2021 Prospectus - Christ Seminary
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“The church is on a stretch if not on a strain, looking for better methods. But men are God’s methods and while the church is looking for better methods, God is looking for better men.” E. M. Bounds + 2021 Prospectus Registered with the Department of Higher Education as a private higher education institution under the Higher Education Act, 1997. Registration certificate no. 2008/HE08/001
Contact Contact Details Details Leadership1 Leadership Physical Address Directors 375 Marshall Street Ian Schnetler Flora Park 0699 Dr Dave Beakley Polokwane Dr Charlie Rampfumedzi Andrew Isiaho Postal Address Attn: The Administrator P O Box 857 Management Fauna Park, 0787 Dr Charlie Rampfumedzi Principal Polokwane Dr Dave Beakley Tel: +27 15 296 9920 Academic Dean Fax: +27 15 296 9959 Email: christ.seminary@christbaptist.co.za Website: www.christbaptistseminary.co.za Bank Details Bank Details Facebook: facebook.com/ChristSeminary Nedbank (Polokwane Business Centre) Branch Code: 111 905 Office hours: Monday to Friday – 0700 to Account Name: Christ Seminary 1500 Account No: 1119 016 908 Library hours: Monday to Friday - 0900 to 1800 Reference: Please enter your Name The offices remain closed on public holidays and weekends 1
Content Contents Message from the Principal 3 About Christ Seminary 4 Faculty 5 Christ Seminary is a ministry of Administration 6 Christ Baptist Church, which also incorporates Samaria Mission Statement of Faith 7 Admission Requirements 9 Academic Rules & Regulations 11 Cost & Funding 13 Student enrolment contract 14 www.christbaptist.co.za Life at Christ Seminary 15 Code of Conduct 17 Course Schedule 18 2021 Calendar Back Cover www.samariamission.co.za 2
Featuring the following countries, the seminary has trained pastors from three continents so far, with a focus on Africa: Messagefrom Message fromthe thePrincipal Principal Though E. M. Bounds died over 100 years Botswana ago, his words still resonate today – the Church is indeed on a stretch if not on a Burundi strain, on a quest for better ‘seeker- Germany sensitive’ methods to draw unwitting masses. Today, many so-called pastors Ivory Coast have used these methods to draw many, Kenya but sadly away from the pure Gospel. Lesotho However, as E. M. Bounds continues to note, men are God’s methods, and even Madagascar today, He searches for better men, not better methods. The message of the Malawi Gospel cannot be bettered, it can only be Mozambique preached by faithful men from generation to generation. For almost 25 years, Christ Seminary has continually trained pastors to proclaim the pure Gospel in order to draw many to Christ. We pray that the Holy Spirit would continue to guide us in this noble quest, especially in these trying times where the church’s integrity has been called into question. Because we are God’s method of spreading the Gospel, we have resolved as a faculty to be faithful to God and accountable to our partners and stakeholders, a family we hope you will consider joining, whether as a student or in another relevant capacity. Over the years we have trained men from Nigeria various countries on the continent (and beyond), who continue to cause an Rwanda impact in their local churches and communities. We are therefore delighted Sierra Leone at the prospect of adding you to the South Africa Christ Seminary family, whether as a prospective student or ministry partner, Uganda for the greater good of expanding the The US kingdom of Christ! Zambia Dr Charlie Rampfumedzi Zimbabwe 3
