Catalog School Year 2004–2005

1800 East La Veta Avenue, Orange, CA 92866 Voice: 800–68-GRACE [684–7223] Office: 714–288–9555 Fax: 714–288–1526 Email: [email protected] Website: www.chafer.edu

CONTENTS Page Welcome ...... 2 Introduction ...... 2 CTS Distinctives...... 3 Curriculum for Developing Theology...... 6 CTS Degree Programs ...... 6 Academic Procedures ...... 9 Admission Procedures ...... 11 Differences of Doctrinal Beliefs...... 13 Registration Procedures ...... 14 Student Guidelines ...... 14 Financial Information ...... 16 Course Descriptions ...... 17 Academic Modules ...... 31 Distance Learning Courses...... 31 Faculty and Administration ...... 31 Statement of Doctrine ...... 33 Gifts to Chafer Seminary ...... 39 CTS Journal ...... 40 Academic Calendar ...... 41

WELCOME

We extend a warm and enthusiastic welcome as you consider how best to prepare for a life of serving the Lord.

The apostle Paul laid the foundation for academic training when he commanded Timothy to teach faithful men who also would pass on the truth to future generations: The things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2). Moreover, while standing on the Mount of Olives, the Lord said: If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water (John 7:37b–38). By application, the Lord calls believers to learn (drink in the Word) and to serve and teach others (allowing the living waters to flow from us). Furthermore, the Old Testament provides precedents in training men for ministry since both Samuel and Elijah led training schools for the prophets. CTS aspires to follow in this grand tradition.

We offer you an academically challenging biblical education that will enhance your ability to minister in today’s world. Whether you want to develop skills for vocational ministry or simply desire to know more about God’s Word, we invite you to join us at Chafer Theological Seminary.

INTRODUCTION

When you attempt to choose a seminary or graduate school in theology, you discover that there are many institutions offering a wide variety of choices and opportunities. How, then, can you chose the school that best fits you? The following pages describe the areas in which this seminary seeks to excel. We hope you conclude that CTS is the right place for you.

Areas of Academic Study

The seminary offers courses in the following eight areas designed to equip students for the work of the ministry:

1. Old Testament Studies 2. New Testament Studies 3. Biblical Studies 4. Theological Studies 5. Historical Theology 6. Apologetics 7. Jewish Studies 8. Contemporary Issues

Old and New Testament Studies are foundational. Essential to exegesis (inductive study in the original languages) is an understanding of the biblical languages—Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Competency in the biblical languages prepares the student to deal accurately with the textual, exegetical, and critical questions of Scripture. Many of the vexing questions in the Bible yield their solutions only to those willing to expend the effort to master the biblical languages.

Biblical Studies (isogogics) bring the Word to life by unfolding the history, cultural practices, and customs of ancient peoples and by introducing the student to the laws of sound Bible study (Hermeneutics).

2 Theological Studies take the details of analytical or exegetical study and synthesize them into a harmonious whole. This gives the student the fullest perspective on any given subject of Scripture.

Historical Theology gives students a general knowledge of the historical development of theology and the progress of the Christian church, so that students may understand their evangelical heritage and be able to evaluate contemporary issues and trends in the church. History inspires us to greater service and commitment by holding before us our spiritual forefathers’ triumphs and helps us not to repeat their mistakes.

Apologetics provides training in defending Christian beliefs. This department equips students to give persuasive reasons for the hope and faith that is within them (1 Peter 3:15), especially when the authenticity of Scripture and Christianity are under attack.

Jewish Studies recognize that Jewish authors wrote both the Old and the New Testament in a Jewish context and with unique Jewish perspectives. These studies shed light on our understanding and application of God’s Word.

The Contemporary Issues courses deal with pressing issues thrust upon us by false teaching, secular and pagan philosophies. These courses provide students with an opportunity to grapple with biblical evidence and to discover God’s viewpoint on the issues of our day.

LICENSING AND ACCREDITATION

CTS is not accredited. The state of California authorizes us to grant degrees under the state’s religious exemption. We are currently pursuing accreditation (which is a separate matter).

Dallas Theological Seminary (Texas), Western Seminary (Oregon), and Talbot School of Theology (California) have agreed to accept CTS student credits on a case-by-case basis, as long as the student maintains a 3.00 GPA. This applies to commensurate course work.

CTS DISTINCTIVES

The pastors and scholars who founded CTS adopted five distinctives that we emphasize in our training program.

LITERAL HERMENEUTICS. We adopt a consistent, literal (historical, grammatical and rhetorical) hermeneutic in every portion of the Scripture.

EMPHASIS ON GREEK AND HEBREW EXEGESIS. We share the deep conviction that teaching the Word of God itself builds believers in the faith for fruitful service. Therefore, Greek and Hebrew exegesis is foundational to our school’s educational program.

DISPENSATIONAL THEOLOGY. As a result of our literal hermeneutic, we are dispensationalists. (For example, we believe Israel rejected Jesus’ offer to them of the Davidic/ Messianic Kingdom at His First Advent. This resulted in the postponement of the Davidic Kingdom, in its entirety, until the Second Coming of Christ following Daniel’s 70th Week.) In addition to reading the works of dispensational theologians, we believe that students should read widely in the written labors of non-dispensational theologians such as Luther, Calvin, Hodge, Warfield, etc. Our goal, however, is to train students to do theology independently, thinking through categories of Scripture for themselves.

3 THE SUFFICIENCY OF SCRIPTURES. We believe in the complete adequacy of Scripture, for in it God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness. We hold, therefore, that the Word of God by itself is sufficient to prepare a person for a lifetime of effective ministry.

THE FREENESS OF GOD’S GRACE. We hold fast to free grace—the view that God saves mankind by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone. No works before, during, or after the moment of initial faith in Christ contribute anything to the free gift of forgiveness and eternal life that one receives through faith in Jesus Christ. The absence of good works during or after the moment of faith subtracts nothing from one’s eternal position in Christ. However, good works determine whether one will receive eternal rewards.

HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY

Brief History

The genesis of Chafer Theological Seminary took shape in the minds of several seminary students between the years of 1965 and 1968. While finishing their academic requirements and preparing for ordination, these students discussed the possibility of forming a seminary. They noticed that only the most gifted were able to master the languages to the extent that they had authentic tools for a lifetime of exegetical ministry. They believed it was important for the curriculum to emphasize the tools necessary to exegete the Word of God from the original languages of Scripture—to prepare one to exposit God’s Word.

In October 1992, several meetings took place during the National Teaching Pastors’ Conference in Huntington Beach, California. These former students with other like-minded pastors, after considerable discussion and prayer, determined that the time was ripe to start a full-fledged seminary committed to the distinctives delineated above. The Lord’s blessing was evident in that gifted teachers, administrative support, access to superb libraries, and an excellent location were immediately available.

Our Philosophy

We believe that professors should be involved in an on-going ministry of a local church as pastors, teachers, elders, deacons, evangelists, or administrators. All professors at CTS have such experience, as well as academic credentials in their areas of expertise, and are loyal to our distinctives. We expect the professors to serve as role models to our students, who are expected also to maintain active ties with their local churches. See Student Guidelines - “Conduct.”

Furthermore, we believe that exegesis is an art, as well as a science. One acquires the basic tools (science) during academic training, but becoming proficient in their use is a lifelong process. It is our objective to provide thorough grounding in the foundational tools, as well as initial guidance in their application. Graduates then will have a lifetime to develop their skill and to master the art of exegesis.

A believer receives the spiritual gifts of evangelist, pastor, and teacher are lifetime gifts at the time of spiritual birth. Yet Moses did not begin his ministry until he was eighty years old, and Paul did not start his first missionary journey until about 10 years after his conversion. We should infer from these examples that a few years of preparation enable one to bear more fruit. Redeem the time, for God uses prepared men and women!

CTS encourages women to take classes and to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. This follows the pattern of the Lord Himself, who encouraged women to sit

4 under His teaching—something revolutionary in His day. It is our conviction, however, based on Christ’s example and passages like 1 Timothy 2:11–15, that in the church no woman is to exercise authority over men, or to teach men, regardless of how knowledgeable and capable she may be as a communicator. This, we believe, is God’s design. We do not, therefore, ordain or promote women to ministry roles that place them in authority over men. In all other roles, they may and should serve in keeping with the gifts, callings, and training God has granted them.

God created male and female as ontologically equal, yet distinct and complementary entities (Genesis 1 and 2); however, geographical, racial, and linguistic differences that arose later are incidental to the creative order. Our philosophical framework echoes these truths. Therefore, we hire as faculty and accept into our training program those who honor gender distinctions with their God-given design, but recognize no functional distinctions based on geography, race, or language. Accordingly, throughout our training program, we do not discriminate for or against people groups, but seek individuals according to their personal merits and achievements.

We view every student at CTS as an individual and provide all assistance he or she may need. We have found that students, even those who post top grades in college, sometimes struggle in a seminary setting. We are here to help: our professors see themselves as shepherds, as well as teachers.

It is also our conviction that the seminary’s faculty and staff should be accountable to a Governing Board, consisting mostly of pastors—men who have proven themselves on the front lines of ministry. These men have the best grasp of what ministry is and what it requires. Thus, we have a national Governing Board that provides overall direction. The Board members’ names appear below, under “Faculty, Administration and Staff.”

A consideration

Originally, the purpose of seminaries was to prepare men with the requisite spiritual gifts to be exegetes and expositors of Scripture from the original languages. This purpose and emphasis grew out of the conviction that the Word of God is the answer to all challenges in people’s lives. Early seminary founders saw Scripture as adequate and practical for every aspect of life. Thus, they viewed Greek and Hebrew as tools to delve deeper into the life- changing Word, which alone is able to equip believers for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17) and sufficient for all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).

Because Chafer Theological Seminary embraces that original purpose, it makes the study of Greek and Hebrew, along with biblical systematic theology, foundational to its program. Believers need training that looks to the Word and Spirit of God as the sole means of changing lives and preparing God’s children to serve to the glory of God. Our goal is to help provide that training.

5 CURRICULUM FOR DEVELOPING THEOLOGY

At CTS we practice exegesis at the book level, which then fuels biblical theology based on the subject matter inherent in each book. Such theology is biblical both in its content and emphasis. Systematized biblical theology, dealing with the whole counsel of God, then organizes in an orderly manner both major and minor biblical subjects. We seek especially to address the everyday issues that men and women face; thus, systematized biblical theology seeks to be a light to one’s path and a lamp to one’s feet in daily thinking and living for Christ.

This is not, however, the end of the process. A true systematic theology is the Christian “theory of everything,” a true Queen of the Sciences. We believe that God is the fount of all knowledge without contradiction. On that basis, we conclude that Truth is a coherent whole, and that all truths are therefore compatible. Accordingly, we bring the knowledge God has revealed to us to our understanding of the world, with the purpose of using revelation to order and give coherence to what we know from our experience of the world. The resulting unified field of knowledge is true systematic theology.

The following chart demonstrates the CTS four-year theological curriculum. SYSTEMATIZED BIBLICAL THEOLOGY AND INTRODUCTION TO 4th YEAR SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY Greek/Hebrew Exegesis

BIBLICAL THEOLOGY 3rd YEAR Greek/Hebrew Exegesis

GREEK AND HEBREW EXEGESIS 2nd YEAR Basics of systematic Theology

GREEK (AND HEBREW) EXEGESIS 1st YEAR Basics of Systematic Theology

CTS DEGREE PROGRAMS

Master of Biblical Studies (M.B.S.) Curriculum

The Master of Biblical Studies program provides in-depth theological training. Its purpose is to give students who want solid biblical training, yet who believe that the Lord has not called them to a pulpit ministry, an opportunity to receive such training. The M.B.S. program also provides a solid foundation for those who may later decide to work toward the completion of the Th.M. degree.

6 First Year Fall Semester Spring Semester Credit Credit No. Courses No. Courses Hours Hours Bibliology, Theology Christology and TH 401 3 TH 402 3 Proper, and Angelology Pneumatology NT 201 NT Greek 4 NT 202 NT Greek 4 HT 501 Church History I 3 HT 502 Church History II 3 Hermeneutics, Bible Study BI 301 3 CI 901 Spiritual Life 2 Methods ------TH 409 Dispensationalism 2 Old Testament History Old Testament History BI 302 3 BI 303 3 and Survey and Survey 16 17

1st Year Summer Module: JS 802 Israelology (2)

Second Year Fall Semester Spring Semester Credit Credit No. Courses No. Courses Hours Hours Anthropology, Hamarti- Ecclesiology and TH 403 3 TH 404 3 ology, and Soteriology Eschatology OT 101 Beginning Hebrew 4 OT 102 Beginning Hebrew 4 NT 203 Intermediate Greek 3 NT 204 Intermediate Greek 3 New Testament History New Testament History BI 304 3 BI 305 3 and Survey and Survey AP 602 Evangelism, Missions 2 Elective 2 15 15

2nd Year Summer Module: JS 801 Jewish Life of Christ (2)

Master of Theology Curriculum (Th.M)

The Master of Theology program provides in-depth theological training for students who believe that the Lord has called them to a pulpit or educational ministry.

7 First Year Fall Semester Spring Semester Credit Credit No. Courses No. Courses Hours Hours Bibliology, Theology Proper, Christology and TH 401 3 TH 402 3 and Angelology Pneumatology NT 201 Beginning Greek 4 NT 202 Beginning Greek 4 HT 501 Church History I 3 HT 502 Church History II 3 Hermeneutics, Bible Study BI 301 3 CI 901 Spiritual Life 2 Methods ------TH 409 Dispensationalism 2 Old Testament History Old Testament History and BI 302 3 BI 303 3 and Survey Survey 16 17

1st Year Summer Module: JS 802 Israelology (2)

Second Year Fall Semester Spring Semester Credit Credit No. Courses No. Courses Hours Hours Anthropology, Hamarti- Ecclesiology and TH 403 3 TH 404 3 ology, and Soteriology Eschatology OT 101 Beginning Hebrew 4 OT 102 Beginning Hebrew 4 NT 203 Intermediate Greek 3 NT 204 Intermediate Greek 3 New Testament History and New Testament History BI 304 3 BI 305 3 Survey and Survey AP 602 Evangelism, Missions 2 Elective 2 15 15

2nd Year Summer Module: JS 801 Jewish Life of Christ (2)

Third Year FALL SEMESTER SPRING SEMESTER Credit Credit No. Courses No. Courses Hours Hours Biblical Theology Biblical Theology TH 405 3 TH 406 3 Methodology 1 Methodology 2 OT 103 Intermediate Hebrew 3 OT 104 Intermediate Hebrew 3 OT 107 OT Introduction 2 NT 207 NT Introduction 2 NT 205 Adv Greek Grammar 3 NT 206 Adv Greek Grammar 3 BI 306 Advanced Hermeneutics 3 HT 503 History of Doctrine 2 Free Grace versus --- Greek Elective 2 CI 902 2 Perseverance CI 905 Thesis Subject 0 --- Elective 2 CI 905 Thesis Synopsis 0 16 17

8 Fourth Year FALL SEMESTER SPRING SEMESTER Credit Credit No. Courses No. Courses Hours Hours Systematized Biblical Intro to Systematic TH 407 3 TH 408 3 Theology Methodology Theology Methodology OT 105 Adv Hebrew 3 OT 106 Adv Hebrew 3 CI 903 Biblical preaching I 2 CI 904 Biblical preaching II 2 AP 601 Intro to Apologetics 2 CI 905 Thesis 2 OT Hebrew Elective 2 OT Hebrew Elective 2 NT Greek Elective 2 NT Greek Elective 2 —- Elective 2 16 14

Summary of Degree Programs

You may earn a degree by completing a degree program at Chafer Theological Seminary. The following degrees are available:

1. The Master of Biblical Studies degree 2. The Master of Theology degree

The above programs may be completed in two or four years respectively by the students who desire to proceed quickly to graduation. Any student, however, may stretch out his training over a longer period in keeping with family, work, and church responsibilities.

ACADEMIC PROCEDURES

Registration

Official registration for courses is required before the beginning of each semester. Students cannot be admitted to classes without formal registration.

Schedule Changes

If a student wishes to make a change to his/her class schedule after the first week of classes, a “Schedule Change” form must be completed, signed by the student and the professor, and submitted to the Registration Office before the change will be made effective. Any additional tuition and the transaction fee must be paid in advance. See “Grading System” section for deadlines for schedule changes and drop/withdrawals.

Audit Policy

Students may audit courses. The professor determines the degree of his interaction with a student who audits the course. To change from audit to credit, the student must (1) complete all the work in the course up to that point and (2) pay an additional transaction fee and make-up the difference in tuition. See “Grading System” section for deadlines for schedule changes.

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Academic Advising

Since the Seminary considers the academic advising process an integral part of each student’s program, the faculty are available to assist students as they select courses each semester.

Grading System

Students seeking degrees must maintain a 2.0 grade point average. Falling below that average places the student on probation during the following semester. Failing to raise one’s grade point average to 2.0 during the probationary semester may become grounds for suspension or dismissal. Grade symbols are used as follows:

A = Work of an exceptional quality B = Work of a commendable quality C = Work of an acceptable but not distinguished quality D = Work of a minimal but passing quality F = Failure to do minimal work, with no credit given CR = Credit AU = Audit IP = In progress NC = No credit NR = Not recorded W = Withdrew WP = Withdrew passing WF = Withdrew failing

Grade points are computed according to the following scale:

A+ or A 4.0 B– 2.7 D+ 1.3 A– 3.7 C+ 2.3 D 1.0 B+ 3.3 C 2.0 D– 0.7 B 3.0 C– 1.7 F 0.0

Schedule Changes

After the first week of classes students may make a change to their classes by completing a “Schedule Change” form. It is the responsibility of the student to pick up the form in the CTS Administrative office, complete the student portion, discuss the change with the professor and acquire his signature on the “Schedule Change” form. The completed form must then be returned to the Registration Office with payment of any additional tuition and $15.00 transaction fee. Changes to the student’s schedule will be not be processed or become effective without a completed “Schedule Change” form and payment of the fee. The deadline for class changes is the Friday before final exams week for each semester or module. No class changes are not accepted after this date.

10 Drops/Withdrawals

Up to the Friday of the 8th week of a semester students may drop a course without academic penalty (with a grade of “W”). Between Monday of the 9th week and Friday of the 12th week students who withdraw will be given either a “WP” (Withdrew Passing) or “WF” (Withdrew Failing) grade, and students who drop a course between Monday of the 13th week and the Friday before final exams week will receive a “WF” (Withdrew Failing) grade. No drops or withdrawals will be accepted after the Friday before final exams week.

Extensions

A student who experiences a serious and unexpected event (e.g., disabling illness or injury, difficult pregnancy or delivery of a child, death of an immediate family member) may request an extension to complete course work. An “Extension Request” form must be completed by the student and applicable professor, and then submitted to the President for approval. The length of an extension is as recommended by the applicable professor.

If the course is not completed within the time allowed, the student will receive an “F.”

The CTS Record-Keeping System

A student’s records will be maintained in the seminary office. Copies of student transcripts may be ordered from the CTS office. No information about grades or other data will be released to any party without the written consent of the student.

Independent Study

Students may complete a portion of graduate-level courses through independent study. Th.M. students may complete up to 18 hours of elective credit by independent study; M.B.S. students, up to 12 hours.

Course Papers

Unless otherwise specified by the professors in individual courses, all papers and theses must be typewritten and conform to the standards outlined in A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations, 6th ed., by Kate L. Turabian.

Graduation Requirements

Candidates for the M.B.S. degree must have completed 67 semester hours of course work; students pursuing the Th.M. must have completed 130 hours of course work. All students must have satisfactorily participated in the leadership meetings of their local church as verified in writing by a church leader. The minimum GPA accepted in all degree programs is 2.0. Moreover, each Th.M. student must adhere to the doctrines delineated in the CTS Doctrinal Statement (see above). Finally, the student needs to finalize all financial matters with the seminary bookkeeper.

ADMISSION PROCEDURES

Chafer Seminary enrolls as students men and women who are of proven Christian character, possess appropriate spiritual gifts, and adhere to the CTS Doctrinal Statement. All degree programs are coeducational. However, the seminary holds that Scripture limits to men the roles which require teaching men or exercising authority over men.

11 The curriculum is designed to build on the baccalaureate degree, or its equivalent, conferred by an accredited college or university. Exceptions to this minimal scholastic requirement for entrance are necessarily limited. Graduates of unaccredited institutions, when accepted, are placed on academic probation for their first year of study at Chafer Seminary. This probation is removed after one year of satisfactory progress toward a degree (2.0 or above GPA).

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission must make formal application through the Admissions Office. All entering students (with the exception of some transfer students) will be automatically enrolled in the M.B.S. program. Transfer students should consult with the Registrar regarding entrance into the Th.M. program.

Applications may be obtained from the Admissions Office or downloaded from www.chafer.edu. A nonrefundable fee of $20 must accompany the application. The following supporting documentation must also be submitted:

1. Character references from three individuals, including the applicant’s pastor. Reference forms are included with the application materials.

2. Biblical Qualifications. This should include (1) your personal testimony (500 words maximum), (2) a description of your spiritual gifts, (3) explanation of problem areas (e.g., bankruptcy, criminal conviction, involvement in a lawsuit, divorce), and (4) description of your ministry experiences, particularly in the past 5 years.

3. Demonstration of English proficiency. If English is not your native or birth language you may be required to provide TOEFL and TWE scores. You may obtain information about these tests by writing to: TOEFL, P.O. Box 6154, Princeton, NJ 08541-6154.

4. Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Final approval is contingent on receiving an official transcript verifying conferral of a qualifying degree.

5. Spouse’s Statement (if applicable). If you are married, please ask your spouse to submit a one-page statement expressing his or her viewpoint regarding your pursuit of a training ministry that will occupy much of your time.

Nonbaccalaureate (Nondegree) Admission

Nonbaccaulareate applicants must follow the same admission procedures as degree applicants. Applicants who lack the prerequisite college degree may apply for admission to the Th.M. and M.B.S. degree programs; however, a Certificate of Biblical Studies will be issued in lieu of a degree until a bachelor’s degree is completed, at which time a degree will be awarded. Admission of students without bachelor’s degrees is highly selective. Qualifications that will be considered include maturity, educational background, ministry experience, and vocational goals.

Audit Admission

Some students may take courses for self-enrichment only. A shorter application form, which may be obtained from the Admissions Office, must be completed before enrollment in classes.

Admission Deadlines

To facilitate enrollment, please submit the requested documents no later than June 15th for the summer session and fall semester; November 15th for the winter session and spring

12 semester. Applications may be submitted after the above deadlines, but will be considered and processed only as time allows.

Applicants are evaluated on the basis of their character, academic records, the extent and quality of involvement in Christian service, their apparent gifts, and potential for Christian ministry. A letter of acceptance will be sent after the admissions committee approves an application.

Transfer of Credit

Students pursuing a Th.M degree

Course credits with a minimum grade of 2.0 (C) earned at other accredited seminaries and graduate theological schools are accepted at full value to the extent that the courses are comparable to the Chafer Theological Seminary’s stated requirements. An interview with a faculty member and/or assessment by testing is required. A maximum of 60 semester hours may be transferred toward the Th.M. degree. Thus, a student must complete at least four semesters (60 semester hours) of academic work on campus. An official transcript from the institution previously attended is required. CTS distance learning courses count as on-campus courses. The President, on the basis of the testing professor’s recommendation, makes the final decision.

Students pursuing an M.B.S. degree

Course credits with a minimum grade of 2.0 (C) earned at other accredited seminaries and graduate theological schools are accepted at full value to the extent that the courses are comparable to the Chafer Theological Seminary’s stated requirements. An interview with a faculty member and/or assessment by testing is required. A maximum of 30 semester hours may be transferred toward the M.B.S. degree. Thus, a student must complete at least two semesters (30 semester hours) of academic work on campus. An official transcript from the institution previously attended is required. CTS distance learning courses count as on-campus courses. The President, on the basis of the testing professor’s recommendation, makes the final decision.

Students pursuing a Certificate of Biblical Studies

Transfer hours will be accepted for students enrolled in the Certificate of Biblical Studies program. Credits earned at this institution and transferred to another are accepted at the discretion of the receiving institution. Questions regarding the transfer of credits should be directed to the President.

Validation of Courses and Advanced Standing

Students entering Chafer Theological Seminary with a strong background in Bible or theology may validate some basic courses toward the Th.M. or M.B.S degrees. If they have college credit for a similar course, students are required to take a proficiency exam to determine if they are eligible to take more advanced classes in the same department. Questions regarding advanced standing should be directed to the President.

DIFFERENCES OF DOCTRINAL BELIEFS

All students entering CTS begin in the M.B.S. program. If a student questions a particular doctrinal position in the CTS doctrinal statement yet is open to CTS’s understanding of the doctrinal position in question, CTS will follow this procedure: (1) The student may take all

13 classes in the M.B.S. program. (2) The student may not proselytize other students, though he may discuss with others the issues involved. (3) At the beginning of his second year of studies, the student will present a paper (25 pages minimum) defending his position to an assigned professor. (4) If by the conclusion of the second year of study the student continues to hold his contrary position, yet he has successfully completed the required course work, CTS will award him an M.B.S. degree. (5) Each student who advances to the Th.M. program must sign the CTS doctrinal statement. If a student signs with reservations, he must explain those reservations in writing, and the faculty must approve them before he is accepted into the Th.M. program.

We believe that this approach allows the student a reasonable measure of academic freedom while preserving the theological integrity of CTS.

REGISTRATION PROCEDURES

Registration for classes is done through scheduled pre-registration and registration periods. For registration schedules, please consult the academic calendar at the back of this catalog or at www.Chafer.edu. Registration packets may be obtained through the Registration Office.

Classification of Students

Regular Students are students enrolled in degree programs (Th.M. and M.B.S.). Continuation as a student depends on satisfactory progress toward graduation.

Nonbaccalaureate (Nondegree) Students are students enrolled in courses for credit but either not interested in a degree or not eligible to earn a degree. Students who have not completed the required undergraduate work are only eligible to earn a Certificate of Biblical Studies.

Nondegree students are not to be confused with audit students (see following category). Course work requirements for nondegree students are the same as those for degree students. Nondegree and degree students are expected to do the course work, are graded upon satisfactory completion of work, and receive credit for the course (which may be transferable later to a degree program at Chafer Theological Seminary or another graduate-level institution).

Audit Students are students only auditing courses and not interested in working toward a degree or taking any courses for credit. These students are not required to do the course work.

STUDENT GUIDELINES

Pre-seminary Preparation

In requiring a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent for admission, Chafer Seminary recognizes the importance of an educational foundation for the specialized study offered in seminary courses. A bachelor’s program that includes work in the major fields of the humanities and sciences gives students the discipline and general information indispensable to theological study and to the work of the ministry.

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In the undergraduate study, adequate attention should be devoted to English grammar and composition, literature, speech, logic, philosophy, and history. It is also most helpful for each student to master basic computer skills (e.g., Word processing and Excel).

Those accepted, as students are encouraged to enroll in a speed reading course before their seminary matriculation.

Language Classes

Students who have had no prior training in Greek or Hebrew are not advised to start two languages simultaneously. During their first year, they are recommended to take Beginning Greek. The second year, they may start Hebrew.

We encourage incoming students to take a minimum of one year of Greek (or Hebrew) before enrolling at CTS. If the university or college a student attends does not offer Greek, we recommend taking the online Greek course from Grace Evangelical School of Theology (www.faithalone.org). Please set the goal for completing this course no later than one month before you enroll at CTS.

Class Attendance

Regular attendance of all classes is expected; two unexcused absences of a given class in a semester will place the student on probation. Failure to attend classes will result in an “F.” Absences are permitted for medical and emergency situations only. Students who work should arrange their employment schedules around each semester’s classes.

Conduct

CTS expects students to exhibit the behavior of a Christian while enrolled in school, on and off campus. They should take an active part in a theologically sound church to learn the practical procedures and responsibilities of ministry. This involvement does not require an exercise of authority in the church. A student is to learn by observation. Jesus Christ trained His apostles calling them to be with Him (Mark 3:14), that they might learn both from His teaching (academics) and example (observation).

We expect the student to attend church on a regular basis and to place a high priority on observing from the inside how a biblically based church functions.

Library

Besides our own library, CTS students have access to the libraries of Biola University (as well as Talbot School of Theology) and Vanguard University for study and research purposes for a nominal fee.

Employment

Students who must work more than 25 hours per week may not carry more than 9 hours without special permission from the President. The purpose for attending CTS is to receive training and equipping for the ministry. This is the time to keep employment to a minimum in order to concentrate on academics.

15 Housing

Limited housing is available to CTS students on a first-come, first-served basis. This housing is only for students pursuing a degree and carrying a minimum of 11 credit hours, with priority given to full-time Th.M. students. Once these vacancies are filled, each student is responsible to secure his own housing. Students may call or e-mail the CTS office for the contact number.

You may also check www.ocregister.com (the local newspaper, Orange County Register) to locate housing or become familiar with costs and types of housing available in the Orange County area.

Addressing Student Grievances

CTS guarantees all students their individual rights as outlined in State and Federal laws. Students are free to express themselves academically, provided it is within the scope of requirements for an assignment or course. Any student who feels his academic freedom has been unfairly restricted must first work with the professor to resolve the problem. If the issue is not resolved, the student has the right to appeal to the President. Decisions made by the President are final and binding.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Fees Admission/Application Fee $20.00 Pre-registration Fee $15.00 Registration Fee $30.00 Late Registration Fee $45.00 Validation or Advanced Standing Fee $25.00 Schedule Changes, per transaction form $15.00 Transcript Fee, per copy $10.00 Graduation Fee $100.00

Tuition

Fall, Winter Session, Spring, Summer Session For credit, per semester hour $75.00/hr

Fall, Winter Session, Spring, Summer Session For audit, per semester hour $40.00/hr

Textbooks

First year, approximately $500.00 After first year, approximately $350.00

Refunds

If a student drops a class, tuition will be refunded on the following basis: 100% the first week of classes; none after the first week.

If a student drops a module (winter or summer sessions), tuition will be refunded on the following basis: 100% until the end of the first class; none after the first class.

16 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Old Testament Studies

The student who has received no prior instruction in Hebrew begins with Basic Hebrew and continues through Intermediate Hebrew and advanced grammar into exegesis (application of etymology, grammar, and syntax to the text). Students who have had prior study in Hebrew may test out of beginning courses and continue their studies with advanced course work.

Required Courses

OT 101–02 Beginning Hebrew (4–4)1

A study of basic Hebrew grammar, covering the entire regular and irregular verbal system, as well as other basic grammatical paradigms and translation of selected passages.

OT 103–04 Intermediate Hebrew (3–3)

An introduction to intermediate exegesis in narrative and poetic literature; emphasis on translation skills and syntactical analysis of selected passages.

OT 105–06 Advanced Hebrew (3–3)

An advanced study of Hebrew grammar and syntax with application to selected passages, including legal literature from Exodus and Deuteronomy. This course is an introduction to Textual Criticism and to the use of both Waltke-O’Connor and Gesenius’ Advanced Grammars in analysis of the text.

OT 107 Old Testament Introduction (2)

A study of the Old Testament canon, textual transmission, critical methods, and special introductory problems.

Electives

OT 108 Isaiah (2) (Module)

An expository survey of the book of Isaiah with special emphasis given to certain segments of the book, such as the messianic prophecies, the Servant of Jehovah passages, and a clear delineation between which prophecies have been fulfilled and those which are yet future. The New Testament usages of the book of Isaiah are included. OT 109 Genesis (2) (Module)

An expository survey of the first book of Moses. The course covers the entire book, with an emphasis on the theological implications, especially in the realm of the covenants and Jewish history. The New Testament usages of the book of Genesis are included.

1 (4-4) Numbers listed in parenthesis are the number of semester hours per course, i.e., four hours Fall Semester and four hours Spring Semester.

17 OT 110 Wisdom Literature (2)

A study that includes translation and exegesis of selected passages of the wisdom literature, such as Proverbs 1–9, Ecclesiastes, and Job.

OT 111 Drama and Liturgical Literature (2)

Exegesis in the Song of Songs with emphasis on the dramatic structure. Additionally, problems of the genre in Drama of biblical literature will be discussed.

OT 112 Aramaic (3)

A study of the Aramaic portions of Daniel and Ezra with lectures on the Aramaic grammar and syntax. Prerequisites: OT 103 and OT 104.

OT 113 Rapid Hebrew Reading (2)

Reading in selected passages to increase the student’s translation speed and to enlarge his Hebrew vocabulary. Prerequisites: OT 104 and 114.

OT 114 Old Testament Problem Passages (2)

A study of passages that challenge a student’s ability to interpret difficulties. Intensive exegesis of major passages with alleged discrepancies and other textual difficulties will be examined.

OT 115 Messianic Literature in the Old Testament (2)

A study of the translation and exegesis of several primary Messianic passages, including the Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53. Categories of Messianism will be studied, and the student will classify all selections covered.

OT 116 Hebrew Genre Study (2)

A study of the various genres of the Old Testament with emphasis on the elements of Form Criticism useful to the conservative scholar.

OT 117 Exegesis of Early Hebrew Poetry (2)

A study of the oldest poems in the Old Testament with emphasis on indicators of archaic grammar and morphology.

OT 118 The Psalms (2)

A study of the Psalms using literary, exegetical, and theological disciplines. This course includes introductory matters, Messianic passages, and issues in hermeneutics. The student will do expositional papers on selected psalms. Prerequisite: OT 104.

OT 119 Ancient Near Eastern Religions (2)

This course will examine the Ancient Near Eastern Religions that surrounded the Old Testament nation of Israel. These religions have their roots in Genesis with

18 the first organized religious opposition to God (cf. Genesis 11:4). Judaism will be compared to the religions of its neighbors.

OT 120 Independent Study in the Old Testament (2)

This course is designed to allow the student with initiative and scholarly curiosity to do independent research on a problem of Old Testament study. The student may do independent exegesis in specific books, such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. Genre studies may be pursued. Other specific proposals may be pursued when the student gives sufficient justification to the faculty advisor.

OT 121 Daniel (2)

A review of the Aramaic portions of Daniel and a study of the Hebrew portion, particularly its grammar and syntax. Prerequisites: OT 104 and OT 112.

OT 122 Ruth (2)

A study of the book of Ruth using literary, exegetical, and theological disciplines. This course includes introductory matters and issues in hermeneutics. The student will do an expositional paper on a selected passage. Prerequisite: OT 104.

OT 123 Deuteronomy (2) (Module)

An expository survey of the book of Deuteronomy. The course covers the entire book, with an emphasis on the theological implications with reference to the history of Israel.

New Testament Studies

The student who has received no prior instruction in Greek begins with Beginning Greek and continues through Intermediate Greek and advanced grammar into exegesis (application of etymology, grammar, syntax, diagramming, and outlining the text). Students who enter with prior training in Greek may test out of lower division courses and continue with advanced studies.

Required Courses

NT 201–02 Beginning Greek (4–4)

A study of Greek elementary grammar to become acquainted with the fundamentals of Greek. Students are exposed to New Testament Greek as quickly as possible.

NT 203–04 Intermediate Greek (3–3)

A study to complete basic Greek grammar with application of grammatical principles to the text of a New Testament epistle, which includes validating exegetical classifications. The students will be involved in projects in the epistles.

19 NT 205–06 Advanced Greek Grammar (3–3)

An introduction to the three major advanced grammars (Robertson, Blass- Debrunner and Moulton-Turner) with detailed exegesis in a New Testament epistle. The student will diagram, exegete, and prepare final notes on a portion of the text for communication to a congregation.

NT 207 New Testament Introduction (2)

A study of the New Testament canon, special introductory problems, the Synoptic Problem, and evaluation of current New Testament criticism.

Electives

NT 209 The Book of Romans (3)

Exegesis in the book of Romans with emphasis on its theological issues; development of the argument of the book as illuminated by syntax. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 210 The Book of Hebrews (3)

Exegesis in Hebrews with consideration of the book’s argument and its use of the Old Testament. Special attention will be devoted to the warning passages. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 211 Rapid Greek Reading (2)

Reading in selected passages to increase the student’s translation speed and to enlarge his Greek vocabulary. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 212 The Gospel of Matthew (3)

Exegesis in the Gospel of Matthew with attention to the Dispensational placement of its content. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 213 The Gospel of Mark (2)

Exegesis in the Greek text of Mark with emphasis on defining Mark’s role and argument in light of recent discussion of the Synoptic Problem. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 214 The Gospel of Luke (3)

Exegesis in the two-volume history of the church by Luke. Emphasis is placed on seeing the two volumes as a single work with attendant structural connections and mutual illumination. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 215 The Book of Acts (3). See course 214, above.

20 NT 216a The Gospel of John Part I (3)

Exegesis in John’s gospel considering its purpose and focusing on Soteriology. This is the only book in the New Testament claiming its purpose is to win men to Christ and eternal life (cf. John 20:30–31). The course will investigate the validity of Free Grace vs. Perseverance models of the book. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 216b The Gospel of John Part II (2). A continuation of 216a.

NT 217 Second Corinthians (3)

Translation and exegesis in the second epistle of Paul to the Corinthians, giving attention to its argument and to Paul’s autobiographical statements. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 218 Galatians (2)

Exegesis in the Greek text with attention to the chronological background and relationship to Acts. Special note is made of Paul’s rejection of legalism. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 219 The General Epistles (2)

Exegesis in these epistles with emphasis on the doctrines of grace, justification, sanctification, and rewards. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 220 Johannine Epistles (2)

Exegesis in the Johannine epistles stresses a Free Grace model and a contextual definition of fellowship, as well as exegesis in problem passages. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 221 New Testament Textual Criticism (2)

A study of the evolution of Textual Criticism from the early pioneers. Comparison and contrast of the different approaches and methodologies for the practice of textual criticism.

NT 222 The Use of the Old Testament in the New Testament (2)

A study that stresses identification, analysis and interpretation of the Old Testament quotations in the New Testament and introduces the student to the variety of Old Testament text types quoted in the New Testament and the reason for the choice. Attention is given to the Holy Spirit’s alteration of Old Testament texts for New Testament application. Prerequisites: OT 104 and NT 204.

NT 223 Septuagint Studies (2)

An introduction to the LXX with selected portions to be translated. Study is given to the origin, transmission history, and proper use of the LXX in word studies and Old Testament textual criticism. Prerequisites: OT 104 and NT 204.

21 NT 224 Classical Greek (2)

Selected readings from various levels of difficulty in Greek classical works and their interaction with New Testament Greek. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 225 The Greek Literature of the Dead Sea Scrolls (2)

A study of the facsimile texts and transliterations of the Greek manuscripts of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 226 Independent Study in the NT (2 or 3)

A study designed to allow the student with initiative and scholarly curiosity to do independent research on a problem of New Testament study. Specific proposals will be approved when the student gives sufficient justification to the faculty advisor.

NT 227 Pastoral Epistles (2)

Exegesis in 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus with attention to the role of elders (pastors) and deacons in the local church and their relationship to the congregation. Emphasis is placed on the practical application of organizing a local church according to doctrinal principles. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 228 James (2)

Exegesis of James’ epistle with particular attention to its argument and relevance for the Free Grace-Perseverance controversy. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 229 Philippians, Colossians, Philemon (3)

Advanced exegetical studies in these three prison epistles. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 230 The Thessalonian Epistles (2)

Translation, diagramming, and exegesis in the epistles to the church of Thessalonica, giving attention to each book’s argument and to the significant contribution of each to one’s understanding of eschatology. Prerequisite: NT 204.

NT 231 New Testament Textual Criticism: Majority Text Theory (2)

A study of textual criticism with an emphasis on Majority Text theory. The course will explore the foundations of the Majority Text approach and will consider alternate approaches to divided readings.

Biblical Studies (Isagogics)

Biblical Studies cover the history, cultural practices and customs of ancient peoples and introduce the student to the laws of sound Bible study.

22 Required Courses

BI 301 Hermeneutics and Bible Study Methods (3)

A study of the basic principles of hermeneutics and methods of Bible study. The course is designed to give the new student a solid foundation for the coming four years of intensive Bible study.

BI 302–303 Old Testament History and Survey (3–3)

Fall semester is a study of the structure and argument of Genesis through Jeremiah, including a survey of the history of Israel and of the peoples in the ancient Near East whose history impinged upon the Jewish nation. Spring semester is a study of the structure and argument of the Poetical books and the Prophets, as well as of the peoples in the ancient Near East whose history impinged upon the Jewish nation.

BI 304–305 New Testament History and Survey (3–3)

Fall semester is a study of the structure, argument, and the historical and cultural settings of the Gospels and Acts, as well as a survey of the Intertestamental period. Included are an outline of each book and a discussion of current problems. Spring semester is a study of the structure, argument, and the historical and cultural settings of Romans through Revelation. Included are an outline of each book and a discussion of current problems.

BI 306 Advanced Hermeneutics (3)

A detailed study of the principles of the consistent literal-grammatical-historical system of biblical interpretation. This course requires the student to think through the basic issues of interpretation of literature in order to grasp the hermeneutical principles and to apply them in the interpretation of selected problem passages. Prerequisite: BI 301

Electives

BI 310 Analytical Layout (2)

An introduction to inductive Bible study involving the steps of observation, interpretation, application, and correlation. This includes the principles and procedures of the analytical approach to Bible study, with practice in analyzing selected Bible books. Prerequisite: BB 301

BI 311 Old Testament Manners and Customs (2)

An introduction to the ingredients that made up the life of the people of the Ancient Near East. Emphasis is placed on what Israel was exposed to and influenced by.

BI 312 Ancient Near Eastern Warfare (2)

A study of the evolution of warfare from the earliest times in the Near East to the great Roman military operations. Emphasis is placed on the relationship of warfare to Israel.

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BI 313 Computer Assisted Bible Study (module) (2)

A study of the software and CD-ROM technology that enhance Bible study at many levels. The focus will be placed on the examination of both original languages and English programs, with hands on experience included.

BI 314 Linguistics for the Biblical Exegete (3)

Insights from linguistic research can greatly enhance the exegete’s understanding of biblical languages and texts. In this course, semantics, text analysis and various linguistics universals will be applied to the human medium of the Word of God, helping the exegete better understand its divine intent.

Theological Studies

Theological Studies will take details of analytical or exegetical study and synthesize them into a harmonious whole.

Required Courses

TH 401 Bibliology, Theology Proper, Angelology (3)

A theological study of the Bible, God the Father, and angels. The aim of this course (as well as of TH 402, TH 403, and TH 404) is to acquaint the student with the theological landscape as it now stands. Accordingly, students will read widely in the theological writings of their forbears for the purpose of understanding the theology of these areas of study as it has developed to the present day. Prerequisites: none

TH 402 Christology, Pneumatology (3)

A theological study of the second and third Persons of the Triune Godhead. Prerequisites: none

TH 403 Anthropology, Hamartiology, Soteriology (3)

A theological study of man, sin and salvation. Prerequisites: none

TH 404 Ecclesiology, Eschatology (3)

A theological study of the Church and the end times. Prerequisite: NT 203

TH 405 Biblical Theology Methodology I (3)

A study of the basic principles and means of practicing biblical theology. The student will use exegetical outlines developed in NT 204 to construct a biblical theology of that book. Prerequisites: NT 204, BI 304–305

24 TH 406 Biblical Theology Methodology II (3)

Continuing study of the practice of biblical theology. The student will use exegetical outlines of a previously examined NT book to develop a biblical theology of that book. Prerequisites: TH 405 and a Greek (NT book) elective

TH 407 Systematized Biblical Theology Methodology (3)

A study of the process of creating a systematized biblical theology. The student will engage the methodological issues confronting the systematic theologian and will use data gathered from previous exegetical and isagogical studies to build well-rounded categories of biblical thought. Prerequisites: TH 406, OT 104, BI 306

TH 408 Introduction to Systematic Theology Methodology (3)

Continues TH 407 Systematized Biblical Theology Methodology. The student will engage a variety of theological issues, formulating, presenting and defending his or her conclusions. The student will be introduced to “Systematic Theology” not to be confused with “Biblical Systematic Theology.” Prerequisites: TH 407, HT 501, HT 502, HT 503.

TH 409 Dispensationalism (2)

The study of the distinguishable administrations in the progressive outworking of God’s divine purpose. In addition, the hermeneutical basis of Dispensationalism will be examined.

Electives

TH 412 Independent Study (1 to 3)

This course gives students an opportunity to pursue a particular problem area within Systematic Theology. The student will select and research an area of his or her interest.

TH 413 Contemporary Theology (2)

TH 414 Biblical Typology (2)

TH 415 Introduction to Logic (2)

A study of the fundamentals of logic. Both deductive and inductive reasoning will be evaluated, including the types of fallacies encountered in logic. The application of logic to theological study will be introduced.

Historical Theology

Historical Theology provides a general knowledge of the historical development of theology and the progress of the Christian church, so that students may understand their theological and evangelical heritage and be able to evaluate contemporary issues and trends in the church.

25 Required courses

HT 501 Church History I (3)

A study of Christianity from the first century to the eve of the Reformation with emphasis on major theological developments and significant leaders and events.

HT 502 Church History II (3)

A study of Christianity from the Reformation to the present day with emphasis on major theological developments and significant leaders and events.

HT 503 History of Doctrine (2)

A study of the biblical and historical development of selected doctrines with attention to the progressive development of each theological theme from the first century to the present day.

Electives

HT 511 The Reformation (2)

A study of the Reformation with emphasis on theology and significant leaders and events.

HT 512 History of Roman Catholicism (2)

A study of the history of the Roman Catholic Church, including its theology and practice, with emphasis on the Councils and current issues.

HT 513 Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon (2)

A study of the life and theology of Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon with attention to their theological and historical development of the Protestant Reformation.

HT 514 Huldreich Zwingli and the Swiss Reformation (2)

A study of the life and theology of Huldreich Zwingli with attention to his theological contribution to the Protestant Reformation.

HT 515 John Calvin (2)

A study of the life and theology of John Calvin with attention to the development of Reformed theology.

HT 516 Protestant Reformation (2)

A study of the Protestant Reformation with emphasis on the theology and significant leaders and events.

26 HT 517 Roman Catholic Theology (2)

A study of the theology of the Roman Catholic Church from its formation in the third century to the present.

Apologetics

Apologetics equips students to give persuasive reasons for the hope and faith that is within them (1 Peter 3:15), especially when the authenticity of Scripture and Christianity are under attack.

Required Courses

AP 601 Introduction to Apologetics (2)

A study in how to give a reasonable answer for one’s faith (1 Peter 3:15). The course includes basic training in defending the faith.

AP 602 Evangelism and Missions (2)

This course is a study of the biblical presentation of the gospel to unbelievers, emphasizing its content and implications for assurance, examining selected issues that directly bear on the grace gospel, and covering the biblical mandate to fulfill the church’s commission to share the gospel with unbelievers and make disciples both at home and around the world.

Electives

AP 610 Authenticity of the Bible (2)

An examination of reasons for believing that the Bible, in contrast to the sacred books of other religions, is the Word of God.

AP 611 Philosophical Apologetics (2)

This course will examine the philosophical basis for Theism. The testimony of conscious experience, logic, reason, science, philosophy, and theology is investigated to determine the truth and existence of a Supreme Being.

AP 612 History of Christian Apologetics (2)

This course will examine the biblical justification for apologetics, its history, and major systems.

AP 613 Scientific Apologetics (2)

This course looks at the harmony between the biblical record and the scientific evidence for creation, evolution, and the biblical flood. Other scientific questions relating to biblical statements will be investigated.

27 AP 614 Current Bible-Science Issues (2)

This course will investigate the current debate over creation and evolution, the flood geology, the age of the universe, biomedical technology, as well as the debate’s ramifications.

AP 615 Biblical Ethics (2)

This course will examine the biblical basis for and the responsibilities of the personal ethical conduct of a Christian in relationship to other believers and to the world.

AP 616 Contemporary Christian Apologists (2)

This course will study the ideas and contributions of contemporary Christian apologists, including C. S. Lewis, Francis A. Schaeffer, Norman Geisler, et al.

AP 617 Legal Reasoning and the Resurrection (2)

This course will study the resurrection of Jesus Christ and attempt to answer the question of what legal evidence and reasoning support the historicity of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

AP 618 Epistemology (2)

Epistemology in philosophy studies the theories of knowledge. Epistemology in religion investigates the theories of knowledge about God. This course will examine the nature and sources of knowledge.

AP 619 Christianity and the Occult (2)

Both the Old and New Testaments proscribe occult practices such as divination, fortune telling, magic and spiritism. This course investigates the occult from a biblical perspective.

AP 620 Cult Movements (2)

This course will discuss the definition of a cult. Cults or “new religious movements” will be studied to determine the nature of their heresy and identify what makes them spiritual counterfeits.

AP 621 Humanism and the New Age Movement (2)

This course will focus on Paul’s words to the Romans, “For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator” (Rom. 1:25). The transition away from God in the areas of thought and lifestyle will be studied. The New Age Movement worldview, based on Monism, Pantheism, and mysticism, will be investigated.

AP 622 World Religious Systems (2)

This course will give the student a working knowledge of the major non-Christian religious systems. Their view of personal sin will be investigated, and their main tenets will be compared with those of Christianity.

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Jewish Studies

Jewish Studies analyze the Old and New Testaments in their Jewish context, with unique Jewish perspectives. These studies will shed new light by which to understand and apply God’s Word.

Required

JS 801 Jewish Life of Christ (2) (Module)

A chronological survey of the life of Jesus Christ as recorded in the four Gospels. The course will focus on first-century Jewish culture, theological perspectives, and the rabbinic background in which Jesus lived, died, and rose again.

JS 802 Israelology (2) (Module)

A theological study of Israel’s past, present, and future and an examination of the influence of one’s view of Israel on one’s theology.

Electives

JS 810 Jewish History I: The Second Temple Period (500 BC-AD 500) (2)

JS 811 Jewish History II: The Medieval Period (AD 500-1500) (2)

JS 812 Jewish History III: The Modern Period (AD 1500-present) (2)

JS 813 The Development of Rabbinic Judaism, Mishnah, Gemara, Talmud (2)

A study of rabbinic writings developed before, during, and after the time of Christ, their history, and influence on the New Testament.

JS 814 Post-Talmudic and Modern Judaism (2)

A study of the development of non-Orthodox Judaism, as well as of the contemporary strands of Judaism (Conservative Judaism, Reformed Judaism, Humanistic Judaism, Reconstructionism, etc).

JS 815 Beginning Conversational Hebrew (2)

JS 816 Intermediate Conversational Hebrew (2)

JS 817 Acts 1-15 (2)

A continuation of JS 801. It investigates the impact of the events and issues in the Gospels on the development of the early church of Jerusalem. Prerequisite: JS 801.

JS 818 Jewish NT Epistles: Hebrews, James, 1 & 2 Peter, and Jude (2)

A study of the epistles written specifically to Jewish believers of the first century. These books are interpreted in light of the Gospels. Prerequisite: JS 801.

29 JS 819 Messianic Christology (2)

A study of the Old Testament prophecies regarding the first coming of the Messiah and of their fulfillment in the New Testament.

JS 820 The Messianic Movement: Its History, Theology, and Philosophy (2)

JS 821 Readings in Modern Hebrew (2)

JS 822 Study Tour of Israel (4)

A comprehensive historical and geographical study tour of Israel. The goal is to examine the influence of geography on the Old Testament and Gospel history. Contact Dr. Arnold Fruchtenbaum regarding his bi-annual five-week study tour of Israel (call Ariel Ministries, 714-259-4800).

Contemporary Issues

Contemporary Issues will provide students with an opportunity to grapple with biblical evidence and discover God’s viewpoint on the important issues of today.

Required Courses

CI 901 Spiritual Life (2)

A study of the biblical principles that govern Christian character and service. The students will examine the current systems of sanctification by works in contrast to the New Testament spirituality by grace.

CI 902 Free Grace vs. Perseverance (2)

A study of the issues of Free Grace versus Arminian and Reformed views of perseverance, pursuing a biblical understanding based on exegesis.

CI 903 Biblical Preaching I (2)

A study and practice of the principles of effective public speaking, specifically the exposition of Scripture. Prerequisite: NT 204 and OT 104.

CI 904 Biblical Preaching II (2)

An advanced study and practice of the principles of effective public speaking, specifically the exposition of Scripture. Prerequisite: CI 903.

CI 905 Thesis (2)

The student will do independent research and write a thesis on an approved subject in his or her major area of study under the supervision of two faculty advisors. The student will choose the subject and compose a preliminary outline during the first semester of the third year. A synopsis is due at the end of the second semester of the third year. The completed thesis is due at the end of the student’s final semester of study. Students, who are training to be teaching

30 pastors, must do their research at a scholarly level, yet write for the general Christian public.

Kate L. Turabian’s A Manual for Writers, latest edition, is to be used for formatting purposes. The thesis should be between 40–80 pages in length; the student’s faculty advisor must approve exceptions.

Electives

CI 910 The Charismatic, Signs and Wonders Movements (2)

A study of the passages Charismatic advocates use to justify their doctrine and practice. We determine exegetically whether the miraculous gifts still exist.

CI 911 Christian Witness vs. Activism (2)

A study of the biblical and theological guidelines for the level of the believer’s involvement in his culture.

CI 912 Pro-Life vs. Pro-Choice (2)

A study of the origin and sanctity of life. An examination of biblical and theological views on abortion and euthanasia.

ACADEMIC MODULES

CTS offers certain courses as short-term modules. These courses will be announced through the pre-registration packets or by special mailings.

DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES

Chafer Theological Seminary is currently revising the correspondence courses. Information will be posted on our web site at www.chafer.edu as courses become available.

FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATION On-site Faculty

Dr. John Beck, Associate Professor. B.A. (University of California in Los Angeles [UCLA]), Th.M. in Biblical Exposition (Dallas Theological Seminary), D.Min. in Evangelism and Apologetics (Western Seminary), Ph.D. studies (Trinity Theological Seminary).

Dr. George E. Meisinger, President and Professor. B.A. (Biola University), Th.M. in Old Testament Literature and Exegesis (Dallas Theological Seminary), D.Min. in Biblical Studies (Western Seminary), Ph.D. studies (Trinity Theological Seminary).

Mr. Timothy Nichols, Instructor. B.S. (Southeastern Bible College); Th.M. (Chafer Theological Seminary).

Dr. John Niemelä, Professor. B.A. (University of Minnesota), Th.M. and Ph.D. in New Testament Literature and Exegesis (Dallas Theological Seminary).

Mr. Michael L. Thompson, Associate Professor. B.S. (Georgia Institute of Technology), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary), M.A. in Ancient Near Eastern Languages (Catholic University), Ph.D. studies (Catholic University).

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Adjunct Faculty

Mr. Don Barkley, B.A. (Wheaton College), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary); evangelist.

Dr. Arnold Fruchtenbaum, B.A. (Cedarville College), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary), Ph.D. (New York University); founder and director of Ariel Ministries, Old Testament and Jewish studies scholar

Mr. Phil Heideman, B.B.A. (University of Wisconsin), Th.M. in New Testament Literature and Exegesis (Dallas Theological Seminary), Th.D. studies (Dallas Theological Seminary).

Zane C. Hodges, B.A. (Wheaton College), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary); retired DTS Greek professor, author & conference speaker..

Dr. Thomas Ice, B.A. (Howard Payne University), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary), Ph.D. (Tyndale Theological Seminary); director of the Pre-Trib Research Center, conference speaker, author, and former pastor.

Mr. Jack Littlefield, Instructor. B.A. (University of California, Los Angeles), Bible Certificate, (Moody Bible Institute), M.Div. (Talbot Theological Seminary), Th.M. Candidate (Pittsburgh Theological Seminary).

Dr. Scott Munger, B.A. (Bethel College), M.A. (University of Texas), Ph.D. (Free University, Netherlands).

Mr. John Nash, Assistant Professor. B.S. (University of Arizona), Th.M. in World Missions (Dallas Theological Seminary).

Mr. John O’Dell, Instructor. B.A. (California State University, Long Beach), Th.M. in progress (Chafer Theological Seminary).

Dr. Bob Wilkin, B.S. (University of California, Irvine), Th.M. in New Testament (Dallas Theological Seminary), Ph.D. in New Testament (Dallas Theological Seminary).

Administration

Dr. George E. Meisinger, President Mr. Michael Thompson, Director of Institutional Effectiveness Mr. Ricardo Campos, Secretary-Treasurer

Governing Board

Ralph G. Braun, B.A. (Northwestern College), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary), Ph.D. candidate (Channel Islands Seminary); pastor, educator, author, and conference speaker.

Ricardo Campos, elder, missionary to Kiev.

Robert Dean Jr. (Chairman), B.A. (Stephen F. Austin State University), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary), M.A. (University of St. Thomas), Th.D. studies (Dallas Theological Seminary), D.Min. (Faith Evangelical Seminary); pastor.

Randy Frick, B.S. (Washington State University); M.B.A. (Eastern Washington University); church Deacon, engineer, company president.

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Tod Kennedy (Vice Chairman), B.A. (Washington State University), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary), D.V.M. (College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University); pastor.

George E. Meisinger, B.A. (Biola University), Th.M. in Old Testament Literature and Exegesis (Dallas Theological Seminary), D.Min. in Biblical Studies (Western Seminary), Ph.D. studies (Trinity Theological Seminary); pastor and president of CTS.

John Niemelä, B.A. (University of Minnesota), Th.M. and Ph.D. in New Testament Literature and Exegesis (Dallas Theological Seminary); elder.

Arch Rutherford, B.S. (Ohio State University), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary); pastor.

Paul Schmidtbleicher, Th.B. (William Tyndale College), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary); pastor.

Board of Advisors

Lance Bingley, Diploma (Prairie Bible College); pastor.

Jay Chappell, A.A. (San Diego City College), undergraduate work (Linda Vista Bible College); pastor, missionary, and conference speaker.

Charles Clarke, B.A. (Baylor University), B.D. and M.Div. (Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary), Ph.D. (Bethany Theological Seminary); pastor and radio minister.

Charles Clough, B.S. (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary), M.S. (Texas Tech); scientist, author, and former pastor.

Hugh Crowder, A.A. (Highline College), B.S. (Arlington Baptist College), B.A. (University of Washington), MA (California State University), Ph.D. studies in progress (Louisiana Baptist University); pastor.

Dan Hill, B.A. (Arizona State University); M.A.B.S. (Dallas Theological Seminary), Ph.D. (California Graduate School of Theology); pastor and author.

Thomas Ice, B.A. (Howard Payne University), Th.M. (Dallas Theological Seminary), Ph.D. (Tyndale Theological Seminary); conference speaker, author, and former pastor.

STATEMENT OF DOCTRINE

BIBLIOLOGY The Study of the Word of God

REVELATION. The written content of the Bible was revealed by God in order to unveil Himself and His eternal plan to mankind.

INSPIRATION. Through inspiration, God moving holy men to write, the Lord made certain that His revelation about Himself was recorded without error in the original documents. Every facet of Scripture (including statements that regard science, history, and geography) is God breathed (2 Timothy 3:16–17; 2 Peter 1:20–21).

ILLUMINATION. Illumination is the ministry of the Holy Spirit to believers, teaching them all things from the closed canon of Scripture, through their study and meditation for the purpose

33 of glorifying Christ. The Spirit also uses those who have the gift of teaching, as well as the written works of those now dead, to carry out this ministry (Psalm 119:99; John 16:12–15; Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 2:9–3:3; 2 Timothy 2:15; 1 John 2:27).

AUTHORITY. Since the Bible’s ultimate Author is God, it is without error and is our authoritative guide in all matters of faith and practice (John 16:12–15).

CANONICITY. The canon of Scripture is a closed collection of all writings and only those writings inspired by God. The 39 books of the Hebrew Old Testament and the 27 books of the Greek New Testament comprise the whole canon of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16; Jude 3; Revelation 22:18–22). Because Scripture is God’s only written revelation to men, it is our sole source of infallible guidance for faith and practice. We do not accept the apocryphal books as canonical (Matthew 5:17–18; cf. Revelation 22:18–19; Jude 3).

INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE. We believe in a normal (literal), grammatical and historical interpretation of Scripture that affirms, for example, the belief that the opening chapters of Genesis present creation in seven literal, 24-hour days (Genesis 1:31; Exodus 31:17).

SUFFICIENCY. Scripture states that it is able to equip us for every good work. In addition, the Lord states that He has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness through the body of knowledge wherein His great and precious promises are recorded. Therefore, we believe that the Bible alone, as believers apply it to their lives, is a sufficient resource to prepare them to handle all the problems and exigencies of life and ministry (2 Timothy 3:16–17; 2 Peter 1:3–11).

THEOLOGY PROPER The Study of God, Including Paterology

The Bible reveals One, triune God existing in three persons—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—eternal in being, identical in nature, equal in power and glory and having the same attributes and perfections (Deuteronomy 6:4; John 4:34; 16:8–13; Ephesians 1:11; 3:11; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1 Corinthians 2:10; 2 Corinthians 13:4; Hebrews 10:7).

CHRISTOLOGY The Study of Jesus Christ

THE INCARNATION. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, the Eternal Son of God, became man without ceasing to be God (John 1:1–2, 14).

THE VIRGIN BIRTH. Jesus was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:35).

HIS SUBSTITUTIONARY DEATH. He accomplished our redemption through His death on the cross as a substitutionary sacrifice for all men (1 Corinthians 15:3; 1 Peter 1:18–19).

HIS RESURRECTION. His literal bodily resurrection from the dead guarantees redemption forever (Luke 24:39; Hebrews 10:9–14; 1 Peter 1:3–5).

HIS PRESENT SESSION. The Lord Jesus Christ in His glorified body is now in Heaven, exalted at the right hand of God the Father, where He presently fulfills the high priestly ministries of Representative, Intercessor and Advocate for His people (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; 9:24; 1 John 2:1–2).

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PNEUMATOLOGY The Study of the Holy Spirit

HIS SALVATION WORK. We believe the Holy Spirit is a Person who convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment; that at the moment of salvation He regenerates and indwells all believers during this present age, baptizes them into the body of Christ, seals them unto the day of redemption, and imparts to them at least one spiritual gift for good of all mankind (John 16:8–11; Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:7, 12–14; Ephesians 1:13–14).

HIS POST-SALVATION WORK. The Spirit continues to minister to believers throughout their lives by comforting, convicting, enabling, interceding on behalf of, leading, producing fruit in, sanctifying, teaching, and witnessing to one’s human spirit. Each believer is commanded to walk by means of the Holy Spirit, but the Spirit is grieved or quenched by acts of personal sin (John 16:12–15; Acts 9:31; Romans 8:14, 16, 26; 9:1; Galatians 5:16–18, 22–23; Ephesians 3:16–20; 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19).

SPIRITUAL GIFTS. The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to every believer. These gifts are God-given abilities that Christians should employ to serve one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. God used some spiritual gifts (such as apostleship, miracles, tongues, healings, and prophecy) that were temporary in nature as signs to unbelieving Jews and as a validation of the New Testament message and its messengers. The sign gifts legitimately functioned until the completion of the canon of Scripture, ceasing by the end of the first century (Romans 12:6–8; 1 Corinthians 12:7–11, 28–30; 13:8–10; 14:21–22; Ephesians 2:20; 4:11; Hebrews 2:3b–4; 1 Peter 4:10).

ANGELOLOGY The Study of Angels

EXISTENCE. We believe in the existence of a superior creation called angels now divided into two categories: elect and fallen. Fallen angels (demons) are enemies of God and all people; they further divide into two classes: imprisoned and free (Mark 8:38; 1 Timothy 4:1; 5:21; 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6).

ANGELIC CONFLICT. The Bible reveals a conflict between Satan and his forces (the fallen angels) and Michael, an archangel, and the elect angelic forces. This conflict has real impact on Christians, and thus, they are to prepare themselves for effective spiritual warfare. Through observing man, angels learn the wisdom of God (Daniel 10:13; Ephesians 3:10; 6:10– 18; cf. Revelation 12:7–9).

SATAN. God’s Word reveals the personality, fall, and program of Satan, the leader of the fallen angels. His future confinement is in the Lake of Fire with all fallen angels and unbelieving humans. There they will experience everlasting conscious torment (Ezekiel 28:12– 17; Job 1:6–7; Revelation 12:7–9; 20:10).

ANTHROPOLOGY The Study of Man

CREATION. We accept the Genesis account of creation and believe that God created the universe by His spoken word in the seven consecutive, and literal days there recorded (Genesis 1; Psalm 33:6, 9).

35 THE FALL. We believe mankind was created in the image and likeness of God and that in Adam’s sin the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature, and became alienated from God (Genesis 1:26–27; Romans 3:22–23; 5:12; 1 Corinthians 11:7; Ephesians 2:12).

TOTAL DEPRAVITY. We believe mankind is neither inherently good nor able to merit eternal salvation. There is nothing in Adam’s fallen descendants with which God can be pleased. Mankind is, therefore, completely dependent upon God’s grace for eternal salvation from Hell (Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:9–18; 6:23; 7:18).

EVIDENCE OF MAN’S DEPRAVED CONDITION. We believe that Romans 1–3 gives an excellent summary of what mankind is like before regeneration. Every human being has sinned and falls short of the glory of God. Mankind’s sinfulness—upon which the wrath of God is presently being revealed—is characterized by lesbianism, homosexuality, covetousness, maliciousness, murder, deceit, gossip, violence, disobedience to parents, and unmerciful attitudes and actions (Romans 1:18, 24–32; 3:23).

HAMARTIOLOGY The Study of Sin

We believe the Scripture reveals three categories of sin: Imputed Sin, Inherent Sin, and Personal Sin:

IMPUTED SIN. At conception God credits to every member of the human race the responsibility and penalty for Adam’s sin (Romans 5:12; 5:18–19; 1 Corinthians 15:22).

INHERENT SIN (SIN NATURE). Every person inherits a sinful capacity that causes and leads him to commit personal acts of sin (Romans 6:6; 7:17–18; Ephesians 4:22).

PERSONAL SIN. Any lack of conformity to the will of God in word, thought, or deed is an act of personal sin against the Lord (Mark 7:20–23; Romans 6:12–13; 2 Corinthians 10:5; James 3:5–6).

SOTERIOLOGY The Study of Salvation

GENUINE OFFER OF SALVATION. Since it is impossible for God to be unfair to any person, and since He loves all men equally, desires all men to be saved, is not willing that any should perish, and invites all men to be saved, He freely and graciously offers salvation to all men. The drawing ministries of the Father and the Son and the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit make it genuinely possible for any member of the human race to receive the Lord Jesus Christ (Isaiah 45:21; John 3:16; 6:44; 12:32; 16:7–11; Acts 10:34–35; 16:31; Romans 5:8; 8:32; 1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 2:1; 1 John 2:2).

ELECTION. We believe Scripture reveals two clear and indisputable lines of evidence. One line shows God sovereignly choosing His own in Christ; the other shows man possessing the function of volition, able to receive or reject God’s uniquely born Son (regarding sovereignty, see Job 42:2; Psalm 135:6; Isaiah 46:9–10; Jeremiah 1:5; Matthew 24:22, 24, 31; Luke 18:7; Romans 8:29–33; Galatians 1:15; 2 Timothy 2:10; 1 Peter 1:1–2; regarding human volition, see John 1:9–13; 3:16, 36; 6:47; 20:30–31; Acts 16:30–31; Romans 10:11–13; 1 John 5:9–13, as well as every command in the epistles).

MEANS OF SALVATION. We believe salvation is the gift of God brought to mankind by grace and received by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, whose precious blood was shed for the forgiveness of our sins. God neither overrules nor implants mankind’s volition in

36 accepting or rejecting His provision of salvation. A human being appropriates salvation by the sole means of faith alone in Jesus Christ alone, whose death and resurrection are the ground of man’s salvation. The means of salvation is to be properly correlated with and distinguished from issues related to discipleship (Acts 16:31; 4:12; John 1:12; 3:16, 18; 20:31; Ephesians 1:7; 2:8– 10; 1 Peter 1:18–19; 2 Peter 3:9; 1 John 5:11–12).

No act of obedience (other than faith in Christ), whether preceding or following faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, such as commitment or willingness to obey, sorrow for sin, turning from sin, baptism, or submission to the Lordship of Christ, may be added to, or considered a part of, faith as a condition for receiving eternal salvation. The saving transaction between God and the sinner consists simply of the giving and receiving of a free gift that is without cost to the believer (John 4:10; Romans 4:5; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8–9; Titus 3:5; Revelation 22:17).

ETERNAL SECURITY. A Christian, having believed in Christ as Savior at one moment in time, God forever keeps secure. However, God does discipline an erring son as a beloved child when necessary. Salvation once possessed cannot be lost. This belief in God’s merciful and secure salvation is not a license for careless living but, on the contrary, a powerful incentive for godly living (John 10:27–30; Romans 8:38–39; 12:1–2; 1 Corinthians 1:4–9; 12:12; Hebrews 10:14; 12:6–13; 1 Peter 1:3–5).

ASSURANCE. One’s assurance of eternal salvation comes through faith in the promise God makes in His Word that everyone who trusts in Jesus Christ possesses eternal life. Good works, which can and should follow regeneration, are not necessary to a firm assurance of eternal life (John 5:24; 6:47; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 3:8; 1 John 5:9–13).

DISPENSATIONS The Study of God’s Oversight of History

Dispensations are the divine administrations of human affairs from Adam through the end of time. Though time is not a primary consideration, each divine administration, or Dispensation, relates to a definite period of human history. The vast majority of the Bible deals with three such Dispensations: the Dispensation of Israel from the call of Abraham to Christ (which itself may be divided into the age of the patriarchs or promise and the age of the law), the present Dispensation of the Church from Pentecost to the Rapture, and the future Dispensation of Christ’s 1000 year kingdom, theologically designated as the Millennium. There should be no blurring or confusion of Israel and the Church; God deals distinctly with each group (Genesis 12:1–3; John 1:17; Acts 2; 1 Corinthians 10:32; Galatians 3:19; Ephesians 1:10; Revelation 20:1–7).

Dispensations are not different ways of forgiveness and eternal life, but different administrations of God as He superintends the way mankind lives on earth. Eternal salvation was, is, and always will be a free gift by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:9–10).

ECCLESIOLOGY The Study of the Church

THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH. We believe the Church, that is, the body and future bride of Christ, is a spiritual entity made up of all born-again believers of this present age, regardless of their affiliation with churches or other organizations (Ephesians 1:22–23; 5:25–27; 1 Corinthians 12:12–14; Ephesians 4:11–16). The birth date of the Church was the day of Pentecost (cf. Acts 1:5 with 11:15–16 and ch. 2). The Church is a distinct entity, not to be confused with Israel (1 Corinthians 11:32).

37 THE LOCAL CHURCH. The universal Church is visibly functional through fellowship groups, called local churches, meeting in identifiable locations (1 Corinthians 1:1-2). Local churches should be autonomously governed by their own leadership (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 5:17; Hebrews 13:17). The congregation is responsible to submit to its leadership (Hebrews 13:17). We believe that the local church is an assembly of believers meeting together for the purposes of worship, communion, Bible study, prayer, fellowship, mutual care, discipline, and witnessing (Acts 2:41–47; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26; Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 10:24–25).

CHURCH LEADERS. We believe that God calls qualified men to lead and teach the assembled congregation, and that a woman is neither to teach men nor to exercise authority over men in the church. In all other areas of church life and ministry, women may and should serve (1 Corinthians 11:3; 14:33b–37; 1 Timothy 2:12–15).

ESCHATOLOGY The Study of the End Times (Prophecy)

THE BLESSED HOPE. We believe the next great event in the fulfillment of prophecy is the coming of the Lord Jesus in the air to receive to Himself, in the twinkling of an eye, both the dead in Christ and believers who remain alive. The theological designation for this event is the Rapture of the Church (1 Corinthians 15:51–52; Philippians 3:20–21; 1 Thessalonians 1:9–10; 4:13–5:10; Titus 2:11–14; 1 John 3:2).

THE TRIBULATION. We believe the Rapture of the Church will be followed by the fulfillment of Israel’s Seventieth Week, a seven-year period of tribulation, the latter half of which is the time of Jacob’s trouble, the Great Tribulation (Daniel 9:24–27; Jeremiah 30:7; Matthew 24:15–21; Revelation 6:1–17).

THE SECOND COMING. We believe that the climax of the great tribulation will be the premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ, who will make His enemies His footstool and set up His Kingdom on earth (Zechariah 14:4–11; Matthew 24–25; Acts 1:11; 2 Thessalonians 1:7– 10; Hebrews 2:8; 10:12–13; Revelation 19:11–20:10).

THE MILLENNIUM. For a thousand years following His second coming, Christ will reign over the nations of the earth with a rod of iron in righteousness and justice with peace (Revelation 20:1–10; Isaiah 9:6–7).

THE ETERNAL STATE. We believe the souls and spirits of those who have believed in the promised Messiah (Jesus Christ) for salvation at death immediately pass into His presence. They remain there in conscious bliss until the resurrection of the body, or translation at the Rapture, when soul and body reunited shall be associated with Him forever in glory. The souls of unbelievers remain after death in conscious misery until the final judgment of the Great White Throne, after the close of the Millennium. Then, with soul and body reunited, they shall be cast into the torments of Hell from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power (Luke 6:19–25; 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; 2 Thessalonians 1:2–9; 2:11–15).

THE GRACE RESPONSIBILITIES OF BELIEVERS

The Christian’s reasonable service of worship is to become a disciple of Christ, living in a manner worthy of his high calling in Christ. It is the obligation and privilege of every believer to witness by life and by word to the truths of Scripture and to seek to promote the Gospel in all the world. It is the responsibility of all believers to remember the work of the Lord in prayer and to support it with their financial resources as the Lord has prospered them (Acts 1:8; Romans

38 12:1–2; 14:13; 1 Corinthians 5:9–13; 16:2; 2 Corinthians 5:20; 6:14–7:1; 9:7; Philippians 2:1–11; 1 John 2:6).

We believe the following principles are to be followed for proper conduct where doubtful things, that is, things not specifically addressed in the Bible, exist:

(1) One must recognize that Christ gives the believer liberty to participate in what the Scripture does not prohibit (Romans 14:14; 1 Corinthians 6:12; 10:23; Galatians 5:1; Titus 2:15).

(2) One must understand that personal liberty is not the highest principle of conduct— love is (1 Corinthians 8:1, cf. 9–11)! Consequently, if using one’s liberty to participate in a doubtful thing causes a weaker Christian to stumble, then out of love, the stronger Christian should not participate. To cause a weaker believer to stumble is to influence him or her to take part in something against his weaker conscience. This becomes an act of personal sin for both people (Romans 14:23; 1 Corinthians 8:10, 12). Accordingly, to cause another to stumble does not mean merely to perturb or irritate him, but rather to entice him to participate in something contrary to the dictates of his weaker conscience (cf. Romans 14:23).

(3) When fellow Christians disagree on their management of doubtful things, they should live and let live! They should not attempt to pass judgment on the opinions of others in the area of doubtful things (Romans 14:1), but rather let each man be fully convinced in his own mind (Romans 14:5). This is dealing with one another in grace!

The ultimate goal of the Holy Spirit’s work in the believer’s life is to produce spiritual maturity reflected in consistent Christ-like attitudes and behavior that glorify God (Galatians 5:22–25; Colossians 1:23–29). Obedience to the Word of God, therefore, while not necessary for obtaining eternal salvation from Hell, is the essential responsibility of each Christian (Romans 6:12–23; 1 Corinthians 2:14–3:4; Hebrews 5:13–14). The Bible does not teach that obedience will be manifested to the same degree in all believers. If a believer does not yield to the ministry of the Holy Spirit in his or her experience, failure will result. This will be evidenced by sinful acts or even prolonged disobedience (1 Corinthians 10:1–13; Galatians 5:16–21). The Bible labels this failure carnality, or living that is characterized by the control of the flesh, during which the believer looks no different than the unbeliever (1 Corinthians 3:1–4). God responds to carnal behavior with divine discipline (Hebrews 12:4–13), which may come in degrees, even to physical death (1 Corinthians 11:30).

GIFTS TO CHAFER SEMINARY

In the Christian way of life, giving should be a genuine act of worship (Matthew 6:3). Thus, it should be one’s voluntary response to God’s initiation in grace. Moreover, it ought to be a private matter between the giver and God. The Lord prospers the believer, and then the believer determines what and to whom he will give (2 Corinthians 9:7).

If an individual or church wishes to give to CTS, we accept such gifts gratefully. We periodically send letters that inform our constituency of needs to which they may give. Gifts may be in whatever form the giver determines. All donations are tax deductible.

39 CTS JOURNAL

If you desire to subscribe to the CTS Journal, please send us your name and mailing address. The subscription price within the U.S. is $20.00; outside the U.S., $35.00. The journal may also be downloaded from our website: www.Chafer.edu.

40 ACADEMIC CALENDAR

Summer 2004

Aug. 17–Sept. 3 Israelology Dr. Fruchtenbaum

Fall 2004

Aug. 2 Late registration begins Sept. 2 Last evening to register for Fall classes (5:30–8:30 P.M.) Sept. 6 Labor Day holiday Sept. 7 Fall classes begin Sept. 7–13 Schedule changes made without fee Sept. 13 Last day for tuition refunds Oct. 29 Last day to drop/withdraw with no academic penalty Nov. 15 Pre-registration packets available Nov. 23–26 Thanksgiving Recess Nov. 30–Dec. 14 Pre-registration for Winter and Spring 2005 Dec. 3 Last day to drop/withdraw with WP (Withdrew Passing) or WF (Withdrew Failing) Dec. 6–17 Drop/withdraw with WF (Withdrew Failing) only Dec. 6, 7, 9 Evening pre-registration for Winter and Spring (5:30–8:30 P.M.) Dec. 15 Registration for Winter and Spring 2005 begins Dec. 17 Deadline for Fall schedule changes Dec. 20–24 Final examinations Dec. 25–Jan. 23 Christmas Break Jan. 3 Late registration begins

Winter 2005

Jan. 8–22 BI 306 Advanced Hermeneutics Dr. Robert Wilkin

Spring 2005

Jan. 20 Last evening to register for Spring classes (5:30–8:30 P.M.) Jan. 24 Spring classes begin Jan. 24–28 Schedule changes made without fee Jan. 28 Last day for tuition refunds Mar. 7–10 CTS Pastors Conference (classes canceled; students are required to attend the conference) Mar. 25 Last day to drop/withdraw with no academic penalty Mar. 28 Pre-registration packets available Apr. 4–8 Easter Break Apr. 18–Apr. 29 Pre-registration for Summer and Fall 2005 Apr. 25, 26, 28 Pre-registration nights (5:30–8:30 P.M.) Apr. 29 Last day to drop/withdraw with a WP (Withdrew Passing) or WF (Withdrew Failing) May 2 Registration begins May 2–13 Drop/withdraw with WP (Withdrew Failing) May 13 Deadline for Spring semester schedule changes May 16–20 Final examinations May 21 Commencement (tentative) Aug. 1 Late registration begins

Summer 2005 May 23–June 10 BI 314 Exegesis & Textual Linguistics Dr. Scott Munger

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