Academic Catalog
The following are the course requirements for each of Tyndale’s degree programs. A downloadable Academic Catalog is also available in PDF format.
Master of Divinity (MDiv) Curriculum
MDiv Year One
SUMMER
FALL
- NT 620 Intermediate Greek
- OT 500 Survey of Old Testament Literature & History
- HT 510 Church History
- ST 500 Survey of Doctrine
- ST 510 Bibliology
- IC 600 Cross Cultural Christianity
- EN 530 English Reading and Writing for Theology
- PT 505A Mentoring
- Elective
WINTER MODULES
SPRING
- NT 515 Survey of New Testament Literature & History
- BI 610 Bible Study Methods
- NT 740 Greek Exegesis: Gospels
- ST 520 Foundations for Theology
- HT 520 Modern Church History
- IC 630 Introduction to World Religions
- PT 505B Mentoring
- Elective
SUMMER MODULES
MDiv Year Two
FALL
- NT XXX Greek Exegesis
- OT 610 Hebrew I
- ST 610 Theology Proper
- IC 610 Missional Perspectives
- PT 510 Biblical Preaching
- PA 660 Christian Ethics
- PT 505C Mentoring
- Elective
WINTER MODULES
SPRING
- OT 620 Hebrew II
- NT XXX Greek Exegesis
- PT 600 Personal Leadership Development
- ST 710 Ecclesiology
- ST 640 Christology
- PT 505D Mentoring
- Elective
SUMMER MODULES
MDiv Year Three
SUMMER
FALL
- PA 610 Christian Apologetics
- OT 740 Hebrew Exegesis: Prose
- PT 620 Leadership Dynamics
- PT 505E Mentoring
- Electives
WINTER
SPRING
Master of Evangelical Theology (MET) Curriculum
- (based on a 2-year full time study)
MET Year One
SUMMER
- NT 510 Elementary Greek (prerequisite for the program)
FALL
- NT 622 Intermediate Greek with an exegesis component
- OT 610 Hebrew I
- TH 900 Research Methods
- ST 730 Public Theology
- IC 600 Cross Cultural Christianity
- PT 505C Mentoring
WINTER MODULES
SPRING
- OT 620 Hebrew II
- PT 600 Personal Leadership Development
- TH 950B Thesis Prospectus B
- ST 520 Foundations for Theology
- ST 740 Public Theology II : Engaging Contemporary Thought and Life
- PT 505D Mentoring
- Electives
SUMMER MODULES
MET Year Two
SUMMER
FALL
- HT 830 Church Fathers Seminar: Theology & Worship and the Ancient Church
- NT 830 New Testament Theology
- IC 835 Theology of Missions
- OT 740 Hebrew Exegesis: Prose
- TH 970 Thesis Writing B
- PT 505E Mentoring
- PT 805 Internship (carries through to the spring term)
WINTER MODULES
SPRING
The Certificate of Theological Studies (CTS) Sample Curriculum
(Example schedule without languages. Either Greek or Hebrew could be added as electives. If Greek is added the student should plan on starting in the Summer Greek module.)
FALL
- OT 500 Survey of Old Testament Literature & History
- HT 510 Church History
- ST 500 Survey of Doctrine
- ST 510 Bibliology
- IC 600 Cultural Christianity
- PA 610 Christian Apologetics
- PT 505A Mentoring
- Electives – any class offered for which a prerequisite is satisfied
WINTER MODULES
- Electives – any class offered for which a prerequisite is satisfied
SPRING
- NT 515 Survey of New Testament Literature & History
- BI 610 Bible Study Methods
- ST 520 Foundations for Theology
- HT 520 Modern Church History
- ST 710 Ecclesiology
- ST 715 Eschatology
- PT 505B Mentoring
- Electives – any class offered for which a prerequisite is satisfied
SUMMER MODULES
- PA 660 Christian Ethics
- Electives
Electives
Master of Divinity Electives
Ministry Emphasis Electives – 9 ECTS required
(these may also be used for unrestricted elective choices)
- IC 633 Approaches to Islam
- IC 634 Approaches to Hinduism & Buddhism
- IC 635 Mormons & Jehovah’s Witnesses
- IC 637 Approaches to African Traditional Religion
- IC 640 Issues in Global Christianity
- IC 755 Urban Ministry
- IC 835 Theology of Missions
- PT 525 Pastoral Ministry
- PT 540 Foundations of Christian Ministry
- PT 612 Pastoral Counseling II
- PT 615 Discipleship
- PT 636 Ministry of the Word
- PT 640 Using Bible Narrative in Ministry
- PT 650 Educational Ministries of the Church
- PT 715 Advanced Biblical Preaching
- PT 750 Church Planting in an Urban Context
- PT 775 Theological Education
- PT XXX Preachers & Leaders Conferences
Unrestricted Electives
- HT 625 History of Global Evangelicalism
- HT 640 History of Eastern Christianity
- HT 645 Reformation in the Low Countries
- HT 690 Reading the Reformers: Luther
- HT 692 Reading the Reformers: Calvin
- HT 695 Reading the Reformers: Anabaptists
- HT 830 Church Fathers Seminar: Theology & Worship in the Ancient Church
- IC 640 Issues in Global Christianity
- IC 645 Contextualization
- NT 630 Controversies in New Testament Studies
- NT 635 Interpretive Methods: Parables
- NT XXX Greek Exegesis Courses
- NT 800 Faculty Directed Greek Reading
- NT 830 New Testament Theology
- OT 630 Biblical Aramaic
- OT 675 Exegesis of Hosea English Text with the Option of Hebrew
- OT 800 Faculty Directed Hebrew Reading
- OT 840 Old Testament Theology
- PA 635 Theology in Film
- PT 660 Beyond Suffering: A Biblical View on Pain, Suffering and Disability Ministry
- PT 775 Theological Education
- ST 650 Modern Theological Thought
- ST 730 Public Theology
- ST 740 Public Theology II: Engaging Contemporary Thought and Life
Master of Evangelical Theology Electives
- HT 625 History of Global Evangelicalism
- HT 630 Topics from the Reformation
- HT 640 History of Eastern Christianity
- HT 645 Reformation in the Low Countries
- HT 690 Reading the Reformers: Luther
- HT 692 Reading the Reformers: Calvin
- HT 695 Reading the Reformers: Anabaptists
- IC 630 Introduction to World Religions
- IC 633 Approaches to Islam
- IC 634 Approaches to Hinduism & Buddhism
- IC 635 Mormons & Jehovah’s Witnesses
- IC 637 Approaches to African Traditional Religions
- IC 640 Issues in Global Christianity
