III.        Specific learning goals

Organizational Leadership Development

ACTS 2025

Professor: Dr Steve Posey 

COURSE PURPOSE:

This course addresses the principles and processes of skillfully leading and developing organizations, whether churches, local communities, NGO’s, CBO’s, or businesses. Built upon the foundation of biblical principles and values, topics will be studied in light of current leadership research and literature, to enable the student to be strategic in leadership, for effective and sustainable ministries and organizations which contribute to the larger good, and in which the participants thrive and grow.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the course, the student will be able:

1. To discuss principles and processes of organizational leadership.
2. To demonstrate an understanding of organizational culture and development processes.
3. To analyze and strategically address organizational leadership and systemic problems, especially in the African context.
4. To lead an organization with more wisdom and skill than before, leading the way as a servant-leader, empowering all within the organization to succeed and excel, even as the organization grows and flourishes.

Exploring the New Testament (MACLM, M.DIV, MABTS, PGD.)

Facilitator

Dr. Adeagbo Robert - robertadeagbo@acts.edu.ng – 08023227741

Location

40, Town Planning way Ilupeju, Lagos.

Schedule

Date: January. 22 – January 30, 2025

A. Purpose of the course

The purpose of the course is to introduce the students to the literature of the New Testament by means of studying both the biblical text and the historical and cultural factors that shaped it. The historical background, certain aspects of contemporary scholarship, and especially the themes and general teachings of the N.T books will be discussed. 

B. Course Description

Exploration is an organized trip into unfamiliar areas, regions and terrains, especially for the purposes of embarking on definite actions to make a DISCOVERY. Here, we will be intimating ourselves with the background to the events in the spectrum of the N.T narratives. Namely, the political, religious and social worlds of the N.T times into which Jesus came and where in the church was born to bear witness to our Savior & Lord, Jesus Christ. We shall seek to understand the origin, shaping and significance of the N.T message in its original first century context and see what guidance such developments give us for interpreting and communicating the N.T message today.

The peculiarities of literary genres observable within the Johannine, Petrine and Pauline literature shall also be highlighted.

 C. Course Objectives

By the end of this course, the students should be able to:

1. UNDERSTAND thoroughly New Testament history, background, canon and selected New Testament Themes

2. APPLY adequate New Testament history, background and canon and selected themes to contemporary church needs.

3. COMMUNICATE clearly New Testament history, background, canon and selected New Testament themes to a contemporary audience.

4. GROW in their appreciation for the critical study that is demanded by a reverence for the Bible as God’s inspired, infallible word, with excitement for personal life-long commitment to it.

The purpose of this course is to equip the student for leadership within multi-cultural organizations in a variety of global contexts.  Concepts of culture; dimensions of culture; models of inter-cultural leadership; cultural change; team dynamics; influence of communication technologies; cultural divergence and convergence; promoting multicultural understandings.

Duration of class: Class will hold from Monday- Saturday 8:30-4:30 daily.  There is one-hour break from 12-1:00PM 

FACILITATOR:  Dr Alan Celllamare ( acellamare2@gmail.com)

Allan is based in South Carolina USA and completed his doctorate from Gordon Cornwell Seminary. He has served as adjunct faculty to several university and Seminaries. He held leadership positions in Christian and secular context, including working at the Development office at Gordon Cornwell Seminary, Charlotte Campus, North Carolina. He has many years of teaching in cross cultural settings.

AFRICA CENTRE OF THEOLIGICAL STUDIES (ACTS)

MA LEADERSHIP STUDIES

Course Title: Strategic Management: Strategic Thinking, Planning & Implementation

Lead Lecturer: Prof. Mike Wicker, Ph.D.  (mike.wicker@gmail.com)

Dates: 23 September – 04 October 2024  (1pm-5pm WAT)

COURSE SYLLABUS

Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to equip the student with knowledge and skills in strategic management, concepts and process. It focuses on the techniques, processes and policies that determine organizational success and enable organizations gain competitive advantage.

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course the student will be able to:

a) Understand the importance of strategic management in determining organizational success

b) Understand the strategic management theoretical frameworks

c) Analyze organizations and formulate a strategic plan

d) Appreciate the importance and evaluate strategic plans and policies

e) Develop corporate vision & mission statements & strategic plans using team process

Competencies

· Head:

o Appreciate various Strategic Planning Theories

o Understand Strategic Planning Framework

· Heart:

o Incorporate ethical standards and Biblical values in the planning process

o Humble oneself and integrate collaborative methods in the planning process

· Hands:

o Develop Vision and Mission Statements

o Analyze internal and external assessment of your organization

o Design Strategic Initiatives

o Implement Strategic Plan for your organization

Course Content

Strategic management and business policy, defining strategy; strategy formulation process, stakeholders, vision, mission, objectives and purpose, types of strategy; matching strategy and industry; strategic analysis of organizations, external environment and internal environment assessment, strategies and competitive dynamics; strategy implementation process, resource allocation, corporate ethics, culture and governance, operations plans and policy formulation; strategy evaluation, importance and measurement; cases in strategic management.

AFRICA CENTRE FOR THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

40, Town Planning way, Ilupeju, Lagos.

Course Description

This course explores the Synoptic Gospels: Mathew, Mark and Luke. In contrast to the Gospel of John, these three Gospel take a similar view of the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ.

These books are reviewed both separately and together in order to provide a harmonious perspective of life and teachings of the Lord.

Goals & Objectives of the course

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Explain the historical, political, social and religious background of the Synoptic Gospels.

2. Discuss intelligently the reasons for the differences and similarities between Synoptic Gospel and John’s Gospel.

3. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basic concepts related to the Synoptic Gospels like the Synoptic problem, Markan priority, Mathean priority, Temple, Synagogue, law of Sabbath, Textual Criticism, Source Criticism, Form Criticism, Redaction Criticism etc.

