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[GENERAL INFORMATION] [FACULTY] [DEGREES OFFERED] [EVENING SCHOOL] [DOCTRINAL STATEMENT] This
school is The Dispensational Theological Seminary of The Valley Baptist
Church of Gaston, Oregon, a non-profit corporation authorized by the State of
Oregon to offer and confer the academic degree described herein, followed by
a determination that state academic standards will be satisfied under OAR
583-030. Inquiries concerning the
standards or school compliance may be directed to the Office of Degree
Authorization, The Dispensational Theological Seminary is the extension of the educational ministry of the Valley Baptist Church of Gaston, Oregon. Being such, its purpose is to glorify God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ by accepting students who can reasonably be supposed to have the spiritual gift of pastor-teacher or teacher and to teach courses designed to increase the student's biblical knowledge and equip the student to use library tools to exegete and propagate Biblical knowledge in a local church, so that each Christian may be mature in Christ; Colossians 1:28. The Advisory Board of the Seminary Selected by Valley Baptist Church of Gaston are: Mr. Dan Christiansen Mr. Bruce Myron Mr. Mark Prewitt Woodburn,
INFORMATION
CATALOG Hermeneutics determines one's theology. As a result of a consistent literal interpretation of Scripture, this seminary is Dispensational. However, our Dispensationalism is not to be confused with that brand of theology called Hyper or Ultra Dispensationalism. We do not hold nor teach Hyper or Ultra Dispensationalism. We would be in accord with the type of Dispensationalism taught by the Scofield Reference Bible and Chafer's Systematic Theology. This seminary is unique for the following reasons: 1. It is local church related. It is not an institution by itself, but is an extension of a local church's ministry. 2. Normally this seminary will not accept transfer credits unless the transfer is from a dispensationally consistent graduate school. We do not claim to be the sole possessors of the truth, but unless the course content is the same, a transfer of credit would be difficult. When transfer credits are allowed, the required curriculum is adjusted accordingly. 3. It is confusing to most Christians to see the contradictions and disagreements in Biblical commentaries. It is also upsetting to attend a seminary where professors have views in disagreement with one another. This seminary has a faculty in agreement in all areas of theology. Such a unity should exist if each one is illumined by the Holy Spirit to the one system of truth in Scripture, Eph. 4:1-6. 4. At this seminary we believe the Bible is sufficient for the totality of Christian life and ministry, II Tim. 3:16-17. Therefore, only subjects directly related to the Bible are taught. These subjects are designed to give the student knowledge of the Bible itself. The only courses taught are those which increase Biblical knowledge or which equip the student to use the tools to exegete and propagate Biblical knowledge. The graduate student is mature enough to study and keep abreast of contemporary issues on his own. The Bible will be the textbook of all courses. 5. The only students who will be accepted are those who can reasonably be supposed to have the spiritual gift of pastor-teacher or teacher. Thus, a student in this seminary will be learning to use his spiritual gift. 6. This Biblically oriented seminary will not offer as a study, nor teach, the doctrines of false cults or non-Biblical theologies. The student will learn to recognize error by learning the truth. 7. This will be a faculty run seminary, under
the authority of the local church, but directly governed and administered by
the faculty. There will be an advisory
board elected by 8. This seminary does not believe gain to be godliness, I Tim. 6:3-6. Therefore, it does not aspire to largeness. After the number of students reaches the limit set, no one will be admitted until graduates leave a vacancy. The student body of this school will be a limited, select group of men who have common goals and can thus have genuine fellowship among themselves and with the faculty. 9. This seminary is the extension of the educational ministry of an independent local Baptist church. The Valley Baptist Church of Gaston, Oregon, is a fundamental church independent of any ecclesiastical group. However, it does fellowship with others of like doctrine. Therefore, the seminary is Baptist in orientation. FACILITIES: The seminary is located in the facilities
of Valley Baptist Church of Gaston, which is located in Cherry Grove in a
tranquil, country setting at the head of CHAPEL: In a three year cycle, all of the Bible is taught either in exegesis, Bible Analysis, or chapel, except the books of Samuel, Kings, Chronicles, 2 & 3 John. The chapel services maintain a consistent quality and continuity of interpretation by our faculty members who preach exegetical and analytical studies through books of the Bible. WIVES' PROGRAM: For the spiritual maturing of the wives of seminary students, two hours of instruction will be given one evening a week concurrent with the quarter day classes. Seminary student wives will be permitted to take all evening classes without charge. Others requesting the courses will be charged $10.00 per hour. No credit will be given toward the seminary degree. STUDENT CLASSIFICATION: Regular students are those taking at least twelve hours a quarter in pursuing a degree. Irregular students are those pursuing a degree but taking fewer than twelve hours a quarter. Special students are those who are not qualified for a degree but are taking the required courses for graduation. Any special student taking less than twelve hours a quarter will be classified as a part-time student. A limited number of mature men who do not hold a college degree will be admitted as special students. Such men will be awarded a Certificate of Graduation upon completion of the required curriculum. At a later date, upon completion of baccalaureate work, the Certificate will be exchanged for the M.Div. degree. ENROLLMENT: Applications for admission must be received at least thirty days before the beginning of the Fall quarter. A Baccalaureate degree is required of all students entering our degree program. Beyond an acceptable Bachelor's degree, only one course - Greek Grammar 112 - has an entrance requirement of the equivalent of one year of Bible College Greek. If a matriculating student does not have such a course on his transcript, he must pass an entrance exam before he will be allowed to register for this class. ATTENDANCE: Because this seminary concentrates