Pastoral Ministry

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT101

This entry level course is designed to demonstrate the importance and relevancy of the whole Bible for today. For many, it is a mystery how the Old Testament is related to the New Testament. Some think the former is a source of unrelated devotional stories, laws and prophecies. In truth, the two testaments are the complete story of God’s progressive plan for his people. It is the purpose of this course to concisely trace the story of Scripture, and to help students build a central foundation with which they can understand, interpret and apply God’s word to their lives today.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT103

The purpose of this course is to examine the teaching of the Bible and develop a systematic theology that addresses four important themes: the Word of God, the doctrine of God, biblical anthropology, and the doctrine of sin. Efforts will be made to explain how these themes are developed through promise and fulfilment from Genesis to Revelation.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS101

This course is designed to increase an individual’s understanding and implementation of effective interpersonal communication behaviours and skills. It will help the student as they begin to understand communication and to assist them into becoming an effective and creative communicator. Verbal and nonverbal concepts affecting the communication process between individuals in various interpersonal contexts will be examined. Various models, methods, theories and practices of communication will be examined, as well participation in written and verbal activities designed to develop and improve interpersonal skills.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS102

What happens when a leader grows intentionally? Dynamic growth happens internally. What happens when a leadership team functions optimally? Dynamic things happen organizationally. This foundational course on leadership will attempt to inform and prepare students for their future lives and leadership by delving into the theology and theory of leadership as encased in the Scriptures and as practiced best by healthy organizations. Students will glean from exemplary leaders what they do and how they do it, both individually and in teams. Through self-discovery of their own God-given strengths and gift mixes, students will be inspired and equipped to become dynamic Kingdom leaders!

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

This course will provide a practical space to explore the varied nature of pastoral care in a local church context through integrating learning, practicum experiences and participation in interpersonal relations group. Fundamental to providing effective pastoral care lies in understanding one’s self.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Course elective will need final approval by faculty adviser.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT104

This course is an introduction to the Gospels. It will focus on the four canonical gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Issues relating to the synoptic problem will be explored, as well as the unique contribution of each gospel. The literary nature of the gospels will be examined, exploring the gospels as story, as well as their theological impact. As the title implies, this course will emphasize our response to the gospels: what it means to follow Jesus.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT105

The purpose of this course is to examine the teaching of the Bible and develop a systematic theology that addresses four important themes: the Word of God, the doctrine of God, biblical anthropology, and the doctrine of sin. Efforts will be made to explain how these themes are developed through promise and fulfilment from Genesis to Revelation.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS101

This course will examine contemporary family life in and out of the church, and its biblical purpose as students study the idea of a holistic family ministry model as well as the importance of an intergenerational mindset for church ministry. This course will include current strategies for various ministries that involve the family.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS102

An exploration of worldviews as intellectual, behavioural, and value systems in relation to culture. These powerful forces shape the lives of people often without clear reflection on the part of the holder. A person’s worldview has a huge influence on identity formation. Therefore, it is crucial to increase awareness and purposeful development of our worldview.

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

This course is directly related to the student’s supervised ministry placement each week. The classroom component serves as preparation for and reflection upon weekly ministry. The emphasis is on personal ministry preparation, working as part of a team, and development of ministry gifts and abilities.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT401

The book of 1 Corinthians deals with some of the most difficult issues in the New Testament that are still relevant to our context today. This course explores the background, issues, and purpose of this Pauline letter, as well as how it fits into the overall story of Scripture. Paul wrote the letter of 1 Corinthians to a terribly divided church, where immorality, pride, divorce, cliques, sensationalism, and false teaching threatened the church’s very existence. Written to address these specific problems, Paul’s letter is theologically grounded and eminently practical. Throughout the course, we will explore the meaning and significance of Paul’s letter for us today.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS201

This course is a basic introduction to the Biblical languages Greek and Hebrew and to the tools with which the student can study the Scriptures more effectively. Beginning with an appreciation for the nature and challenges of working with the original languages of our Scriptures, the student will be equipped with the skills necessary for the proper use of language and interpretative tools such as concordances, lexicons, word-studies, critical commentaries, and computer software. The course is divided into three parts: a comprehensive walk through of the Logos Library System and learning the Hebrew and Greek alphabets and a basic introduction to vocabulary and grammar of each.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS201