- IC 645 Contextualization
- IC 670 Communicating Christ in a Skeptical World
- IC 750 Theology in Culture
- IC 755 Urban Ministry
- NT 630 Controversies in New Testament Studies
- NT 635 Interpretive Methods: Parables
- NT XXX Greek Exegesis Courses
- NT 800 Faculty Directed Greek Reading
- OT 630 Biblical Aramaic
- OT 675 Exegesis of Hosea English Text with the option of Hebrew
- OT 765 Hebrew Exegesis: Poetry
- OT 800 Faculty Directed Hebrew Reading
- PA 610 Christian Apologetics
- PA 635 Theology in Film
- PA 660 Christian Ethics
- PA 730 Introduction to Islamic Philosophy
- PA 810 History of Philosophy of Religion I
- PA 820 History of Philosophy of Religion II
- PT 610 Pastoral Counseling
- PT 612 Pastoral Counseling II
- PT 615 Discipleship
- PT 636 Ministry of the Word
- PT 650 Educational Ministries of the Church
- PT 660 Beyond Suffering: A Biblical View on Pain, Suffering and Disability Ministry
- PT 750 Church Planting in an Urban Context
- PT 775 Theological Education
- PT XXX Preachers & Leaders Conferences
- ST 610 Theology Proper
- ST 635 Soteriology
- ST 640 Christology
- ST 650 Modern Theological Thought
- ST 710 Ecclesiology
- ST 715 Eschatology
- ST 810 Pneumatology
Course Descriptions
BI 610 Bible Study Methods
- This class gives a basic process for studying the Bible that is sensitive to the literary structure of the Bible and yet brings the student to the place of personal application where appropriate. Although there will be theoretical concepts explored in relation to how one studies a text, the primary focus will be on actually studying the Bible.
EN 530 English Reading and Writing for Theology
- English Reading for Theology is required for the Master of Divinity program. Students are trained in methods for doing adequate research for writing a research paper at Tyndale. Students are introduced to the most important tools for library and internet research in theology and biblical studies. Students also learn techniques for critical-but-generous reading of secondary source material and for constructing and writing honest, persuasive arguments that honor both God and those make in his image. Finally, students learn how to avoid different types of plagiarism and to quote, paraphrase, and cite sources according to Turabian style.
HT 510 Early Church History
- A basic knowledge of the development of the Christian Church’s theology and practices from Pentecost to 1517 should be gained from the reading assignments. An understanding of this material should be gained through careful listening as well as the asking and answering of questions during the class lectures. Knowledge and understanding of the course material will be assessed via two examinations using objective questioning methods. Critical thinking skills and basic research methods will be demonstrated through the composition of a series of short essays. These essays will be returned with comments, questions, and other forms of reaction from the professor in addition to the overall grade.
HT 520 Modern Church History
- A basic knowledge of the development of the Christian Church’s theology and practices from 1517 to today should be gained from the reading assignments. An understanding of this material should be gained through careful listening as well as the asking and answering of questions during the class lectures. Knowledge and understanding of the course material will be assessed via two examinations. Critical thinking skills and basic research methods will be demonstrated through the composition of two short essays. These essays will be returned with comments, questions, and other forms of reaction from the professor in addition to the overall grade.
HT 625 History of Global Evangelicalism
- This course is a survey of the history of global evangelical Christianity, from its beginning in eighteenth-century Britain and the American colonies, to its global expansion in the twentieth century. Particular attention will be paid to the defining characteristics of evangelicalism, to its transformations over three centuries, and to the challenges it faces at the beginning of the twenty-first century.
HT 640 History of Eastern Christianity
- While many are familiar with the history of Christianity in the West encompasing the Latin Church headquartered in Rome and the “Greek” churches in communion with Constantinople, not as many know the history of Eastern Christianity (e.g., Coptic churches, Nestorian Church, Armenian Church, St. Thomas Christians, etc.) even though Eastern Christianity rivaled Western Christianity in size and surpassed it in scope before the coming of Islam. This course will cover the Church history and historical theology associated with Christianity in North Africa and Asia from the beginning of the Church at Pentecost until about AD 1500. This course also will consider the lessons twenty-first century Christians might learn from the history and doctrinal struggles associated with the churches under consideration.
HT 645 Reformation in the Low Countries
- This class will provide an overview of religious history in the region which is today’s Belgium and the Netherlands in the period of the late 15th to early 17th centuries; i.e., the Reformation period. It will describe how the unique combination of Rhineland mysticism, Northern humanism, early Lutheran ideas, Calvinism, and the Dutch Revolt led to reformation in much of the Roman Catholic Low Countries and the diverse religious situation of the late 16th/early 17th centuries. We will read parts of Thomas a Kempis’ The Imitation of Christ and some passages of Erasmus’ works.
