Reaching the Lost Introducing prisoners or homeless to Christ so that they may become followers of Jesus Christ.

Transcription

1 Ministry Introduction What is TLC Bible College? The Love of Christ (TLC) Bible College a (c)3 tax-exempt, non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to making followers of Lord Jesus. This program is free for one reason, to glorify Lord Jesus and because He asks us to make disciples. We hope you can find the courage and faith to do the same in your life, to make a difference, an eternal difference. TLC Bible College is dedicated to the evangelization and discipleship of new people throughout the world and providing support for homeless, incarcerated and sick (Matthew 25:40-46). We also focus on healing and restoring those who have been sexually, physically or spiritually abused. TLC Bible College operates strictly on donations from caring, mission-minded individuals and churches. All work is done by volunteers. No one receives a salary for their service. Donations The Love of Christ (TLC) Bible College a 501 C3 non-profit ministry and we will provide a tax deduction for your financial or material donation. We try to make sure your donation does the most good. To those who want to positively change this world, TLC Bible College is the charity that maximizes contributions. You can be assured that you are making a meaningful difference in some one s life. We pray that our website will encourage you to support this ministry through your prayers and donations. Vehicle Donations Thank you for considering donating your no longer needed vehicle to TLC Bible College. Proceeds from the sale of your donated vehicle are used to help fund the programs. Vehicles should be in at least fair condition and must be drivable without repairs. We will issue a tax donation receipt for your gift. Please call (866) for full details. Biblical Education Mission Through a comprehensive Bible correspondence course and our all-volunteer staff, the mission of The Love of Christ (TLC) Bible College is to serve the Lord by: Reaching the Lost Introducing prisoners or homeless to Christ so that they may become followers of Jesus Christ. Healing the Broken Hearted: Encouraging offenders and ex-offenders to be faithful and consistent in living according to Christian principles. Teaching Educating believers in principles of Christian living to equip them to live productive lives for Christ. Biblical Education TLC Bible College offers distance training for students who desire a biblical education but do not have the financial resources to attend traditional residential college programs or are incarcerated. TLC Bible College has no tuition and charges no fees for distance learning ministry education program. We have one mission, tell the World about Jesus, his amazing love and make disciples. Many students have gone on to start ministries, including pastoring churches or chaplains. 1 TLC 1/7/2015

2 Free ministry certification and degree program (distance learning only) is available to students wanting to learn more about ministry and God. There is a waiting list to join the school at this time. Everyone who expresses a desire to grow their faith into the deeper things that God has ordained for His children has the right to enroll in free of charge. Prisoners We believe that regeneration of the heart by the Lord Jesus Christ is the only answer to changing the behavior of inmates. Rehabilitation of inmates cannot be lasting or effective until there is first a heart change that comes from an individual becoming a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. Our main avenue of outreach is a Bible correspondence course that is sent free of charge to requesting inmates. (If funds are available) This ministry also sends new Bibles and Christian books to Chaplains for prison libraries. (If funds are available) We have sent thousands of courses to prisons throughout the United States. Open Enrollment (When Available) TLC Bible College has an open enrollment policy. Since there is no tuition and no fees for our programs, and no legal contract or paperwork required (and, therefore, no penalty for withdrawing from our course of study), we feel that anyone should have the opportunity to earn our certification of completion or degrees. You will still need to pass the course assignments. We only require your name and to register. We do not want to know anything about your religion, race, sex, gender or past history. TLC Bible College accepts all kinds of students from anywhere, any country, any nation, any religion. What we are looking for here are students who are eager to learn from God s Word and seek Him. We do ask that while you are enrolled that God and your relationship with Him are your primary focus. TLC Bible College has no financial assistance available, as the school furnishes its ministry programs (distance learning only) without charge to everyone. There is no need for any student loan and therefore, no need for any repayment disclosure. You will be responsible for the postage if we mail you the materials. Bible College Purpose The purpose of TLC Bible college programs is to enrich the student's Christian walk, not to qualify them for any type of position. We do expect some of our graduates to work full or part time in some type of Christian ministry, but TLC Bible College has no plans to host any employment placement service. There are no employment placement services provided. Many students have found employment in ministry or have started their own ministry. Check out our course assignments for more information. TLC Bible College offers 100 different courses (distance learning only) for certificate, associate bachelor, master and doctorate degree in Ministry Studies. What is the Goal of TLC? We are dedicated to the purpose of training and/or educating persons for ministry and/or other Christian service. Jesus Christ is the center of all our educational objectives. We also provide support for homeless, incarcerated and sick (Mathew 25:40-46). What kind of studies does TLC offer? We offer distance education studies with audio and video training (YouTube), if you are in prison, we will make exceptions. Our textbooks and study guides are in Adobe Acrobat (pdf) files and Word documents. You can only complete this course work from a computer. We cannot afford to mail the materials to the student unless the student will pay for the printing and shipping, if the funds are available, we will make exceptions to students in prison. 2 TLC 1/7/2015