Class participants will have an opportunity to learn sermon-building techniques through training in manuscript preparation and delivery styles. A lab component of the study requires the student to deliver a biblically-based message to fellow class members, and evaluate all other messages shared in the course. Through instruction, guests and a variety of hands on exercises, including preaching in class, students will explore the balance of both the prophetic and performance. Prerequisite: Hermeneutics

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS202

This is an introductory course in the act of pastoral care. It is designed to acquaint the student with foundational biblical and theological understandings, elemental skills, and rudimentary attitudes necessary for effective pastoral care in contemporary Christian ministry. Particular attention will be placed upon the securing of basic and practical knowledge, competencies and sentiments required to serve in a variety of pastoral care ministry contexts, within and through the local church and in the community at large.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS203

This course introduces the field of psychology, which includes a survey of topics including biology, psychological disorders, motivation, learning, conditioning, and social behaviour. It uses interactive means to address these topics in a format that should help the student to remember them.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS207

This course aims to help students improve all their communication skills: Writing, reading, speaking, and listening. The main emphasis, however, is on writing skills. Students work through the steps of writing a research project, summarize written text, and apply principles of clear and correct writing to their own compositions. Students learn research and documentation strategies and strengthen and expand their writing skills so that they can write more effectively for a variety of audiences and purposes.

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

The student’s skill development and growth in the area of pastoral ministry will be addressed, building on the skills learned in the Introductory Pastoral Practicum. Emphasis will be placed on continued development of the practical skills required of a shepherd in a local church setting. The theme for the second year practicum is Learning to Follow. In this stage of the practicum, the goal is to examine what it means to be a follower/disciple of Jesus Christ in the context of team- work as middle-management. Prerequisite: Practicum: Pastoral Ministry – Year 1 Winter

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT202

In this course students will be introduced to the content and significance of the first five books of the Bible. Attention will be given to key themes and exegetical issues, including how themes introduced in the Pentateuch are developed throughout the rest of the Bible. Classes will focus on interpreting and applying the course content to the student’s lives and ministries.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT205

From the foundations of the world, the salvation of a people has been God’s intent, and His Son, Jesus Christ, came to earth to complete such a redemption. The purpose of this course is to give the student a thorough perspective on two of the greatest pillars of the Christian faith: a biblical Christology and Soteriology. The study of the nature, life, and death and resurrection of Jesus Christ along with a truly biblical understanding of the nature of our salvation is an essential part of forming a biblical basis for the student’s faith in our Lord and a foundation for effective ministry in the future. Prerequisite: Theology 1: God and the Human Condition

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT201

The book of Romans is foundational to understanding Christian theology. Paul, the author, will address some of the most fundamental and essential doctrines upon which our faith rests. At the same time, this is not a letter devoid of practical instruction on how to live our Christian faith in a contrary and hostile world in a Christ-like manner, retaining Kingdom truths and principles.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS204

This is a survey course to introduce the student to the history of the Christian church primarily focusing on renewal and revival movements. This course examines the history of the church as it developed from the apostles to the present era. The course objective is to thoroughly acquaint the student with the historical and theological development of key figures, movements, and doctrines.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Choose ONE of the following: Historical Literature: Joshua-Esther Prophets: Jeremiah/Isaiah

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

The student’s skill development and growth in the area of pastoral ministry will be addressed, building on the skills learned in the Introductory Pastoral Practicum. Emphasis will be placed on continued development of the practical skills required of a shepherd in a local church setting. The theme for the second year practicum is Learning to Follow. In this stage of the practicum, the goal is to examine what it means to be a follower/disciple of Jesus Christ in the context of team- work as middle-management. Prerequisite: Practicum: Pastoral Ministry – Year 1 Winter

