Weyerhaeuser Center

Certificate Programs: 2012 Certificate in Teaching the Bible

February - June 2012
Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Program Objectives
Church leaders are expected to teach the Bible in various settings with a variety of different constituents. The Certificate in Teaching the Bible Program is designed to give Sunday-school teachers, lay ministry leaders and pastors insight into using the Bible more effectively with children, youth and adults. The certificate is specifically designed to provide the following:

an overview of the narrative and key theological themes of the Bible;
practical skills and tools to teach the Bible with power and effectiveness;
support in ministry and networking opportunities with others who regularly teach the Bible.

This non-degree program is open to all pastors, Sunday-school teachers and church leaders who are regularly called upon to teach the Bible. The course includes:

participation in classes that meet on Saturdays every two weeks from February to June. All classes meet 9 a.m.-3 p.m.;
participation in a small cohort-learning community;
reading assignments, reflection and group discussion;
completion of a final project that relates to the coursework.

Program Topics

Session 1 (Feb. 4) Major Themes in Christian Theology
Session 2 (Feb. 18) Major Themes in the Old Testament
Session 3 (March 24) Major Themes in the New Testament
Session 4 (April 14) Teaching Skills 101
Session 5 (April 28) Teaching the Bible to Children/Youth
Session 6 (May 19) Teaching the Bible to Adults
Session 7 (June 2) Teaching through Catechesis and Mentoring
Session 8 (June 16) Teaching the Bible in Small Groups

Why consider this program?

Have you ever wanted to facilitate a Bible study or teach a Sunday school class but felt that your understanding of basic theology and the Bible weren't deep enough? Are you tempted to teach a group of children, youth, or adults, but hesitant to do so because you don’t feel adequately prepared in the “nuts and bolts" of what it means to be a good teacher? Have you been putting off using your teaching gift because of fear, lack of training, or procrastination? Are you a seasoned teacher who feels called to sharpen your teaching and facilitation skills so that God can use you in even greater ways?

If you find yourself answering “yes” to any of these questions, then the Certificate in Teaching the Bible Program is for you! This program will give you an overview of basic Christian doctrine and the major themes of the Bible. You will learn the importance of catechesis and of being a mentor, and you will discover how to help mold children, youth, and adults into active followers of Jesus Christ. You will also learn valuable skills on how to teach others and facilitate small groups effectively.

What past participants have said about the program:

“The instructors were outstanding…I am so impressed with their quality.”

“I was among like-minded Christian adults who read, study, and write, as I wanted to be. I was exposed to passionate and very bright teachers – a really rare treat!"

“It is very affordable considering what it includes…a good value!"

“Great program and speakers.”

Program Cost:

$495 (includes a continental breakfast and lunch; books not included)

Payment Policy:

$75 non-refundable deposit (required at the time of registration and included in total fee)
10% discount if payment in full is received by January 6.
Payment in full is expected by the first day of class (February 4).
Students who recruit a new student into the program will receive a $75 credit on one course, or a $75 gift certificate to the Whitworth bookstore.

Cancellation Refund Policy:

Prior to January 6, 100% of amount paid, excluding deposit.
After January 6 and before April 15, 50% of the amount paid, excluding deposit.
After April 15, pro-rated according to # of classes attended, excluding deposit.

Statement of Student’s Financial Policy:
Submission of registration forms obligates the student for payment of tuition and fees including a 1.5-percent-per-month service charge that may be assessed on unpaid balances, as well as any subsequent collection expenses and fees, and implies acceptance of the university’s financial policies. It is the student’s responsibility to pay bills in a timely manner.

For further information:

To learn more about this program, please contact Tim Dolan, Ph.D., 509.777.4676 (tdolan@whitworth.edu), or Michelle Pace, 509.777.3275 (mpace@whitworth.edu).

Register Now

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