AboutChrist About ChristSeminary Seminary programmes have been approved by the Registrar in terms of section 53(1)(b) of Vision the Higher Education Act and Regulation An African continent filled with faithful 22(c) of the Regulation for the and equipped pastors, accurately Registration of Private Higher Education interpreting, living, and preaching the Institutions, 2002. Both the Bachelor of Word of Truth. Theology and Diploma in Theology are three-year programmes. Mission We strive to exalt Christ and strengthen His Church in Africa through training up Mode of instruction skilful shepherds who are able to study, live out and communicate God’s Word The mode of delivery for both the (Ezra 7:10; 2 Timothy 2:2, 3:15 and 4:2). Bachelor and Diploma programmes is contact, requiring students to attend lectures on campus during the semester. Registration status More details on contact sessions are given on page 9 under ‘Life at Christ Seminary’. Christ Seminary, Polokwane, is a ministry of Christ Baptist Church, Polokwane and has been faithfully training pastors from Language policy Africa since its inception in 1997. The seminary trains men from various Though there are several national recognized Christian denominations. languages in South Africa, it is necessary to identify one language among them Christ Seminary is registered with the that is common to all for use in Department of Education as a private instruction, assessment, and higher education institution in terms of administration at the seminary. English, section 54(1)(c) of the Higher Education being a common, international, and Act, 1997 (Act No 101 of 1997), and formal language, is the language of Regulation 16(4)(a) of the Regulations for instruction, assessment, and the Registration of Private Higher administration at the seminary. Education Institutions, 2002, to offer its approved programmes at its main, and All forms of assessment; both formative only, campus on 375 Marshall Street, and summative, both oral and written, Polokwane, 0700. The registration shall be done in English, except in the certificate no. of the seminary is Biblical Hebrew and Biblical Greek 2008/HE08/001. Grammar and Exegesis courses. All applicants must demonstrate oral and written competence in English, and have Accredited Programmes attained a minimum 40% in the English The seminary is accredited to offer a subject in their National Senior Diploma in Theology (360 credits, Qual. Certificate (NSC) qualification to enrol ID: 65249), and a Bachelor of Theology into the Diploma programme, and 50% (360 credits, Qual. ID: 111462). These into the Bachelor programme. 4
Faculty Principal Charlie Rampfumedzi, DipTh, BLuris, Hons BA(Th), MA(Th), DMin (Expository Preaching) Charlie has 20 years of experience as a lecturer, and over 15 years as a pastor. He is an elder at Christ Baptist Church, Polokwane. Academic Dean Dave Beakley, BA, MSc, MBA, MDiv, PhD (Old Testament) Dave has almost 20 years of experience as a lecturer and pastor. He also has extensive business experience from the US. He is the senior pastor of Christ Baptist Church, Polokwane. Andrew Isiaho, BTh, Hons BA (Th), MA (Biblical Counselling) Andrew has over 15 years of experience in lecturing, and 30 years as a pastor and missionary. He is an elder at Christ Baptist Church, Polokwane. Joseph Mahlaola, BTh, BTh Hons, MTh in Biblical Greek, DEdMin Joseph has nine years of experience in lecturing, and over 10 years as a pastor and missionary. He is an elder at Christ Baptist Church, Polokwane. Nathan Odede, Dip (IMIS), Dip (PR), BTh, Hons BA (Th), MA (OT), pursuing PhD Nathan has seven years of experience in lecturing and as a pastor. He also has professional experience as a writer and editor. He is a pastor at Christ Baptist Church, Polokwane. Kwacha Simwaka, BTh, MDiv, MTh (Old Testament), pursuing PhD Kwacha has almost 20 years of experience in various local church and related ministries including youth, outreach and discipleship in Malawi, Mozambique, and the US. He joined the faculty in 2019. Member Ngobeni, BTh, Hons BA (Th), MA (Church and Dogma History), pursuing PhD Member has over 15 years of experience as a pastor and missionary. He is a missionary at Samaria Mission currently serving as a translator. He joined the faculty in 2021. 5
Administration Administration and Student Affairs Santie Hayes Santie has over 25 years of experience in administration. She has served the seminary in various administrative capacities since its inception. Finance Manager Ian Schnetler Ian has several decades of experience as a businessman and accountant. He has served the seminary as finance manager since its inception. Librarian Ellen Austin Ellen has several decades of experience in the banking industry, working for several banks in various capacities. She joined the seminary in 2021. Secretary Lydia Jansen van Vuuren Lydia has over 15 years of experience in various administrative capacities in various companies. She has served Christ Baptist Church and the seminary for over 10 years as a secretary. 6