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS302

This course is an introduction to the preparation, philosophy, theology, and skills of the pastoral counsellor. It addresses issues and situations commonly faced in the pastor’s office. Practical application of the principles and skills learned during lectures will be applied through various experiences and integrative assignments. Prerequisite: Introduction to Psychology (GS203)

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS402

This course explores the origins of the Pentecostal Movement and its explosive growth and development since the turn of the 20th century. Analysis focuses on the movement’s historical antecedents and context, theological developments, and global expansion. Attention also concentrates on the unique Canadian story and the emergence and development of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT301

This course uses the books of I and II Timothy and Titus to form a Pastoral Theology and a biblical template of contemporary pastoral responsibilities. This course exegetically explores the major themes of 1 Timothy, while having the students teach and apply 2 Timothy and Titus. Being sensitive to the backgrounds, issues, and purposes of these Pauline letters, the professor always seeks to apply the principles to contemporary pastoral experiences.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS401

Ethics is the study of right and wrong. This course examines various approaches to Christian ethics and moral decision making. It also explores several ethical issues that impact the Church and society. Extensive classroom discussion is used to supplement lecture material. Students are encouraged to think critically and search the Scriptures to decide for themselves what is or is not ethical.Prerequisite: Philisophy

Class Time: 6 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEFE415

Third year pastoral studies students will continue to develop the practical skills needed in the area of pastoral ministry. Practical experience is gained in ministry management skills, preaching and teaching, as well as relational ministry in the areas of evangelism and discipleship. Students are required to complete a minimum of 400 hours of service in the local church setting. Prerequisite: Practicum: Pastoral Ministry – Year 3 Winter

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT305

This course is a study of the church and last things from a biblical theological perspective. The church is seen as a divinely established entity through which God’s people have their beginning, and develop identity and fellowship with God. Last things are studied with a focus on the eschatological hope of God’s people from the time of the Patriarchs to the time of Christ and the New Testament Church. Prerequisite: Theology 1: God and the Human Condition

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT306

This course is a biblical exposition of the pneumatology in Lukan literature. It evaluates the relevant Lukan data narratively, grammatically, contextually, and canonically, paying particular attention to the way Luke portrays Jesus in the continuing story of God’s salvation plan. It will look at the different perspectives and ways of approaching Luke-Acts, paying close attention to the significant themes of salvation, empowerment for mission, and judgment. Modern interpreters of Lukan pneumatology will be critically evaluated. The OT background will also be appreciated at each step. A major concern of the course will be the relevancy of Luke’s message for us today.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS303

This course examines how a healthy pastoral life can be achieved through defining one’s personal call, developing one’s character components to reflect more thoroughly the attitude and actions of Jesus the Pastor, and deploying personal spiritual disciplines which enhance overall personal wholeness.This course centers on the personal issues of vocational call, character transformation (spiritual formation), and compassion/care assessment. Class members will be introduced to spiritual training exercises, experiences, and relationships that will assist them to become a daily “apprentice of Jesus, the Pastor” in a practical fashion. Prerequisite: Pastoral Letters

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT408

This course underscores the centrality of the Word of God in the church. Students will develop effective Biblical communication through three major components. First, students will learn the expository preaching method, which takes the main idea of a Scriptural text and makes it the focal point of the message. While a particular outline will be taught, an emphasis on variety in presentation is stressed. Secondly, using advanced hermeneutical principles, students will learn the process of developing a message; from choosing a text to its presentation. Thirdly, students will apply the principles learned by presenting a message from the book of Hebrews. Prerequisite: Homiletics

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS301

This course will examine the elements of effective management within multiple dimensions of holistic Christian ministry settings. Attention will be given to establishing a foundation for the understanding of the essential functions of management, individual and collective performance, organizational systems, governance, change issues and the stewardship of resources, human as well as financial. Students will also be challenged to apply their leadership learning in internship experiences, as well as in practicing and learning how to lead people through transformative life experiences like sacraments/ordinances, water baptism, child dedication, weddings and funerals.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT101

This entry level course is designed to demonstrate the importance and relevancy of the whole Bible for today. For many, it is a mystery how the Old Testament is related to the New Testament. Some think the former is a source of unrelated devotional stories, laws and prophecies. In truth, the two testaments are the complete story of God’s progressive plan for his people. It is the purpose of this course to concisely trace the story of Scripture, and to help students build a central foundation with which they can understand, interpret and apply God’s word to their lives today.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT103

The purpose of this course is to examine the teaching of the Bible and develop a systematic theology that addresses four important themes: the Word of God, the doctrine of God, biblical anthropology, and the doctrine of sin. Efforts will be made to explain how these themes are developed through promise and fulfilment from Genesis to Revelation.