on class teaching time with a minimum of homework, good attendance is mandatory. Our standard policy is that three occasions of tardiness equal one absence, and more absences than the number of quarter hours for that class will result in a final grade penalty. Absenteeism for more than 25% of the quarter would necessitate the student's withdrawal from class. This normal policy will be followed except under extenuating circumstances. CHRISTIAN SERVICE: Required of each student is participation in some Christian service activity approved by the faculty. This permits the student to use what he is learning in his own life and also to benefit others. STUDENT PROGRESS: A high standard of academic and spiritual progress is expected of each student. A letter grading system is followed: A, B, C, D and F. The minimum passing grade is D. The minimum grade point average of C (2.00) is required for graduation with the Master of Divinity degree. A student who fails to maintain a quarterly grade point average of 2.00 is placed on probation. If unsatisfactory progress is made, a student will be counseled by the faculty; and if no improvement is made during the quarter, he will be asked to leave. At the faculty's discretion, he may re-enter another quarter on a probationary basis for that quarter. Complete records of each student's progress are maintained by the seminary and are available to the student, but to no one else without his permission. STUDENT CONDUCT: Because this seminary desires to graduate well-rounded, thoroughly prepared men for the ministry of the Word of God, each student's conduct as well as his academic achievement is carefully observed. Any student conducting himself in a manner unbecoming to a pastoral ministry will be counseled by the faculty and placed on probation. If the conduct is of a serious nature, such that it may disqualify him from serving in the churches for which he is being prepared (i.e. morals, dishonesty, etc.), the student will be immediately expelled without provision for re-admission. RACE: The seminary admits qualified students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin. EXPENSES: (a) The seminary will be able to meet its financial obligation and maintain its Christian testimony only as each student meets his obligations. Therefore, each student maintains his personal testimony by paying his tuition promptly. (b) Registration Fee: $25.00. This will be charged one time only and is due at the time the application is received. This fee is non-refundable. (c) Tuition of $65.00 a quarter hour will be charged. A full academic load is eighteen quarter hours per quarter resulting in tuition fees of $1170.00 each quarter. Appropriate graduation fees will be charged in the final quarter of the student's graduation year. (d) Books: The required books and/or syllabi for classes will seldom exceed an average of $5.00 to $10.00 per quarter. For a few classes, technical works may increase this cost. (e) Refund: Students who find it necessary to withdraw from the seminary are refunded 80% after the first week, 70% after the second week, 60% after the third week, 50% after the fourth week, and no refund thereafter. COURSE
DESCRIPTION Theological
Studies Theology 111 -- Christian Life -- The walk and warfare of the saint is considered. Lust, which is the basis for temptation leading to sin, is traced to its three sources. On the basis of the Christian's standing and state, the responsibilities of being filled by and walking by the Holy Spirit are analyzed. The usage of the armor of God is explained. The development of the believer to abiding and maturity is examined. 4 hrs. Theology
121 -- Bibliology and Dispensationalism -- The doctrine of the Scriptures
is studied with an emphasis on the subjects of inspiration, revelation,
animation, illumination, inerrancy, and authority. The authority of the Scriptures is seen in
two areas: faith and practice. In delineating these two areas of
authority, the basis for dispensationalism is
developed. 4 hrs. Theology
131 -- Theology Proper, Trinitarianism, and
the Decree -- The study of the doctrine of Deity relates to the
existence, essence, and attributes of God.
The personal trinitarian distinctions within
one nature of Deity are explained. The
ontological and economic relations of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are
detailed. An analysis and schedule of
the decree is made from Scripture. 4
hrs. Theology
211 -- Christology -- The doctrine of the Son, including His
eternal existence, sonship, and pre-incarnate
ministry, leads to a study of the hypostatic union of the two natures of the
incarnate Son. The union of Christ's
two natures is then related to His Person, His impeccability, death, burial,
resurrection, exaltation, present and future
ministries. 4 hrs. Theology
221 -- Pneumatology -- The
doctrine of the Holy Spirit includes His personality, Deity, and ministries
prior to and during creation. His
distinctive Old Testament ministries are contrasted to His ministries to
Christ and the Church saint. His
future ministries in the tribulation, millennium, and eternity future are
examined. 4 hrs. Theology 231 -- Anthropology, Hamartiology and Angelology -- The doctrine of man is studied from the time of the creation of Adam, his fall and effects on mankind. The trichotomous nature of man as to origin, depravity, function, and future is considered. The doctrine of sin is studied as to its origin, identity, nature, and relationship to the totality of unrighteousness. A study of thirty-two Greek words and twenty-two Hebrew words helps define the limits of sin and unrighteousness. The
doctrine of the holy angels relates to their being, ranks, and orders, as
well as to their present and future ministries. 4 hrs. Theology 311 -- Soteriology, Satanology, and Demonology -- the doctrine of salvation is considered on the basis of the twenty-two accomplishments of the cross. The finished aspect of the cross work and the benefits accruing to the believer are itemized and minutely analyzed. The riches of salvation are then summarized. The
doctrines of Satan and demons are studied in relation to the origin, motives,
abilities, and methods of these fallen spirit beings. 4 hrs. Theology 321 -- Ecclesiology and Prayer -- The origin and nature of the Church, which is the Body of Christ, is examined. The relationship of the local assembly to that Body and its great importance to the ministry of each believer is emphasized. The Biblical officers and polity of the local church are examined, and the ministry of the church in today's world is explained. The
doctrine of the believer's communication with God is developed under the
eight classifications given in Scripture.
