Christian Worker’s Diploma

 Completion of the Bible Diploma and All Six of These Courses

 

CW 211 & 212  BIBLE DOCTRINES 1  & 2

Basic tenets of conservative fundamental Christianity—God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, angels, Satan, man, sin, salvation, the Church, and last things—are discussed.

 

CW 220  PERSONAL EVANGELISM

This course is concerned with person-to-person evangelism. Techniques for effective soul-winning are analyzed and demonstrated.

 

CW 230  PUBLIC SPEAKING

The basic principles of public speaking are discussed and practiced. Emphasis is placed upon proper grammar and the building of confidence before the public.

 

CW 240  SONG LEADING

This course is designed to prepare the student to direct congregational music. Proper selection of hymns and Gospel songs for varied musical programs is discussed.

 

CW 251  THE CHRISTIAN WOMAN[1] (required for women only)

The proper roles of women in Christian work, the church, the home, and the world are studied in a practical way. Consideration is also given to relationships, etiquette, decorum, dress, hospitality, and similar matters.

 

CW 252  CHRISTIAN ETHICS  (required for men only)

Biblical principles underlying Christian conduct, morality, and spirituality are studied.

 

Additional Required Course, Fall 1998-Spring 2009

 

CW 260  BIBLE STUDY METHODS[2]

Practical methods of Bible study are introduced, and principles of Bible interpretation are stressed. A foundation concerning God’s appraisal of His eternal Word is laid. Students develop skills in independent Bible study.

 

Electives

 

CW 010  THEOLOGY: UNDERSTANDING SALVATION

The doctrine of soteriology is discussed in depth.

CW 011 & 012  SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY 1 & 2

Theological topics are addressed one by one. An attempt is made to summarize all the biblical teaching on each particular subject. The goal is to present the major doctrines of the Christian faith in an organized and ordered overview that remains faithful to the Bible.

 

CW 013  DOCTRINE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

The doctrine of pneumatology is discussed in depth.

 

CW 014  BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS OF FORGIVENESS

Biblical principles underlying forgiveness are examined in depth.

 

CW 015  THEOLOGY: CHRIST & SALVATION

The doctrines of Christology and soteriology are discussed in depth.

 

CW 016  THEOLOGY: THE DOCTRINE OF GOD

The doctrine of theology is discussed in depth.

 

CW 017  CHRISTOLOGY: THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST

The doctrine of Christology is discussed in depth.

 

CW 018  KNOWING GOD: A STUDY OF DIVINE ATTRIBUTES

The attributes of God are identified and examined in depth.

 

CW 019  DEVELOPING A THEOLOGY OF SUFFERING

Bible passages related to suffering are explored in depth. Students develop a theology of suffering based on this exploration.

 

 

Christian Living Diploma

 

Completion of the Bible Diploma and Six[3] of the Courses in These Categories

 

Bible Enrichment (One Course Required)

 

BE 001  HOW WE GOT OUR BIBLE

The transmission of the text of the Old and New Testaments from the original manuscripts to our English translations is traced.

 

BE 041  CREATION SCIENCE 1 &  BE 042  CREATION SCIENCE 2

The “creation versus evolution” controversy is reviewed from a Biblical standpoint. Students may take either course or both.

 

BE 043  UNIVERSE BY DESIGN: ASTRONOMY & CREATION

God’s design of the universe is examined as it relates to astronomy. This exploration takes place from a Biblical standpoint.

 

BE 080  PERSON AND WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT[4]

(alternate to BE 082  THE HOLY SPIRIT & HIS GIFTS)

The Holy Spirit’s ministries in the believer’s life and in the Church are examined from biblical and practical standpoints.

 

BE 081  STUDY OF ANGELS OF THE BIBLE

A survey of angels appearing in the Old and New Testaments is conducted, and the significance of the angels mentioned is discussed.

 

BE 082  THE HOLY SPIRIT & HIS GIFTS2

(alternate to BE 080  PERSON AND WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT)

The Holy Spirit’s ministries in the believer’s life and in the Church and His gifts to individual believers and the Church are examined from biblical and practical standpoints.

 

BE 090  HISTORY OF THE JEWISH PEOPLE

The history of the Jewish people will be traced from the call of Abraham to modern-day Israel.  Contributions of major Jewish leaders of the past and present will be discussed.

 

BE 091  ALL THE PRAYERS OF THE BIBLE

Prayers recorded in the Old and New Testaments are examined, and their practical applications to the believer’s life are discussed.

BE 092  TRUTHS FROM THE TABERNACLE

The history of the Jewish people will be traced from the call of Abraham to modern-day Israel.  Contributions of major Jewish leaders of the past and present will be discussed.

 

 

Church History (One Course Required)

 

CH 001  AMERICA’S CHRISTIAN HERITAGE

The Christian foundations of the United States and its fundamental documents are examined. Biblical principles underlying this nation, and their implications for today’s society, are identified and discussed.