3 Are there any on-campus requirements? No. All courses can be done at home, at your own pace and on your own schedule. We are planning on building or obtaining a campus in the near future. How difficult are the courses and how much time is involved? The studies are time-intensive and cannot be completed quickly. Our Associates Ministry degree requires 960 clock hours to earn the degree. Our Bachelors Ministry Degree programs require in excess of 1920 clock hours to earn the degree. We are not a diploma mill, nor do we offer shortcuts to a degree. The idea is not to just "get it over with" but to allow the text to speak to you and equip you for ministry. The courses are challenging, but not difficult. As with most things in life, what you get from them is directly related to how much work you put into them. What is included in the course materials? Basically everything that you need. All of the textbooks (pdf. files) in the Christian Ministry Education curriculum are completely free. You will need to have computer and internet access, and a high speed connection would be a great help, but if you are in prison, we will try to work around that condition. A printer and a bible will also be necessary, unless you are in prison. We encourage our students to utilize online and free bible resources for the completion of assignments. How does the process work? You can find the assignments in order on this website. You will complete the assignments in order and these back to TLC. An Instructor will take 7-10 days to grade and return your graded assignment or comments back to you. We advise you to only work on one course at a time and to send it in as soon as it is completed. Once you have earned the required credits for the certification program or the degree program, we will send you certification suitable for framing acknowledging your accomplishment. We will keep track of your progress in our office and will keep a transcript of your work on file. If you fail the course or assignment, you can retake it until you pass. You are not allowed to continue until you ve passed the assignment. How do I complete the course assignments? Generally speaking, our courses contain the same basic components as traditional classes; they are made up of audio lectures, a course syllabus, and textbook requirements. (Book requirements vary from course to course) Our courses contain these same components but are provided for you outside of the traditional classroom setting. You have a program director or other faculty member who is responsible for the course but he/she is not responsible for daily guidance through the materials. Your assignment/objectives are clearly outlined in your study guide. These will be a variety of written assignments (essay questions, research projects, critical reflection papers, summaries, etc...) meant to challenge and strengthen you in many areas. The assignments are easily submitted through the TLC College or even through the postal service if you prefer. Grades and critique are received in the same manner. How long does it take to finish a course or a degree? Are there any restrictions? TLC understands from years of experience, that not everyone learns at the same rate. When it comes to adult learners there are always outside factors that should be factored in. With this in mind, TLC allows students a maximum of 5 years to complete a degree program. Each course enrollment agreement is valid for one year and extensions are available. When you finish the 3 TLC 1/7/2015

4 courses on your first enrollment agreement, you can immediately register for another set of courses and this enrollment agreement will then be valid for one year. What if I need help while I am trying to do the studies? TLC has a dedicated Academic Advisory staff to work with you. We also have program directors, onsite and adjunct faculty, technical staff, and a variety of general staff students who will be available to help you on a daily basis. (You can make contact via or telephone). Is TLC an accredited college? No. Frankly, we cannot afford the costs involved to seek legitimate, US DOE recognized accreditation. However, our degrees are quite legal, and we look forward to developing a reputation for excellence in the evangelical and "third wave" academic community. If the Lord blesses us in the future with the financial means to do so, we would like to seek accreditation from a recognized agency at that time. One problem with accreditation at this time is a nonacademic requirement of promoting the homosexual lifestyle. We accept homosexuals but do not promote any sexual lifestyle. Accreditation A school is accredited when it has been investigated and found worthy of approval by an accrediting agency. Accreditation alone (or the lack of it) does not determine whether or not a school is legitimate or credible, since not all accreditation is equal. Some accrediting agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), but others are not recognized. Also, some schools are based outside of the U.S. and are accredited by standards which differ from those of the recognized agencies in the U.S. Prospective students should be aware of these important distinctions. We are inspired by Paul s words to the Corinthians, Do we begin again to commend ourselves? Or do we need, as some others, epistles of commendation to you or letters of commendation from you? You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men. (2 Corinthians 3:1-2) Transfers We do not take transfers or credit from other schools. You must start with the first assignment and complete the required assignment in order to receive our certificate or degrees. TLC Bible College courses or assignments will probably not transfer to other schools. Flexible Learning At TLC Bible College, there are no scheduled online sessions you need contend with, nor are you required to participate in, learning teams or groups designed for the "typical" younger campusbased student. You will work at your own pace, completing assignments in time frames that work best for you. TLC's method of flexible individualized instruction is designed to provide each student the guidance and support needed for successful course completion. Course Structure TLC Bible College online courses combine the best of online delivery and traditional university textbooks. Online you will find the course syllabus, course content, assignments, and online open book exams. This student-friendly course design allows you the most flexibility in choosing when and where you will study. Classroom of One TLC Bible College offers you the best of both worlds. You learn on your own terms and your own time, but you are never on your own. Once you enrolled, you will be assigned a personal student service representative who works with you on an individualized basis throughout your program of 4 TLC 1/7/2015

