Licensure and Ordination Program VISION INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MINISTRY is a unique ministry. It is unique in its programs, focus of ministry, and vision for the future. First, you will find as you review the Catalog that our programs are practical in nature, designed for motivated adults, local church oriented and able to equip people for effective service for Christ. Our goal of ministry is discipleship -- training the saints of God for powerful Christian Service. Our ministry focus is to assist men and women of God, with their local church, to bring the transforming power of Jesus Christ to their communities, to the cities of our nation, and to the indigenous peoples of our world. Our vision for the future is unique in that we believe that VISOM is a personal home study program to prepare you for God's great end-time harvest. There is a fresh wind of God's Spirit blowing on our world and it requires innovative ministries with innovative delivery systems to bring the Gospel to the nations. Yet, we must never forget our primary focus - "teach all nations and make disciples." We invite you to be a part of our vision, trusting that we might have a small part in the fulfillment of your vision for the Kingdom of God. Sincerely, Stan E. DeKoven, Ph.D. Founder International Training and Education Network Vision International University
General Information OUR HISTORY In 1974, Vision began both in Tasmania, Australia and San Diego, California. Dr. Ken Chant, founder of Vision Bible College, began in Launceston, Tasmania. Simultaneously, Dr. Joseph Bohac and Dr. Stan DeKoven began Logos Institute, a local church training program in practical ministry and counseling. By 1977, Dr. Chant moved his school to Sydney, Australia, joining Dr. Allan Langstaff. While Dr. DeKoven pursued his graduate studies, Logos Institute continued as a counseling ministry. By 1982, Dr. Chant moved to the United States (St. Paul, Minnesota). He established his program there. Dr. DeKoven returned to San Diego after earning his doctorate and continued to expand the Logos program. Simultaneously, Dr. Randy Gurley, Chairman of the Board of Regents and Executive vice-president of Vision, began his Bible College teaching ministry eventually merging with Vision. By 1985, Dr. Chant, in response to a strong leading from the Lord, brought his outstanding Bible College to San Diego, California. Vision Bible College was legally and rightly incorporated as a non-profit corporation in 1985. By 1987, Dr. DeKoven and Dr. Chant had established a full-time, short-term campus and eventually merged their hearts and visions. The network of affiliated resource centers, the desire of Dr. DeKoven s heart, began to be established and has grown as is described hereafter. 1990 was a pivotal year for Vision. Dr. Chant, in obedience to the Lord, returned to his native Australia. Prior to his leaving, Vision Bible College, under Dr. DeKoven s direction, had expanded to its present university status. A headquarters site was obtained in the beautiful community of Ramona, California, where the present headquarters continues to be based, along with a counseling and education center. As of 2013, Vision has over 5,000 schools in its growing network and over 50, 000 students in 151 nations.
Philosophy and Objectives In this day of disappearing moral absolutes, it is imperative that all Christians be reminded that the Bible, as the revelation of God's truth, must determine not only our doctrinal beliefs, but also our lifestyle. In a changing world, the Christian has an unchanging standard, The Word of God. The Vision "Standards of Conduct" are based upon the teachings and principles of Scripture, seeking to develop personal holiness and discipline exemplified in a lifestyle glorifying to God. Vision School of Ministry is a Bible based, Christ centered ministry dedicated to the teaching and training of Christians for the work of the ministry. Our overall goal is to see the word of God taken to the whole world, so that God s people everywhere will have the opportunity to train for effective Service to our King. In keeping with this goal, we endeavor to see all our Institute graduates: 1. Be able to communicate the Word of God to others, intending to win them to Christ. 2. Be able to share/teach the Word of God to others, and thus become a discipler of men and women to maturity. 3. Have a genuine concern for missionary work around the world, with a special concern for the urban centers, as a missionary, volunteer, sponsor, or prayer partner. 4. To reach Christian maturity with his/her commitment to Christ and His Church. 5. Be able to continue a daily, regular study of the Word of God as an autonomous learner which is only characteristic of serious servants of God. 6. Have a heart for service in the local church, in the community and to ones neighbor around the world. COMMUNITY SERVICE EMPHASIS Community Service is an essential component of Vision s vocational ministry training emphasis. For more information, please see Community Service.
OUR FIVE VALUES OF COMPETENCY-BASED VOCATIONAL MINISTRY TRAINING Vision affirms the following values for vocational ministry training: Christ All teaching will be centered in Christ seeking to bring students into a Christ-like life and thinking. Community Training will be carried out and proven in the context of community life (relationships). The student s ministerial vocation will be expressed and worked out in the daily life of his or her various communities. Character Building strong character will be the goal of all training, not just an accumulation of knowledge. The indwelling life of Christ expressed and worked out in community will develop godly character. Calling Will be observed, developed, and proven within the immediate context of the community. Competency Competency in a particular area of life and ministry is developed and nurtured in the environment of a loving community. Competency is demonstrated by practical, hands-on training in the immediate context of the local church and community.