4. Defend the authorship, setting, and outstanding characteristics of each of the Synoptic Gospels.

LDR 502: Theological Foundations of Leadership 3 Credit Hours

LDR 502: THEOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS OF LEADERSHIP

April, 2024,    

3 Credit Hours

Instructor: Dr. Steve Posey

COURSE PURPOSE

This course seeks to understand a biblical theological and philosophical basis for leadership in the context of contemporary worldviews. Leadership metaphors, forms, styles, functions, responsibilities, and the character of leaders are explored within a framework of Scriptural truth, justice, and accountability. The dynamics of Church-State relations are also reviewed in the hope of empowering leaders and their followers to be Christian agents of transformation.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, the student will be able to:

1.              Describe the meaning, functions, and characteristics of a biblical values-driven leader; differentiate between leadership and management, as-well-as, leadership and followership.

2.              Identify and describe a biblical theistic worldview in the context of diametrically different worldviews, with specific reference to the African Church and society.

3.              Apply the biblical metaphors and principles of leadership in his/her leadership philosophy and practice.

COURSE CONTENT

a) Definition of leadership, leadership vs. management comparison, leader and follower(s);

b) Biblical qualities of a leader: including character, ethics, vision, stewardship of self and others (EIQ), and of resources;

c) The implications for personal values and decision-making with regard to contemporary worldviews employed by society and the church

d) Priorities of the Kingdom of God and the role of the leader (under-shepherd) in the Kingdom;

e) Church and State: a Christian leader’s various roles; including that of steward, servant, shepherd, ambassador, scapegoat, and prophet.

f) Presentation of a biblical theistic worldview as the framework for integrating biblical, cultural, and professional leadership perspectives necessary to engender holistic change.

PST 604 Church Administration and Management

 (3 Credit Hours)

The is course provides an overview of church administration and management of non - profit organizations. It is designed to inform and educate students regarding church administrative and management principles, procedures, techniques, theory, and practices.  The course applies a problem solving approach to the subject of management, administration, supervision, organization, leadership, church government, finance, and legal issues relevant to church ministries and non-profit organizations.  

THS 503: Systematic Theology 3

 Dr Vic Reasoner MAY 10-21

Church, Eschatology, Angelology (3 credit hours)

Ecclesiology: nature and purpose of the Church, models of church ministry, ordinances/sacraments, polity, ordination; Eschatology: death, eternal state, heaven, hell, biblical teaching and contemporary perspectives on the rapture, millennium and return of Christ; Angelology: nature and work of angels and demons, relation to African worldviews and practices; contemporary issues related to these doctrines.

PST 500 Marriage and Family  

2 CREDIT HOURS

COURSE PURPOSE:

 This class seeks to establish God’s design for marriage and the dynamics necessary to create Godly offspring.  The class will discuss various characteristics needed to live out this design and discover strategies for growing in oneness together.  Subjects will include: the purpose of marriage, parenthood essentials, communication techniques, conflict resolution, gender differences, and investigations of God’s view of family roles

THS501 Systematic Theology 1

God, Bible, Holy Spirit

March 8- 19, 2021

Time - 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Monday - Friday

Instructor: Dr. Vic Reasoner

<victorpau@aol.com>

Course Description: In Bibliology: the Bible’s self-understanding, the canon of Scripture, inspiration, inerrancy, authority, sufficiency, perspicuity, and historical reliability; rationalist and pluralist critiques of the Bible; In Theology Proper: nature of revelation, the nature and attributes of God, and God’s continuing work in the world today; the Trinity; person and work of the Holy Spirit. This course will interact with African worldview(s) and issues, as well as discuss the importance of these doctrines for contemporary Africa. (3 credit hours)        

Course Objectives: By the end of this course the student will be able to

$     Explain the necessity of an infallible base of authority.

$     Defend the Holy Scriptures as our final authority for doctrine

$     Resolve doctrinal questions using the proper methodology of systematic theology

$     Defend the existence of God and articulate a biblical theology of his nature.

$     Connect theology and doxology, leading a congregation to defend the faith and worship the true God.

$     Preach and/or teach how the Holy Spirit is the “executive of the Godhead.”

$     Explain why the doctrine of the Trinity matters.

Course Title: Strategic Management (Strategic Thinking, Planning & Implementation)

Lead Lecturer: Prof. Mike Wicker, Ph.D.  (mike.wicker@gmail.com)

 Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to equip the student with knowledge and skills in strategic management, concepts and process. It focuses on the techniques, processes and policies that determine organizational success and enable organizations gain competitive advantage.

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course the student will be able to:

a)      Understand the importance of strategic management in determining organizational success

b)      Understand the strategic management theoretical frameworks

c)      Analyze organizations and formulate a strategic plan

d)     Appreciate the importance and evaluate strategic plans and policies

e)      Develop corporate vision & mission statements & strategic plans using team process

Competencies

• Head:
• Appreciate various Strategic Planning Theories
• Understand Strategic Planning Framework
• Heart:
• Incorporate ethical standards and Biblical values in the planning process
• Humble oneself and integrate collaborative methods in the planning process
• Hands:
• Develop Vision and Mission Statements
• Analyze internal and external assessment of your organization
• Design Strategic Initiatives
• Implement Strategic Plan for your organization

Course Content

Strategic management and business policy, defining strategy; strategy formulation process, stakeholders, vision, mission, objectives and purpose, types of strategy; matching strategy and industry; strategic analysis of organizations, external environment and internal environment assessment, strategies and competitive dynamics; strategy implementation process, resource allocation, corporate ethics, culture and governance, operations plans and policy formulation; strategy evaluation, importance and measurement; cases in strategic management.

Athletes in Action is an International, Interdenominational Christian sports organization that started in 1969. People look up to athletes as role models, our desire it so see these role models look up to and reflect Jesus as people look up to them.