5 study. Course-specific faculty members are assigned at the beginning of each course, providing the academic support you need to successfully complete each course. Security and Integrity All students are required to do their own work. All lesson sheets and final exams are not returned to the student to discourage and sharing of answers. Any fraud or deceit and the student will result in forfeiture of degree or certification program. Grading Criteria TLC Bible College will offer the student either pass/fail or a standard letter grading assignment. If TLC is not notified, you will only receive a pass/fail notice. Note to students: Keep a copy of everything you submit. That way if your work is lost you can submit your copy for grading. If you do not receive your graded assignment or quiz results within two or three weeks after submitting it, please contact your instructor. We expect every student to produce his/her original, independent work. Any student whose work indicates a violation of the Academic Misconduct Policy (cheating, plagiarism) can expect penalties as forfeiture of all credit and dismissal from TLC Bible College. Bible Certification Program 12 lessons 480 hours Associates Degree in Ministry 28 additional lessons 960 hours Bachelor s Degree in Ministry 25 additional lessons 2420 hours Master s Degree in Ministry additional 25 lessons + additional 55 lessons 80 lessons total 960 hours Doctorate s Degree in Ministry additional 25 lessons + additional 55 lessons 100 lessons total 960 hours Normal fee for each lesson is $400. TLC Bible College PO Box 3060 Chino Valley, AZ (928) Fax (928) INSTRUCTOR Jeff Durbin durbinjeff@live.com TLC Lesson 1 1/15/2015 5

6 Welcome Statement. Welcome to the program. I want to cover a serious issue with many new students. Many of our students drop out because of two reasons, and in essence it is the same reason, that being rejection. It is kind of sad that many of us have lead defeated lives simply because we have a damaged heart that has built up a layer of scar tissue in which we either have pride or a form of hidden pride to protect us. This self protection is also self defeating in that we suffer with fear of rejection most of our lives and I want to tell you that our Lord can help you get over that fear and heal your heart. I used to be the most fearful person all because of what happened in my youth. Add to this fear a lack of identity and lack of love; I should have become a serial killer or worse. So I have great understanding and mercy for all new students who lack proper identity and who never has been loved. I will show grace and mercy to all new students but I will only reject students who repeated will not follow the lesson plan. As the lessons grow in complexity, I will show more mercy and grace, especially to those in prison. I will always be here to love and support you if your calling or desire is to start or enter any type of ministry. For I too have been rejected form school and ministry and I know the pain and heart damage associated with rejection, especially from intellectual believers rather than true followers of our Lord. My favorite students are the ones who have been rejected or have limited skills or no or little education. I love to see these chucks of coal become diamonds and many do. I want you to become ambassadors of King Jesus and build His kingdom while we have grace and time. All of your sins and past can be completely forgiven and you can have a fresh start. Are you ready to follow the Lord Jesus? Are you ready to be healed and/or set free? Are you ready to join the ministry? If yes to any of these questions, you are qualified and I will do my best to teach you about 1 percent of the things you need to live the life God intended for you. That 1 percent is 100 percent more than the world will teach you, the rest is up to you. May God bless your endeavors. Your servant, Jeff Durbin Th.D. TLC Lesson 1 1/15/2015 6