4 hrs. Theology
331 -- Eschatology -- The doctrine of the future is related to the
Church, to Greek
Studies Greek
112 -- Greek Grammar -- In this intermediate level course the
accidence of Koine Greek is reviewed. The grammar of the noun is considered with
reference to its case system, followed by a study of the prepositions and
their use with the various cases of the noun system. Also, the building of a Greek vocabulary is
begun. One year of introductory
Greek is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Greek
122 -- Greek Grammar -- The Greek verb system is studied,
stressing the importance of the tenses, moods, and voices in exegeting the New Testament. The distinctive meanings belonging to the
different parts of the verb are emphasized.
The building of a Greek vocabulary is continued. GR 112 is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Greek
132 -- Greek Grammar -- Participles, infinitives, and clauses
which join the Greek noun and verb systems together are the consideration of
this course. For the purpose of
becoming acquainted with the Greek New Testament, Greek reading is
introduced. The building of a Greek
vocabulary is further emphasized. GR
122 is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Greek
212 -- Greek Syntax -- The general syntax of the sentence is
studied as a basis for the specialized interrelationships among noun forms,
prepositions, and problematical case constructions. The use of diagramming is introduced as a
tool for understanding syntactical relationships. GR 132 is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Greek
222 -- Greek Syntax -- Emphasis is placed on the syntax of the
definite article, such as its unique interpretative importance when attached
to the term Christ. Similarly
the functions of adjectives and adverbs are studied, along with the syntax of
tenses. GR 212 is
prerequisite. 4 hrs. Greek
232 -- Greek Syntax -- One of the most commonly used parts of
speech in the New Testament -- the infinitive -- is also one of the most
commonly misunderstood and abused in translation. Therefore, special care is given to its
syntax in this course, along with its cousin, the participle. Relative clauses are another trouble spot
that is emphasized, and conditional/concessive clauses are examined as
vitally important interpretative elements.
GR 222 is prerequisite. 4
hrs. Greek
312 -- Greek Exegesis -- Two Pauline books -- Philippians and
Philemon -- are exegeted in this course. Translating and reading from the original
are done daily, but the major emphasis in the course is on the practical
blending of grammar and syntax into a consistent literal interpretation. Diagrammatic analysis of the Greek text is
also used as a tool to achieve this goal.
GR 232 is prerequisite. 4
hrs. Greek
322 -- Greek Exegesis -- Selected portions from Mark and Luke are exegeted with the same goal and procedures as in GR
312. The styles of these authors
differ significantly, not only between themselves but with Paul as well. This contrast is emphasized in this
course. GR 312 is
prerequisite. 4 hrs. Greek
332 --Textual Criticism -- Not to be confused with "higher
criticism," textual criticism is necessary for anyone to be a competent
workman in the Greek New Testament.
The history of the text, scribal habits, intentional and unintentional
changes, the effect of the early "schools"
at Hebrew
Studies Hebrew
113 -- Hebrew Vocabulary -- The careful building of extensive
Hebrew vocabulary establishes a foundation for the translation and exegesis
of the Hebrew Bible. Special emphasis
is made on building and expanding vocabulary from Hebrew roots. Extensive classroom drill using overlearning principles is used to minimize work outside
the classroom. The basic grammar of
the Hebrew noun is presented. 4
hrs. Hebrew
123 -- Hebrew Verbal Forms -- A careful study of the Hebrew strong
verb is pursued providing a basis for learning the weak verb. Drill from the Hebrew Bible is used to
solidify the student's learning of the Hebrew verb system. Classroom drill with an emphasis upon overlearning techniques minimizes the work necessary
outside the classroom. HEB 113 is
prerequisite. 4 hrs. Hebrew
133 -- Hebrew Verbal Forms and Grammar -- The mastery of the
Hebrew verb system is expected with the final drills in the Hebrew weak
verb. The fundamentals of Hebrew
grammar are solidified through drill and the translation of selected sections
of the Hebrew Bible and sections of the textbook. Continued building of vocabulary is seen as
essential. This course completes the
study of Yate's elemental Hebrew grammar. Translation drill ties to the third quarter
chapel series if the series is in the Old Testament. HEB 123 is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Hebrew
213 -- Hebrew Syntax -- The syntactical relationships of Hebrew
words to one another in clauses and phrases are carefully studied. Hebrew verbless
clauses, prepositional phrases, and Hebrew sentences are carefully
analyzed. Extensive translation from
selected passages of the Hebrew Bible is expected. HEB 133 is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Hebrew
223 -- Old Testament Textual Criticism and Word Studies -- The
textual apparatus of Biblia Hebraica (Kittel and Stuttgartensia) is evaluated so the student can
adequately evaluate the accuracy of the Hebrew text. The history of the
development of the Hebrew text is shared.
