HOLY SPIRIT INSTITUTE  COLLEGE                       

 

 

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CURRICULUM STUDIES

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1.BIBLIOLOGY

Bibliology is a branch of systematic theology that studies the nature, origin, inspiration, and authority of the Bible as divine revelation. It covers topics such as the canon, transmission, inerrancy, and interpretation of Scripture. It serves as a foundation for understanding the Bible's role in faith and practice. 

Key Aspects of Bibliology

• Authority: Establishes the Bible as the final authority for faith, doctrine, and conduct.

• Interpretation: Involves understanding the grammatical-historical context of the text. 

• Definition: Derived from biblia (books) and logos (study), it is the study of the Bible.

• Nature of Scripture: Focuses on inspiration (God-breathed), inerrancy (without error), and infallibility.

• Canon and Transmission:

   Examines how the books were selected and preserved through history

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While sometimes referring to the study of books as physical objects (similar to bibliography), in a theological context, it is exclusively focused on the Doctrine of Scripture. 

2.THEOLOGY PROPER:

The study of the character and existence of God the Father.

Theology Proper (or Paterology) is the specific branch of systematic theology focused on the study of God the Father, including His existence, attributes, character, and works. It explores divine nature, such as sovereignty, holiness, omnipotence, and trinity, primarily using biblical revelation to understand who God is and how He relates to creation. 

Key Aspects of Theology Proper

• Definition: Often called the "doctrine of God," it concentrates on God’s essence rather than just His works in salvation or creation.

• Attributes of God: Study of God's character, including incommunicable attributes (e.g., self-existence, immutability) and communicable attributes (e.g., love, holiness).

• The Trinity: Exploration of the Godhead as three distinct persons in one essence.

• Works of God: Examination of God’s decrees, creation, and providence.

• Arguments for Existence: While Scripture assumes God's existence, Theology Proper addresses classical arguments like cosmological (cause and effect) and teleological (design) proofs.

• Significance: It serves as the foundation for the rest of theology, shaping how believers understand God's nature and, consequently, their relationship with Him. 

3.CHRISTOLOGY:

The study of the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Christology is the branch of Christian theology relating to the person, nature, and work of Jesus Christ. It focuses on understanding Jesus as both fully divine and fully human (the Incarnation), his role in salvation, and his relationship to God. It explores his identity (ontology) and actions (function), particularly his teachings, death, and resurrection. 

Key Aspects of Christology

• Definition: Derived from Greek christos (messiah) and logos (word/study).

• Nature of Christ: Examines how Jesus is one person with two natures—divine and human.

• Work of Christ: Focuses on his mission, including his role as Savior, King, Priest, and Prophet.

• Core Question: Addresses the central inquiry: "Who do you say that I am?". 

Key Approaches

• High Christology (Descending): Emphasizes Jesus's divinity, starting from his pre-existence as the Son of God.

• Low Christology (Ascending): Emphasizes Jesus's humanity, starting from his life and ministry on earth.

• Functional Approach: Focuses on what Jesus did (e.g., miracles, atonement). 

Significance
Christology is fundamental to Christian faith as it defines the mechanism of salvation and shapes the understanding of the relationship between God and humanity. 

 

4.PNEUMATHOLOGY: The study of the Holy Spirit.

Pneumatology is the branch of Christian theology focused on the study of the Holy Spirit, exploring His personhood, deity, and work. Derived from Greek pneuma ("wind," "breath," "spirit") and logos ("study"), it examines the Spirit's role in creation, regeneration, sanctification, and spiritual gifts. Key aspects include the Spirit's relationship within the Trinity and His active presence in the church. 

Core Aspects of Pneumatology

• Personhood of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is recognized not as an impersonal force, but as the third person of the Trinity, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Son.

• Role in Salvation: Pneumatology covers the work of the Spirit in convicting the world of sin, bringing regeneration (spiritual life), and enabling sanctification (transformation to be like Christ).

• Spiritual Gifts (Charismata): The study examines the empowerment of believers for service and ministry, often including discussions on gifts like tongues, prophecy, and teaching.