7 Ministry Study Program Certificate of Completion in Biblical Studies Lesson 1 Ministry Introduction Foundations Course ID 1101 Lesson 2 Christology 1 - Understanding the Messiah Course ID 0109 Lesson 3 Christology 2 - Resurrection Survey Course ID 0111 Lesson 4 Paterology 1 - Understanding God Course ID 0113 Lesson 5 Pneumatology 1 - Understanding the Holy Spirit Course ID 0115 Lesson 6 Soteriology 1 - Understanding Afterlife Course ID 0117 Lesson 7 Ecclesiology 1 - Understanding the Church Course ID 0119 Lesson 8 Eschatology 1 - Understanding Conflict Course ID 0123 Lesson 9 Soteriology 2 - Understanding the Gospel Course ID 0128 Lesson 10 Pneumatology 2 - Understanding the Gifts Course ID 0129 Lesson 11 Christology 3 - Understanding the Kingdom Course ID 0141 Lesson 12 Soteriology 3 - Testimony Expository Course ID 0168 Associates Degree in Ministry Studies Lesson 13 Hermeneutics 1 - Prayer and Fasting Course ID A1235 Lesson 14 Homiletics 1 - Understanding Storms Course ID A1238 Lesson 15 Hermeneutics 2 - Understanding Apostasy Course ID A1239 Lesson 16 Homiletics 2- Understanding Replacement Theology Course ID A1243 Lesson 17 Soteriology 4- Self-Examination (Self-Centeredness) Course ID A1245 Lesson 18 Soteriology 5- Understanding Law and Grace Course ID A1255 Lesson 19 Expository 1- Understanding Life Course ID A1265 Lesson 20 Hermeneutics 3- Understanding Prophets Course ID A1266 Lesson 21 Hermeneutics 4- Understanding God s Word Course ID A1269 Lesson 22 Eschatology 3- Understanding New Jerusalem Course ID A1271 Lesson 23 Christology 4- Jesus lineage Course ID A1273 Lesson 24 Homiletics 3- Understanding Love Course ID A1274 Lesson 25 formerly 81 - Comparative Religions Course ID C6532 Lesson 26 Foreign Languages- Greek Introduction Course ID F55001 Lesson 27 formerly 25 - Homiletics 5 - The Upper Room Discourse- Course ID B2593 Lesson 28 formerly 27 - Old Testament Survey Parables Course ID B2594 Lesson 29 Homiletics 6 New Testament Parables Mustard Seed B2590 Lesson 30 formerly 26 - Homiletics 7 New Testament Parables Foolish Manager B2590 Lesson 31 Homiletics 7 Ten Foolish Virgins- Course ID B2595 Lesson 32 formerly 82 - Hermeneutics 7- Law of Attraction Philosophy English 101 Course ID ENG 101 English 102 Course ID ENG 102 Algebra 101 Course ID MATH 101 Algebra 102 Course ID MATH 102 Social Sciences 101 Course ID SCI G101-5 Social Sciences 102 Course ID SCI G101-6 Computer Science 101 Course ID COMP V-25 Computer Science 101 Course ID COMP V-26 Life Science Biology/Chemistry/Physics 101&102 Literature Course 101 Course ID LIT 101 Literature Course 101 Course ID LIT 102 College Math 211&212 Science Biology/Chemistry/Physics 111&112 Humanities 102 Hebrew Greek Anthropology TLC Lesson 1 1/15/2015 7

8 Art Computer science Associate of Ministry An Associate of Ministry degree is designed for students who wish to enter directly into ministry after completing their associate degree. The core credit requirements for this type of associate degree are generally between 33 and 35 credits. Three credits are for the fine arts, which include courses such as art history, or theater arts between nine and 11 are required for mathematics and science; nine are required for communications, which include courses such as English composition; three are for humanities, which consists of choices such as American studies, comparative literature and history; three are for foreign language; three are for computer science and technology; and the remaining three are for social sciences, which include anthropology, political science or human services. Bachelor s Degree in Ministry Lesson 33 Anthropology 1 -Old Testament Parables- Course ID B2567 Lesson 34 Hermeneutics 9- Old Testament Survey- Course ID B2556 Lesson 35 Hermeneutics 10- Old Testament Detailed- Course ID B2557 Lesson 36 Hermeneutics 11- Proverbs- Course ID B2551 Lesson 37 Hermeneutics 12- Psalms 1- Course ID B2591 Lesson 38 Hermeneutics 13- Psalms 2- Course ID B2592 Lesson 39 Expository 7- Understanding Hell - Course ID B2533 Lesson 40 Hermeneutics 15- Lazarus and the Rich Man- Course ID B2535 Lesson 41 Foundations 6- Understanding Creation- Course ID B2537 Lesson 42 Eschatology Intro- Course ID B2538 Lesson 43 Languages - Greek II- Course ID LANG B2539 Lesson 44 Anthropology 2- Jewish Feasts- Course ID B2540 Lesson 45 Anthropology 3- Temple and Tabernacle- Course ID B2541 Lesson 46 Expository 7- It is Finished- Course ID B2546 Lesson 47 Counseling- Course ID B2549 Lesson 48 Homiletics 7 - Understanding Paul- Course ID B2569 Lesson 49 Expository 6- Demonic Spirits - Course ID B2571 Lesson 50 Hermeneutics 8- New Covenant- Course ID B2573 Lesson 51 Hermeneutics 7- The Cross- Course ID B2575 Lesson 52 Expository 5- Funerals- Course ID B2599 Lesson 53 Foundations 5- Book of Romans- Course ID B2597 Lesson 54 Systematic Theology- Course ID 401 Lesson 55 Homiletics 11 Understanding Evil - Course ID B2623 Lesson 56 Homiletics 14 Understanding Satan - Course ID B2644 Lesson 57 Homiletics 19 Ministry Calling - Course ID B2647 Lesson 58 Practicum - Course ID B2521 Ordination Papers if requested English 201 Course ID ENG 201 English 202 Course ID ENG 202 College Math 211&212 Science Biology/Chemistry/Physics 111&112 Humanities 211 Hebrew Greek Anthropology Fine Arts Computer science TLC Lesson 1 1/15/2015 8

