Many may be interested in studying topics offered at seminaries, but not everyone actually pursues those studies for various reasons, such as lack of qualifications, cost, or lack of time. A program through Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary (GGBTS) is offering courses this summer that may be an option for such individuals.
The summer courses "” one on theology, and another on Christian counseling "” will be offered through one of the seminary's "Contextualized Leadership Development' (CLD) centers called Long Beach Harbor Zion Theological School (LBH ZTS). Those who have hesitated from applying for courses at a seminary may find that CLD courses like the ones being offered at LBH ZTS this summer fit their needs.
First, anyone "” as long as they are born-again Christians "” could be eligible to apply for programs offered through the CLD centers, even those without a high school diploma. The CLD centers were first established to train individuals regardless of background for effective Christian service.
Second, it's relatively affordable. While many courses in theological schools cost about $500 or more per unit, the two courses being offered this summer through ZTS are $285 each including the registration fee, and both courses are worth 3 units.
Third, it's flexible and short-term. The courses are only 10 weeks long and will be taking place on Saturdays and in the evenings on weekdays, allowing them to be accessible to full-time workers.
Dr. John T. Shin will be teaching two courses this summer at LBH Zion Theological School, a Contextualized Leadership Development center of Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary.
Units earned through CLD centers could also work toward a CLD certificate or CLD diploma. Those with CLD diplomas who eventually decide to apply for a Master's program at a theological school could also earn 10 or more credits upon enrollment. CLD diploma-holders also become eligible to be sent as missionaries from the Southern Baptist Convention's International Mission Board (IMB).
Some may wonder whether the classes will be somewhat superficial due to the fact that they are short-term. Dr. John T. Shin, who will be teaching both of the courses, says he makes sure to teach his students all that he knows about any subject he teaches in the time frames given to him.
"It won't just be a survey," he said. "Whatever the Lord taught me, I'm trying to teach to my students."
The course on theology will explore the person and work of Christ, the person and work of the Holy Spirit, the work of the church, and preparation for the second coming of Christ, among other topics. The course on Christian counseling will discuss 43 different areas of counseling, including domestic violence, child abuse, crisis ministry, and pastoral ministry, among others, all with a focus on the role of the Holy Spirit to bring healing and guidance.
"I feel like many churches are sleeping, or enjoying safe zones," Shin said. "I hope that Christian leaders could be trained through these courses and that it would bring about an awakening movement."
Registration for these courses end on May 7. For more information, email jshinglobalms@hotmail.com.