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

One of the goals of our Pastoral Leadership is to develop a servant’s heart in our current and future ministry leadership. Through predetermined supervised ministry placements, students will have the opportunity to serve, working with others, discovering and developing ministry gifts and abilities. The classroom component will provide a venue for interaction with the text along with reflection and discussion with a chance to learn from peers, regarding the shared journey of serving the cause of Jesus Christ.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS101

This course is designed to increase an individual’s understanding and implementation of effective interpersonal communication behaviours and skills. It will help the student as they begin to understand communication and to assist them into becoming an effective and creative communicator. Verbal and nonverbal concepts affecting the communication process between individuals in various interpersonal contexts will be examined. Various models, methods, theories and practices of communication will be examined, as well participation in written and verbal activities designed to develop and improve interpersonal skills.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS102

What happens when a leader grows intentionally? Dynamic growth happens internally. What happens when a leadership team functions optimally? Dynamic things happen organizationally. This foundational course on leadership will attempt to inform and prepare students for their future lives and leadership by delving into the theology and theory of leadership as encased in the Scriptures and as practiced best by healthy organizations. Students will glean from exemplary leaders what they do and how they do it, both individually and in teams. Through self-discovery of their own God-given strengths and gift mixes, students will be inspired and equipped to become dynamic Kingdom leaders!

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Course elective will need final approval by faculty adviser.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT104

This course is an introduction to the Gospels. It will focus on the four canonical gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Issues relating to the synoptic problem will be explored, as well as the unique contribution of each gospel. The literary nature of the gospels will be examined, exploring the gospels as story, as well as their theological impact. As the title implies, this course will emphasize our response to the gospels: what it means to follow Jesus.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT105

The purpose of this course is to examine the teaching of the Bible and develop a systematic theology that addresses four important themes: the Word of God, the doctrine of God, biblical anthropology, and the doctrine of sin. Efforts will be made to explain how these themes are developed through promise and fulfilment from Genesis to Revelation.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS101

This course will examine contemporary family life in and out of the church, and its biblical purpose as students study the idea of a holistic family ministry model as well as the importance of an intergenerational mindset for church ministry. This course will include current strategies for various ministries that involve the family.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS102

An exploration of worldviews as intellectual, behavioural, and value systems in relation to culture. These powerful forces shape the lives of people often without clear reflection on the part of the holder. A person’s worldview has a huge influence on identity formation. Therefore, it is crucial to increase awareness and purposeful development of our worldview.

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

This course is directly related to the student’s supervised ministry placement each week. The classroom component serves as preparation for and reflection upon weekly ministry. The emphasis is on personal ministry preparation, working as part of a team, and development of ministry gifts and abilities.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS201

This course is a basic introduction to the Biblical languages Greek and Hebrew and to the tools with which the student can study the Scriptures more effectively. Beginning with an appreciation for the nature and challenges of working with the original languages of our Scriptures, the student will be equipped with the skills necessary for the proper use of language and interpretative tools such as concordances, lexicons, word-studies, critical commentaries, and computer software. The course is divided into three parts: a comprehensive walk through of the Logos Library System and learning the Hebrew and Greek alphabets and a basic introduction to vocabulary and grammar of each.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS201

Class participants will have an opportunity to learn sermon-building techniques through training in manuscript preparation and delivery styles. A lab component of the study requires the student to deliver a biblically-based message to fellow class members, and evaluate all other messages shared in the course. Through instruction, guests and a variety of hands on exercises, including preaching in class, students will explore the balance of both the prophetic and performance. Prerequisite: Hermeneutics