9 Thesis Requirement A thesis (or dissertation) may be arranged as a thesis by publication or a monograph, with or without appended papers respectively. An ordinary monograph has a title page, an abstract, a table of contents, comprising the various chapters (introduction, literature review, findings, etc.), and a bibliography or (more usually) a references section. They differ in their structure in accordance with the many different areas of study (arts, humanities, social sciences, technology, sciences, etc.) and the minimal differences between them. In a thesis by publication, the chapters constitute an introductory and comprehensive gist of the appended published and unpublished article documents. Dissertations normally report on a research project or study, or an extended analysis of a topic. The structure of the thesis or dissertation explains the purpose, the previous research literature which impinges on the topic of the study, the methods used and the findings of the project. Most world universities use a multiple chapter format : a) an introduction, which introduces the research topic, the methodology, as well as its scope and significance; b) a literature review, reviewing relevant literature and showing how this has informed the research issue; c) a methodology chapter, explaining how the research has been designed and why the research methods/population/data collection and analysis being used have been chosen; d) a findings chapter, outlining the findings of the research itself; e) an analysis and discussion chapter, analyzing the findings and discussing them in the context of the literature review (this chapter is often divided into two analysis and discussion); f) a conclusion. Courses and titles are subject to change. Master s in Ministry Program Lesson 59 formerly 49 - Advanced Systematic Theology- Course ID Lesson 60 Advanced Hamartiology - Course ID Lesson 61 Advanced Christology - Course ID Lesson 62 Advanced Apologetics - Course ID Lesson 63 Advanced Apologetics - Resurrection - Course ID Lesson 64 Advanced Counseling 1 - Course ID Lesson 65 Advanced Theology Proper - Course ID Lesson 66 Christian Walk - Course ID Lesson 67 Inaugural Eschatology - Course ID Lesson 68 Advanced Eschatology- Course ID Lesson 69 Languages - Greek Review Lesson 70 Advanced Ecclesiology - Course ID Lesson 71 formerly 50 - Advanced Hermeneutics - Course ID Lesson 72 formerly 51 - Advanced Pneumatology- Course ID Lesson 73 formerly 52 - Advanced Soteriology - Course ID Lesson 74 formerly 53 - Advanced Angelology - Course ID Lesson 75 formerly 54 - Advanced Bibliology - Course ID Lesson 76 formerly 55 - Advanced Homiletics - Course ID Lesson 77 formerly 56 - Advanced Expository - Course ID Lesson 78 formerly 57 - Advanced Anthropology Course ID Lesson 79 formerly 58 - Advanced Eschatology 2 - Course ID Lesson 80 Advanced Homiletics Ministry Review - Course ID Lesson 81 Advanced Homiletics Prayer Life - Course ID Lesson 82 Advanced Homiletics - Course ID Thesis Lesson 83 Advanced Homiletics - formerly 70 - Master s Review - Course ID Hebrew Greek Anthropology Fine Arts TLC Lesson 1 1/15/2015 9

10 Master s in Ministry Program Requirements 1. a written thesis, based on original research. 2. Two letters of recommendation. Doctorate in Ministry Program Lesson 84 formerly 71 Understanding Philosophy- Course ID Lesson 85 formerly 72 Suicide Prevention- Course ID Lesson 86 formerly 73 Counseling 3- Course ID Lesson 87 formerly 74 Sexual Abuse Counseling- Course ID Lesson 88 formerly 75 Philosophy 2- Course ID Lesson 89 formerly 76 Substance Abuse Counseling- Course ID Lesson 90 formerly 77 Rhetoric 1- Understanding Atheism - Course ID Lesson 91 formerly 78 Hebrew 5- Course ID Lesson 92 formerly 79 Psychiatry- Course ID Lesson 93 formerly 80 Clinical application- Course ID Lesson 94 formerly 80 Psychology Course ID Lesson 95 Elective Lesson 96 Elective Lesson 97 Elective Lesson 98 Lower Criticism and Higher Criticism Lesson 99 TBA Lesson 100 formerly 81 Dissertation- Course ID Hebrew Greek Anthropology Fine Arts Courses and titles are subject to change. Upon completion of the doctorate program the student should be able to: 1. Understand and discuss the history of Christian philosophical thought. 2. Understand and discuss the various divergent paths of Christian philosophical thought. 3. Apply Christian epistemology to the development of a Christian philosophy. 4. Understand and discuss the role of Christian philosophy in the area of apologetics. Required Courses (6): Introduction to Philosophy Philosophy of Religion Introduction to Christian Ethics History of Christian Philosophy Introduction to Apologetics Advanced Apologetics Elective Courses (choose 4): New Age and the Occult World Religions Modern Religious Cults Christology Soteriology Theology Proper TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