Statement of Faith The Bible: We believe that the Bible, composed of 66 books, is the fully inspired Word of God, written by appointed men of God, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, without error in the original manuscripts, and is our final authority in all matters of faith and conduct (2 Timothy 3:16,17; 2 Peter 1:20,21, Mark 13:31; John 8:31,32; John 20:31; Acts 20:32). The Triune God: We believe that there is one living and true God, eternally existing in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14). The Father's purpose in the universe is to bring glory to Himself (Revelation 4:11) through His creation, redemption, and daily provisions in Christ (Psalm 19:1; Ephesians 1:3-14; Philippians 4:19). God the Father: We believe in God the Father, an infinite personal spirit, perfect in holiness, wisdom, power and love. We believe that He infallibly foreknows all that shall come to pass, that He concerns Himself mercifully in the affairs of each person, that He hears and answers every prayer, and that He saves from sin and death all who come to Him through Jesus Christ. (Luke 10:21,22; Matthew 23:9; John 3:16; 6:27; Romans 1:7; 1 Timothy 1:1,2; 2:5,6; 1 Peter 1:3; Revelation 1:6). God the Son: We believe that Jesus Christ is the Second Person of the Trinity, the Son of God. He is fully God (John 1:1) and fully man (John 1:14). He pre-existed from eternity past as the Son of God (John 8:58). He created all things (Colossians 1:16). He was conceived by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35), born of a virgin (Matthew 1:23), tempted in all things (Hebrews 4:15), and was completely sinless (1 John 3:5). He paid the penalty for the sins of the world on Calvary's cross (1 John 2:2). His sacrifice completely satisfied God's righteous requirement for sinners (2 Corinthians 5:21). He rose from the grave (Romans 1:4) and ascended to heaven (Acts 1:9). He is presently interceding for believers in heaven (Romans 8:34). He will one day, personally and visibly, return to earth to establish His kingdom and reign forever (Revelation 1:7, 20:4-6). God the Holy Spirit: We believe in God the Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the Trinity (1 Corinthians 12:4-6); 1 Peter 1:2). He possesses and exercises the attributes of God (Genesis 1:2; Isaiah 40:13; 1 Corinthians 2:12; Psalm 139:7; 2 Peter 1:21). He convicts the world of sin (John 16:7-11). He regenerates believers (Titus 3:5), seals them (Ephesians 1:13,14), indwells them (1 Corinthians 3:16, fills them (Ephesians 5:18), empowers them (Acts 1:8), guides them (Romans 8:14), and teaches them (1 Corinthians 2:6-16). He grants individual believers spiritual gifts, which must be operated and controlled in an orderly and appropriate manner for the edification of the church (Ephesians 4:7; 1 Corinthians 12:7, 14:12,40; 1 Peter 4:10). Every believer is baptized with and receives the Holy Spirit at the moment of conversion (John 1:33; Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:13; 1 John 3:24). Satan and his Angels: We believe that Satan is a created being and a fallen angel (Ezekiel 28:13-15). He is chief of the demons; the enemy of God and of the believer (Matthew 4:1-11, 12:24; Ephesians 6:10-18). Satan was defeated by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Genesis 3:15; Hebrews 2:14; 1 John 3:8). Mankind: We believe that God created man in His own image and likeness (Genesis 1:26, 27). Adam was created in a state of unconfirmed holiness with the capacity to choose good or evil (Genesis 2:16, 17). When Adam disobeyed God he became spiritually dead and all men sinned in him (Romans 5:12-21). Man is a sinner by nature 7 (Psalm 51:5) and by personal acts of sin has incurred physical, spiritual and eternal death, which is separation from God (1 John 1:10).