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS202

This is an introductory course in the act of pastoral care. It is designed to acquaint the student with foundational biblical and theological understandings, elemental skills, and rudimentary attitudes necessary for effective pastoral care in contemporary Christian ministry. Particular attention will be placed upon the securing of basic and practical knowledge, competencies and sentiments required to serve in a variety of pastoral care ministry contexts, within and through the local church and in the community at large.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS203

This course introduces the field of psychology, which includes a survey of topics including biology, psychological disorders, motivation, learning, conditioning, and social behaviour. It uses interactive means to address these topics in a format that should help the student to remember them.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS207

This course aims to help students improve all their communication skills: Writing, reading, speaking, and listening. The main emphasis, however, is on writing skills. Students work through the steps of writing a research project, summarize written text, and apply principles of clear and correct writing to their own compositions. Students learn research and documentation strategies and strengthen and expand their writing skills so that they can write more effectively for a variety of audiences and purposes.

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

The student’s skill development and growth in the area of pastoral ministry will be addressed, building on the skills learned in the Introductory Pastoral Practicum. Emphasis will be placed on continued development of the practical skills required of a shepherd in a local church setting. The theme for the second year practicum is Learning to Follow. In this stage of the practicum, the goal is to examine what it means to be a follower/disciple of Jesus Christ in the context of team- work as middle-management. Prerequisite: Practicum: Pastoral Ministry – Year 1 Winter

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT202

In this course students will be introduced to the content and significance of the first five books of the Bible. Attention will be given to key themes and exegetical issues, including how themes introduced in the Pentateuch are developed throughout the rest of the Bible. Classes will focus on interpreting and applying the course content to the student’s lives and ministries.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT205

From the foundations of the world, the salvation of a people has been God’s intent, and His Son, Jesus Christ, came to earth to complete such a redemption. The purpose of this course is to give the student a thorough perspective on two of the greatest pillars of the Christian faith: a biblical Christology and Soteriology. The study of the nature, life, and death and resurrection of Jesus Christ along with a truly biblical understanding of the nature of our salvation is an essential part of forming a biblical basis for the student’s faith in our Lord and a foundation for effective ministry in the future. Prerequisite: Theology 1: God and the Human Condition

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT201

The book of Romans is foundational to understanding Christian theology. Paul, the author, will address some of the most fundamental and essential doctrines upon which our faith rests. At the same time, this is not a letter devoid of practical instruction on how to live our Christian faith in a contrary and hostile world in a Christ-like manner, retaining Kingdom truths and principles.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS204

This is a survey course to introduce the student to the history of the Christian church primarily focusing on renewal and revival movements. This course examines the history of the church as it developed from the apostles to the present era. The course objective is to thoroughly acquaint the student with the historical and theological development of key figures, movements, and doctrines.

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

The student’s skill development and growth in the area of pastoral ministry will be addressed, building on the skills learned in the Introductory Pastoral Practicum. Emphasis will be placed on continued development of the practical skills required of a shepherd in a local church setting. The theme for the second year practicum is Learning to Follow. In this stage of the practicum, the goal is to examine what it means to be a follower/disciple of Jesus Christ in the context of team- work as middle-management. Prerequisite: Practicum: Pastoral Ministry – Year 1 Winter

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Choose from ONE of the following: Adolescent Development Human Development

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS302

This course is an introduction to the preparation, philosophy, theology, and skills of the pastoral counsellor. It addresses issues and situations commonly faced in the pastor’s office. Practical application of the principles and skills learned during lectures will be applied through various experiences and integrative assignments. Prerequisite: Introduction to Psychology (GS203)

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT305

This course is a study of the church and last things from a biblical theological perspective. The church is seen as a divinely established entity through which God’s people have their beginning, and develop identity and fellowship with God. Last things are studied with a focus on the eschatological hope of God’s people from the time of the Patriarchs to the time of Christ and the New Testament Church. Prerequisite: Theology 1: God and the Human Condition

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT301

This course uses the books of I and II Timothy and Titus to form a Pastoral Theology and a biblical template of contemporary pastoral responsibilities. This course exegetically explores the major themes of 1 Timothy, while having the students teach and apply 2 Timothy and Titus. Being sensitive to the backgrounds, issues, and purposes of these Pauline letters, the professor always seeks to apply the principles to contemporary pastoral experiences.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS301

An investigation into several main areas of philosophy, including: Metaphysics (what is the nature of ultimate reality?), Epistemology (what is knowledge?), Axiology (the study of values), Logic (critical thinking and forms of argument), and Philosophy of Religion. It will help students think critically about and clearly explain to others why they believe what they believe.