11 Doctorate Dissertation Requirements 1. a written thesis based on original research. 2. Two letters of recommendation. A doctorate is an academic degree or professional degree that, in most countries, qualifies the holder to teach at the university level in the specific field of his or her degree, or to work in a specific profession. You are required to write your own dissertation in order to graduate. The paper must be a minimum of 50 papers and if you are in prison, I suggest writing about your future ministry plans. A thesis (or dissertation) may be arranged as a thesis by publication or a monograph, with or without appended papers respectively. An ordinary monograph has a title page, an abstract, a table of contents, comprising the various chapters (introduction, literature review, findings, etc.), and a bibliography or (more usually) a references section. They differ in their structure in accordance with the many different areas of study (arts, humanities, social sciences, technology, sciences, etc.) and the minimal differences between them. In a thesis by publication, the chapters constitute an introductory and comprehensive gist of the appended published and unpublished article documents. Dissertations normally report on a research project or study, or an extended analysis of a topic. The structure of the thesis or dissertation explains the purpose, the previous research literature which impinges on the topic of the study, the methods used and the findings of the project. We prefer a multiple chapter format : a) an introduction, which introduces the research topic, the methodology, as well as its scope and significance; b) a literature review, reviewing relevant literature and showing how this has informed the research issue; c) a methodology chapter, explaining how the research has been designed and why the research methods/population/data collection and analysis being used have been chosen; d) a findings chapter, outlining the findings of the research itself; e) an analysis and discussion chapter, analyzing the findings and discussing them in the context of the literature review (this chapter is often divided into two analysis and discussion); f) a conclusion. HONORS RECOGNITION Baccalaureate degree students who graduate with at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) will be awarded Honors recognition: cum laude GPA (with distinction) magna cum laude (with great distinction) summa cum laude (with highest GPA distinction) Courses and titles are subject to change. Examination Requirements: Papers and tests will vary based on the instructor s style. Some instructors may use midterm and final and others simply a final. TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

12 Doctrinal Statement We believe the Holy Bible is the inspired, inerrant and infallible Word of God to man. It is without error and the sole authority for Christian faith and conduct. That the Word of God is essential for salvation through belief in Jesus Christ and His death, burial and resurrection. II Timothy 3:16-17 II Peter 1:19-21 John 17:17 We believe there is one and only one true and living God. He is the infinite and all powerful Creator of the universe. He is worthy of all love, honor and glory. Yet, in the unity of the Godhead, there are manifested three persons we call the Trinity or tri-unity God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ) and God the Holy Spirit. They are co-equal and co-eternal, executing distinct but harmonious offices. They cooperated in creation, revealing of Scripture, and the plan of salvation. Genesis 1:1-2, 26 Colossians 1:18 Matthew 28:19 Hebrews 1:1 II Peter 1:20-21 John 3:16-17 Ephesians 4:30 We believe that Jesus fulfilled all prophecy concerning the promised Messiah by God. He was born of a virgin and manifested as God in the flesh. Jesus was sent to pay for our sin on the cross by God the Father to offer mankind eternal life. Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, ascended into heaven, and is now seated in heaven at the right hand of God the Father. Isaiah 7:14 John 3:16-17 I Corinthians 15:3-10 Acts 1:11 We believe man was created in the image of God on the sixth day of creation. He voluntarily fell from his sinless state by disobeying God's command. As a result, this sin nature is passed upon all men which makes the new birth (faith in Jesus) absolutely necessary for salvation. Genesis 1:26 & 3:1-24 Romans 5:12 & 6:23 John 3:3, 7, 36 We believe that salvation is the gift of God available only by grace alone through faith alone in the finished work of Jesus Christ. The individual must believe that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and bodily rose again the third day. Confession is made and a new life of service, spiritual growth, witness and desire to obey the Lord begins. Roman 6:23 & 10:9-11 Ephesians 1:13-14; 2:8-9 I Corinthians 15:3-4 John 19:28 Romans 8:38-39 Philippians 1:6 We believe that the Holy Spirit is the Third Person of the Trinity. He lives in the follower of the Lord Jesus as their teacher, comforter, prayer partner, helper, etc., enabling them to live a godly life. He has been given to the world to convict men of sin, judgment and righteousness. According to the Scripture, He does not draw any attention to Himself, but instead glorifies Jesus Christ. Matthew 28:19 Romans 8:14,16, John 14:16, 26 & 16:7-15 I Corinthians 3:16 We believe in the existence of Satan, called the devil, and his present control over unregenerate mankind. He is the father of lies, the prince of the power of the air, the author of all false religions and the accuser of the brethren. He will ultimately be destroyed. John 8:44 Ephesians 2:2 & 6:11-12 Revelation 20:10 Luke 10:18 We believe in the resurrection of the saved and the lost, those that are saved unto the resurrection of life in heaven and those that are lost unto eternal damnation in hellfire. Daniel 12:2 Matthew 25:46 John 5:29 Revelation 20:5 Those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ during this Grace Age are a part of the Church. We believe the Church's mission is to go into the entire world and preach the gospel to every creature, baptizing and teaching everyone who believes. We believe the Church s ordinances are Baptism and the Lord s Supper. Matthew 28:19-20 Mark 16:15 Acts 1:8; 2:41-42; 8:12-13, 36-38; 10:47-48 I Corinthians 11:23-27 TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