HT 690 Reading the Reformers: Luther
- Five hundred years ago, a feisty German theology teacher stood up to official Roman Catholic doctrines and practices and ignited the Protestant Reformation. Martin Luther’s 95 Theses were nailed to the castle church door in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517. His teachings – faith alone, grace alone, Scripture alone – are important truths and should be celebrated. In this course, we read a selection of some of Luther’s works.
HT 692 Reading the Reformers: Calvin
- Calvin’s Institutes is one of the most important theological works of the 16th century Reformation. Reading parts of it together, we will grow in understanding of his Reformed doctrines of the holiness of God, grace and election, and the Church, which have influenced so many so profoundly.
HT 695 Reading the Radicals: Anabaptists
- Early 16th century Anabaptist groups appeared in Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands. They wanted to worship God simply, separating themselves from worldly and governmental influence. Many emphasized the role of the Spirit and the imminent return of Christ. However, they were distrusted and even despised by other Christians, and often martyred. This class will read primary documents by early Anabaptists, including Menno Simons, and discuss them, their world, and their experiences. We will be inspired and challenged by their firm faith in times of trials and persecution
HT 830 Church Fathers Seminary: Theology and Worship in the Ancient Church
- A basic knowledge will be gained of the connection between theology and worship in the thinking of prominent Greek and Latin Fathers in the Ancient Church via a careful reading of the assigned material. A further understanding of this material should be gained through careful listening as well as the asking and/or answering of questions during the faculty class lectures and student seminar presentations. Knowledge and understanding of the course material will be assessed via one final examination. Critical thinking skills and advanced research methods will be demonstrated through the composition of a term paper which examines the thought of one Greek or Latin Father from the Ancient Church. Each student will be required to lead a seminar based upon the research they do into the subject of their term paper. The term paper will be returned with comments, questions, and other forms of reaction from the professor in addition to the overall grade.
IC 510 Multi-Cultural Evangelism
- This course focuses on the evangelistic realities of our world today. Increasingly people and their cultures are relocating to large cities in virtually every country. As such, evangelism cannot be mono-cultural. Therefore, the readings, assignments, discussions and field trip are composed to sensitize the student to his or her biases related to their respective home and Christian culture with the purpose to learn how to translate personal faith in Jesus Christ into relevant, respectful and understandable conversations for the un-churched or non-Christian. Trust-based friendships offer permission to share Christ in all vocational and occupational circumstances therefore, the course’s content is intended to equip the student with a new or renewed heart to love one’s neighbour in a manner that opens conversations about his or her faith life with non-Christian friends and acquaintances.
IC 600 Cross Cultural Christianity
- Due to the rapid globalization in the world, it is becoming increasingly important to understand culture and the cultural context of ministry. Christian workers in Europe, as well as other parts of the world, have an increasing challenge of relating to people of other cultures due to global movement through immigration and the plight of refugees. Thus, it is essential that Christian leaders have a good grasp of culture in order to be more effective in ministry. The course examines the following: definition, nature, and values of culture, worldview, cultural problems (monoculturalism and ethnocentrism), cultural dimensions of Hofstede, honour and shame, gender, and contextualization.
IC 610 Missional Perspectives
- Because it is the plan of God to make himself known in the world and bring people into a personal relationship with Him, it is important that Christian leaders understand and be able to articulate this from biblical, historical, and strategical dimensions. For this reason, this course offers an examination of the following aspects: definitions of mission and evangelism; goals and purposes of missions; biblical foundations for missions; a brief survey of the history of missions; and strategies for missionary work.
IC 630 Introduction to World Religions
- Because world religions dominate the world’s scene and are found in every niche of society, it is essential that church leaders understand their neighbors who adhere to these various religious systems. The course will thus provide a brief introduction to the theology of religion, but will focus on the major religious in the world (Folk religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Chinese Folk Religions, Islam, Judaism).
IC 633 Approaches to Islam
- This course explores the dynamic and complex interaction or relationship between the Christian faith and Islam since the 7th century as well as between the followers of both faiths. It highlights the various responses of Christians and Christianity towards Islam and its adherents. Special attention is given in this course to the identification and examination of the diverse approaches and forms of ministry to Muslims in various historical, geographical and cultural contexts.
IC 634 Approaches to Hinduism and Buddhism
- The course is a study of Hinduism and Buddhism. We will look at what the religions teach and evaluate it theologically and philosophically. We will also look at different approaches that have been used to reach these religions with the Gospel.
IC 635 Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses
- The challenges posed by new religious movements to the church are serious ones, and the Mormons (the Latter Day Saints) and the Jehovah’s Witnesses are two of the most prevalent of these movements. Studies have shown that a great majority of new converts to these movements come from evangelical churches. It is important, therefore, that future Christian leaders are aware of these challenges, and can equip the church to both avoid false gospels and to offer the true gospel for those deceived by these movements. This course begins by defining what a new religious movement is, the conditions under which they develop, and what attractions they offer to people. Then the course will study the history and the teachings of each of these two movements, and offer some suggestions for how to reach them with the true gospel.
IC 637 Approaches to African Traditional Religion
- Christianity has grown exponentially in Africa in the past two decades. Yet at the same time, there is also a resurgence of African Traditional Religion (ATR). Christians have over the years tried to reach practitioners of ATR with varied success. Contrary to the belief by some that ATR is at the brink of extinction, the reality is that ATR is “alive” not only in the public space but also in the church through “double / triple religious belonging” or “identity.” This course offers an in-depth analysis of ATR and its worldview, explores the historical and contemporary relations between ATR and Christianity, and discusses the theological and missiological issues involved in reaching adherents of ATR. It is hoped that students will be equipped to develop a Christian theological/missiological approach to ATR that is both respectful and biblical.
IC 640 Issues in Global Christianity
- The course examines the following issues: lessons of the persecuted church, insights in the present state and development of Global Christianity, lessons of migrants and the impact of migration on the church today, a Biblical view of a multicultural church, of finances in missions and the church.
IC 645 Contextualization
- As Christian educators, pastors, and missionaries, we desire to communicate the Gospel to people. However, the context in which the communication takes place differs from the context in which the Bible was written. How is the unchangeable gospel expressed in our ever-changing culture? How can the gospel be relevant to the different contexts and situations communicators find themselves? The question that contextualization addresses is the relation between the gospel and context and how the gospel is communicated in different contexts. This course introduces students to the field of contextualization by exploring the biblical basis, history, theories, and current practices in contextualization. Finally, it will help students acquire the necessary hermeneutical skills to contextualize the gospel in a way that is biblically grounded, culturally appropriate, and relevant.
IC 670 Communicating Christ in a Skeptical World
- The way reality is perceived and explained has changed enormously over the last half-century, greatly impacting European and Western societies. Postmodernism has arisen in reaction to the perceived shortcomings of modernism, and as a product of developments in the philosophy of language and science, sociology, and the arts. Theology has been deeply impacted by this postmodern shift. Although postmodernism has helped the contemporary world critically examine itself, it is not without its dangers. We will explore the historical and philosophical development of postmodernism and examine the feasibility of preaching Christ today.
IC 750 Theology in Culture
- In the ever increasing multi-cultural and global church and the post-Christendom Western world, vocational ministers of the gospel must be trained in the art of exegeting culture. This course is designed with the assumption that the minister of the gospel of the Kingdom of God must understand cultural and worldview patterns, and the social structures that shape the context in which the gospel is planted and grows forth in its unique contextual expression. This course is designed to give the student a theoretical perspective on culture and social structure, tools to describe the essential factors of receptivity and rejection of the gospel within that context, think through ministry implementation that will allow the gospel of the Kingdom to be both incarnational and prophetic in that space.
IC 755 Urban Ministry
- The world is more than 50% urban (Europe is 75%) and migration is impacting every country. The influence of urbanization and urbanism requires every pastor and missionary to be able to read the city and understand its global / local nature. This course offers an introduction to anthropological and sociological methods together with the creation of a biblical theology and missiology of the city. The course will involve interviews and exposures to cross-cultural churches and mission projects in Rotterdam where the professor is a city-centre minister. At the end of this course, every student will be able to outline a basic biblical theology of the city, understand urban issues such as poverty and pluralism, and be able to apply demographics and practical research methods to create an effective urban mission strategy.
IC 835 Theology of Missions
- This course is a study of the theology of missions, that is, a study of the biblical foundation and rationale for missions with a look at how missions should affect theology and how theology should affect missions. This will provide the background by which various issues and strategies can be evaluated and guide the way that they should be applied.
NT 510 Elementary Greek
- This course is the foundational course for the TTS NT series. It prepares students to be able to use the original language of the New Testament for sound analysis of the Biblical text. The course is delivered during the summer term covering an 8 week period and is designed for intense study and, due to the workload involved is intended to be the primary activity of the student during the period. Class session will run approximately three hours per day for 4 days per week. In addition, the student will be expected to perform study, memorization, and reading and exercises for a minimum of another 15 hours per week. At the end of the course the student will have an excellent comprehension of the basic elements of Koine Greek as taught in The Basics of Biblical Greek by W. D. Mounce.
NT 515 Survey of New Testament Literature and History
- This course will cover the content and theological impact of the 27 books of the New Testament. The course will also cover New Testament backgrounds (Jewish and Greco-Roman history, culture, and literature leading up to and including the time of the writing of the New Testament).
NT 620/NT 622 Intermediate Greek
- It is the follow-on course to Elementary Greek. It is also the first course for those who have successfully demonstrated their knowledge of the language by examination. The key objectives of this course are (1) to equip the student to be able to read comfortably much of the New Testament materials with minor assistance from helps; (2) prepare the student for genuine exegetical use of Koine Greek. Students will translate independently and in teams. MET Students will have an added exegesis component.
NT 630 Controversies in New Testament Studies
- This course provides an exploration of arguments made by many critical scholars against the reliability of the New Testament documents and how evangelical Christians can respond. Topics addressed include historical Jesus studies, miracles, canon, text, authorship, and alleged discrepancies and historical problems. Also addressed are some areas in which New Testament teachings clash with modern, secular beliefs and values.
NT 635 Interpretive Methods: Parables
- The parable genre introduces an additional level of complexity to the interpretive process. This “how to” course provides tools and practical lab experiences to help students develop the skills and wisdom needed to interpret parables well. The course will primarily use English Bible translations in lectures, labs, and class discussions. Engagement with the Greek text of the NT will be limited.
NT XXX Greek Exegesis Courses
NT 730 Greek Exegesis: Matthew
- This course provides an exegetical study of the Gospel of Matthew, focused on the Greek text, enabling students to understand the development of the primary themes and ideas of the book. Particular attention will be paid to the literary structure of the Gospel, the relationship of the Gospel’s parts to its whole, Matthew’s portrayal of Jesus, Matthew’s theological concerns, and Matthew’s presentation of the nature of Christian discipleship. Students will be challenged to wrestle with how Matthew’s teaching on discipleship applies to their own lives and ministries. The Gospel of Matthew will be compared with the other canonical Gospels in order to elicit what is distinctive about Matthew’s contribution. Students will employ a variety of exegetical skills, including translation, grammatical analysis, textual criticism, word studies, redaction criticism, and narrative criticism.
NT 740 Greek Exegesis: Gospels
- This course is the third in the TTS NT Greek series. It covers the following topics: the genre of NT narrative literature, use of a Gospel synopsis, the Synoptic problem, and redaction-critical approaches to the Gospels. From these bases it presents a recommended exegetical approach to NT narrative and provides practice and examples through the consideration of the origins, structure, and theology of the four NT Gospels. Among the evaluative tools are quizzes, translation work, reading reports, short papers, and an exegetical paper.
NT 755 Greek Exegesis: Romans
- This course will be an in-depth examination of Paul’s letter to the Romans in the Greek language. It will be an exegesis of Romans, paying particular attention to issues of controversy within the epistle. Attention will also be paid to the influence of Jewish ideas within the epistle. Sentence flowing will also be learned. At the end of the course students will have practiced exegetical skills. They will know key issues of controversy within the epistle. They will also have learned how to flow Greek sentences. The course will conclude with an oral examination.
NT 760 Greek Exegesis: First Corinthians
- This class will examine Paul’s letters to the Corinthian congregation. It will consider the Greco-Roman background of the Corinthians as well as the Jewish and Christian ideas that ground his writing. Paul’s theology will also be evaluated from these letters. This class will continue to develop the exegetical skills of students in the Greek New Testament. Attention will be paid to critical issues that influence contemporary church life such as marriage and divorce, weak and strong brothers, church discipline, and spiritual gifts. Students will also explore Paul’s citations, allusions, and echoes within this book. This will involve comparison with Hebrew and Septuagint Greek. At the end of the class students will be examined on their translation from Greek orally.
NT 780 Greek Exegesis: The Revelation to John
- This course involves a detailed examination of the book of Revelation in the Greek language. It will also include an overview of the hermeneutical, historical, and interpretive challenges involved in understanding Revelation. In addition, it will continue to develop exegetical skills necessary for work in the New Testament: structural, lexical, textual, inter-textual, and biblical-theological analysis.
NT 800 Faculty Directed Greek Reading
- This class consists of group reading of the Greek text. Students will translate portions of the New Testament. The class is designed to help a student continue in the lifelong learning skills of New Testament Greek.
NT 830 New Testament Theology
- This course provides a synthesis of theology as is found throughout its presentation in the New Testament. It will examine theological themes that run throughout the New Testament, comparing themes from each book with others. It will also address the unity of the New Testament in an age where many want to find 27 diverse opinions. The key objectives of the course are to (1) distinguish theological themes present within books of the New Testament (2) isolate central themes that run throughout the New Testament by comparing with the findings of leading New Testament scholars (3) Give two oral presentations. One, on the Biblical Theology of the NT book and the other on a critical issue in New Testament Structures. (4) participate in dialogue with fellow students about New Testament theology.
OT 500 Survey of Old Testament Literature and History
- The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an overview of the content and flow of the Old Testament. Additionally, backgrounds, literary types, and an overall theology of the Old Testament will be presented. Special emphasis will be made on God’s progressive revelation of himself and his relationship to mankind.
OT 610 Hebrew I
- This course introduces and practices extensively all of the basic aspects of classical Hebrew: the alphabet, phonology, morphology, basic syntax, basic vocabulary, and basic translation.
OT 620 Hebrew II
- This course moves the student from basic grammatical knowledge of biblical Hebrew to the intermediate skills of using grammar, syntax, and textual criticism for studying the Hebrew Bible. An emphasis will be placed on reading several extended biblical texts along with understanding and applying the above-mentioned skills to these biblical texts.
OT 630 Biblical Aramaic
- Since portions of the Old Testament were originally written in Aramaic, an exegete will need to know Aramaic as well as Hebrew to study the whole breadth of the Old Testament. This course introduces and practices extensively all of the basic aspects of biblical Aramaic: the alphabet, phonology, morphology, basic syntax, basic vocabulary, and basic translation.
OT 675 Exegesis of Hosea (English Text or Hebrew Option)
- This course is an English test study of the book of Hosea focused on the structure and meaning of the text, paying careful attention to its literary devices (quotation, allusion, simile, metaphor, etc.) utilized by the author to convey meaning. If a student desires, this class can also be taken as a 5 ECTS course which would include exegesis in Hebrew.
OT 740 Hebrew Exegesis: Prose
- This course builds on skills from Intermediate Hebrew (grammar, syntax, and textual criticism), adding further exegetical skills in literary analysis and biblical theology. An emphasis will be placed on reading an extended biblical prose and applying the exegetical skills of grammar, syntax, textual criticism, literary analysis, and biblical theology to a biblical narrative.
OT 765 Hebrew Exegesis: Poetry
- This course builds on the skills from elementary and intermediate Hebrew. In particular exegetical skills (grammar, syntax, textual criticism, semantics, literary analysis, and biblical theology) will be used to analyze an extended poetic biblical text.
OT 800 Faculty Directed Hebrew Reading
- This class consists of a group reading of the Hebrew text. Students will translate portions of the Old Testament. The class is designed to help a student continue in the lifelong learning skills of Old Testament Hebrew
OT 840 Old Testament Theology
- Old Testament biblical theology has developed into a distinct discipline within the larger field of biblical studies over the last few hundred years. Through interaction with the various semantic shapes of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, students will consider how these various shapes impact the reciprocal relationship between the overall message(s) of the Old Testament and the message(s) of the individual books. Constant dialogue will be engaged with primary sources and secondary sources in relation to biblical theology, with careful reading of biblical texts and early sources at the core.
PA 610 Christian Apologetics
- The Christian worldview will be related to competing worldviews, e.g. deism, atheism, naturalism, materialism, pantheism. Also covered are the nature of the relationship of faith and reason and other apologetic issues, such as the problem of evil, the possibility of incarnation, the case for the resurrection, etc.
PA 635 Theology in Film
- The purpose of this course is to introduce students to aesthetic theology and cultural engagement through watching relevant movies. The course will help students to understand their own theology and out of that engage with contemporary art forms.
PA 660 Christian Ethics
- This class will examine ethics in the Old and New Testaments. A brief history of Christian ethical reflection with its various approaches will also be taken. Students who take this class will gain general principles of both individual and social ethics. There will be attempts made to develop skills in thinking and acting ethically in the light of biblical principles. Reflection will be made on selected specific issues such as abortion, capital punishment, euthanasia, genetics, racial/ethnic discrimination, warfare, etc.
PA 730 Introduction to Islamic Philosophy
- This class provides an overview of the important figures and trends in Islamic philosophy. Attention will be given to the common problems faced by philosophers of religion when doing philosophy: the question of the relation of revelation and philosophy, the question of authority (theological) and philosophical freedom of inquiry, the question of the omnipotence of God and the freedom of humankind, the question of the immutability of God and his ability to experience or know change, the concept of a continuity or metaphysical bridge between God and the world, the issue of the whole (Tahwid) and the parts, etc. We will also read from some primary sources, i.e. al-Kindi, Ibn Sina, Ibn Rushd, et alia.
PA 810 History of Philosophy of Religion
- This class provides an overview of the important figures and trends in the history of philosophy from pre-Socratic philosophers to Immanuel Kant. Focus will be on those issues in philosophy of religion which affect theology and the doing of theology. Lectures will focus on responding to non-Christian or liberal views and giving Evangelical response.
PA 820 History of Philosophy of Religion II
- This class provides an overview of the important figures and trends in the history of philosophy from Immanuel Kant to end of the 20th century. Focus will be on those issues in philosophy of religion which affect theology and the doing of theology. Lectures will focus on responding to non-Christian or liberal views and giving Evangelical response.
PA 830 Ethics of War, Peace, and Peace-Making
- This class covers Christian views of war and peace and practical approaches to peacemaking. Objectives: That the student (1) comes to know and understand several Christian views of war, (2) is encouraged to learn how to make peace and maintain it, and (3) evaluates these views and choose one they feel is most Biblical and philosophically defensible.
PT 505 A-F Mentoring
- This Spiritual Formation course is devoted to the personal development of the student, especially in relation to spiritual growth and maturity, along with character development. It especially focuses on the student’s love for God and neighbor, resulting in greater obedience to follow Jesus Christ in Word and Deed. The format consists of group and personal mentoring along with individual reading and projects.
PT 510 Biblical Preaching
- Because the Word of God is central to effective ministry and is necessary for the edification and feeding of the flock, it is essential that the Christian leader be competent to preach the Scriptures. Expository preaching is highlighted in the course.
PT 525 Pastoral Ministry
- Being involved in local church ministry demands specific pastoral skills for effective ministry. For this reason the course will consider the pastor’s call, shepherding and leading people in the church, pastoral visitation, pastor’s tasks, planning and conducting worship services, personal life (family, pastor’s wife and children), special events in the church, weddings, funerals, child dedications, relations in the community and with other churches, harmony and reconciliation in the church, church business meetings, financial stewardship, administration, prayer in the church, and general education in the church.
PT 540 Foundations of Christian Ministry
- This course offers an overview of the basic principles of Christian ministry, with and emphasis on the personal qualities of the Christian minister and the core characteristics of fruitful and lasting ministries.
PT 600 Personal Leadership Development
- The Christian world is in need of leaders, especially godly leaders, who are able to influence groups of people toward the accomplishment of God’s purposes. For this reason, this course offers a practical and personal study of leadership development: its essence, spiritual authority, character, goals and purposes, values and vision. This course includes theories of leadership and leadership development through mentoring. Because being in Christian ministry involves various aspects and levels of leadership, this course helps to lay the basic foundations for all ministry work.
PT 610 Pastoral Counseling
- All church leaders, especially pastors, are involved in the lives of people. To be involved in their lives means that they are also involved in their struggles and problems. For this reason, Tyndale offers a pastoral counseling course that teaches various theories, approaches, principles, and techniques with the intent to help the student develop helping skills related to implementing a biblical approach to counseling. Common counseling problems are considered.
PT 612 Pastoral Counseling II
- This course furthers the material covered in the Pastoral Counseling course with a particular focus on furthering the student’s knowledge of Counseling Skills, Case Conceptualization and Pastoral Diagnosis. The course will provide further content related to marriage problems, depression, addiction, anxiety and related mental health issues that pastors, ministry leaders and church counselors may face.
PT 615 Discipleship
- In Matthew 28:19, Jesus told his followers to go into all the world and make disciples. The focus of this course is how to do just that: make disciples rather than converts or church members. In many ways, this course serves as the praxis for the theoretical work in other courses. The disciple-making process begins by first looking at our own level of discipleship. We will then explore practical ways to engage congregational leaders to assume their role as disciple-makers, and we will venture to assess the risks and blessings of this endeavor in a local congregation.
PT 620 Leadership Dynamics
- As people who play an important role by influencing a group of God’s people to accomplish the mission He has set before them, Christian leaders need to develop their leadership skills. Therefore, the student is taught and trained in key leadership skills such as prayer, vision and goal setting, developing strategy for ministry, team working and group effectiveness, empowering people, time management, leading meetings and making decisions, networking, delegation and key administrative principles related to leadership.
PT 630 Marriage & Family
- Since the Church is based in many ways on godly and sound families, it is important that students have a good grasp of the biblical and theological understanding of marriage and family issues. In order to equip them to better help the families in their churches this course is centered around three aspects specifically related to ministry: (1) biblical-theological definitions of marriage and family; (2) views on marriage and divorce; (3) a study of the Scriptures and their application in relation to pastoral counselling practically in relation to marriage and divorce, marital preparation, singleness, sexuality, child-rearing and parental guidance.
PT 636 Ministry of the Word
- This course provides a model for moving from biblical exegesis to exposition. Exegesis is the process by which one discerns the meaning of the text. Exposition is the process by which one makes that meaning known to others. The course is intended to help students move from understanding what the Bible meant in its original context to understanding what it means for us today, and finally to communicate that meaning to others in various ministry contexts.
PT 640 Using Bible Narratives in Ministry
- This course is a study of biblical narratives in literary and canonical context, with particular emphasis on using biblical narratives in practical ministry. Students will survey various elements and techniques of narratives, conduct a close reading of the book of Ruth as an example of narrative, and view and evaluate examples of using narratives in practical ministry. Course projects will give students the opportunity to demonstrate the use of biblical narrative(s) in a setting appropriate to their own ministries and cultural contexts.
PT 650 Educational Ministries of the Church
- Educational ministries are an important segment in the overall mission of the church which contribute to spiritual growth and health of individual believers and the church itself. This is an introductory course on educating Christians, with special emphasis on philosophy of ministry, Bible teaching skills, guidelines for planning, understanding ministry objectives, and ministry to various age groups.
PT 660 Beyond Suffering: A Biblical View on Pain, Suffering and Disability Ministry
- Have you ever struggles physically, emotionally or spiritually and wondered why? Do you have family members or friends with disabilities and struggle to know what to say or how to act around them? People with disabilities are considered one of the world’s largest under-represented groups. The church is largely unprepared for the burgeoning disabled population. One of the primary goals of the Beyond Suffering Course is to address the issue by preparing leaders in ministry, education, medicine and science to become involved in the life-changing ministry.
PT 705 Internship (MDiv)
- This class is for the Master of Divinity program. Practical ministry experience through field-based internships is essential to good theological education. These internships are learning experiences whereby the student carries out ministry under the leadership of an experienced person in ministry and the Director of Internships at Tyndale.
PT 715 Advanced Biblical Preaching
- Proclaiming and expounding God’s Word faithfully is one of the most awesome privileges and responsibilities given to any pastor or Christian leader. Effective and life-changing preaching is also one of the key marks of a healthy church. This course will seek to sharpen the skills of preachers focusing especially on the task of sermon preparation. We will examine together the key steps in the preparation process, especially the core task of creating an effective outline. We will also look at how to preach for impact, by the power of the Holy Spirit–developing sermons which engage both the mind and the heart, and move the hearer toward a response to God’s Word. Preaching is not an art–it is an exercise in humble dependence on God. Yet we can develop our skills to be more effective for His glory! This is what we will seek to do together in this class.
PT 750 Church Planting in an Urban Context
- The role of church planting as an evangelistic strategy is examined in the light of a biblical theology of ‘the city’, and the current opportunity the globalization of the city and the urbanization of the globe affords contemporary Christian mission. Models of urban church plants are discussed and analyzed. A large part of the course is given over to a practical description of a step-by-step process of planting. Students are involved throughout the course in designing an urban church planting project according to the course content.
PT 775 Theological Education
- Because the Christian faith is based on the revelation of God, it is a faith that demands teaching. Doctrine plays a central role among other aspects of the faith and its expression. Therefore, this course will look at the history, philosophy, methodology and the strategic role that theological education plays in the mission of God.
PT 805L/T Internship (MET)
- This class is for the Master of Evangelical Theology program. The internship is an essential part of the educational experience at Tyndale which includes spiritual, character, and ministry skill development. The MET internship is directed toward vocational Christian ministry, specifically in the areas of leadership and theological education. Central to the internship is the personal mentoring of the students by an experienced Christian worker. The MET internship has one track for leadership and one for a theological educator. This internship spans the fall and spring term of one year.
PT 835 Developing Healthy Churches
- Due to the significance of the local church in the plan of God for reaching the world for His glory and honor, it is essential that the local church body be in good spiritual health. This course offers an examination of what constitutes a spiritually healthy church and how to develop this health in establishing a philosophy of ministry.
PT XXX Preachers & Leaders Conferences
- Regular conferences may be held. These conferences may be taken for one credit. The subject matter varies based on the focus of that particular year.
ST 500 Survey of Doctrine
- This class will help the student to be able to define and explain the need and the makeup of systematic theology. The student should know the main tenets of Christian Doctrine. The student will demonstrate critical thinking and basic research skills via a written response on one of the systematic theological topics.
ST 510 Bibliology
- Bibliology is the study of God’s written revelation. This study tracks the entire course of events and processes which produced the Bible in order to understand how it is that man possesses God’s words in written form. Topics range from revelation and inspiration through canon, illumination, and authority. The student will grow in faith and obedience through an improved understanding of what God’s written word is and how it has come to the world and will master a diagram of the bibliological processes from revelation through proclamation.
ST 520 Foundations for Theology
- This course is traditionally called Prolegomena (things prior to the study of theology). In this course, we will cover issues of religious epistemology, the locus of authority, the relation of philosophy and theology, questions of the existence of God from natural theology, and a comparison of various world-views with a Christian theistic world-view.
ST 610 Theology Proper
- This course offers an in-depth study of the doctrine of God in Christian Theology. The student should be able to explain who God is and know the main tenets of Theology Proper.
ST 635 Soteriology and Hamartiology
- By the end of the course, the student should be able to answer the following questions:
1. What is the biblical definition and consequences of sin?
2. What is the biblical definition and consequences of salvation?
3. How did the doctrines of soteriology and hamartiology develop in Church history?
Further, students should be able to summarize, explain, and appraise the doctrine of soteriology on the final exam as well as formulate its relationship to other doctrines of systematic theology.
ST 640 Christology
- Christology is a study of the person and works of Jesus Christ. Based on the progressive revelation of both the Old and New Testaments, an understanding of Christ will be developed, relating these to such topics as Christ’s divinity and humanity, his Messiahship and incarnation. The course will then examine global Christologies, including historical, Western, Eastern and African, as well as Christological ideas found in other religions. Specific growth in faith, humility, and gratitude to God will be sought as a result of a growing knowledge of Christ.
ST 650 Modern Theological Thought
- The aim of this course is to survey and critically engage with modern theological thought as it took shape in the 20th century. The main question and the focus of the course will be on: the immanence and the transcendence of God.
ST 710 Ecclesiology
- This class covers the study of the doctrine of the Church. This will be examined through the historical four marks of the Christian Church: one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church as seen in the book of Ephesians. The class also will assess the form and effectiveness of the church organization(s) with which the student is involved in light of a biblical model.
ST 715 Eschatology
- Jesus expected people to be able to interpret the signs of the times (Matt 16:2-3). This class is a study of eschatology including different perspectives, major events, themes, and problems in eschatology, the progressive revelation of predicted events, and the Christian’s hope. This course will enable students to formulate personal biblical conclusions concerning the timing of God’s eschatological plan and be able to communicate these conclusions in chart and outline form. In addition, the student will be able to integrate his or her biblical eschatological convictions with a biblical stance on the proclamation of the Christian message and compassion, including advocacy, development, and social justice. The course will encourage eschatological truth as a basis for personal spiritual growth.
ST 730 Public Theology
- Theology is meant to help people to understand life – with all of its struggles, issues, and challenges – in light of what God has done, and will do, through His Son, Jesus Christ. This course is built on the premise that theology is designed to help us live the life that God intended for us to live, which implies that theology should contribute to the common good, and to human well-being. In this course, then, we will explore this concept to demonstrate how this can and should be done. The term “public” in the course title is meant to emphasize the fact the theology is not merely an academic exercise to be done in school, but should be focused on the ministry of helping people live faithful and meaningful lives before God.
ST 740 Public Theology II: Engaging Contemporary Thought and Life
- Building on the “Public Theology” course, this course will seek to apply the foundations of an engaged theology to some of the key areas of contemporary life. The approach taken will be two-fold: on the one hand, to seek to flesh out the ramifications of a Christian vision of reality for such key areas as “what is the good life?”, marriage and family, work and vocation, civic polity and the common good, and the opportunities and challenges of new technologies; and on the other hand, to contrast these with the values and practices which emanate from competing visions of reality. The goal is to equip students with the kind of reflective tools which will enable them, in concrete ministry settings, to help Christians translate theological commitments into a lived critique of their culture, and into faithful habits of life.
ST 810 Pneumatology
- This class provides an in-depth study of the doctrine and work of the Holy Spirit. It will pay special attention to varying evangelical views on the current work of the Holy Spirit and the use or not of the charismatic gifts. Emphasis will be given to learning to disagree irenically about this often contentious issue.
ST 820 Systematic Theology Integrative Seminar
- This course explores theological Anthropology as it relates to all created beings such as angels and demons. The main theme of the course is the imago dei and its theological significance. A historical and biblical theological overview will be followed by current theories and approaches to the human. Questions of gender, race and sexuality will also be discussed from a theological perspective. Considering the non-western contexts that students come from and will be working in, other created beings such as angels and demons will also be studied.
TH 900 Research Methods
- Students are trained in methods for doing adequate research for writing a master’s thesis at Tyndale. Students are introduced to the most important tools for library and internet research in theology and biblical studies. Students also learn techniques for critical-but-generous reading of secondary source material and for constructing and writing honest, persuasive arguments that honor both God and those made in his image. Students begin exploring possible thesis topics and are introduced to thesis style requirements. Finally, students learn how to avoid different types of plagiarism and to quote, paraphrase, and cite sources according to Turabian style.
TH 950A Thesis Prospectus A
- Preparation of a Thesis Prospectus including a thesis statement, need, and relevance, limitations, methodology and preparatory bibliography is the main goal of the course. Getting this Thesis Prospectus accepted by the faculty is one of the main course goals. Review of library research skills, as well as an introduction to basic logic and argumentation, will be covered. A method for reading at different levels will be taught for use during research.
TH 950B Thesis Prospectus B
- Students continue to be guided through the process of producing the required thesis proposal in terms of content and character. The thesis topic is refined and the preliminary bibliography is composed. Logic and argumentation methods are taught.
TH 960 Thesis Writing A
- Students are to begin their research on their thesis. Each student is to work independently in Tyndale’s library, online, or in a nearby University library. Students may also accomplish their research through surveys or interviews. The first reader of the thesis will provide guidance regularly to the student. The first chapter along with the introduction are to be completed at the end of this class.
TH 970 Thesis Writing B
- Students are to write the majority of their thesis. Each student is to work independently in Tyndale’s library, online, or in a nearby University library. Students may also accomplish their research through surveys or interviews. The first reader of the thesis will provide guidance regularly to the student.
TH 980 Thesis Writing C
- Students are to submit their first draft of their thesis and make revisions. Following revisions, the first reader of the thesis in conjunction with the Thesis Supervisor will send off the thesis to the second reader. Each student is to work independently with guidance provided by the first reader.
TH 999 Thesis Writing D and Defense
- Students are to submit their thesis and defend it orally before a first and second reader. Corrections to the thesis will then be made so that the completed thesis can be submitted to the librarian for placement in Tyndale’s library.