics This course studies the aspects of biblical leadership stressing the godly examples of biblical and modern leaders. Attention will be given to Bible based ethical standards, integrity, and leadership practices in the Christian life with special emphasis on the local church, missions, and Christian ministries. (3 credit hours) MIN402 Church Administration An examination of all the necessary functions of a local church whether a new church plant or an established church. It will examine two specific areas: (1) the basis and guidelines for the pastor’s administrative responsibilities as the overseer of the church, its material assets, and its relationship within the community and (2) the basis and guidelines for the oversight of personnel within a local context, specifically the oversight of a youth pastor. Issues explored will include writing a constitution, setting up church budgets, church office procedures, deacon boards, building and expansion programs, business meetings, parliamentary procedure, and keys to a successful youth ministry. (2 credit hours) MIN403 Evangelism This course aims to equip the student to do evangelism in light of our postmodern culture. It gives special attention to the evaluation of our culture so effective proclamation of the gospel can be achieved, which means various approaches to sharing the gospel will be evaluated and discussed to see in what cultural setting it would best be employed. (2 credit hours) MIN405 Pastoral Theology A study of how biblical theology works in the local church pastorate. Attention to the application of leadership, responsibility, delegation, and pastoral functions such as visitation, evangelism, baptism, weddings, funerals, pastoral decorum, and ethics will be emphasized. (2 credit hours) MIN406 Adult Ministries Biblical education clearly emphasizes adult education. The three basic divisions of adulthood – young adults, middle adults, and older or senior adults – will be carefully examined along with suggested strategies for effectively ministering to each group. A survey of the family and how the church can help to unite and strengthen the family will also be emphasized. (3 credit hours) MIN407 Children’s Ministries Biblically, training is to begin in childhood. This course provides guidelines for how the church can assist the family in the spiritual, mental and social development of children during their critical foundational years. Specific ministries such as the Sunday school and Children’s church will be discussed. (3 credit hours) MIN408 Women’s Ministries This course analyzes the role of women as outlined in Scripture and discusses the various ministries women have within a local church. It is specifically designed to equip women to properly communicate the Bible through effective study, preparation, and presentation. Special attention is given to the various ministries for women, which include Bible studies, banquets, and ladies’ seminars and retreats. (This course is specifically for women, so women students are only allowed to enroll) (2 credit hours) MIN410 Theology and Practice of Youth Ministry This course deals with the theological basis for teaching and other necessary components of a biblical ministry to youth through the local church. (3 credit hours) MIN411 Pastoral Internship II This course involves the student in side by side work with a mentoring pastor in assuming leadership of one or more areas of the local church’s ministry as determined with the pastor. The student intern should bear the major responsibility for planning and the future administration. He should begin exercising his gifts in limited preaching and teaching. (Prerequisite: MIN310) (1 credit hour) MIN412 Pastoral Internship III This course involves the student in effectual oversight of the assigned ministry as guided by a mentoring pastor with assessment, reporting, and accountability for the ministry work, to the pastor and GBBC. (Prerequisite: MIN411) (1 credit hour) MIN413 Missions Internship II This course involves the student in preparation for raising the necessary funds for their mission apprenticeship during the third segment of their internship. It includes planning deputation work, visiting churches to raise the necessary funds for their missions endeavor, and making final arrangements for final semester on the field. (Prerequisite: MIN312) (1 credit hour) MIN414 Missions Internship III This course involves the student applying what he/she has accomplished in the first two internship courses by spending a full semester on a mission field under the mentorship of a sending church and a veteran missionary. Evaluation occurs on four levels; the sending church, a mentoring missionary, the mission agency, and a self-evaluation. (Prerequisite: MIN413) (1 credit hour) MIN415 Church Ministry Internship II This course continues the emphasis of the four basic ministry areas with an increased participation in each. Planning for the final semester where leadership in one specific area will be initiated. (Prerequisite: MIN314) (1 credit hour) MIN416 Church Ministry Internship III This course involves student activity in a specific area of leadership under the mentorship of the pastoral staff of the host church. Evaluation occurs on three levels; church staff and/or pastor, mentoring professor, and a self-evaluation. (Prerequisite: MIN415) (1 credit hour) MIN417 Church Finances This course is a survey of financial aspects and methods for the administration of the financial needs of the local church. Special attention is given to the elements of financial planning, disbursement, budget analysis, and decision making. (2 credit hours) MIN418 Missions Seminar This is a course that deals with the problems and methods of missionary activities. Special attention will be given to the following aspects of missionary life: the selection and application to a mission board, deputation, and the interrelationships of a missionary between the family and their fellow missionaries and nationals. (2 credit hours) MIN419 Youth Pastor Internship II During this second semester of internship, the student will again work closely with a supervising Youth Pastor. More responsibility will be given to the student in areas like activities, counseling youth, and lesson preparation. (Prerequisite: MIN316) (1 credit hour) MIN420 Youth Pastor Internship III During this final semester of internship, the student must plan and direct activities, develop a calendar for at least 3 months of youth ministry, and teach a minimum of three lessons in a class for youth which will be evaluated by the supervising Youth Pastor. (Prerequisite: MIN419) (1 credit hour) MIS301 Cultural Anthropology This course provides an introduction to the principles of cultural anthropology. It will give special attention to the issues related to race and culture, social organization and kingship, primitive religions, cultural dynamics, and cross-cultural communication. (3 credit hours) MIS302 History & Philosophy of Missions This course analyzes God’s purpose for missions and provides a panoramic view of its history. It will give special attention to the role of the local church in missions as the sending agent for those who are called and sent out to be missionaries. (3 credit hours) MIS304 Trends & Problems in Missions This course examines the various problems and current trends that affect the missionaries’ responsibilities. (2 credit hours) MIS401 Cross-Cultural Communications This course analyzes communication methods and communication skills for the purpose of applying these methods and skills when communicating across cultural barriers. Special emphasis is placed on case studies for the benefit of analyzing and making practical application. (2 credit hours) MIS402 Comparative Religions This course is a survey of the major religions of the world and of the cults that are affecting the modern world. Special emphasis is given to the particular areas where they disagree with biblical doctrine. (3 credit hours) MIS404 Philosophy of Church Planting This course develops the New Testament principles for establishing new local churches. It will place emphasis on the objectives for church planting and the methods employed at home and overseas. (2 credit hours) |