The analysis of Hebrew tools for word studies is provided. Practice in the use of the tools is given
as the student prepares word studies.
Procedures for Hebrew word studies are examined with the goal of
demonstrating the theological and expositional values of Old Testament word
studies. A critique of the Septuagint
is presented as well as an evaluation of the Hebrew
233 -- Exegesis of Genesis and Judges -- The translation and
exegesis of major theological passages in the book of Genesis is expected in
this course. The parsing of verbs and analysis
of syntactical relationships are central to the translation of these
passages. Selected passages in Judges
introduce the student to the translation of Hebrew historical narrative. Those passages not translated are surveyed
with an emphasis upon the linguistic content of the material. HEB 223 is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Hebrew
313 -- Exegesis of the Megilloth -- The
translation and exegesis of the Scrolls including Ruth, Canticles,
Ecclesiastes, Lamentations and Esther are expected in this course. An analysis of simple Hebrew narrative and
an introduction to elements of Hebrew poetry are primary aspects of this
course. HEB 233 is
prerequisite. 4 hrs. Hebrew
323 -- Exegesis of Ezra, Nehemiah and Daniel -- Limited
translation is done in Ezra and Nehemiah to expose the student to the style
of the historical period. All Hebrew
sections of Daniel are translated with special attention given to the key
eschatological sections. An exegetical
paper is required on a key section of Daniel.
An introduction to Biblical Aramaic is given in this course. HEB 313 is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Hebrew
333 -- Exegesis of Ezekiel -- The book of Ezekiel is exegeted with the student translating the key theological
sections. Principles of Hebrew
diagramming are introduced and used to a limited degree in this course. Special attention is given to the
eschatological themes in the book. HEB
323 is prerequisite. 4 hrs. Bible
Analysis Bible
Analysis 114 -- Analysis of Ephesians and Colossians -- A careful,
detailed study of the Greek texts of Ephesians and Colossians is made
examining the exegetical, expositional character of each book. Theological concepts and themes are pursued
and systematized with a special emphasis upon the development of in Christ
(including positional truth) in the epistles.
A harmony of the two books will demonstrate their doctrinal and
linguistic similarities. Specific
suggestions will be made concerning different preaching and teaching
approaches to each epistle. 4 hrs. Bible
Analysis 124 -- Analysis of the Corinthian Epistles -- The letters
of Paul to the church in Bible
Analysis 134 -- Analysis of the Thessalonian
Epistles -- A detailed analysis of the letters of Paul to the church in
Thessalonica is made with careful study of the contents of the text, the
theology of the text, the problems, and textual variants of the text. Special consideration is given to the
eschatological contributions of the books with an emphasis upon the pre-tribulational rapture of the Church. 4 hrs. Bible
Analysis 214 -- Analysis of Acts -- The history book of the early
church is analyzed from the original language. The transitional theology of the early
years of the Dispensation of Grace is emphasized, including the problems
relating to pneumatology and hyperdispensationalism. 4 hrs. Bible
Analysis 224 -- Analysis of Romans -- The past, present, and
future aspects of salvation are the theme of Paul's letter to the
Romans. Paul unfolds many truths here
about the work of our Savior and the problem of sin -- its origin, its mediate
and immediate imputation to man, sin guilt versus sin nature and the results
of each. But he also reveals both the
future victory and the present victory for the believer through resurrection
life and our position in Christ. This
masterful treatise is examined from the Greek with as many language helps as
time permits. 4 hrs. Bible
Analysis 234 -- Analysis of James and Jude Two
of the Lord's half-brothers wrote two significant epistles particularly
involving Jewish believers. The
difficulties that believers faced after being saved out of the legality of
Judaism were very unique, especially in the early years of the church. For a while the Holy Spirit even dealt
differently with them than with Gentile believers, an issue chronicled by
James. Each of these epistles is
analyzed from the original language. 4
hrs. Bible
Analysis 314 -- Analysis of Galatians and First John -- An
analysis is made of Galatians with emphasis on Paul's unique apostleship, the
gospel of grace for saints and the unique provisions of grace for the
maturing of the believer in his position as a son in Christ. An analysis of 1 John leads one to
understand the abiding life which is necessary to go on to fellowship with
the Father by walking in the light. 4
hrs. Bible
Analysis 324 -- Analysis of Hebrews -- Hebrews is analyzed
concerning the many warnings to the carnal Christian. The need to be borne on to maturity is
established as the only response to the better things in Christ. The two new covenants, one to the Church
and one to Bible
Analysis 334 -- Analysis of I and II Peter -- These epistles are
analyzed as to the matter in which a spiritual Christian may learn to use the
fruit of the Spirit and his spiritual gift.