Man's heart is deceitful and he is unable to please God of his own accord. Those who repent and forsake sin and trust Jesus as Saviour are regenerated by the Holy Spirit and become new creatures that are delivered from condemnation and receive eternal life. (Isaiah 64:6; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:11). Redemption through Jesus Christ: We believe that in eternity past God's mercy and grace prompted Him to send Jesus at the appointed time to redeem mankind (1 Timothy 2:6). We believe that redemption was made possible through Christ's death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3,4). Justification is accomplished by God's sovereign grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 20:21; Ephesians 2:8,9; John 3:14; 5:24; 5:30; 7:13; 8:12; 10:26; Romans 9:22; 2 Thessalonians 1:9). The Priesthood of the Believer: We believe that each Christian is a priest (1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 1:6) and a minister (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). This means that each born-again believer has the ability and responsibility to have direct access to God without the need of an earthly mediator such as a Priest, Bishop or even Pastor (Hebrews 10:19). The Eternality of Condemnation (Hell): We believe that every unbeliever (Not a true believer in Christ) will suffer eternal punishment under God's condemnation in the Lake of fire (Revelation 20:15; Matthew 13:41-42). The Eternality of Salvation (Heaven): We believe that all true believers in Christ will be kept secure in their salvation by the power of God (John 10:28; Romans 8:29,30; Philippians 1:6). The Church: We believe in the universal church which is the body of Christ, founded, formed, and directed by Christ its Head (Matthew 16:18; Colossians 1:18). The universal church consists is made up of local churches of all those who have been regenerated by God, baptised on a credible profession of faith, and associated for worship, work and fellowship. (Titus 3:5). The local church is to fulfil the Great Commission through the power and presence of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18-20). The Ordinances: We believe that Christ gave the church two ordinances, baptism through immersion in water in the Name of the Triune God (Matthew 28:19) and the Lord's Supper (Matthew 26:26-29). These are not required for salvation; they are necessary elements of an individual's obedience to God until the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Autonomy of the Local Church: We believe that each local church is autonomous; its beliefs and practices of faith being subject to no other authority than the Word of God (Mark 12:17; John 17:17-20). The state should not exert undue control over the church, or over its freedom to exercise its influence for biblical principles and ethics (Acts 5:29; Romans 13:1,2). The Lordship of Jesus Christ: We believe that each believer should pursue a lifestyle in submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46). This includes love for God and man (Matthew 22:34-40), and a holy life lived in obedience to the Word of God through the power of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18; Colossians 3:16; 1 Peter 2:1,2). Last Things: We believe in the imminent return of Jesus Christ for His church and the resurrection of the righteous (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). God will usher believers into a new heavenly kingdom and unbelievers into eternal punishment in hell (Revelation 20:10,15). 8
AdmissionRequirements Admission Requirements to appear in person due to a valid reason as deemed acceptable by the seminary. All applications must be received by the end of September, each year, as A signed and dated reference letter from interviews will be scheduled for the the student’s Christian mentor month of October. (preferably the senior pastor or an elder of his local church). The admission requirements for both the Bachelor and Diploma programmes Satisfactory completion of the adhere to both the stipulations by the programme’s application form and Department of Higher Education (DHET) submission of the same before the as certified by Umalusi (the Council for application deadline is also mandatory. General and Further Education and The candidate must also demonstrate the Training), and the Admissions Policy of ability to pay the tuition and related fees the seminary. for the duration of the programme; and where partial bursaries are offered, the For the Bachelor programme, the candidate must demonstrate his ability to applicant must be a holder of a National pay the remainder of the amount. Senior Certificate (NSC), having passed the grade 12 matriculation examinations. For international applicants (non- In his NSC qualification, the applicant residents of South Africa), a valid study must have had a minimum of 50% in permit for the duration of the course is English. He must have a rating of 4 required. International applicants should (Adequate Achievement, 50-59%) or also solicit and confirm that they have better in any four other subjects which found a host church in South Africa where are classified as 20-credit NSC subjects they will carry out their practical by Umalusi. ministry activities; and a residence where they will live when out of session. For the Diploma programme, the applicant must be a holder of a National Recognition of prior learning Senior Certificate (NSC), having passed (RPL) will be