 

CH 011  CHURCH HISTORY 1: THE ANCIENT CHURCH

The history of the Church of Jesus Christ from the Apostolic Age to the first Pope is examined. The experiences and influence of great personalities and events are stressed.

 

CH 012  CHURCH HISTORY 2: THE MEDIEVAL CHURCH

The history of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Middle Ages is examined. The experiences and influence of great personalities and events are stressed.

 

CH 013  CHURCH HISTORY 3: THE MODERN CHURCH

The history of the Church of Jesus Christ from the Reformation to the present is examined. The experiences and influence of great personalities and events are stressed.

 

CH 014  BAPTIST HISTORY

The history of the Baptist church in the United States is examined. The experiences and influence of great personalities and events are stressed.

 

CH 021-029  BIOGRAPHIES  OF GREAT CHRISTIANS

The life and writings of a noted Christian, from the post-apostolic age to the present, are made the focus of an in-depth study. Students may take one or more of these courses.

 

 

Christian Living (One Course Required)

 

CL 010  SCRIPTURE MEMORY

This course focuses on reasons for, methods of, and rewards resulting from memorizing Scripture. Emphasis is placed on applying what is learned by selecting verses to memorize and embarking on a systematic program for “hiding His Word in your heart.”

 

CL 020  PRACTICAL CHRISTIAN LIVING

Emphasis is placed on application of a number of important Scriptural principles to the daily lives and activities of Christians.

 

CL 021  ALCOHOL: GUILTY OR INNOCENT?

Emphasis is placed on application of a number of important Scriptural principles to the issue of alcohol use by Christians.

 

CL 022  SINGLES

Emphasis is placed on application of a number of important Scriptural principles to the daily lives and activities of single Christians.

 

CL 023  MANAGING YOUR MIND

Emphasis is placed on application of a number of important Scriptural principles to the thought life and emotions of Christians.

 

CL 024  GAINING VICTORY OVER ANXIETY

Scriptural principles related to anxiety are identified and discussed. Practical applications of these principles to the lives of the Christian are explored.

 

CL 025 & 026  DISCIPLESHIP 1 & 2: CHRISTIAN GROWTH BASICS

These courses explore the role of the Christian as a disciple of Christ. The application of Scriptural principles in the believer’s life will result in Christian growth. Students may take one or both of these courses.

 

CL 027  APPLYING THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT TO LIFE

The fruit of the Spirit identified by Scripture will be examined and discussed. Practical ways to apply the fruit of the Spirit to the believer’s life will be explored.

 

CL 028 & 029  UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES 1 & 2

Today’s competing worldviews will be identified and explored. Students will examine their own assumptions, attitudes, and actions to determine whether these are consistent with a Christian worldview. Students may take one or both of these courses.

 

CL 030  COMMUNICATING WITH CLARITY & CONFIDENCE

Basic skills in oral and written communication are discussed and practiced. Principles of effective organization and style considerations are also covered. Good communication skills are an asset for Christians as they serve in a local church.

 

CL 040  PERSONAL COMPUTING

Fundamentals of PC hardware and software are presented in this introductory seminar.  Emphasis is placed on using the computer for keeping records, developing mailing lists, and word processing, skills that might be useful in a local church setting.

 

CL 050  MARRIAGE & FAMILY LIVING

Scriptural principles underlying the Christian home and their practical applications are studied. The Biblical roles of husband and wife, the discipline and training of children, and money management are discussed. Alternates to CL 050 include:

          CL 051  BUILDING A CHRISTIAN HOME

          CL 052  THE PLAN OF GOD FOR THE FAMILY

          CL 053  CHRISTIAN PARENTING

          CL 054  MAPS FOR MOMS

          CL 055  HOPE FOR THE FAMILY

 

CL 060  GETTING ORGANIZED FOR LIFE  (TIME MANAGEMENT)

Principles of effective time management are presented and discussed. Students analyze their own use of time and plan ways in which their lives and activities can be made more efficient.

 

CL 063  BIBLICAL ANSWERS TO TODAY’S ISSUES

Several of today’s important ethical issues are examined. Scriptural principles related to these issues are identified and discussed.

 

CL 064  THE CHRISTIAN'S FINANCES

This is a course in managing personal finances from a Biblical perspective. Topics include goal setting, record keeping, budgeting, and debt management. Basic principles involved in saving and investing are addressed, as well as methods of protecting loved ones through insurance and estate planning.

 

CL 070  STUDY OF SATAN, FALSE RELIGIONS & CULTS

This study provides a general background in Satan worship and the modern cults. Emphasis is placed on the founders, writings, development, characteristics, and false teachings of each. Alternates to CL 070 include:

          CL 071  STUDY OF SATAN

          CL 072  CONTEMPORARY CULTS

          CL 073  COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS & CULTS

          CL 074  CHRISTIANITY, CULTS, AND RELIGIONS

 

CL 080  DISCOVERING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS

The gifts of the Holy Spirit to believers are carefully examined.  The purpose and use of spiritual gifts are stressed.