AIA MISSION, VISION, AND PRIORITIES:

Vision: We dream of a day when there are Christ followers on every team, in every sport, in every nation.

Mission: Building spiritual movements everywhere through the platform of sports so that everyone knows an athlete who truly follows Jesus.

Values: Faith, Growth, Fruitfulness

Pastor as Caregiver  3 Credit Hours

Course Code:  PST 601 

Course title: Pastor as Caregiver

Facilitator:  Rev. Dr. Joy Davis, MACE, M-Div, D-Min

1. COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course provides an introduction to the ministry of the role of the  Pastor as Caregiver, counselor, and undershepherd  within the context of the Christian church. The course will explore the nature of caregiver and shepherd  from a biblical and  theological perspective and discover different forms and methodologies  of caring using  relational skills needed in the area of pastoral care, particularly in situations of a crisis. This will be done with a view of becoming  a leader and making leaders in the area of Pastoral Care. 

 LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Provide Solutions to crisis management in the area of pastoral care.

• Develop a biblical, theological paradigm of pastoral Care within Christian ministry

• Discover the Trinitarian position of Pastoral Care
  influence and impact the dynamics of the caregiver’s  relationship

•  Identify the nature of commonly encountered crisis situations as well as develop the necessary interventions to be effective in ministering to people in such situations

• Formulate an understanding and apply spiritual resources such as prayer, Scripture, and the community of faith as appropriate aspects of pastoral care and counseling.

• Understand and formulate the overarching theme of Relational Space

• Understand Emerging issue in Pastoral Care in Africa 

LDR 502: Theological Foundations of Leadership 3 Credit Hours

COURSE PURPOSE:

This course provides a theological and philosophical basis for leadership, framed within contemporary worldviews. Metaphors, forms, styles, functions, responsibilities and character of leaders are explored within a framework of justice, truth and accountability, considering dynamics of Church-State relations, for empowering leaders and their followers to be agents of transformation.

PST 500 Marriage and Family  

2 CREDIT HOURS

COURSE PURPOSE:

 This class seeks to establish God’s design for a marriage and the dynamics necessary to create Godly offspring.  The class will discuss various characteristics needed to live out this design and discover strategies for growing in one-ness together.  Subjects will include: the purpose of marriage, parenthood essentials, communication techniques, conflict resolution, gender differences and investigations of God’s view of family roles

Course Title: Multiplying Discipleship

Course Code: FME502

Course Hours: 2 Hours

Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to provide theological foundation, principles, methods and skills of discipleship ministry. 

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course, the student should be able to:

1.      Explain the biblical and theological basis of making disciples.

2.      Plan, implement and evaluate the ministry of building multiplying discipleship.

3.      Integrate evangelism and follow-up principles in discipleship ministry.

4.      Formulate clearly a philosophy of discipleship ministry.

Course Content

Theology of discipleship; a biblical philosophy of discipleship; discipleship methods; stages of discipleship; social relationships; local church involvement; leading a small group; building movements of multiplying discipleship.

ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP

LDR 561 / 520

3 Credit Hours

COURSE PURPOSE:

This course addresses the principles and processes of skillfully leading and developing organizations, whether churches, local communities, NGO’s, CBO’s, or businesses. Built upon the foundation of biblical principles and values, topics will be studied in light of current leadership research and literature, to enable the student to be strategic in leadership, for effective and sustainable ministries and organizations which contribute to the larger good, and in which the participants thrive and grow.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the course, the student will be able:

1. To discuss principles and processes of organizational leadership;
2. To demonstrate an understanding of organizational culture and development processes;
3. To analyze and strategically address organizational leadership and systemic problems, especially in the African context;
4. To lead an organization with more wisdom and skill than before, leading the way as a servant-leader, empowering all within the organization to succeed and excel, even as the organization grows and flourishes.

 COURSE CONTENT:

Topics to be covered include: vision, mission, core values, corporate culture, visionary and strategic leadership, organizational identity, participation and equity, organizational diagnostics, SWOT analysis and other evaluation models, motivation, trust-building, planning, implementing strategic change as a dynamic process, integration of faith as the foundation for corporate leadership.

HEBREW BASICS AND RESOURCES

3 Credit Hours

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The course is a study of the Hebrew language with emphasis on the basics of grammar and syntax looking toward exegesis of the Old Testament text. The course is designed to introduce the students to Biblical Hebrew with the primary intention of getting the students familiarized with original language with which the text of the Old Testament was written.

The focus of the course would be among others to help the students to learn how to identify, read and write the Hebrew consonants (and vowels). Attempts would also be made at helping participants in the course to analyze different grammatical aspects of the Biblical Hebrew.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

At the completion of this course, students should have been:

1.      Helped to identify, read and read the consonants (and vowels) of the Biblical Hebrew language.

2.      Helped to possess basic and working knowledge of the different grammatical aspects of the Biblical Hebrew language.

3.      Able to analyze the different grammatical aspects of the Biblical Hebrew language.

4.      Able to think critically, analytically and develop a working knowledge of Biblical Hebrew grammar and syntax, leading to acquiring skills in reading and interpreting the Old Testament Scripture.

5.      Able to gain basic proficiency in biblical Hebrew for them to be able to fluently read the Hebrew scripture.

6.      Able to effectively communicate the word of God with basic understanding of the Biblical Hebrew language.

7.      Able to read, write and translate a good number of Biblical Hebrew vocabularies.

CORE VALUES

-          Uprightness and Godliness

-          Faithfulness to Biblical Revelation

-          Commitment to the Gospel and Christian Mission

-          Passion for Academic Excellence

-          Contemporary and Contextual Relevance

PENTATEUCH AND OLD TESTAMENT HISTORICAL BOOKS

 (3 Credit Hours)

Course DESCRIPTION: 

This course provides a foundation for understanding and interpreting the Old Testament and Bible through an examination of the content, matters of introduction, and historical, social and religious contexts of the Pentateuch and historical books of the Old Testament. Attention is given to the relevance and message for the church today, particularly the African church. 

