Course Descriptions
Certificate in Biblical Studies
BIB1205 Biblical Foundations for Ministry (3 units - 5 weeks)
This opening course in the Christian Ministry Major lays a practical
and theological foundation for students' ministry studies. It begins
with an overview of the Christian Ministry program, continues with
an introduction to culture, and concludes with an overview of the
Story of Scripture that focuses on God's mission to the nations as
the foundation for ministry. Recommended: The faculty recommends
that ministry students complete SSC4400 Cultural Anthropology
before or during the Christian Ministry Major Course Sequence.
Special Considerations: Ministry Majors must take BIB1205 first
because it lays a foundation for the remainder of the Christian
Ministry program. Students may not substitute transfer courses for
BIB1205. [CM Major]
BIB2130 Gospels of the Kingdom (3 units - 5 weeks)
Students explore the four canonical Gospels as witnesses to Christ.
The course emphasizes Jesus' person and mission as reflected in
major christological titles, his proclamation of God's Kingdom in his
words and deeds, the meaning and significance of Jesus' death and
resurrection, and Kingdom values in personal discipleship. [CM
Major]
BIB2320 Old Testament Themes (3 units - 5 weeks)
Students explore major biblical themes in the context of the rich
history and genres of the Old Testament. Examples include the
themes of covenant in the Pentateuch, social justice in the Prophets,
worship in the Psalms, and the character of God revealed
throughout Scripture. The course focuses on the relevance of Old
Testament insights for building contemporary Christian communities
guided by the Lord. [CM Major]
BIB3500 People of God (3 units - 5 weeks)
This course is a study of the people of God as a mission-driven
community drawn "from every nation, tribe, people and language"
(Rev 7:9). Topics include a biblical theology of culture and diversity,
Old and New Testament images of the covenant people of God, and
the priesthood of all believers. The course includes discussion of
values and principles of the Restoration Movement, the Christian
unity movement that formed Hope International University. [CM
Major]
BIB2230 Interpreting Scripture (3 units - 5 weeks)
This course introduces basic interpretive principles, tools, and
methods leading to the skillful use of Scripture in ministry. It places
special emphasis on understanding the various genres, or types of
literature, found in the Bible. [CM Major]
BIB3460 Ephesians in the Context of Pauline Theology (3 units
- 5 weeks)
In his remarkable missionary endeavors, Paul demonstrated how to
present the gospel as a "word on target" for diverse audiences. This
course uses his Epistle to the Ephesians as the starting point for
integrating theological insights of Christ's Apostle to the Gentiles.
Students will apply the principles, tools, and methods learned in
Interpreting Scripture. Prerequisite: BIB2230 Interpreting Scripture.
[CM Major]