VISION SCHOOL OF MINISTRY WHAT IS VISION? CHURCH AT ANTIOCH AND EPHESUS Model for Ministry Training In the Old Testament, the training for ministry was Spirit led and birthed in the school of the prophets. In the New Testament, our best model for ministry training is seen in the church at Antioch and Ephesus, especially Acts 11:19-26, 13:1-4, 14:26-28, 15:30-35, 19: 1-10. Here we see a church alive, with Paul and Barnabas, other prophets and teachers, raising up men and women for fruitful ministry. They did so under the authority of the elders, who were accountable to those who sent them out. This remains our model for education. Vision School of Ministry provides a home study program to bring to the church, trained leaders with spirit and power. Our focus is in the restoration and transformation of lives, cities, and nations, by the power of God. Distinctives Vision School of Ministry is a local church program for practical training in the local church (adult educational curriculum), and a Home Study program for the mature adult student, provided by direct distance or in group setting. Offering a Bible-based program with an emphasis on leadership development. A learning environment integrated with the local church, right in your own home or small group study. Providing quality educational opportunities at a cost that is within reach of the average person. College credit is available upon request.
WHAT WE BELIEVE ABOUT NETWORKING Doctrines This is not intended to be a comprehensive statement of faith, but rather a guide to the boundaries within which the School of Ministry functions. Those who share our spiritual identity will be generally familiar with the following terms, and will be able to fill in what is lacking. However, if you desire clarification of any point, please do not hesitate to inquire. We will be pleased to give you details of our stance upon these principles. We believe: In the autonomy of the local church and in the development of the church of the locality with the help, direction, truth, instruction, guidance and counsel of the five-fold gift ministries and church leadership. That the local church should be built on a sound understanding and revelation of the word of God. In the necessity of watching over and protecting one another from harm, error and deception through mutual commitment and accountability. That we should live and lead in accordance with the principles of God s Word. In quality input and relevant equipping to help make other ministries more effective. In opportunities to work closely with friends in extending Christ s Kingdom. In identifying with others who share a common faith and vision. In a fellowship of ministers dedicated to nurturing relationships and strengthening bonds of love between each other and not to control or usurp local church autonomy. That as ministers we should uphold the highest moral and ethical values taught in the Bible in order to be effective around the world for Jesus Christ through a strong local church.
LICENSURE AND ORDINATION PROGRAM The Programs of Vision School of Ministry are organized as complete programs. At present there are two certificate programs under Vision School of Ministry, they are: Biblical Studies, and Practical Ministry. Our emphasis is on Leadership and Pastoral Care and Bible/Theological knowledge that is practical and usable in service in the local church. As you review these programs you will see that the utmost care has been taken to provide for an outstanding educational experience. Certificate in Biblical Studies for Licensure The Word of God and the knowledge of God are central to all the Vision programs. Hebrews 4:12 states that the Word of God is quick, powerful, and sharper than a two-edged sword, able to pierce to the dividing place of soul and spirit. Further, 2 Tim 3:16-17 indicates that the Word provides all we need for godly living and service. Our Certificate in Biblical Studies will equip the layleader for effective service. Goal Vision is offering a certificate program that will prepare the student for local church leadership. Our goal is to provide a solid, comprehensive foundational program to prepare God s people for an effective Christian walk. Courses Courses and Materials Each course consists of a book, study guide and for churches interested in teaching, teaching notes for the instructor or small group leader. The student progresses through the program at their own pace or according to the local instructors timeframe. Here are the courses: New Beginnings This course provides a basic foundation for study in the Bible; the foundational truths concerning sound doctrine as found in God s Word.
Journey Through the Old Testament A general survey of the books of the Old Testament with a particular attention to the background, analysis, and content of each book, and plan of redemption as found in each book. Journey Through the New Testament A general survey of the books of the New Testament with a particular attention to the background, analysis, and content of each book, and plan of redemption as found in each book. Christian Life: Patterns of Gracious Living One aspect of the Christian life is to learn to live in harmony with the world. In this foundational course the key ingredients to gracious living are covered. The Cross and the Crown: The course provides a comprehensive look at our great salvation and all it means for us as believers. Marriage and Family Life: A Christian Perspective A careful examination of the modern problems inherent in marital and family relationships leading to suggestions for preventative care on an individual and church-wide basis. Journey to Wholeness: The Process of Growth and Change The Christian life is a journey with a specific divine purpose. If we do not know where we are going, we can end up anywhere. This course provides the Big Picture of God s plan for our growth and change, from new birth to glorification. Fresh Manna: Introduction to Studying God s Word This course provides a basic foundation for study in the Bible; the foundational truths concerning sound doctrine as found in God's Word.