The prophecies, unique to Peter, of the day of the Lord and the day of
God are explained and harmonized with the rest of Scripture. 4 hrs. Pastoral
Studies Homiletics
115 -- Hermeneutics -- Dispensationalism
is the result of a consistent literal interpretation of the Scriptures. The basic principles of the literal,
historical, grammatical interpretation of the Bible are carefully examined
and applied to selected illustrative passages of Scripture. The student is encouraged to apply the
principles consistently in his study and exposition of the Scriptures. 2 hrs. Homiletics
125 -- Sermon Preparation -- Effective communication skills are a
must for any teacher or pastor-teacher.
In this course, concentration is placed upon analyzing and building
the parts of a sermon into a cohesive, logical unit. 2 hrs. Homiletics
135 -- Communication -- Once the skill of preparing a good sermon
has been acquired, it is necessary to add rhetorical devices that permit
better communication with the audience.
Numerous ways to make a sermon more interesting to listen to and more
"rememberable" are studied and
practiced. HOM 125 is
prerequisite. 2 hrs. Homiletics
215 -- Style and Voice -- Special Attention is given to preaching
styles and proper use of the voice.
The role of gestures is investigated as well as leadership
rapport. HOM 135 is
prerequisite. 2 hrs. Homiletics
226 -- Pastoral Counseling -- Working from the premise that the
Bible provides sufficient information for dealing with all of the needs of
the believer, this course evaluates the Scriptural principles for dealing
with the functions of the human mind.
An extensive analysis of the Scriptural teaching concerning the soul,
the spirit, the mind, conscience, spiritual enemies, and answers to problems
is done. The student is encouraged to
reject modern "Christian psychology" for New Testament
anthropology. 2 hrs. Homiletics
236 -- Pastoral Problems and Procedures -- The student is given
information which will assist him in dealing with problems and procedures in
the local church and pastoral ministry.
Areas of study include:
personal life, family life, library, use of time, public ministry,
administration of the Lord's table, baptismal procedure, and the
conducting of weddings
and funerals. The pastor and
his relationship to government is discussed with an emphasis upon the
elements of civil law that affect pastors.
2 hrs. Homiletics
315 -- Preaching -- Student preaching on a regular basis is begun
in this first quarter of the third year.
Analysis by one or more faculty as well as the students is designed to
augment the student's effectiveness in preaching. HOM 215 is prerequisite. 2 hrs. Homiletics
325 -- Preaching -- Student preaching is continued as in HOM 315,
but several "special occasion" messages are required, such as
messages for a wedding, a funeral, a radio broadcast, a candidating
situation, a banquet, etc. HOM 315
is prerequisite. 2 hrs. Homiletics 335 -- Preaching -- Student preaching is continued with attention given to the "special occasion" messages and their particular problems. As part of his homiletical training, each student will conduct a Lord's Table service and preach his senior sermon in the local church. One segment of the quarter is devoted to instruction and practice in parliamentary procedure. HOM 325 is prerequisite. 2 hrs.
CHAPEL SERIES The epitome of all things practical is the Word of
God and hence expository preaching is extremely important. One of the unique programs of
Dispensational Theological Seminary is the chapel program. Each quarter an expository chapel series is
presented as a part of the academic program.
These fifty minute preaching sessions each
day expose the student to studies of 28 books of the Bible in his three year
seminary course. Seminary faculty
members present each series from the original languages. Attendance is required for graduation. Classroom studies combined with the chapel
series expose the student to 58 of the 66 books of the Bible in an academic
way in his three year seminary career.
The Old Testament historical books are not included because of time
limitations. The following gives the
chapel sequence. First Year Fall Quarter Isaiah
and Jeremiah David Spurbeck Winter
Quarter Matthew Chris Philpot Spring
Quarter Psalms Dale Spurbeck Second Year Fall Quarter Minor
Prophets David Spurbeck Winter
Quarter Pastoral Epistles Chris Philpot Spring
Quarter Revelation Dale Spurbeck Third Year Fall Quarter Exodus thru Joshua David
Spurbeck Winter
Quarter Job and Proverbs Chris Philpot Spring
Quarter John Dale Spurbeck [GENERAL INFORMATION] [FACULTY] [DEGREES OFFERED] [EVENING SCHOOL] [DOCTRINAL STATEMENT] Dale R. Spurbeck, M.Div.- Professor of Greek and Bible Analysis [Telephone
(503) 359-5209] Chris Philpot, M.Div. Associate Professor of Hebrew and Bible Analysis [Telephone (503) 268-1782 [GENERAL INFORMATION] [FACULTY] [DEGREES OFFERED] [EVENING SCHOOL] [DOCTRINAL STATEMENT] At this present time only the M.Div.
(Master of Divinity) degree will be offered.