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

The emphasis of this practicum will be on the fourth year students continued skill development and growth in the area of pastoral ministry. This practical, hands-on course will follow the theme, Learning to Lead. In this final pastoral practicum at Vanguard College the students will have time to discuss the practice of leading others while examining some specific areas. This component of the practicum will help to take the student to the final step of leading a local church by focusing on leading in four areas: financial affairs, board/business meetings, bringing innovation in the church, denominational governance and responsibilities. Prerequisite: Practicum:Pastoral Ministry Year 2 Winter

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS312

This course will focus extensively on the outward relationship with our neighbours, the call to go into all the world and make disciples, with the intention to equip Christ followers to personally engage their neighbours and neighbourhoods.Through class lectures reading, field trips, guest presenters and assignments, students will have the opportunity to explore strategies, initiatives, partnerships and practices that facilitate that outward orientation. Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that the church is committed to a posture of being empowered and led by the Holy Spirit, believing that God has already gone before us and is at work in our communities.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT306

This course is a biblical exposition of the pneumatology in Lukan literature. It evaluates the relevant Lukan data narratively, grammatically, contextually, and canonically, paying particular attention to the way Luke portrays Jesus in the continuing story of God’s salvation plan. It will look at the different perspectives and ways of approaching Luke-Acts, paying close attention to the significant themes of salvation, empowerment for mission, and judgment. Modern interpreters of Lukan pneumatology will be critically evaluated. The OT background will also be appreciated at each step. A major concern of the course will be the relevancy of Luke’s message for us today.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS303

This course examines how a healthy pastoral life can be achieved through defining one’s personal call, developing one’s character components to reflect more thoroughly the attitude and actions of Jesus the Pastor, and deploying personal spiritual disciplines which enhance overall personal wholeness.This course centers on the personal issues of vocational call, character transformation (spiritual formation), and compassion/care assessment. Class members will be introduced to spiritual training exercises, experiences, and relationships that will assist them to become a daily “apprentice of Jesus, the Pastor” in a practical fashion. Prerequisite: Pastoral Letters

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT304

A study of the Old Testament historical narratives from Joshua to Esther and the history of Israel’s Conquest, Settlement, Exile and Restoration. The course will examine the key themes, critical issues, overall message and the character of God as revealed in these books and how these can be exegeted, interpreted, communicated and applied. Attention will also be given to the place of the historical books within God’s progressive revelation, and their relevance for Christians today.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS301

This course will examine the elements of effective management within multiple dimensions of holistic Christian ministry settings. Attention will be given to establishing a foundation for the understanding of the essential functions of management, individual and collective performance, organizational systems, governance, change issues and the stewardship of resources, human as well as financial. Students will also be challenged to apply their leadership learning in internship experiences, as well as in practicing and learning how to lead people through transformative life experiences like sacraments/ordinances, water baptism, child dedication, weddings and funerals.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT302

For 3000 years Jewish and Christian communities have used the Book of Psalms in their worship. From lament to praise, the entire human experience is brought before God in this book. This course surveys different methods of studying these ancient prayers so that students can fully engage them in their own spiritual and theological formation, as well as within the liturgy of the church.