• Indwelling and Empowerment: It addresses how the Spirit indwells believers (affirming their identity as children of God) and empowers the church for mission. 

Historical and Denominational Perspectives

• Early Church & Creeds: The nature of the Holy Spirit was defined in early ecumenical councils, such as the Council of Constantinople.

• The Filioque Controversy: A major division between Eastern and Western Christianity arose over whether the Spirit proceeds from the Father "and the Son" (filioque).

• Reformation and Modern Era: The Protestant Reformation emphasized the Spirit's role in regeneration and applying salvation, while modern Pentecostalism has brought renewed focus to the miraculous gifts and active empowerment of the Holy Spirit. 

 

 5.ANTHROPOLOGY(Theological):

The study of humanity, including its creation and nature.

Theological anthropology is a branch of theology studying human existence—nature, purpose, and destiny—in relation to God and divine revelation, often highlighting humans as created in the image of God, fallen, and redeemed. It explores themes like body/soul, gender, and free will, distinguishing itself from general anthropology by examining humanity's spiritual, divine-oriented dimension rather than just social or physical characteristics. 

Key Components and Themes

• Imago Dei (Image of God): The belief that humans possess a unique, sacred status compared to other species.

• Human Constitution: Investigation into the relationship between the material (body) and immaterial (soul, spirit, mind) parts of a person.

• The Fall and Redemption: Analysis of human sinfulness (corruption of the relationship with God) and the restoration through Jesus Christ.

• Purpose and Destiny: Focusing on the ultimate goal of human life, often understood as fellowship with God, or eschatological, in a future life.

• Ethical Implications: Theological anthropology directly influences views on gender, family, and society. 

Distinction from Academic Anthropology
While academic (social/cultural) anthropology studies humanity through ethnographic, physical, and historical data, theological anthropology is inherently theological, focusing on how humans are defined in relation to divine matters. 

Key Aspects in Christian Theology

• Trinitarian Focus: Understanding human personhood as relational, reflecting a Trinitarian God.

• Christological Focus: Identifying Jesus Christ as the true model of humanity.

• Ethical Roles: Viewing humans as designed for work (stewardship) and resting, as well as moral agents with a conscience. 

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6.HAMARTIOLOGY:

The study of sin, including its origin and consequences.

Hamartiology is the branch of Christian theology that systematically studies the nature, origin, causes, and consequences of sin. Derived from the Greek word hamartia ("to miss the mark"), it examines how sin functions as an offense against God, separates humanity from the divine, and results in judgment, while highlighting the need for redemption through Christ. 

Key Aspects of Hamartiology:

• Definition of Sin: It is characterized as transgression against divine law, rebellion against God, and missing the mark of God's standard of righteousness.

• Origin of Sin: The study explores the introduction of sin into the world, typically traced back to the fall of Lucifer and the subsequent fall of humanity (Adam and Eve).

• Nature and Effects: Hamartiology addresses how sin has corrupted human nature (original sin) and its consequences, which include spiritual death, broken relationships, and eternal separation from God.

• Types of Sin: While all sin separates from God, the theology distinguishes between various degrees and types of transgression. 

It is considered a foundational doctrine that sets the stage for soteriology (the study of salvation). 

7.SOTERIOLOGY:

The study of salvation, including grace and justification.

Soteriology is the branch of Christian theology that systematically studies the doctrine of salvation, derived from the Greek words soteria (salvation) and logos (word/study). It explores how humanity is rescued from sin and God's wrath through the person and work of Jesus Christ, encompassing justification, sanctification, and redemption. 

Key aspects of soteriological study include:

• The Scope of Salvation: It examines what humans are saved from (sin, wrath) and what they are saved to (eternal life, reconciliation with God).

• The Mechanism: It focuses on salvation by grace through faith alone, rather than by works, grounded in Christ's atonement.

• Key Themes: Major topics include election, regeneration, repentance, faith, justification, sanctification, and glorification.

• The Order of Salvation (Ordo Salutis): It defines the logical order of the process, including calling, regeneration, and repentance. 

Soteriology is considered the heart of theology, deeply connected to Christology (the study of Christ) and foundational for understanding the believer's security and relationship with God. 