considered where the the grade 12 matriculation examinations. applicant does not hold an NSC In his NSC qualification, the applicant qualification. Non-formal learning and must have had a minimum of 40% in relevant experience will be assessed and English. He must have a rating of 3 used to determine admission into the (Moderate Achievement, 40-49%) or seminary’s programmes. Not more than better in any four other subjects 10% of the total students on a programme classified as 20-credit NSC subjects by shall be admitted through RPL. Umalusi. Applicants may be exempted from similar All applicants must personally attend courses completed in a cognate field at a and pass an oral interview, where the registered institution with an accredited student will validate his Christian programme(s) at the same NQF level. testimony. A telephone conference Exemptions awarded will not exceed 50% replaces the personal attendance of an of the total credits required to complete interview where the applicant is unable the programme. 9
As part of the seminary’s goal to equip pastors for life-long ministry, the seminary issues personal copies of a diverse range of textbooks to each student every semester. Upon graduation, students retain these books and use them as the foundation for their personal pastor’s library. These resources include: biblical commentaries; textbooks on systematic theology, bible interpretation, biblical survey, church history, biblical counselling, preaching, and practical ministry; relevant software, biblical language tools, and more. By the time of graduation, each student would have acquired a library-worth of books useful for their local church ministry and further research pursuits. 10
AcademicRules Academic Rules&&Regulations Regulations credits (with at least 120 credits on NQF level 6) must be achieved; and a Outcomes-based approach minimum total of 360 credits (with at The seminary desires to maximise the least 120 credits on NQF level 7) achieved student’s potential and ability by for a Bachelor of Theology (BTh)). As applying the principles of Outcome Based approved by the faculty, credits awarded Education (OBE). OBE is designed to for completed courses from a cognate teach students specific knowledge or programme are transferable into any of principles which can be demonstrated in the two programmes, but the total measurable outcomes. The seminary is transferable credits shall not comprise thus focused on practical competency in more 50% of the total required to ministry, where students are required to complete any of the two programmes. be actively involved in ministry, with ample time factored in each programme to enable students to effectively serve in Progression their local churches. The student will be required to pass all classes (or re-sit for exams where necessary) before proceeding to the next Assessment academic year. Where a student has In most cases, dependent on the module, totally failed (achieved below 45%) in formative assessments will comprise 50% three courses in a particular year, of the total mark, and summative progression to the next year may not be assessments (final exams, or project approved. He will have to retake the where applicable) will comprise 50%. A failed classes within a year. Bursaries will cumulative pass mark of at least 50% in not be available for students retaking the formative assessments is required to classes due to failure. sit for a final (summative) exam. The seminary continues to emphasize The pass mark for a final exam is 50%. A student retention and will take necessary student will retake the exam if he scored actions to aid academically weak between 45-49%. A score below 45% will students as per the institution’s policies. require a retake of the class. Final examinations are held at the end of Qualification each semester, in June and November. Upon successful completion of the All exams are externally moderated. programme, each student will be issued External moderators ensure that exam with a transcript detailing all the courses papers are fair and a true reflection of taken and the credit value that has been the course material taught as well as fair achieved. The certificate of qualification marking and allocation of final marks. will be awarded at a Graduation Ceremony in November, in the year of completion of studies. Bachelor students Credit accumulation must complete their studies within seven Each course taken will accrue between 8- years, while Diploma students must 12 credits towards the qualification. In complete their studies within five years. order to receive a Diploma (DipTh) qualification a minimum total of 360 11
Financial aid dean do so. Where an academic issue Students who cannot meet the full arises, the course lecturer shall financial obligations of the programme resolve the matter, failure to which for its duration will not be immediately the academic dean shall do so. In discontinued, but will be considered for cases where either the academic or bursaries at the seminary’s discretion, administrative dean fail to resolve a subject to factors such as availability of matter, the seminary’s disciplinary funds, student’s academic record, faculty committee shall discuss the issue and mentor’s recommendation, and more. present a final solution and/or decision, as guided by the Bible and the seminary’s relevant policies, shall Student support services be final and accepted by all parties. The seminary aims to achieve and