Class Time: 1 hour | Credits: 3.00

The emphasis of this practicum will be on the fourth year students continued skill development and growth in the area of pastoral ministry. This practical, hands-on course will follow the theme, Learning to Lead. In this final pastoral practicum at Vanguard College, the students will have time to discuss the practice of leading others while examining some specific areas. This component of the practicum will help to take the student to the final step of leading a local church by focusing on leading in four areas: financial affairs, board/business meetings, bringing innovation in the church, denominational governance and responsibilities. Prerequisite: Practicum:Pastoral Ministry Year 2 Winter

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT401

The book of 1 Corinthians deals with some of the most difficult issues in the New Testament that are still relevant to our context today. This course explores the background, issues, and purpose of this Pauline letter, as well as how it fits into the overall story of Scripture. Paul wrote the letter of 1 Corinthians to a terribly divided church, where immorality, pride, divorce, cliques, sensationalism, and false teaching threatened the church’s very existence. Written to address these specific problems, Paul’s letter is theologically grounded and eminently practical. Throughout the course, we will explore the meaning and significance of Paul’s letter for us today.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS402

This course explores the origins of the Pentecostal Movement and its explosive growth and development since the turn of the 20th century. Analysis focuses on the movement’s historical antecedents and context, theological developments, and global expansion. Attention also concentrates on the unique Canadian story and the emergence and development of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEGS401

Ethics is the study of right and wrong. This course examines various approaches to Christian ethics and moral decision making. It also explores several ethical issues that impact the Church and society. Extensive classroom discussion is used to supplement lecture material. Students are encouraged to think critically and search the Scriptures to decide for themselves what is or is not ethical.Prerequisite: Philisophy

Class Time: 6 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEFE415

Third year pastoral studies students will continue to develop the practical skills needed in the area of pastoral ministry. Practical experience is gained in ministry management skills, preaching and teaching, as well as relational ministry in the areas of evangelism and discipleship. Students are required to complete a minimum of 400 hours of service in the local church setting. Prerequisite: Practicum: Pastoral Ministry – Year 3 Winter

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT408

This course underscores the centrality of the Word of God in the church. Students will develop effective Biblical communication through three major components. First, students will learn the expository preaching method, which takes the main idea of a Scriptural text and makes it the focal point of the message. While a particular outline will be taught, an emphasis on variety in presentation is stressed. Secondly, using advanced hermeneutical principles, students will learn the process of developing a message; from choosing a text to its presentation. Thirdly, students will apply the principles learned by presenting a message from the book of Hebrews. Prerequisite: Homiletics

Class Time: 3 hrs | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT405

Mission is a central focus in the Bible, answering the question, “What are people on earth for?” Students will be immersed in the biblical-theological roots of God’s mission in both the Old and New Testaments and the transforming vision of God’s purpose and plan for His people. Particular emphasis will be placed on the relevancy of God’s mission for the church, its leaders, and individual Christian believers. The mission of God will be related to the complex contemporary issues facing the church today. Prerequisite: Theology 3: Ecclesiology/Eschatology

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code BT406

This course examines all the writings of John, including the Gospel of John, his three epistles, and the book of Revelation. Issues of authorship, genre, purpose, unity, and common themes will be explored, as will the unique message of each. Because of its simplicity, John’s gospel has often been the first writings that Christians read, while its depths are mined by Christians of all ages. The epistles establish a love for God and others that is firmly grounded in the truth of the gospel. Although many are confused by and fearful of Revelation, we will study how it brings clarity, hope, and a fitting conclusion to the overall message of Scripture.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEBT402

This course has two main components: First a study on the prophets of Israel will overview the prophetic history, and then especially the background, purpose, and literary genre of the writing prophets of Isaiah through Malachi; secondly, a study of the book of Isaiah will consume three quarters of the course. Isaiah’s historical background, structure, and major themes will be explored. Particular attention will be placed on the Servant of the Lord. Isaiah’s place within the metanarrative will be emphasized, as well as its significance and application for Christians in the world today.

Class Time: 3 hours | Credits: 3.00

Online Course Code DEPS411

This course serves as a capstone in the educational preparation of students to live and lead a healthy pastoral ministry. Building on Pastoral Letters, Pastoral Life, and the rest of their Vanguard studies, this course gives practical guidance in preparation for future ministry beyond graduation. It focuses on training tools and topics to create/build a Christian community, supported by a sound philosophy of ministry. Prerequisite: Internship: Pastoral Ministry