8.ANGELOLOGY

The study of angels, as well as demons (sometimes separated into Demonology/Satanology).

Angelology is the branch of systematic theology dedicated to the study of angels—created spiritual beings, intermediaries, and messengers of God. It examines their nature, hierarchical structure, and roles in carrying out divine will. Key areas include their creation, function as guardian spirits, and the distinction between faithful and fallen angels. 

Key Aspects of Angelology in Theology

• Definition and Nature: Derived from the Greek aggelos (messenger), angels are spiritual, non-physical beings created by God, possessing superior intelligence and power to humans.

• Roles: They serve as messengers, worshippers, and agents in executing divine judgment. They act as "ministering spirits" to believers.

• Hierarchies: Various theological traditions, such as Angelology: Types and Characteristics of Angels (e.g., Pseudo-Dionysius), suggest structured orders like Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones, and Archangels.

• Fallen Angels: Angelology also covers the study of Satan and demons—angels who rebelled against God.

• Limitations: While they are powerful, they are not divine, not eternal, and are always under God's authority. 

Biblical and Theological Significance

• Scriptural Basis: Angels appear over 100 times in both the Old and New Testaments. They appear at pivotal moments, including the birth of Christ and his temptation.

• Guardian Angels: Theology 101 - EP18 - Angelology indicates that many traditions believe in specific, individual guardian angels assigned to protect and guide humans.

• Avoidance of Worship: Orthodox theology warns against the veneration or worship of angels, placing them firmly as servants, not recipients of worship. 

9.ECCLESIOLOGY:

The study of the church, its mission, and its sacraments.

Ecclesiology is the theological study of the Christian Church's nature, structure, mission, and purpose. It explores the "assembly" of believers, focusing on its biblical foundation, governance, ordinances (baptism, Eucharist), and role in the world. Key aspects include unity, holiness, and the church's relationship with Christ and society. 

Key Aspects of Ecclesiology

• Definition & Nature: Examines the church as a "body" or "organism" rather than just a physical building, focusing on it as the community of believers.

• Biblical Foundation: Investigates New Testament teachings, including metaphors for the church, its origin, and its mission.

• Structure & Governance: Studies how churches are organized, led, and governed (e.g., hierarchical vs. congregational).

• Ordinances & Sacraments: Covers rituals such as baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

• Mission & Purpose: Explores the church's role in worship, discipleship, and evangelism. 

Major Theological Perspectives

• Catholic Ecclesiology: Emphasizes a highly structured, hierarchical organization in communion with the Pope, focusing on the church as a visible institution.

• Protestant/Evangelical Ecclesiology: Tends to emphasize the "invisible" church of all believers, local church autonomy, and direct adherence to scripture regarding church order.

• Missional Ecclesiology: Focuses on the church's purpose as an agent of God's mission in the world rather than just maintaining itself. 

Significance
Ecclesiology is crucial for helping Christians define their identity, purpose, and relationship with God. It assists in navigating contemporary issues like church unity, authority, and the role of the laity. 

10.ESCHATOLOGY:

The study of the "last things," including the end times, resurrection, and judgment.

Eschatology is the branch of theology concerned with the "last things," studying the ultimate destiny of humanity and the cosmos. It covers death, judgment, the afterlife (heaven/hell), the return of Christ, and the renewal of creation. It bridges individual hope (personal eschatology) with the final triumph of God's kingdom. 

Key Aspects of Eschatology

• Definition: Derived from Greek eschatos ("last") and logos ("study"), it explores the culmination of history and redemptive plan.

• Components:

  • Personal: Death, the immortality of the soul, and the intermediate state.

  • General: The Second Coming of Christ, resurrection of the dead, final judgment, and the new heaven/earth.

• "Now and Not Yet": A key concept is that the Kingdom of God has inaugurated with Jesus's ministry but is not yet fully realized, creating a tension where believers live in the overlap of the ages.

• Purpose: Rather than just predicting dates, it provides theological hope, meaning, and a call to live faithfully in light of God's future. 

Main Perspectives

• Amillennialism: Interprets the millennium symbolically as the current reign of Christ in heaven and through the church.