This degree will be given upon completion of the required courses to
those who have an acceptable Bachelors degree.. [GENERAL INFORMATION] [FACULTY] [DEGREES OFFERED] [EVENING SCHOOL] [DOCTRINAL STATEMENT] Dispensational Theological Seminary's First Year Fall Christian Life Chris Philpot Doctrine of God Dale Spurbeck Winter Trinitarianism Dale Spurbeck Christology David Spurbeck Spring Hermeneutics Chris Philpot Priesthood of the Believer David Spurbeck Second Year Fall Pneumatology Chris Philpot Positional Truth Dale Spurbeck Winter Anthropology Dale Spurbeck Dispensations David Spurbeck Spring Satan and Demons Chris Philpot Communication with God David Spurbeck Third Year Fall Harmartiology Chris Philpot Bibliology Dale Spurbeck Winter Eschatology Dale Spurbeck Daniel David Spurbeck Spring Soteriology Chris Philpot Angelology David Spurbeck
[GENERAL INFORMATION] [FACULTY] [DEGREES OFFERED] [EVENING SCHOOL] [DOCTRINAL STATEMENT] ARTICLE We believe the Scriptures teach that the Old and New Testaments are the divine revelation of God (I Tim. 5:18); and thus they constitute the Word of God. Men chosen by God wrote the Bible under the guidance and enabling of the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 2:9-13). Thus, every word of the entire original documents was inspired. This is commonly called verbal plenary inspiration (II Tim. 3:16). Therefore, the whole of Scripture is authoritative for the faith of every believer. Those sections of the New Testament dealing directly with the church are authoritative for the practice of the church (II Tim. 3:16; I Cor. 10:6-12; I Tim. 3:14, 15). (See also Article VIII on the church). ARTICLE II. THE GODHEAD We believe the Scriptures teach that God is infinite, self-existent, Spirit, unchangeable in His nature, omnipotent, omniscient, holy, righteous, good, love, and truth (John 4:24; James 1:17; 1:13; I John 1:5-7; 4:8, 16; Psa. 139:1-16). God exists eternally in three distinct, yet inseparable persons known as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Psa. 2:2, 7; Isa. 63:10; Heb. 1:12). These three are one as to their nature, essence, and attributes (Deut. 6:4; Matt. 28:19; Mark 12:29; John 10:30). Each is equally worthy of worship, trust, and obedience (II Cor. 13:14). Each of these divine persons has a distinct function in the execution of the eternal purpose and glory of the Godhead (John 15:26; 16:7; I Cor. 8:6). ARTICLE III. THE FATHER We believe the Scriptures teach that God the Father is the ultimate source of all things (I Cor. 8:6), and that He began to assume a new expression of His Fatherhood relationship to the eternal Son in the council of the Godhead prior to creation and time (Psa. 2:7-10). This Fatherhood relationship to the Son denotes their equality of nature, while at the same time it expresses the subordination of the Son to the Father in the execution of the divine purpose (John 1:1, 2; 5:18). He also has a Fatherhood relationship to spirit beings, thus expressing His authoritative headship (Job 1:6; Heb. 12:9). He now forgives the sins of believers, entering a Fatherhood relationship with them through their spiritual birth, by which He indwells them, thus making them partakers of the divine nature, and calling them His born ones (Eph. 4:6; II Pet. 1:4; I John 3:9). The Father, as the one to whom the saints' prayers are addressed, answers those requests which are in keeping with His will (John 16:23-26; I John 5:14, 15). The uniqueness of the Father is seen in that He is the one who sent the Son as His gift into the world (John 3:16). Moreover, He in partnership with the Son sent the Holy Spirit to be resident in the world on the Day of Pentecost (John 14:26; 15:26). Unlike the other persons of the Godhead, He is the sender and is not sent. ARTICLE IV. THE SON We believe the Scriptures
teach that the second person of the triune God is the eternal Son, the Logos,
the I AM, who as the incarnate one became the
Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:1, 2; ARTICLE V. THE HOLY SPIRIT We believe that the Scriptures teach that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead, co-eternal and co-equal with the Father and the Son (Matt. 28:19; Acts 5:3, 4; Heb. 9:14). The Holy Spirit was a co-agent in creation, the divine agent in the supernatural conception of the humanity of the Son (Matt. 1:18; Luke 1:35; II Pet. 1:21; Job 26:13). He became resident in the world on the Day of Pentecost as a result of being sent by the Father and the Son (John 14:26; 15:26). Since that time He is the co-witness through the believer concerning Christ; He takes the things of Christ and glorifies Him (John 15:26; 16:13, 14). He convicts the unsaved of their need of Christ, then regenerates, baptizes, indwells, and seals those who respond by believing (John 3:5; 16:9-11; Rom. 8:9; I Cor. 6:19; 12:13; Eph. 4:30). He is the anointer, or divine teacher, of the believer whom he seeks to lead into spiritual maturity through the knowledge of Christ, and to empower through His filling ministry (I Cor. 2:10-12; Eph. 5:18; I John 2:20, 27).