Faith Dynamics Living a life of victory, power and sufficiency requires faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. This course discusses in detail the dynamics of faith and their relationship to the believer. Bringing Heaven to Earth A study of applied evangelism for local church outreach. Diploma in Ministry for Ordination (along with Local Church recommendation). 40 Days to the Promise This course examines the biblical perspectives on Christian Character and how God through his love and grace helps man to develop a right Christian character and personality through clearly established Biblical processes. That s the Kingdom of God This course is a study on the dynamics of Kingdom Living, answering the questions of what and when the Kingdom of God is, and how to function as God intended in His glorious Kingdom. On Belay! An Introduction to Counseling This course proposes to help the student discover the basic concepts of Christian counseling and to increase skill and competence in counseling situations. Fruitful Living This course is designed to prepare students to maintain integrity in Christian Ministry when dealing with finances and issues of stewardship.
Prayer Dynamics Prayer changes things. This course teaches the student how to implement a more dynamic prayer ministry into their own life and in the life of the Church Praise and Worship The Word of God promise that the Tabernacle of David, open and dynamic worship would be the characteristic of His church. Praise and worship from a biblical perspective is present in this dynamic study. Dynamics of Teaching and Preaching the Word This course is designed to familiarize the student with the principles of teaching in a structured environment. Emphasis is placed upon the principles of organization and presentation methodology including Stating Objectives, Lesson Planning, Evaluation, Curriculum Selection and Development, Teaching Illiterate Students, and Teacher Training. The Healing Covenant The Covenant of Healing as established in the word of God is presented with practical application for local church ministry. Leadership and Vision A detailed study of the basic principle of leadership as it applies to the local church. This will include the Dynamics of Leadership, Qualifications of Leadership, Counseling and Ethics, Church Administration and Government, etc. Introduction to Pastoral Ministry This is a study of the practical side of a minister's life and duties. It will include instruction in the proper manner of services, and a discussion of many of the problems a pastor faces.
ADMISSIONS AND ADMINISTRATION ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS This program was designed for the mature adult who desires to study and grow in the things of the Lord, in preparation for licensure and or ordination for ministry in the locality. PROGRAM OF STUDY The program of study consists of distance education and local fellowship mentoring. Each course is worth 3 continuing education credits and will have textual assignments and study guides for the learning process. ASSIGNMENTS All the assignments are clearly listed for each course that you will receive. Assignments take the form of questions to be answered, and reading assignments. Certificate of Completion To qualify for your Certificate of Completion/ Diploma, a student must: Complete all assignments with a passing grade Satisfactorily complete any field assignments that may be required by a course
Pay all outstanding fees FINANCIAL INFORMATION The total cost for the program is $495.00 per level, and includes books and materials. An annual registration fee of $50.00 is charged for administrative purposes. Fees are to be paid at the time of enrollment. Payment may be made by Check, Master Card or Visa. College credit is available at additional costs and academic work. ADMISSION AND MATRICULATION Complete and return the enclosed application, with your financial agreement and appropriate payment or charge card numbers. Upon receipt, the materials for your course of study will be sent to you by UPS. Each course has a syllabus which describes in detail exactly what must be completed to receive credit for the course. There are no final exams, only study questions for each course which help you learn and apply the material. When all ten are completed, your Certificate of Completion Diploma will be issued. Vision International School of Ministry Office of Admissions 1115 D Street Ramona, CA 92065
FACULTY FACULTY STATEMENT The most important asset of any school is its faculty. These are the persons who most influence the students through practical example as well as through instruction. It is the faculty who best model the purpose and philosophy of a school. Vision has brought together a fine group of persons who are competent in their respective areas of instruction and well able to take on the responsibility of training people for God's service. Balance is a key word in describing the persons who make up the faculty of Vision. First, there is a balance between age and youth, between enthusiasm and experience. There is also balance in academic ability and spiritual fervor, between quality of scholarship and a warm heart, classroom competence and in practical wisdom. Below are listed a few of the primary faculty of Vision: Stan DeKoven San Diego State Univ., A.B.; Webster Univ., M.A.; Evangelical Theological Seminary, D.Min.; Professional School of Psychological Studies, Ph.D.; Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Counselor Certified School Psychologist Ken Chant Founder and Director of Vision in Australia, with earned Doctorate from the Christian Bible College, USA Local Mentors will be assigned work with each student. Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy Vision admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, or ethnic origin, or sex in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs.