Certificate in Biblical Studies
CERTIFICATE COURSE
Course Description:
Gain unlimited access to the certificate course and earn your Certificate of Completion.
Godโs people are called to meditate on His Word day and night and to speak His truth into all situations (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). This study emphasizes the need for solid Biblical exposition and the importance of training the next generation of Godโs people to serve as Christ served. Whether one is teaching in a church, para-church, or school setting, itโs imperative that one seeks the Lord and allows His ways to guide every aspect of a ministry for His ultimate glory.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course on online learning, students will be able to:
- Understand the biblical and theological perspective on learning, and how it relates to their faith journey. "Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance." - Proverbs 1:5
- Evaluate the different types of learning modes, and their effectiveness for sharing the gospel. "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." - 2 Timothy 2:2
- Analyze the history and different users of online learning, and how it can be used to fulfill the Great Commission. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." - Matthew 28:19
- Compare and contrast traditional and online learning methods, and determine the most effective means for sharing the gospel. "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17
- Evaluate recent facts and figures on online learning, and identify the current trends in the industry to better serve and reach others with the message of the gospel. "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen." - 2 Peter 3:18
- Recognize the value of institutional knowledge and understanding of God's word as a valuable asset for sharing the gospel through online platforms. "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." - Proverbs 2:6
- Apply their knowledge of online learning to effectively reach and teach others with the message of the gospel, in order to fulfill the Great Commission. "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - Matthew 28:19-20.
Course Content:
Introduction
As Christians, we are called to make disciples of all nations, as Jesus commanded in the Great Commission. This includes a responsibility to continue learning and growing in our faith, as well as sharing the gospel with others through various means, including online learning. In Proverbs 1:5, it says, "Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance." This verse highlights the importance of continually increasing in knowledge and understanding, not just for personal growth, but also to guide and help others in their faith journey. 
Online learning provides a unique opportunity to reach a wide audience with the message of the gospel. Through various online platforms, we can share our knowledge and understanding of God's word with others who may not have access to traditional forms of education. As Paul said in 2 Timothy 2:2, "and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also." This course on online learning provides an introduction to the different types of online learning, their history, and their uses for different audiences. As Christians, we can use this knowledge to better understand how to effectively reach and teach others through online platforms. In addition, we can also compare traditional and online learning methods to determine the most effective means for sharing the gospel. As organizations seek to make the best use of their resources, we must remember that our institutional knowledge and understanding of God's word is our most valuable asset. As it says in Colossians 3:23, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." This applies not just to our individual pursuits of knowledge, but also to our efforts to share the gospel through online learning. In conclusion, this course on online learning provides valuable insight and knowledge on how to effectively reach and teach others through online platforms. As Christians, we must continue to seek opportunities to learn and grow in our faith, and use our knowledge and understanding to share the message of the gospel with others.
A Call to Disciple All Nations
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the Great Commission, its biblical basis, and the role of the church in fulfilling this call to disciple all nations. Students will gain an understanding of the historical context and significance of the Great Commission, and its relevance for the modern-day church. Great Commission Outline:
I. Introduction to the Great Commission
- Definition and significance of the Great Commission
The Great Commission is a call given by Jesus Christ to His followers to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything He has commanded (Matthew 28:19-20). This call is significant because it is an essential part of the mission of the church to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. The Great Commission is not only a call to evangelism but also to discipleship, as Jesus commanded His followers to teach the new disciples to obey everything He has commanded. This implies a process of nurturing and mentoring new believers in the faith, which is an essential aspect of the Great Commission. The Great Commission is significant because it highlights the universal scope of the gospel message. Jesus commanded His followers to go and make disciples of all nations, not just of their own people. This means that the gospel is meant for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, language, or culture. The Great Commission is significant because it is a call to action. It is not merely a suggestion or an option but a command given by Jesus Himself. As followers of Christ, we are called to take the Great Commission seriously and to be actively engaged in spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.
- Historical context and development of the Great Commission in the New Testament. "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission has its roots in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded in the New Testament. Jesus' ministry was characterized by preaching and teaching the good news of the kingdom of God, healing the sick, and performing miracles. He chose twelve disciples to follow Him, and He spent three years teaching and training them to carry on His work after His departure. After His death and resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples and gave them the Great Commission. This event is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew: "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age'" (Matthew 28:18-20). The Book of Acts records the fulfillment of the Great Commission by the early church. The disciples went out and preached the gospel, and many people were saved and baptized. The church grew rapidly, and new converts were added daily. The Apostle Paul was also instrumental in the development of the Great Commission. He traveled extensively throughout the Roman Empire, preaching the gospel and establishing churches. He wrote many of the letters that make up the New Testament, and his teachings on evangelism and discipleship continue to inspire and challenge Christians today. The Great Commission has continued to be a guiding principle for the church throughout its history. Missionaries have traveled to all corners of the earth, preaching the gospel and establishing churches. Today, the Great Commission remains a vital part of the church's mission, as Christians continue to share the good news of salvation with those who have not yet heard.
II. The Biblical Basis for the Great Commission
- Understanding the biblical foundation of the Great Commission in the Old and New Testaments
The Great Commission, as recorded in the New Testament, is grounded in the teachings and prophecies of the Old Testament. The idea of God's salvation reaching all nations is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, and Jesus' commission to His disciples builds upon this foundation. Here are a few key passages that demonstrate the biblical foundation of the Great Commission: God's covenant with Abraham: In Genesis 12:1-3, God promises to bless Abraham and make him a great nation, and says, "all peoples on earth will be blessed through you." This promise is reiterated throughout the Old Testament, and is seen as a foreshadowing of God's plan to bring salvation to all nations through Jesus Christ. The prophet Isaiah's vision of God's salvation: In Isaiah 49:6, God says to His servant, "It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth." This prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus, who brings salvation not only to the Jews but to all people. Jesus' own teachings: Throughout His ministry, Jesus emphasizes the importance of spreading the gospel to all people. In Matthew 24:14, He says, "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." He also tells His disciples in Mark 16:15, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." The Book of Acts: The early church, led by the Holy Spirit, follows Jesus' command to spread the gospel to all people. Acts records the spread of the gospel throughout the Roman Empire and beyond, as the disciples boldly proclaim the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ. The Great Commission is not a new concept introduced by Jesus, but rather builds upon the biblical foundation laid out in the Old Testament. The idea of God's salvation reaching all nations is a central theme throughout Scripture, and Jesus' commission to His disciples is a continuation of this divine plan.
- Exploring the theological implications of the Great Commission for the Christian faith. "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." - Acts 1:8
The Great Commission has profound theological implications for the Christian faith. Here are some key theological implications of the Great Commission, supported by Bible verses: The sovereignty of God: The Great Commission emphasizes God's sovereignty over all peoples and nations. As Jesus declares in Matthew 28:18, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." God's plan of salvation is not limited to a particular ethnic group or nation, but extends to all people, as seen in Revelation 7:9: "After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb." The importance of evangelism and missions: The Great Commission makes clear that the mission of the church is to proclaim the gospel to all people, and to make disciples of Jesus Christ. This involves not only evangelism, but also discipleship and training, as Jesus commands in Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." The centrality of Christ: The Great Commission is grounded in the person and work of Jesus Christ. As Peter proclaims in Acts 4:12, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved." The Great Commission thus underscores the importance of Christ's atoning sacrifice and His role as the only way of salvation. The role of the Holy Spirit: The Great Commission cannot be accomplished by human effort alone, but requires the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promises in Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The Holy Spirit empowers and enables believers to fulfill the Great Commission, as seen in the book of Acts. The Great Commission has significant theological implications for the Christian faith. It underscores the sovereignty of God, the importance of evangelism and missions, the centrality of Christ, and the role of the Holy Spirit in fulfilling God's plan of salvation for all nations.
III. The Call to Disciple All Nations
- Understanding the meaning and scope of the call to disciple all nations
The call to disciple all nations is a key aspect of the Great Commission, as seen in Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Here are some Bible verses that explain the meaning and scope of this call: The meaning of disciple-making: The call to disciple all nations involves more than just evangelism; it involves making disciples who are fully committed to following Jesus Christ. As Jesus says in Luke 9:23, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." Disciple-making thus involves not only sharing the gospel, but also teaching and training new believers to become mature and obedient followers of Christ. The scope of disciple-making: The call to disciple all nations is not limited to a particular people group or region, but extends to all nations and peoples. As Jesus declares in Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The scope of the Great Commission thus includes not only our local community, but also cross-cultural and international mission work. The urgency of disciple-making: The call to disciple all nations is an urgent one, as we are called to make the most of every opportunity to share the gospel and make disciples. As Paul writes in Colossians 4:5-6, "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." The urgency of disciple-making is also seen in 2 Corinthians 6:2: "I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." The call to disciple all nations is a comprehensive and urgent mandate that involves making fully committed followers of Christ from all peoples and nations. It requires sharing the gospel, teaching and training new believers, and making the most of every opportunity to advance the kingdom of God.
- Exploring the implications of the call to disciple all nations for the mission of the church in the world. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." - Matthew 28:19-20
The call to disciple all nations has significant implications for the mission of the church in the world. Here are some Bible verses that explain these implications: The mission of the church: The call to disciple all nations is at the heart of the church's mission in the world. As Jesus says in Matthew 16:18, "I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it." The church is called to be a witness to the gospel and to make disciples of all nations, as seen in Acts 1:8 and Matthew 28:19-20. The unity of the church: The call to disciple all nations involves bringing people from different cultures and backgrounds into a united community of faith. As Paul writes in Galatians 3:28, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." The church is called to be a diverse and inclusive community that reflects the love of Christ for all people. The power of the Holy Spirit: The call to disciple all nations is impossible without the power of the Holy Spirit. As Jesus says in Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The mission of the church requires the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to share the gospel and make disciples. The priority of the mission: The call to disciple all nations is a priority for the church, and it requires us to be willing to sacrifice and prioritize the mission above other things. As Jesus says in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." The mission of the church must take precedence over personal comfort, convenience, and preferences. The call to disciple all nations has significant implications for the mission of the church in the world. It involves bringing people from all cultures and backgrounds into a united community of faith, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit, prioritizing the mission above personal preferences, and ultimately seeking to fulfill the Great Commission by making disciples of all nations.
IV. The Role of the Church in Fulfilling the Great Commission
- Understanding the role of the church in fulfilling the Great Commission
The role of the church in fulfilling the Great Commission is crucial. Here are some Bible verses that highlight the role of the church in this mission: Proclaiming the gospel: The church is called to proclaim the gospel to all people. As Paul writes in Romans 10:14-15, "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?" The church is sent to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to all people. Making disciples: The church is called to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything that Jesus has commanded. This is the Great Commission as stated in Matthew 28:19-20. The church is responsible for discipling believers and equipping them for ministry. Loving one another: The church is called to love one another as Christ loved us. As Jesus says in John 13:34-35, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." The love and unity of the church is a witness to the world of the reality of Christ's love. Serving others: The church is called to serve others and meet the needs of those around us. As Paul writes in Galatians 5:13, "You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love." The church is called to be a servant community, reflecting the love and humility of Christ. The role of the church in fulfilling the Great Commission is to proclaim the gospel, make disciples, love one another, and serve others. Through these actions, the church becomes a witness to the world of the reality of Christ's love and the power of the gospel.
- Exploring the practical implications of the Great Commission for church ministry and outreach. "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ." - Ephesians 4:11-12
The practical implications of the Great Commission for church ministry and outreach are numerous. Here are some Bible verses that highlight these implications: Praying for workers: Jesus tells his disciples in Matthew 9:37-38, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." One practical implication of the Great Commission is that the church should be praying for workers to be sent out into the harvest field. This means praying for missionaries, evangelists, and other ministry leaders who can help fulfill the Great Commission. Going out into the world: Jesus commands his disciples in Matthew 28:19 to "go and make disciples of all nations." This means that the church should not simply wait for people to come to them, but should actively go out into the world to share the gospel and make disciples. This could involve mission trips, evangelistic outreaches, or simply building relationships with people in the community. Meeting physical needs: In Matthew 25:35-36, Jesus says, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me." One practical implication of the Great Commission is that the church should be meeting the physical needs of people in addition to their spiritual needs. This could involve serving at a soup kitchen, donating clothing or supplies to a homeless shelter, or providing medical care to those in need. Building relationships: One of the most effective ways to share the gospel is through building relationships with people. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 9:22, "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." This means that the church should be intentional about building relationships with people in their communities, getting to know them and sharing the love of Christ in practical ways. The practical implications of the Great Commission for church ministry and outreach include praying for workers, going out into the world, meeting physical needs, and building relationships. By doing these things, the church can effectively fulfill its mission to make disciples of all nations.
V. Application
- Identifying practical applications of the Great Commission for the modern-day church and its mission in the world. "Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:16
The Great Commission is not only a command given to the disciples of Jesus Christ, but it is also a mandate for the church today. Here are some practical applications of the Great Commission for the modern-day church and its mission in the world: Evangelism and Discipleship: The Great Commission calls us to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). This means that the church must be actively engaged in evangelism and discipleship, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and helping people to grow in their faith. Missions: The Great Commission also calls us to go into all the world and preach the Gospel (Mark 16:15). This means that the church must be involved in mission work, both locally and globally, supporting missionaries and sending out teams to reach people with the message of salvation. Prayer: The Great Commission is not just about what we do, but also about seeking God's guidance and power to accomplish His mission. We must pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment in our evangelistic and discipleship efforts (Acts 1:8). Unity: The Great Commission brings all believers together in a common mission to share the Gospel and make disciples. This means that the church must strive for unity and work together across denominational and cultural boundaries to fulfill the Great Commission (Ephesians 4:3-6). Service and Love: The Great Commission is ultimately about showing God's love to the world. As we share the Gospel and make disciples, we must also serve others and show love to our neighbors, just as Jesus did (John 13:34-35). The Great Commission is not just a command to be obeyed, but it is a call to action for the church today. It involves evangelism, discipleship, missions, prayer, unity, service, and love, all aimed at fulfilling God's mission of reconciling the world to Himself through Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
As Christians, we are called to be lifelong learners and to seek knowledge and understanding in all aspects of our lives. Proverbs 1:7 reminds us that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." Therefore, it is important to consider how online learning can fit into a Christian education perspective. Online learning can provide an opportunity for individuals to further their education and grow in their knowledge of God and His Word. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are unable to attend traditional classes due to time constraints or geographical limitations. Proverbs 16:16 tells us that "How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!" However, it is important to remember that online learning should not replace the value of in-person learning and the community that comes with it. As Hebrews 10:24-25 states, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one anotherโand all the more as you see the Day approaching." Online learning can be a helpful tool, but it should not be the sole source of education for Christians. We must continue to seek wisdom and understanding through prayer, studying the Bible, and engaging with others in the community of faith. As it says in Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."