13 Lesson #1 Assignment Introduction to Ministry We re glad you have chosen to find out more about TLC Bible College (TLC). This class is the basic introduction to our core beliefs or basics. Since we have students from many different church backgrounds and un-churched backgrounds, this assignment was designed to clearly explain who and what we believe and were we stand. Our goal is to help you understand the Father (God), the Son (Jesus) and the Holy Spirit (Holy Ghost or Comforter) and develop a better relationship with God and to others. At times, you may feel uncomfortable but do not worry, we want the best for you and for you to learn about God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. (The Trinity) We are not to judge you but to increase your bible knowledge and hopefully equip you for ministry. For this program we will utilize many different translations of the bible for this program. Many of you may have grown accustomed to a certain translation and that is fine, we only want to teach you different The Basis for This Class: Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 NIV We require two things from you; faithfulness and honesty. We do not want any more people in the ministry that do not know the Lord or are not faithful or honest, you do not need to be perfect and in fact we prefer that our students are less than perfect. Please pray about this before starting the assignment. The Goal of This Class: I will commit myself to JESUS CHRIST and to God s Word, the Holy Bible. What are the Basics? Three Things Connect Us 1. Salvation (Connect to God) What advantages are there to being in Christ How do we find ourselves in Christ The what and why of baptism. The what and why of communion. 2. Purpose (Teaching the Word of God) Our purpose statement Our statement of faith Our structure 3. Commitments (Connecting to Change) Who we are trying to reach (target) TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

14 Salvation (Connect to God) All of you are God's children because of your faith in Christ Jesus. And when you were baptized, it was as though you had put on Christ in the same way you put on new clothes. Faith in Christ Jesus is what makes each of you equal with each other, whether you are a Jew or a Greek, a slave or a free person, a man or a woman. Galatians 3:26-28 (Contemporary English Version) We will go in great detail about salvation much later in other lessons. Why Am I Here? Most people live their entire lives without ever knowing, "Why?" They occupy time, space and resources on planet Earth. They exist year after year with no idea of why they live or God's purpose for their lives. The most basic question a person can ask is, "What is the meaning of my life?" Everyone wants to be happy. People try many ways: Some look for happiness by acquiring possessions Some look for happiness by experiencing pleasure Some look for happiness by gaining prestige and power Real happiness comes from finding God s purpose for my life. That s right; God has a purpose and a plan for you! TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

15 For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 (New Living Translation) The Bible says my King is the King of the Jews. He's the King of Israel. He's the King of righteousness. He's the King of the ages. He's the King of Heaven. He's the King of glory. He's the King of kings, and He's the Lord of lords. That's my King. I wonder...do you know Him? My King is a sovereign King. No means of measure can define his limitless love. He's enduringly strong. He's entirely sincere. He's eternally steadfast. He's immortally graceful. He's imperially powerful. He's impartially merciful. Do you know Him? He's the greatest phenomenon that has ever crossed the horizon of this world. He's God's Son. He's the sinner's Savior. He's the peak of civilization. He's unparalleled. He's unprecedented. He is the loftiest idea in literature. He's the highest personality in philosophy. He's the fundamental doctrine of true theology. He's the only one qualified to be an all-sufficient Savior. I wonder if you know Him today. He supplies strength for the weak. He's available for the tempted and the tried. He sympathizes and He saves. He strengthens and sustains. He guards and He guides. He heals the sick. He cleanses the lepers. He forgives sinners. He discharges debtors. He delivers the captives. He defends the feeble. He blesses the young. He serves the unfortunate. He regards the aged. He rewards the diligent, and He beautifies the meager. I wonder if you know Him. He's the key to knowledge. He's the wellspring of wisdom. He's the doorway of deliverance. He's the pathway of peace. He's the roadway of righteousness. He's the highway of holiness. He's the gateway of glory. Do you know Him? Well, His light is matchless. His goodness is limitless. His mercy is everlasting. His love never changes. His word is enough. His grace is sufficient. His reign is righteous, and His yoke is easy and His burden is light. I wish I could describe Him to you. Yes, He's indescribable. He's incomprehensible. He's invincible. He's irresistible. You can't get Him out of your mind. You can't get Him off of your head. You can't outlive Him, and you can't live without Him. Well, the Pharisees couldn't stand Him but they found out they couldn't stop Him. Pilate couldn't find any fault in Him. Herod couldn't kill Him. Death couldn't handle Him, and the grave couldn't hold Him. I wonder if you know Him. TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

16 Why Am I Here? 1. God made you to GLORIFY Himself. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 (New International Version) 2. God made you to LOVE you. And from far away the Lord appeared to his people and said, I love you people with a love that will last forever. Jeremiah 31:3 (New Century Version) For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV) 3. God made us to KNOW him in a personal relationship. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will a man teach his neighbor, or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord, because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. Hebrews 8:10b-11 (NIV) 4. God made us to have a FULL and SATISFYING life. The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness. John 10:10 (NLT) What s the Problem? Why is it that most people are not experiencing God s love and the full life that He wants them to have? Man has a natural desire to BE BOSS and to ignore God's principles for living! To do my own thing. It's my life and I'll do what I **** well please! The Bible calls this attitude SIN Note: What is the middle letter of this word? I All of us, like sheep, have gone astray; each of us has turned to his own way. Isaiah 53:6 (New American Standard Bible) If we say that we've never sinned, we are only fooling ourselves, and refuse to accept the truth. 1 John 1:8 (NLT)...For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23 (NIV) "Doing" sin involves two things: 1. DOING what we shouldn t. Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact sin is lawlessness. 1 John 3:4 (NIV) 2. NOT DOING what we should. Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. James 4:17 (NIV) TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