An in-depth study of the Pentateuch, both in terms of individual books and the corpus as a whole. To deepen student knowledge and understanding of both the contents of the five books of the Pentateuch and the collection as a unit, through readings and discussions.

Course RATIONALE:

Why redirect rigours in revisiting relics resources?

·         For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. – (Romans 15:4) RSV

·         Now these things happened to them as a warning, but they were written down for our instruction, upon whom the end of the ages has come. (1 Cor. 10:11) RSV

Course OBJECTIVES:

This is a merger of two massive modules meant to be mastered within a very short moment of time.

THE PENTATEUCH or Torah as the foundation of the Old Testament canon provides the blueprint for the OT and functions as a special lens through which Scripture as a whole (OT and NT) is to be comprehended, interpreted and implemented. Given its peculiarity, the Pentateuch has received higher critical attacks, often seeking to ultimately undermine the accuracy, authority and reliability of the entire Bible. If the basis for belief “in the beginning” can be discredited, the rest of scripture can be disconnected, and therefore disregarded and discarded!

Thus, this course seeks to affirm the authenticity, authority, and theological richness and relevance of divinely inspired message of the Pentateuch and the historical books.

THE OLD TESTAMENT HISTORICAL BOOKS offer an integrated overview of Israelite history from its pre-history to the close of the Old Testament period. This will be undertaken as an exploration of the two great historical works of the Old Testament:

1)      The Prophetic History from Joshua through Second Kings, and

2)      The Priestly History from First Chronicles through Nehemiah - as well as the books of Ruth and Esther.

We should be examining the salvation history of Israel to discover therein the picture of God that arises from the records of His mighty acts of mercy and grace, and to also learn what it means to be His people from the accounts of the Israelites' interactions with their God -Yahweh Jehovah.

LDR 512: PERSONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT 

3 CREDIT HOURS

Course Purpose:

This course focuses on character and skill development of the individual leader, for both personal and public contexts. Personal call (SHAPE), values, character, temperament, family and relationships, resource management, holistic living and decision-making will be explored and developed.

THS 503: Theology 3

 (3 credit hours)

Course Description: 

This is a graduate level course that covers Ecclesiology, Angelology and Escathology. The course content includes Ecclesiology: the nature of the church, the New Testament concepts of the church and other concepts of the church, the relationship of the church to the Kingdom, Israel, church age and Jesus Christ, the purpose of the church, officers of the local church, organization and government of the local church and ordinances of the church. Angelology: the doctrine of the angels in history, origin and nature of angels, classification of angels, ministry of angels, the fallen angels and the destiny of angels.

Escathology : Escathology in philosophy and religion, the kingdom of God and the day of the Lord, the rapture of the church – parousia, epiphaenia, various schools of thought on escathological events, the great tribulation period, the second coming of Christ, bodily resurrection and scriptural view of the intermediate state, judgments and final destination. Analysis and application of the concept to our lives and the church in the context of Africa is key focus of this course.

Goals and Objectives of the Course:

By the end of this course, the students should be able to :

·         Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basic concepts and terms used in the Christian doctrines related to church, angels and last things.

·         Demonstrate comprehension of the various views, differences and conflicts related to the doctrines and be able to take a reasoned and correct stance on each of them.

·         Explain and critique traditional African and other non – Christian concepts regarding these doctrines.

·         Construct personal biblically based theological statements on these doctrines.

·         Develop an attitude of love towards every member of the church, gratitude for his position in church and living in fear and trembling in preparation for the parousia.

·         Be excited to involve more in the work of the ministry and share the good news of God’s love to men and women outside the faith.

Bible Study Methods 

EXP 501 

3 Credit Hours

COURSE PURPOSE: 

This course combines Bible study methods with biblical hermeneutics. A comprehensive survey is conducted of the basic processes of observation, interpretation, application, and correlation in Bible study. Regarding hermeneutics, the course examines the principles of biblical interpretation with particular focus on the historical-grammatical method. Attention is also given to developments and trends in hermeneutics in the African as well as the western world.

PST 500 Marriage and Family  2 CREDIT HOURS

COURSE PURPOSE:

 This class seeks to establish God’s design for a marriage and the dynamics necessary to create Godly offspring.  The class will discuss various characteristics needed to live out this design and discover strategies for growing in one-ness together.  Subjects will include: the purpose of marriage, parenthood essentials, communication techniques, conflict resolution, gender differences and investigations of God’s view of family roles

Strategic Leadership Development  (3 Credit Hours)

Course Purpose

This course focuses on a plan of action (Strategy) designed to develop leadership abilities in leaders in both a personal and public context. The overall aim will be to achieve a major shift in ordinary leadership definitions and propel the leader into a program of action, plan and policy and a strategic blueprint that will help develop his/her leader-Shift abilities regardless of proposed leadership plans mandated by institutions, organisations, or social systems they may find themselves.

Strategic skill development of the individual leader includes Personal call/vocation, values, character, temperament, family resource management, emotional intelligence, wholistic living, priorities and decision-making skills that will be explored and developed from within a thoroughly biblical worldview. Various leadership development strategies and theories will provide a framework for principles and processes you can use to develop as a mature and effective leader able and willing to invest in others and leave a positive legacy.

An analysis of the qualities and practices of effective Christian leadership based on strategies and principles in Scripture and related literature, with attention to devising a strategy, philosophy, and plan of action in the development of spiritual leadership.

Course Outcomes:

By the end of the course, the student will:

1.      Have identified Strategic principles of Leadership, his/her calling and giftedness, including spiritual gifts, temperament, natural abilities and acquired skills and experience relevant to leadership;

2.      Have outlined a personal leadership development timeline, demonstrating understanding of phases and processes as presented by various scholarly leadership development theories.