• Premillennialism: Believes Christ returns before a literal thousand-year reign on earth.

• Postmillennialism: Suggests the world will be progressively Christianized, leading to a golden age before Christ's return. 

Eschatology is foundational to Christian theology, shaping understanding of salvation, the church's mission, and the ultimate restoration of all things. 

11.APOSTOLIC THEOLOGY

A series lesson and  studies on the ministry of an Apostle of Christ,

Apostolic theology centers on beliefs and practices derived directly from the teachings, mission, and authority of the original New Testament apostles. It emphasizes the foundational authority of Scripture, the divinity of the Trinity, justification by faith, and the ongoing, active ministry of the Holy Spirit. It focuses on preaching the Gospel, the necessity of personal repentance, and often includes a strong emphasis on spiritual gifts and the "apostolic" church government. 

Key tenets of Apostolic theology generally include:

• Doctrinal Authority: Adherence to the core doctrines taught by the apostles, such as the Trinity, the sinless life, atoning death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

• The Gospel Message: The central belief that salvation is through faith in Christ’s finished work on the cross.

• Pentecostal/Charismatic Experience: Often, a strong emphasis is placed on the baptism of the Holy Ghost and the functional use of the nine gifts of the Spirit (e.g., prophecy, healing, tongues) for the edification of the church.

• Apostolic Governance: Many groups holding to this theology structure their churches around the Ephesians 4:11 ministry gifts, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers.

• Missionary Focus: A strong, driven focus on evangelism and planting churches, often characterized by a "sent" mentality to preach the kingdom of God. 

Variations in Interpretation:

• Mainstream/Protestant: Often refers to holding to the doctrinal purity of the early church (e.g., Reformed views).

• Apostolic/Pentecostal (e.g., Apostolic Church, 1916): Emphasizes spiritual gifts and specific church government.

• Apostolic Christian Church (Anabaptist): Focuses on holiness, separation, and strict adherence to biblical interpretation. 

Ultimately, Apostolic theology is characterized by a desire to emulate the faith, doctrine, and practices of the first-century church as documented in the New Testament. 

 

12.PROPHETIC THEOLOGY  

A series of lesson and studies of the ministry of a Prophet and the New Testament Prophet of Christ   

Prophetic theology is a Christian theological approach focused on proclaiming God's truth, justice, and love in the present context, rather than solely predicting the future. Rooted in the biblical prophetic tradition, it calls for social justice, challenges oppression, and acts as a "conscience" for society, often speaking out against systemic injustice to demand repentance and action. 

Key Aspects of Prophetic Theology

• Action-Oriented Justice: It goes beyond abstract doctrine to address injustice, advocating for the marginalized, poor, and vulnerable, as seen in the Old Testament prophets and the teachings of Jesus.

• Contextual (Kairos): Often emerging during crises (e.g., apartheid, war, economic inequality), it is a Kairos theology that insists the church must act as a transforming agent in "fateful moments" rather than remaining neutral.

• Counter-Cultural Witness: It contrasts with "state theology" (which justifies the status quo) and "church theology" (which may offer cheap, non-transformative reconciliation).

• Focus on God's Heart: It seeks to reveal the nature of God, presenting Him as a God of love, righteousness, and grace.

• Centred on Christ: It is fundamentally rooted in the message of Jesus Christ, aiming to glorify God rather than nations or individuals. 

Origins and Role

• Biblical Foundation: It stems from Old Testament prophets who called for a return to covenantal faithfulness and New Testament witnesses, including the prophetic role of John the Baptist.

• Modern Application: In contemporary contexts, it is used to address social ills, such as racism or environmental crises, by applying biblical principles to modern life.

• Guidance for the Church: It serves as a directive force for the church, ensuring it remains focused on its spiritual mission. 

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13.KINGDOM,CULTURE & MARKET PLACE LEADERSHIP (Belgium -Europe Campus)

An advanced Bible School upgrade course equipping pastors, leaders, and Five-Fold ministers with Kingdom understanding of culture, systems, and societal leadership. Required for pastoral commissioning, leadership advancement, and marketplace ministry oversight.

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