ARTICLE VI. SALVATION We believe the Scriptures teach that salvation is by the grace of God through His free gift which is neither merited nor secured in part or in whole by any virtue or work of man (Eph. 2:8, 9). The gospel which the Holy Spirit uses as a basis for His conviction of a sinner to bring him to faith in Christ is a specific limited area of truth. The facts that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again physically after three days are the essential parts of the gospel (I Cor. 15:1-4; II Tim. 2:8-10). Any part that is changed or missing hinders the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit. The sole ground or basis of salvation is the death of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. He became personally separated from the Father when the Father made the Son's person an offering for sin. Thereby, the Father's outraged holiness against man's sin nature was propitiated (Isa. 53:10; Rom. 6:10; 1 Jn. 2:2). Because of His infinite character, His blood was a sufficient redemption for all mankind (Rom. 3:24; II Pet. 2:1). Since the death of Christ was sufficient for all the world, the world is now positionally reconciled to God (II Cor. 5:18, 19). God, therefore, invites all men to be reconciled unto Him (II Cor. 5:20). The single condition whereby the value of these propitiatory, redemptive, and reconciliatory works of the cross may be applied to the individual is by a personal faith in the crucified and risen Son of God (Acts 16:31; Eph. 2:8, 9). At salvation, the believer is called, regenerated, forgiven all sin, justified, sanctified, made eternally secure, and endowed with every spiritual blessing (Rom. 3:24; 5:1; Eph. 1:3, 13, 14; Titus 3:5; I Cor. 1:30). Positionally, the believer is glorified and seated in the heavenlies in Christ (Rom. 8:29, 30; Eph. 2:6, 7). ARTICLE VII. MAN We believe the Scriptures teach that Adam was created in the image and likeness of God immediately and apart from any process of evolution (Gen. 1:26, 27; 2:7). Adam, by a personal disobedience to the will of God, became a sinner (Gen. 3:5-7). Adam was then depraved in body, soul and spirit, and subject to Satan's power (II Cor. 4:3, 4; Eph. 2:2, 3). Adam’s depraved sin nature has been transmitted to the entire human race so that man is a sinner by nature, choice, and practice, and guilty before God, possessing within himself no means of recovery or salvation (Psa. 51:6; Rom. 3:10-12; 5:19). ARTICLE VIII. THE CHURCH We believe the Scriptures teach that the Church is the Body of Christ begun on the Day of Pentecost, into which all true believers of this dispensation are baptized by the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4; 11:15-17; I Cor. 12:13). Accompanying this baptism is the giving of spiritual gifts which are used for the edification of the Church (I Cor. 12:1-14; Eph. 4:7-13). The exalted Christ is the only Head of the Church (Eph. 1:22; 5:23, 24). The local expression of this Church is a company of regenerated, baptized believers in a local church, independent in character and autonomous in function, which has fellowship with other churches of like faith and order (Acts 15; I Cor. 5:4). To these churches are committed the ordinances of baptism (Matt. 28:19, 20) and the Lord's Supper (I Cor. 11:23-34). Baptism, obligatory upon every believer, is by immersion in water in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, as a sign of identification with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection, and is a prerequisite for local church membership (Matt. 28:19; Acts 8:35-39). The Lord's Supper is a commemoration of the person of Christ, His Body which is the Church, and the new covenant by His blood (I Cor. 10:16-22; 11:23-29). The officers of the local church are pastors (the term is interchangeable with elder and bishop) and deacons (Acts 20:17, 28; I Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:6-9). The local churches have the responsibility of worship, self-edification by teaching and equipping each saint unto a work of ministry, to exhort and provoke each to love and good works and to use his spiritual gift (Matt. 28:20; Eph. 4:11-16; Heb. 10:24, 25). ARTICLE IX. SPIRITUAL GIFTS We believe the Scriptures teach that every believer since the beginning of the Church at Pentecost receives a spiritual gift (I Cor. 12:7, 11, 18, 19). This gift is the result of the Spirit baptizing the believer into the Body of Christ, and corresponds to the functions of the members of the Body (I Cor. 12:12, 13). This gift was given for the edification and good of the local church, and not the individual recipient (I Cor. 12:15-25; Eph. 4:11-13). In the beginning of the church some gifts were given which were of a temporary nature, and are thus no longer given (I Cor. 13:8-12; Heb. 2:2, 3). Some of these temporary gifts were revelatory, providing oral revelation while the New Testament was being completed (I Cor. 14:25, 26). These are the gifts of apostle, the discerning of spirits, tongues, interpretation of tongues, a word of knowledge, a word of wisdom, and prophecy. Others were confirmatory sign gifts, vindicating the spokesman of God while the New Testament was incomplete (I Cor. 14:22; Heb. 2:2, 3). These were tongues, healing, and miracles (I Cor. 14:22). However, all other gifts mentioned in the New Testament should be operative in the local church today (Rom. 12:7, 8; I Cor. 12:9, 28; Eph. 4:11). These are: pastor-teacher, teacher, evangelist, helps, ministry, exhortation, mercy, giving, faith, administration, and organization. ARTICLE X. SPIRIT BEINGS We believe the Scriptures
teach that prior to the creation of the material universe, the triune God
created a great host of varied spirit beings (Job 38:4-7; Col. 1:16, 17). The
holy angels serve God as His messengers and minister to those who are the
elect among the human race (Heb. 1:14). Lucifer (Satan), the highest of the
Cherubim, fell by sinning against the most high God and took with him a large
number of angels (Isa. 14:12-14; Ezek. 28:14; Rev.