3.      Have developed personal disciplines and a plan to promote on-going character maturing and skill development.

THS 502: Theology 2: (3 credit hours)

Course Description

This is a graduate level course that covers Humanity, Christ, and Salvation. The course content includes Theological Anthropology: humanity in light of creation, the Imago Dei, human ecological stewardship, gender, hamartiology; Christology: person and work of Christ, incarnation and hypostatic union, virgin birth, resurrection, impeccability; Salvation: nature and models of the atonement, predestination, calling, repentance, faith, conversion, justification, adoption, assurance, sanctification, glorification. Analysis and application of these concepts in the African context is key focus of the course.

NTS 513: M.Div  BL 411: MACLM

New Testament Historical Books and Johannine Writings

Credit Hours: 3         

Facilitator: John Reaume

Course Description 

This course provides a foundation for understanding and interpreting the New Testament through an examination of the content, themes, introductory matters and the historical, social and canonical contexts of the Gospels, Acts, 1-3 John, and the Book of Revelation.  Attention is given to the relevance and message for the Church in Africa today.

Expected Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course the student will be able to:

1.    Outline the general content and major themes of the Gospels, Acts, 1-3 John and the Book of Revelation.

2.    Critically interact with the literary (author, date, purpose, occasion) and historical (religious, political and social) background of the Gospels, Acts, 1-3 John and the Book of Revelation and relate these to biblical interpretation.

3.    Compare the unique contribution of each of the four Gospels to our understanding of Christ’s life and meaning.

4.    Critically evaluate important critical and interpretive problems in the Gospels, Acts, and Johannine Writings.

5.    Explain the formation of the New Testament canon and relate the unique contribution of the Gospels, Acts, and Johannine writings to the New Testament canon.

6.    Integrate the teachings of the New Testament to one’s life and ministry.

Course Content

Overview of the content, major themes, organization, distinct contributions, interpretive challenges along with introductory and critical matters for the Gospels, Acts and Johannine Writings; formation of the New Testament canon; the historical context, and the portrait of Jesus in each of the four Gospels.

LDR510 Leadership History, Theory and Praxis

3 CREDIT HOURS

COURSE PURPOSE:

This course explores the nature of leadership as a complex process involving leaders, followers and situations.  The content intends to set emerging leadership theories and practices into various situations, from entrepreneurial start-up endeavours to well-established institutions and even society as a whole. Discussions of leadership ideas and applications relate traditional and contemporary African experience to historical and current global theories. Although the characteristics of leaders and managers will be discussed, the focus of the class remains on exploring the concept of leadership as a process involving much more than the leader. The goal is to sharpen the students’ knowledge and skill related to leadership and management functions for today’s multiple contexts and roles.

LDR 542: Leading Across Cultures or  Inter-cultural Leading 

3 Credit Hours

COURSE OVERVIEW

Course Description

The purpose of this course is to equip the student for leadership within multi-cultural organizations in a variety of global contexts.  Concepts of culture; dimensions of culture; models of inter-cultural leadership; cultural change; team dynamics; influence of communication technologies; cultural divergence and convergence; promoting multicultural understandings.

Duration of class: Class will hold from Monday- Saturday 8:30-4:30 daily.  There is one-hour break from 12-1:00PM 

FACILITATOR:  Dr Alan Celllamare ( acellamare2@gmail.com)

Allan is based in South Carolina USA and completed his doctorate from Gordon Cornwell Seminary. He has served as adjunct faculty to several university and Seminaries. He held leadership positions in Christian and secular context, including working at the Development office at Gordon Cornwell Seminary, Charlotte Campus, North Carolina. He has many years of teaching in cross cultural settings.

 FME 501: EVANGELISM AND FOLLOW UP  2 CREDIT HOURS

Course Purpose

This is a compulsory foundation course required for every student. 

The purpose of this course is to provide theological foundation; principles; methods and skills of evangelism and follow up ministry. Biblical principles and theology of evangelism; definitions of evangelism and follow up; writing personal testimonies; sharing the gospel message; methods of evangelism; mass evangelism; the use of follow up materials. 

 Academic Writing 2  Credit Hours: 3 Hours

Course Description

The course introduces you to the process and procedures library usage, writing ethics, required format for all term and research papers, and policies and procedures of ACTS, for successfully completing your academic program.

The goal of this course is to assist you in developing the writing skills necessary to meet a range of anticipated writing tasks that you will encounter during your academic career at ACTS and beyond. 


The course will cover library usage: accessing resources (books, journals, and on-line resources), proper citation of all forms of literature, required format style, academic ethics, and an over-view of study skills for Masters work.    

This course will also introduce you to critical thinking and academic writing. The goal is to introduce you to the kinds of writing assignments and engagement required for graduate level students.

This class will be offered by first year masters and Bachelor students.

 (EXP 501)   Bible Study Methods (3 Credit Hours) 

COURSE PURPOSE: 

This course combines Bible study methods with biblical hermeneutics. A comprehensive survey is conducted of the basic processes of observation, interpretation, application, and correlation in Bible study. Regarding hermeneutics, the course examines the principles of biblical interpretation with particular focus on the historical-grammatical method. Attention is also given to developments and trends in hermeneutics in the African as well as the western world.

LDR 502: Theological Foundations of Leadership 3 Credit Hours

COURSE PURPOSE:

This course provides a theological and philosophical basis for leadership, framed within contemporary worldviews. Metaphors, forms, styles, functions, responsibilities and character of leaders are explored within a framework of justice, truth and accountability, considering dynamics of Church-State relations, for empowering leaders and their followers to be agents of transformation.

 FME 501: EVANGELISM AND FOLLOW UP  2 CREDIT HOURS

Course Purpose

This is a compulsory foundation course required for every student. 