17 But there is a problem your sins have cut you off from God. Because of your sin, he has turned away Isaiah 59:2 (NLT) When our relationship with God is not right, it causes problems in every area of our lives: marriage, career, relationships, finances, etc. When we have problems, we know we need God! But often we try to cope on our own before turning to God. There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. Proverbs 16:25 (NIV) Even when we know that our deepest need is God, we often try to know Him on our own terms and our own way! Salvation by HERITAGE My mother was a Christian... Salvation by SINCERITY It doesn't matter what you believe, just be sincere Salvation by SUBTRACTION I'll give up all my bad habits. Salvation by SERVICE I'll work real hard and earn it Salvation by ATTENDANCE I'll be religious and go to church. No one can ever be made right in God's sight [saved] by doing what the law commands [keeping the law]. For the more we know of God's laws, the clearer it becomes that we aren't obeying them; his laws serve only to make us see that we are sinners. Romans 3:20 (LB) Can mankind save himself by doing good and not doing bad things? NO! So, we can't pay the price for our own sin -- and cancel the debt we owe -- so, if we re going to be saved somebody has to pay! TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

18 What Is the Solution to Our Problem? Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. Hebrews 9:27-28 (NIV) Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6 (NIV) Jesus has already taken care of our sin problem! God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness (in right standing with) God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV) But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (NIV) God has already done His part to restore our relationship to Him. He took the initiative. Now He waits for each of us to individually accept what He has done for us. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 (NIV) But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. Ephesians 2:13 (NIV) In Him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace... Ephesians 1:7 (NIV) Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus... Romans 8:1 (NIV) How do I become "IN CHRIST"? TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

19 What Does God Want Me to do to Become "In Christ"? I have to Get on B.A.S.E. with God. BELIEVE that Jesus is the Son of God and that He died to pay for my sins. That He and He alone can save me. I mean that you have been saved by grace through believing. You did not save yourselves; it was a gift from God. It was not the result of your own efforts, so you cannot brag about it. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NCV) For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV) No one can be made right with God by following the law. The law only shows us our sin. But God has a way to make people right with him without the law. God makes people right with himself through their faith in Jesus Christ. This is true for all who believe in Christ. Romans 3:20-22 (NCV) ADMIT that I have sin in my life that has separated me from God. The Bible word for this is REPENT. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord... Acts 3:19 (NIV)...But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Luke 13:3 (NIV) SURRENDER my heart to Jesus & make Him the Boss of my life. Then Jesus said to all the people: If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross each day and follow me. If you want to save your life, you will destroy it. But if you give up your life for me, you will save it. Luke 9:23-24 (CEV) If you use your mouth to say, Jesus is Lord, and if you believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, you will be saved. We believe with our hearts, and so we are made right with God. And we use our mouths to say that we believe, and so we are saved. Romans 10:9-10 (NCV) EXPRESS my new faith in Jesus by being baptized which pictures His death, burial and resurrection. TLC Lesson 1 1/15/

20 We realize many of you will not agree but these are foundations and things you should expect to learn. If you are not a believer or are new the faith, you are still welcome. Prisoners Even if you are in prison, no big deal to us. You can have a wonderful prison ministry and possibly even when you get out. I know this is huge news to people that have been on drugs or in prison, but I believe God is big, big, big. He can use you if you submit to Him. I know it and I rather have a sold out ex-con preach to me anytime. At least they are real. I do not care anything about your past. I only care about your future. Druggies, booze hounds, prostitutes, I love you and want you to succeed. I love you because God tells me too and I want you to have resources to help yourself and others. Notice to prisoners, I will not help you in any other fashion, I will not pass messages or view your art or send you anything other than your work. I know that is strong language but I am only interested in presenting the Gospel to you. Most prisoners are not interested in the Gospel, but if you are for real, so are we and we are here to minister to you, I don t care where you are, what you have done or how long you are in, the Gospel can be learned and preached and that will change lives. It is not about religion but a relationship and we are commanded to preach unto prisoners. We do care for you and your well-being, but we are a poor organization. If you are in prison, and do not have access to a bible, let one of the instructors know. We will try to get a bible somehow, someway to you. We are a poor school, but rich in God s resources. If you threaten, intimidate, harass, or manipulate our instructors in any fashion, we will drop you from the program and file a report against you. We are here for one reason only, to represent Lord Jesus. TLC Lesson 1 1/15/