maintain the highest possible academic standard, and inspire students to strive for the same. To help achieve this, and Health and wellness also maximise retention, the seminary The seminary adheres to certified health offers various forms of student support, and safety standards in all its premises. including: academic and personal Every student is required to conduct counselling; individual faculty mentors; themselves in a worthy manner that does library services; IT assistance; access to not contravene any of the health and the online resource server; unlimited 24- safety standards. All students are hour wireless internet; bursaries; required to uphold and, where possible, internship placements as per availability; improve on the existing standards. The administrative support such as printing, students are also required to attend to communication, and more. their personal hygiene, keep their rooms clean at all times, and on rotational basis clean the dining area. Student complaints and disputes In case of illness, the administrator will Where a dispute arises amongst arrange a doctor’s visit, at the student’s students, the involved parties shall personal and/or medical-aid cost. In case attempt a resolution, failure to which of spiritual and/or emotional issues, a student will be offered counselling by the Residence Director (RD) will be one of the faculty members. involved. If the RD fails, the relevant faculty mentors and/or administrative dean shall address the issue. His decision, as guided by the Bible and Disability the relevant seminary policies, shall No applicant will be discriminated against be final and accepted by all parties. due to disability. He will be offered an equal opportunity as per the seminary’s Where an administrative issue arises, criteria for admission. The disability the administrator shall address it, status of applicants shall be determined failure to which the administrative in advance to ascertain whether he needs additional personal support. 12
Cost Cost&&Funding Funding All students are required to pay a fee of R5,000 per annum (R2,500 per semester), subject to annual review. This fee includes tuition, prescribed textbooks, and accommodation and meals when in session. This fee is highly subsidized due to sponsorships from the seminary’s partners. This fee may be paid annually before the beginning of the first semester in January. Alternatively, half the fee may be paid before the beginning of the first semester, and the other half before the beginning of the second semester. To note, retake of classes and exams will not attract any subsidy. The total cost of retaking the particular will be borne by the student. In case of cancellation or withdrawal before the programme starts, all fees that would have been paid will be refunded in full. But where cancellation or withdrawal from any programme occurs when the programme has already started, no fees will be reimbursed for semesters that the student has already undertaken or is currently taking. In cases where the student would have paid for a semester(s) in advance, the fees for the semester that has not been taken or started will be refunded. To the right is an outdoor photo of our hostel facility that offers a very conducive environment for study; with each self-contained room shared between two students only, wireless internet connectivity, separate study desk and lighting for each student. Also available next to the hostels is a communal kitchen and dining facility. 13
CHRIST SEMINARY STUDENT ENROLMENT CONCTRACT This contract is entered into between Christ Seminary and the applicant detailed below, and is not transferable to a third party. The contract encompasses all terms and conditions detailed in the seminary’s prospectus, and all other seminary policies and procedures, and related documents. Student details Full names: ID number: Address: Email address: Phone number: Details of next of kin Full names: ID number: Address: Email address: Phone number: Details of person responsible for payment of fees (if not the student) Full names: ID number: Address: Email address: Phone number: Signature: (By signing this contract, the signatory binds him/herself to pay all necessary fees pertaining to the programme, and that he/she agrees to settle the student’s account in case of either withdrawal from or completion of the programme, without which the seminary reserves the right to undertake necessary legal action to collect outstanding fees, and to withhold the academic transcripts and/or certificate of the student until the fees are paid in full. Where the student is responsible for his own fee payment, this declaration shall apply personally to him). Programme information Name of programme enrolled for (as per registration certificate): Year enrolled: Duration of the programme: (The student should note that all programmes are offered only in contact mode) Declaration by the student By signing this contract, the student declares that he has read and understood the seminary’s statement of faith, terms and conditions detailed in the prospectus and related documents presented to him by the seminary, and promises to adhere to all these stipulations for the duration of his studies, and any other guidelines and regulations that may subsequently be introduced by the seminary or any of its authorized officials. The student also declares that he has met all requirements for enrolment, and that all information submitted by him at the time of signing this contract are true to the best of his knowledge. The student also indemnifies the seminary and all its officials from liability to the maximum extent permitted by law in respect of any claim for direct or consequential loss, damage, death, injury or any other cause, suffered as a direct or indirect result of the student's enrolment, studies or use of the seminary’s facilities. 14 Signature: Date:
LifeatatChrist Life ChristSeminary Seminary while away from campus in matters relating to the syllabus, assignments and Contact Sessions other relevant material for the course. Each academic year has two five-month semesters. Each semester has five contact sessions, the final session also being the examination period. Each contact session comprises nine days a month, where students attend class, chapel, Sunday service, mentoring, conference/fraternal where applicable, and more. The modular system of contact sessions is designed to commit the student to only about nine days of class a month. This is so that the student may continue to serve in his ministry without having to withdraw due to studies, and also to give him the opportunity to implement his studies in a real time manner. Library and computer facilities The seminary has a library on site with thousands of volumes of scholarly theological resources, commentary sets, journals, and more. The library also includes access to the faculty member’s individual libraries which comprises thousands of scholarly material as well. Mentoring Students also have access to softcopy Christ Seminary is charged with equipping books on the seminary’s Logos Bible pastors. More than an academic exercise, software package. This is accessible on we strive to develop the spiritual life and the computers in the student IT lab. character of the men God sends us. These computers also have internet Beyond passing exams, the student, as a access, enabling students to carry out steward, is required to be found faithful online research. in every area of his life including family, his personal devotion, and ministry. Students are also issued with a username As a result, each student at Christ and password to enable access to the Seminary is assigned a faculty member as seminary server online from a remote his mentor throughout the duration of the location. This will enable them to course for accountability purposes. efficiently interact with the lecturer 15
Chapel The seminary also offers a rich spiritual Each session, students attend a chapel environment among students. Each service conducted by students session, students conduct their own themselves. The preaching and music is prayer meetings, where they fellowship, led by students, and this offers a share prayer requests, and update each practical opportunity where students can other on ministry involvement during the learn, grow, and encourage one another. session breaks. Annual Conferences The seminary holds two major annual conferences. The Shepherds’ Conference (www.gracefellowship.co.za/shepherds) is a pastors’ conference organized by Grace Fellowship Church, Pretoria, featuring global speakers at three venues in South Africa: Pretoria, Cape Town and Polokwane. Christ Seminary is the proud host of the Polokwane event which is held over two days at the end of the first semester. The other major annual event is the Graduation Conference, which is held at the end of the second semester, also The students balance the spiritual with featuring visiting speakers and the the physical. Students often participate seminary’s faculty. in sports for recreational purposes. An annual inter-class Shepherds’ Cup soccer tournament is a key highlight on the seminary calendar. Community Life Being located in Polokwane, away from the busy city life, the seminary offers a I chose to study at Christ Seminary because of its tranquil environment conducive for reputation for Reformed theology and expository study. preaching. During my studies, I would travel long distances through several provinces to get to The seminary also offers exceptional campus. Despite the distance, I would never trade hostel facilities to accommodate students the journey that got me here for anything. What while in session. Each room is self- the faculty taught me has greatly impacted my life, contained, and only shared between two and in turn, God is evidently using that to impact students. Each student has his own partitioned desk and study light area, many other! So I encourage those who are called to such that his roommate is not disturbed pack up, and set off on the same path. during late night studies. Each room also has wireless internet access to Mike-Adam Nyanisele, 2018 graduate conveniently facilitate online research. 16