 

CL 081  DEVELOPING SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES

Students explore the Bible as an instruction manual for Christian living.

 

CL 082  BUILDING A PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE

Scriptural principles for building a Christian philosophy of life are examined and discussed.

 

CL 090  PRINCIPLES OF PRAYER

The role and significance of prayer in the Christian life are discussed. Bible prayers are examined as models for Christian intercession.

 

 

Christian Work (One Course Required)

 

CW 021  CHRISTIAN EVIDENCES (APOLOGETICS)

Students will learn tools and techniques that will enable them to systematically defend their faith. Arguments supporting the divine origin and authority of Christianity and its major doctrines are discussed.

 

CW 022  DISCIPLING THE NEW BELIEVER

This class is designed to meet the needs of new coverts, promoting their Christian growth and spiritual development.

 

CW 023  WORLD MISSIONS TODAY

The many areas of Christian missionary activity are explored through media such as slides, filmstrips, and films. Present-day missionaries are spotlighted. Group participation is required.

 

CW 024  CHILD EVANGELISM

Methods and materials that can be used to encourage the salvation and spiritual development of young people are emphasized.

 

CW 025  HOW TO TEACH A NEW CONVERTS’ CLASS

This class is designed to meet the needs of those who wish to establish a class for new converts in their own church. Methods and materials that can be used to encourage the Christian growth and spiritual development of new believers are emphasized.

 

CW 031  HOW TO PREPARE SERMONS & GOSPEL ADDRESSES

This course provides an introduction to homiletics—the science and art of preaching. It is designed primarily for Christian laymen who wish to develop skills in preparing and presenting sermons and Gospel addresses.

 

CW 032  HOW TO PREPARE GOSPEL LESSONS & DEVOTIONS

Emphasis is placed on preparing Bible lessons and messages that women present. Techniques for identifying and organizing material are discussed and practiced.

 

CW 040  PHILOSOPHY OF CHRISTIAN MUSIC

Students develop a philosophy of Christian music through an examination of Scripture related to music and worship.

 

CW 050-052  BIBLE STUDY THROUGH COMPUTER 1, 2 & 3

Students learn to install and use a Bible program for PC. Each course builds upon the previous one as additional features of the program are presented and used.

 

CW 061  CHURCH OFFICE PROCEDURES

The student is trained for a church office secretarial position. Topics such as personality development, proper dress, business etiquette, proper use of the telephone, and methods for systematizing work are discussed.

 

CW 062  ESTABLISHING THE CHURCH LIBRARY & MEDIA CENTER

This course explores the acquisition of books, library supplies, and media materials; classification of books; and promotion of the local church library and media center. Video resources will also be discussed.

 

CW 063  LEADERSHIP TRAINING

Motivation, principles, characteristics, and attributes of leaders are studied. Qualities of successful people and causes of success, as well as characteristics and causes of failure, are carefully analyzed. Scriptural principles and promises are applied.

 

CW 064  LOCAL CHURCH & SUNDAY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATON

(alternate to ED 030  SUNDAY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION)

Motivation, principles, characteristics, and attributes of leaders are studied. Qualities of successful people and causes of success, as well as characteristics and causes of failure, are carefully analyzed. Scriptural principles and promises are applied.

 

CW 070  COUNSELING 1: PRINCIPLES OF COUNSELING

Principles of Christian counseling are introduced and discussed. Applications of the basic principles are made.

 

CW 071-079  COUNSELING TOPICS

Periodically, a special topic or issue related to Christian counseling is made the focus of in-depth analysis. Past courses include:

          CW 071  COUNSELING 2: MARRIAGE PRINCIPLES

          CW 072  COUNSELING 3: EFFECTIVE PARENTING

          CW 073  COUNSELING 4: PREMARITAL COUNSELING

 

 

Christian Education

 

ED 010-019  CHILDREN’S WORK

These courses provide an introduction to working with young people in the local church. Courses may focus on training children only or both children and teens in the local church. Past offerings include:

          ED 010  CHRISTIAN EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN

          ED 011  CHILDREN’S WORK 2

          ED 012  REACHING & TEACHING TEENS

          ED 013  CHILDREN’S MINISTRY 101

          ED 014  TEACHING TRUTH TO CHILDREN & TEENS

          ED 015  TOOLS FOR CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

 

ED 020  TEACHING TECHNIQUES & PRINCIPLES

This course is designed for Christian workers. It emphasizes development of goals, methods of teaching, lesson presentation, pupil involvement, and problem solving. Alternates to ED 020 include:

          ED 021  TEACHER ENRICHMENT SEMINAR

          ED 023  LEARNING TO TEACH CORRECTLY & CREATIVELY

 

ED 022  TEACHING THE SCRIPTURES: EXPOSITION

This course is designed for Christian workers. It emphasizes methods of teaching and lesson presentation for those who teach the Bible.

 

ED 030  SUNDAY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

(alternate to CW 064  LOCAL CHURCH & SUNDAY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION)

Principles and practices for the organization and administration of a Sunday School program within the local church are discussed.

 

ED 040-049  YOUTH WORK

These courses provide an introduction to working with teens in the local church.  Methods for developing a youth ministry are discussed. Past offerings include:

          ED 041  DEVELOPING A YOUTH MINISTRY

          ED 042  GIVING TEENS A SENSE OF MISSION

 

ED 050  THINK BIBLICALLY: A MUST IN AMERICAN EDUCATION

This course is designed for teachers. It emphasizes the importance of thinking biblically as one designs and teaches courses in the Christian school.

 

 

Music

 

MU 001 & 002  GROUP MUSIC LESSONS 1 & 2

The workshop format of this class is designed to enable each student in the group, whatever his/her skill level and experience, to progress in his/her understanding of and ability to perform on the instrument of his/her choice.

 

MU 010  MUSIC APPRECIATION

Basic principles of music are examined and explained. Discussions are supplemented with listening examples and exercises that focus on each principle. Both superior classical compositions and sacred music are analyzed.

 

MU 020  BEGINNING BAND & ORCHESTRA

Methods for developing a church band or orchestra are discussed. Students use their own instruments in class and need not have previous training in instrumental music.

 

MU 030  MUSIC FUNDAMENTALS

This course is designed for students who have little or no prior musical training. The basic elements of music are identified and described. Students practice rudimentary musical skills.

 

MU 031  MUSIC THEORY 1

Students with varying levels of musical knowledge and ability begin at a level that is comfortable for them. Music fundamentals, including note-reading, keys, scales, and rhythmic and simple melodic dictation, are presented, as are listening techniques intended to further the appreciation of good music.

 

MU 032  MUSIC THEORY 2

Prerequisite:  MUSIC THEORY 1

The student may elect to take a second semester of music theory for credit.

 

MU 340  CHOIR DIRECTING

Prerequisite:  SONG LEADING

Students will develop more advanced skills in leading vocal music. Experience in vocal or instrumental music and knowledge of the music fundamentals is required. Use of the baton, vocal techniques, and problems of the local church music director are studied.

 

 

Women’s Studies

 

WS 001  PRACTICAL CHRISTIANITY FOR WOMEN

(alternate to WS 002  PATTERNS FOR THE CHRISTIAN WOMAN)

Emphasis is placed on application of a number of important Scriptural principles to the daily lives and activities of Christian women.

 

WS 002  PATTERNS FOR THE CHRISTIAN WOMAN

(alternate to WS 001  PRACTICAL CHRISTIANITY FOR WOMEN)

Emphasis is placed on application of a number of important Scriptural principles to the daily lives and activities of Christian women.

 

WS 003  BECOMING A TITUS 2 WOMAN

Chapter 2 in Titus is examined and discussed. Women in class explore methods by which the qualities described may be acquired and developed.

 

WS 004  WORK OF THE WOMAN IN THE LOCAL CHURCH

Students explore the various roles that the Christian woman can play in her local church.

 

WS 010 UNDERSTANDING YOUR EMOTIONS

(alternate to WS 011 & 012  WOMEN & THEIR EMOTIONS 1 & 2)

Students examine a variety of potentially negative emotions that are commonly experienced, and discuss ways to handle these emotions according to biblical principles.

 

WS 011 & 012  WOMEN & THEIR EMOTIONS 1 & 2

(alternate to WS 010  UNDERSTANDING YOUR EMOTIONS)

Students examine a variety of potentially negative emotions that are commonly experienced, and discuss ways to handle these emotions according to biblical principles.

 

WS 021  WOMEN OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

Students examine and discuss the actions and impact of several Old Testament women. Practical principles for Christian living are derived from their lives.

 

WS 022  WOMEN OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

Students examine and discuss the actions and impact of several New Testament women. Practical principles for Christian living are derived from their lives.


 

[1] If this class is not offered, CW 252 Christian Ethics may be substituted.

[2] Originally BE 050.  Not required for students embarking on the Christian Worker’s Diploma before Fall 1998 or after Spring 2009. The course became a Bible Diploma requirement as BT 110 in Fall 2009.

[3] At least one course counting toward this diploma must be taken Fall 2009 or later. At least one course must be taken in each of the following categories: Bible Enrichment, Church History, Christian Living, and Christian Work.

[4] Either this course or its alternate may be applied toward the Christian Living Diploma.

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