The purpose of this course is to provide theological foundation; principles; methods and skills of evangelism and follow up ministry. Biblical principles and theology of evangelism; definitions of evangelism and follow up; writing personal testimonies; sharing the gospel message; methods of evangelism; mass evangelism; the use of follow up materials. 

AFRICA CENTRE FOR THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

40, TOWN PLANNING WAY, ILUPEJU, LAGOS

COURSE SYLLABUS

PROGRAM: POST GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN LEADERSHIP & CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

COURSE: MARRIAGE AND FAMILY

COURSE CODE: PST 500 (2 UNITS)

DATE: 23^RD – 31^ST of AUGUST, 2024

TIME: 2:30PM-5:00PM (ONLINE); SATURDAY 9AM – 4PM

TYPE OF CLASS: ONLINE/ONSITE

COURSE INSTRUCTOR: Ojuolape I. Ukobo, PhD.

                                   Email: ojuolapeukobo@acts.edu.ng

                                  Tel No: 08053951808

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course brings to students the knowledge and understanding of marriage and family living from biblical standpoint. It exposes students to contemporary issues facing marriage and family and presents answers from the bible. Students are expected to use the knowledge gained to develop godly marriages and Christ-centered families. The course will further equip students to teach others and help them achieve same.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Articulate an understanding of the biblical foundation for a Christian marriage.
2. Describe the biblical view of gender roles in marriage and family.
3. Understand the unique differences between male and female genders.
4. Explain ways of dealing with conflicts in marriage and family.
5. Analyze the various challenges to marriage and family.
6. Articulate answers from the bible to handle the challenges in marriage and family.
7. Explain the biblical ways of training children.
8. Understand the call to singlehood and its responsibility.
9. Explain the partnership role of a wife to her husband in ministry.

TOPICS IN CHURCH HISTORY

 3 CREDIT HOURS

Course Description

PGD 505 is a Survey of the historical and doctrinal development of the church from the apostolic age to the present day. Focus is on key moments in the development and growth of Christianity both in the West and the East from the 2^ndcentury. The impact of key leaders and crucial turning points in the development and expansion of Christianity. 

Course Objectives

A.    To have the student know the major events of church history.

B.     To have the students know and appreciate the major doctrinal issues that developed throughout church history and how these doctrines came into formal articulation over the ages.

C.     To have the student recognize the importance of protecting the Body of Christ from doctrinal deviations.

D.    To have the student recognize the importance of learning from the past—learning from the right choices of the past as well as from the mistakes of the past.

PENTATEUCH AND OLD TESTAMENT HISTORICAL BOOKS (3 Credit Hours)

Course DESCRIPTION: 

This course provides a foundation for understanding and interpreting the Old Testament and Bible through an examination of the content, matters of introduction, and historical, social and religious contexts of the Pentateuch and historical books of the Old Testament. Attention is given to the relevance and message for the church today, particularly the African church. 

An in-depth study of the Pentateuch, both in terms of individual books and the corpus as a whole. To deepen student knowledge and understanding of both the contents of the five books of the Pentateuch and the collection as a unit, through readings and discussions.

Course RATIONALE:

Why redirect rigours in revisiting relics resources?

·         For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. – (Romans 15:4) RSV

·         Now these things happened to them as a warning, but they were written down for our instruction, upon whom the end of the ages has come. (1 Cor. 10:11) RSV

Course OBJECTIVES:

This is a merger of two massive modules meant to be mastered within a very short moment of time.

THE PENTATEUCH or Torah as the foundation of the Old Testament canon provides the blueprint for the OT and functions as a special lens through which Scripture as a whole (OT and NT) is to be comprehended, interpreted and implemented. Given its peculiarity, the Pentateuch has received higher critical attacks, often seeking to ultimately undermine the accuracy, authority and reliability of the entire Bible. If the basis for belief “in the beginning” can be discredited, the rest of scripture can be disconnected, and therefore disregarded and discarded!

Thus, this course seeks to affirm the authenticity, authority, and theological richness and relevance of divinely inspired message of the Pentateuch and the historical books.

THE OLD TESTAMENT HISTORICAL BOOKS offer an integrated overview of Israelite history from its pre-history to the close of the Old Testament period. This will be undertaken as an exploration of the two great historical works of the Old Testament:

1)      The Prophetic History from Joshua through Second Kings, and

2)      The Priestly History from First Chronicles through Nehemiah - as well as the books of Ruth and Esther.

We should be examining the salvation history of Israel to discover therein the picture of God that arises from the records of His mighty acts of mercy and grace, and to also learn what it means to be His people from the accounts of the Israelites' interactions with their God -Yahweh Jehovah.

AFRICA CENTRE FOR THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (ACTS) LAGOS

             40, Town Planning Way; Ilupeju, Lagos.

 BACHELOR OF ART IN THEOLOGY (B.th)

COURSE SYLLABUS: NT 202 GREEK GRAMMAR 1

Schedule: February 17 – 28, 2025, Credit Unit: 6 Credits   

Course Facilitator: Ann Aquaisua: hannah.aquaisua@acts.edu.ng

Beloved of God,

I welcome you to Greek New Testament. I am trusting God that with your cooperation, our journey together in this frequently “dreaded” and assumed difficult, but very interesting course will be quite rewarding. I may like to know your expectations for this course.

Course Description

This course-NT 202 introduces the students to the Greek alphabet, pronunciation and basic vocabulary. The course advances to sentence syntax, noun and verb construction and translation of simple Greek passages.

NT 203 Greek Grammar II is a continuation of NT 202. More Greek exercises in reading and translation is expected at this level.

Course Objectives;

v To introduces the students to the Greek alphabet and pronunciation.

v To introduce the students to Greek basic vocabulary.

v To expose the student to syntax, sentences, various parts of speech and their functions in grammatical construction.

v To develop the students’ skills in reading, writing and understanding Greek New Testament (GNT).

v To help the student to read and understand the meaning of some simple words and passages in the New Testament, using the GNT.

v To expose the students to NT vocabulary and help in developing the needed skills to building his or her wide NT Greek vocabulary.

Specific Goals/Objectives and Expected Students’ Learning Outcome.

Upon successful completion of this course, the student would have achieved the following outcome and competencies:

v Understand and explain the background of the GNT.

v Appreciate the tremendous value of understanding Greek as a language of the New Testament and as a basis for interpretation.

v Recognize, read and memorize Greek alphabets.

v Acquire adequate skills in transliteration, translation and rules guiding alphabets with special features.  

v Identify Greek punctuation marks and other features in Bible passages of GNT.

v Be acquainted with basic Greek vocabulary, grammatical features and sentence construction.

v Gain adequate skills to read, write, understand the meaning of some simple Greek words and passages in the New Testament and explain it to other people.

v Acquire adequate skills in the use of GNT Tools - strong concordance, dictionary, etc.

We shall take this journey together for 2 weeks, which will be segmented into various sub topics and areas of study detailed as follows;

AFRICA CENTRE FOR THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (ACTS), LAGOS

40 Town Planning Way, Ilupeju, Lagos

BACHELOR OF ART IN THEOLOGY (B.TH)

COURSE SYLLABUS and Outline: NT 203 GREEK GRAMMAR 11

Course Duration: 3-14 March, 2025. Credit Unit: 6

Course Facilitator: Ann Aquaisua:   hannah.aquaisua@acts.edu.ng 

Beloved of God,

By the grace of God, having successfully completed level one, for those who had some doubts or “fear” concerning Greek as a difficult subject, we have overcome such fear.

 Course Description

NT 203- Greek Grammar II is a continuation of NT 202.  More reading exercises in Greek, and translations are expected at this level.

 Course Objectives;

The objective of this course is not different from what we outlined earlier in the course syllabus of NT 202.

 COURSE OUTLINE For NT 203 Greek Grammar II

 Introduction

This course is a progression of Greek Grammar1. Since the main focus of the course is for the student to gain ability to read and understand the GNT, we shall spend more time on those areas of the syllabus that will accelerate the student’s skills in that regard. Therefore, we shall journey together along the following sections;

AFRICA CENTRE FOR THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

40, Town Planning way, Ilupeju, Lagos.

Course Description

This course explores the Synoptic Gospels: Mathew, Mark and Luke. In contrast to the Gospel of John, these three Gospel take a similar view of the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ.

These books are reviewed both separately and together in order to provide a harmonious perspective of life and teachings of the Lord.

Goals & Objectives of the course

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Explain the historical, political, social and religious background of the Synoptic Gospels.

2. Discuss intelligently the reasons for the differences and similarities between Synoptic Gospel and John’s Gospel.

3. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basic concepts related to the Synoptic Gospels like the Synoptic problem, Markan priority, Mathean priority, Temple, Synagogue, law of Sabbath, Textual Criticism, Source Criticism, Form Criticism, Redaction Criticism etc.

4. Defend the authorship, setting, and outstanding characteristics of each of the Synoptic Gospels.

Course Description

          This course explores the Synoptic Gospels: Mathew, Mark and Luke. In contrast to the Gospel of John, these three gospel  take a similar view of the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus  Christ. These books are viewed both separately and together in order to provide a harmonious perspective of life and teachings of the Lord.

Goals and Objectives of the Course:

By the end of this course, the students should be able to:

·        Explain the historical, political, social and religious background of the synoptic Gospels.

·        Discuss intelligently the reasons for the differences and similarities between Synoptic Gospels and John’s Gospel.

·        Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basic concepts  related to the Synoptic Gospels like the Synoptic problem, Markan priority, Mathean priority, Temple ,Synagogue.

·        Defend the authorship, setting, and outstanding characteristics of each of the Synoptic Gospels.

PRINCIPLES OF EVANGELISM AND FOLLOW-UP

UNDERGRADUATE CLASS

2 CREDIT HOURS

COURSE DESCRIPTION AND PURPOSE

The Class serves as an introduction to principles and methods of effective personal evangelism and follow-up of new believers. Taught in conjunction with field ministry team involvement, this course enables the student to share Christ effectively and motivate new believers to further growth through small group Bible studies and initial integration into the local church.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

By the end of this course, students should be able to demonstrate:

1. Basic Knowledge of material presented in this course by:

a. Being able to begin a conversation with someone that leads to a natural presentation of the gospel.

b. Knowing the principles related to assurance of salvation to those who sincerely receive Jesus Christ by faith.

c. List the steps involved in developing a personal discipleship ministry.

2. Deeper understanding of the material presented in this course by:

a. Knowing the gospel message and distinguish it from pseudo gospel.

b. Mastering the use the &quot;Four Spiritual Laws&quot; booklet as a witnessing tool.

c. Recognizing the task of evangelism within the African context, especially in light of the challenges and opportunities presented by Islam, ATR and new technologies

d. Being able to help resolve some intellectual barriers to faith in Jesus.

3. How to use what the students have learned in this course by:

a. Sharing the gospel effectively using the Four Spiritual Laws booklet

b. Giving your three-minute personal salvation testimony from memory in a simulated environment.

c. Being able to motivate a new believer to meet again for follow-up in both a simulated and an actual situation.

d. Develop a personal or corporate strategy for evangelism and follow-up.

MN 102 Christian Family Living  

2 CREDIT HOURS

COURSE PURPOSE:

 This class seeks to establish God’s design for a marriage and the dynamics necessary to create Godly offspring.  The class will discuss various characteristics needed to live out this design and discover strategies for growing in one-ness together.  Subjects will include: the purpose of marriage, parenthood essentials, communication techniques, conflict resolution, gender differences and investigations of God’s view of family roles

History of Christianity 

 3 CREDIT HOURS

Course Description

HT 201 is a Survey of the historical and doctrinal development of the church from the apostolic age to the present day. Focus is on key moments in the development and growth of Christianity both in the West and the East from the 2^ndcentury. The impact of key leaders and crucial turning points in the development and expansion of Christianity. 

Course Objectives

A.    To have the student know the major events of church history.

B.     To have the students know and appreciate the major doctrinal issues that developed throughout church history and how these doctrines came into formal articulation over the ages.

C.     To have the student recognize the importance of protecting the Body of Christ from doctrinal deviations.

D.    To have the student recognize the importance of learning from the past—learning from the right choices of the past as well as from the mistakes of the past.

LD 101: PERSONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT 

3 CREDIT HOURS

Course Purpose:

This course focuses on character and skill development of the individual leader, for both personal and public contexts. Personal call (SHAPE), values, character, temperament, family and relationships, resource management, holistic living and decision-making will be explored and developed.

Introduction to Hermeneutics

BL 401 

3 Credit Hours

COURSE PURPOSE: 

This course combines Bible study methods with biblical hermeneutics. A comprehensive survey is conducted of the basic processes of observation, interpretation, application, and correlation in Bible study. Regarding hermeneutics, the course examines the principles of biblical interpretation with particular focus on the historical-grammatical method. Attention is also given to developments and trends in hermeneutics in the African as well as the western world.

MN 102 Christian Family Living  2 CREDIT HOURS

COURSE PURPOSE:

 This class seeks to establish God’s design for a marriage and the dynamics necessary to create Godly offspring.  The class will discuss various characteristics needed to live out this design and discover strategies for growing in one-ness together.  Subjects will include: the purpose of marriage, parenthood essentials, communication techniques, conflict resolution, gender differences and investigations of God’s view of family roles

INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY

Lecturer: IFIOK UKOBO

Course Description

This is a survey of psychology as an empirical/behavioral science with a consideration of underlying philosophical bases in light of a Christian worldview. Topics to be surveyed include memory and intelligence, psychological development, personality, psychological disorders, therapy, and social processes. The course integrates and relates the content of Psychology to students' everyday experience as well as to a Christian worldview.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

By the end of this course, students should be able to demonstrate:

1. Knowledge of theoretical underpinnings of the major areas of psychology, including cognition (thought, memory, perception), learning, personality, social and environmental influences, development, and physiology of behavior.
2. Explain different models of human behavior based on science versus intuition or general ways of knowing.
3. Recognize ways of pursuing questions in Psychology via discussion of theory and empirical research.
4. Describe connections between knowledge gained in Psychology to everyday life.
5. Evaluate the philosophical basis of theories in psychology in the light of Christian Worldview.

Information Technology GS 102

CREDIT HOURS : 2 Hours

 LECTURER : Daniel Keriafe Ejiro, MA 

CONTACT : danielkeriafe@acts.edu.ng

 Course Description

 The course introduces you to computer systems and tools, and shall cover basic computer skills and the place of internet and electronic resources for students’ academic work. The course will introduce you to ACTS learning management system and registration portal as well digital resources for evangelism. This course therefore will familiarize you with basic relevant concepts of information technology, simple maintenance culture and how to use the computer system to pursue a successful academic program at ACTS. The ultimate goal of this course is to assist you familiarize yourself with information system as a whole. The course will cover specifically the meaning, general overview of computer functions (practical), classification and brief on the generations of computer (first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth generation). The course will also introduce you to the two main components of computer (hardware and software), computer virus, computer networking, internet and basic cloud computing. The course will further introduce you to ACTS learning management system registration portal (how to navigate easily) as well as digital ministry. The course will finally introduce you to relevant Microsoft Office applications.

Expected Learning Outcomes

In the end of this course, students are expected to: 1. Understand basic information technology concept

2. Gain the skills and knowledge required to operate the computer and perform common tasks

3. Understand simple computer networking and make effective use of the internet

4. Self-reliance in using ACTS learning management system

5. Understand and master procedures in digital ministry 6. Perform basic functions with relevant Microsoft office applications.

LD 101: PERSONAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT 

3 CREDIT HOURS

Course Purpose:

This course focuses on character and skill development of the individual leader, for both personal and public contexts. Personal call (SHAPE), values, character, temperament, family and relationships, resource management, holistic living and decision-making will be explored and developed.

Credit Hours: 3 Hours

Course Description

The course introduces you to the process and procedures library usage, writing ethics, required format for all term and research papers, and policies and procedures of ACTS, for successfully completing your academic program.

The goal of this course is to assist you in developing the writing skills necessary to meet a range of anticipated writing tasks that you will encounter during your academic career at ACTS and beyond. 


The course will cover library usage: accessing resources (books, journals, and on-line resources), proper citation of all forms of literature, required format style, academic ethics, and an over-view of study skills for Masters work.    

This course will also introduce you to critical thinking and academic writing. The goal is to introduce you to the kinds of writing assignments and engagement required for graduate level students.

This class will be offered by first year masters and Bachelor students.

Bible Study Methods 

EXP 501 

3 Credit Hours

COURSE PURPOSE: 

This course combines Bible study methods with biblical hermeneutics. A comprehensive survey is conducted of the basic processes of observation, interpretation, application, and correlation in Bible study. Regarding hermeneutics, the course examines the principles of biblical interpretation with particular focus on the historical-grammatical method. Attention is also given to developments and trends in hermeneutics in the African as well as the western world.

LDR : Theological Foundations of Leadership 3 Credit Hours

COURSE PURPOSE:

This course provides a theological and philosophical basis for leadership, framed within contemporary worldviews. Metaphors, forms, styles, functions, responsibilities and character of leaders are explored within a framework of justice, truth and accountability, considering dynamics of Church-State relations, for empowering leaders and their followers to be agents of transformation.

- 2 Credit Hour

2 Credit Hour