12:7). Satan is the author of sin and the one who brought about the fall of
Adam and Eve (Gen. 3:5), Satan is the enemy of God, the accuser of God's
people and is constantly active in opposing the works and people of God (I
Pet. 5:8; Rev. 12:10). Satan was judged at the cross, and his ultimate
destiny is the ARTICLE XI. FUTURE EVENTS We believe the Scriptures teach that at death the spirit and soul of the believer pass instantly into the presence of Christ and remain in conscious joy until the resurrection of the body when Christ comes for his own (I Cor. 15:51-57; II Cor. 5:8). The blessed hope of the
believer is the imminent, personal, pretribulational,
premillennial appearance of Christ to rapture the
Church (I Thess. 4:14-17; Titus 2:13). His
righteous judgments will then be poured out on an unbelieving world during
the Tribulation (the seventieth week of Daniel), the last half of which is
the Great Tribulation (Matt. 24:21). The climax of this fearful era will be
the physical return of Jesus Christ to the earth in great glory to introduce
the Davidic kingdom (Rev. 19:11-16). ARTICLE XII. DISPENSATIONS AND AGES A consistent literal interpretation of Scripture results in Dispensationalism. Therefore, Dispensationalism is not an approach to the Bible, nor a view of the Bible, but the result of a consistent literal interpretation. This same literal method of interpretation distinguishes between ages and dispensations. Ages may exist in eternity past (Eph. 3:9 Gr.), in time (Gal. 1:4 Gr.; I Cor. 2:8 Gr.) or in eternity future (Eph. 2:7). Dispensations can only exist in time (Eph. 3:2; 1:10; 3:9 Gr.). An age is a phase in the present decree whereby certain events are designed to show God's rational creatures something about Himself by comparison or contrast (Eph. 2:7; 3:21 Gr.; Heb. 1:2 Gr.; 11:3 Gr.). A dispensation is a phase in God's program for mankind in which He through a steward or stewards imposes on some or all of mankind specific rules to regulate their daily lives (Eph. 3:2; Col. 1:25; Eph. 3:9 Gr.; Gal. 3:10-12; I Tim. 1:4 Gr.; Eph. 1:10). ARTICLE XIII. CHRISTIAN LIFE AND SIN At the time of past tense, or initial, salvation the believer is given all things that pertain to spiritual life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). By regeneration he shares in the Divine nature and eternal life (Jn. 3:6, 15; 1 Jn. 3:9-10; 2 Pet. 1:4; 1 Jn. 5:11-12). Because the believer shares in the Divine nature, he has new desires and abilities. These new desires and abilities constitute the believer's new nature (Rom. 7:19-23). Since the believer still possesses the old dominant fallen Adamic sin nature, he needs the filling of the indwelling Holy Spirit to manifest the new nature (Rom. 7:23-8:1-4; Eph. 5:18-25; Gal. 5:16-18, 22-23, 25; 2 Cor. 3:18). The Spirit-filled believer, or spiritual believer, can manifest the fruit of the Spirit and thus Christlikeness. The requirements to be Spirit filled, and thus spiritual, are that the believer must reckon himself to be dead to the sin nature and alive unto God in the sphere of his position in Christ (Rom. 6:10, 11; Col. 3:1-5). Besides the flesh or sin nature the believer has two other spiritual enemies: The World and the Devil. The spiritual saint is able to discern the difference between the lusts from the flesh, the world and Satan (Rom. 6:12; Eph. 2:3; Gal. 5:24; 1 Jn. 2:15-17; Jn. 8:44). He that is spiritual can say no to these lusts before they become a temptation (Titus 2:12-13). When a lust is allowed to become a temptation, the believer must bear it while taking the way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13; James 1:13-15). If the mentally considered temptation is acted upon by a commensurate action, it will result in an act of sin against God (James 1:13-15; 4:11; 1 Cor. 6:18; 1 Jn. 3:4; Matt. 15:17-20; Psa. 41:4; 51:4). The spiritual saint overcomes the world by using it as a means to the end without loving or befriending it (1 Jn. 2:15-17; James 4:4; 1 Cor. 7:29-31). The spiritual Christian has an armor which he is to put on mentally each time he discerns an attack by Satan or his demons (1 Pet. 5:8-9; James 4:7-8; Eph. 6:12-18). The spiritual believer who is overcoming the three enemies grows to maturity by grace and is more and more conformed to the image of Christ (2 Pet. 3:18; 2 Cor. 3:18; 4:6-7; 2 Tim. 2:1). [GENERAL INFORMATION] [FACULTY] [DEGREES OFFERED] [EVENING SCHOOL] [DOCTRINAL STATEMENT] |
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