Code ofRules Ethical Conduct & Regulations students will always treat one another with due respect. All students must conduct their lives to God’s glory. A holy conduct is expected Ministry demands professionalism. To in all relationships. Family relationships foster this, students must maintain a neat and responsibilities must be prioritised and clean appearance. During lectures, above studying at the seminary. Students tutorials, conferences, and related must maintain a biblical pattern in family functions, students must wear socks, relationships and abstain from unbiblical closed shoes (not tennis or sports shoes) sexual activities or relationships. trousers (no denims), and a collared shirts. A tie or jacket is optional. Christian leaders are to have a blameless reputation, thus students must abstain The seminary encourages friendliness and from practices such as gambling, drinking open communication between students, intoxicating beverages, and taking drugs faculty, and staff. Whenever a student or other habit-forming substances. has a grievance, he should approach the party involved. If a resolution fails, he Dishonesty, including lying, plagiarism, should approach the Resident Director cheating on tests, etc. and wilful failure who will in turn approach the dean. to meet financial or other obligations, is antithetical to Christian integrity. All books loaned to students remain the Disciplinary action will be taken, which property of the seminary until may include dismissal. graduation. All books and other materials shall be returned to the seminary in case Knowing that God is worthy of their best of termination of studies. efforts, students at Christ Seminary must commit themselves to academic To allow admission, registration fees excellence. The passing grade for all must be paid before or upon registration subjects is 50%. But students should on the first day of the semester. strive for much higher proficiency and The seminary reserves the right to excellence. discipline any student who does not Attendance of all lectures, tutorials, conform to this code of conduct or any conferences, and related activities is other seminary principles and policies. required. Absence will not be allowed Students are expected to be involved in without permission. The administrative local church ministry in between dean must be informed if the absence is sessions. This must include a regular due to medical reasons, in which case a (weekly) outlet for teaching/preaching doctor’s letter will be required. and pastoring. A student’s intention to Repeated unexcused absence may result change his local church must be in failure of a class. communicated to the seminary. To maintain a conducive learning While in session at the seminary students environment, students must avoid are required to attend Christ Baptist disruptive behaviour. Church worship services on Sunday Recognising that men are made in the morning & evening, unless their absence image of God, faculty, staff and other is excused by their mentor. 17
Course CourseSchedule Schedule Bachelor of Theology Diploma in Theology st st 1 year 1 semester 1st year 1st semester Basic Research English Proficiency I English Proficiency OT Survey I OT Survey I NT Survey I NT Survey I Pastoral Ministry Pastoral Ministry Foundation for Missions Foundation for Missions 1st year 2nd semester st nd 1 year 2 semester OT Survey II OT Survey II NT Survey II NT Survey II Pastoral Theology I Pastoral Theology I English Proficiency II Greek Grammar Early Church History Early Church History Hermeneutics Hermeneutics 2nd year 1st semester nd st 2 year 1 semester Exegesis to Exposition Exegesis to Exposition Biblical Counselling I Biblical Counselling I Systematic Theology I - Dip Systematic Theology I Foundation for Discipleship Foundation for Discipleship Exposition of Nehemiah – OT elective Greek Syntax Reformation & Modern Church History Reformation & Modern Church History 2nd year 2nd semester nd nd 2 year 2 semester Homiletics Homiletics Biblical Counselling II Biblical Counselling II Systematic Theology II Systematic Theology II African Church History African Church History Exposition of Romans – NT elective Hebrew Grammar Pastoral Theology II Greek Exegesis 3rd year 1st semester 3rd year 1st semester Practical Preaching I Practical Preaching I Systematic Theology III Systematic Theology III Comparative Religions Comparative Religions Pastoral Epistles (elective) Hebrew Syntax Baptist Principles and Distinctives (elective) Exegesis of Romans (elective) Exposition of Acts (OT elective) Baptist Principles and Distinctives (elective) English Exegesis (elective) Pastoral Epistles (elective) 3rd year 2nd semester rd nd 3 year 2 semester Practical Preaching II Practical Preaching II Systematic Theology IV Systematic Theology IV Biblical Ethics Biblical Ethics Contemporary Theology (elective) Biblical Theology (elective) Biblical Theology (elective) Exegesis of Isaiah (elective) History of OT Israel (elective) Hebrew Exegesis (elective) Advanced Research (elective) Contemporary Theology (elective) 18
2022 Calendar Proposed 2015 Calendar 1st Semester 2nd Semester 3rd Years 3rd Years Session 1 — 11 – 19 Jan Session 1 — 19 – 27 Jul Session 2 — 8 – 16 Feb Session 2 — 16 – 24 Aug Session 3 — 8 - 16 Mar Session 3 — 13 – 21 Sep Session 4 — 5 - 13 Apr Session 4 — 11 – 19 Oct Session 5 — 17 - 28 May Session 5 — 22 Nov – 1 Dec Final Exams — 20 – 25 May Final Exams — 25 Nov – 1 Dec Shepherds’ Conference — 26 - 28 May Annual Mission Trip — 29 May – 6 Jun 1st & 2nd Years 1st and 2nd Years Session 1 — 25 Jan – 2 Feb Session 1 — 2 – 10 Aug Session 2 — 22 Feb – 2 Mar Session 2 — 30 Aug – 7 Sep Session 3 — 22 – 30 Mar Session 3 — 27 Sep – 5 Oct Session 4 — 3 – 10 May Session 4 — 25 Oct – 2 Nov Session 5 — 17 - 28 May Session 5 — 22 Nov – 1 Dec Final Exams — 20 – 25 May Final Exams — 25 Nov – 1 Dec Shepherds’ Conference — 26 - 28 May 1 Physical Address: 375 Marshall Street Flora Park 0699 Polokwane Postal Address Attn: The Administrator P O Box 857 Fauna Park 0787 Tel: +27 15 296 9920 Fax: +27 15 296 9959 Email: christseminary@christbaptist.co.za Website: www.christbaptistseminary.co.za 19
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