Golden State School of Theology

GOLDEN STATE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY

UNDERGRADUATE
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Click for more information about textbooks, library resources, or our general catalog.

DIVISION OF BIBLICAL STUDIES

BIBLICAL INFORMATION

BI100 PANORAMA OF THE BIBLE

An overview of each book of the Old and New Testaments, with particular emphasis on the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ as portrayed in each particular writing. An informative examination of the history, message, and socio-economic thrust of each book. This course is designed for the student who has little or no significant acquaintances with the Old and/or New Testaments.

BI101 BIBLE INTRODUCTION: How we got our Bible, covering the inspiration, canonicity, text, and translation of the entire Bible

BI103 SCIENTIFIC CREATIONISM: An examination of the case for creationism. Provides Biblical and extra-Biblical data for refuting the evolutionary model.

BI152 MANNERS AND CUSTOMS: A study of the manners and customs of the people in Palestine, Egypt, Syria, Babylonia and the Sinai Peninsula in preparation for Biblical emphasis.

BI214 GEOGRAPHY OF THE HOLY LAND: A course designed to enable the student to understand the importance of geography of the Holy Lands in relation to its history.

BI220 THE CHRISTIAN LIFE: The hindrances to and provisions for the Christian life are considered, emphasizing crucial importance of this subject for every believer. The Scriptural teaching concerning the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Christian is especially emphasized and examined.

BI311 BIBLE STUDY METHODS: A course which will enable the student to study the Bible independently, using a variety of methods. The inductive method is emphasized, along with the biographical, historical, analytical, and devotional methods. Prerequisite BI111.

BI333-334 CHURCH HISTORY: An extensive examination of the history of the Christian movement from the days of the Apostles to the modern times.

BI421 HERMENEUTICS: The fundamental principles of interpretation as a basis for a correct understanding, proper handling, and accurate exegesis of Scripture. The normal historical-grammatical interpretation is presented and practiced as the only proper method of interpreting the Scriptures. Prerequisites: BI111, OT113, NT213

BI451 HOLY LANDS TRAVELING SEMINAR: ON-SITE visit to Biblical lands, which may include related points of interest such as Qumran, Massada, and Petra. Should a student visit the Holy Land, he/she may petition the school for permission to complete assignments totaling six (6) units, depending upon the duration and content of the tour. Students must arrange this course on their own. For information about this course, contact the Academic Dean.

CHRISTIAN COMMUNICATION

CC100 GSST ORIENTATION: This REQUIRED course introduces the student to the GSST method of preparing email, doing internet searches, the GSST website, and other helpful writing information.

CC202 WRITING SKILLS: An introduction to correct writing skills which are needed by successful Christian ministers and workers.

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

CE201 INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN EDUCATION. An examination of the discipline of Christian Education. What is involved in such a ministry. Provides a Biblical basis for all CE distinctives.

CE303 THE MINISTER AND DIRECTOR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION. An examination of the duties performed by persons engaged in these vital positions within the Christian Education community.

CE304 PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: A course which provides the student with a foundational understanding of what makes Christian Education separate and distinct from regular education. Provides students with opportunities to put their learning into practice through a series of intensive projects, which allow the student to PRACTICE WHAT THEY HAVE LEARNED.

CE310 PHILOSOPHY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: At the conclusion of this course, student will be able to formulate their own philosophy of Christian Education as they consider the biblical, theological, historical, and philosophical foundations of religious education.

CE312 TEACHING METHODS: Acquaints the student with the principles of teaching and learning. Allows a student to put these principles into practice.

CE313 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION OF CHILDREN: A study of child development with implications for Christian instruction. Organizations for children pre-school through six will be examined.

CE314 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION OF YOUTH: Provides guidance in helping students and churches develop effective Youth ministries. Assists in the identification of problems with which youth are faced daily. Provides approaches whereby churches may minister to the spiritual needs and growth of youth.

CE315 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION OF ADULTS: Prepares students to guide churches in the development and implementation of a program of Christian Education for Adults. Deals with factors related to maturation and needs of adults and how churches can provide opportunities for growth toward Christian maturity.

CE318 CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT: The supporting theories of church curriculum are studied. Consideration is given to writing and development of curriculum, selection, and analysis.

CE410 CHRISTIAN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY: A study of child growth and development; application of the principles of Psychology in the learning process and personality adjustment. Emphasis is given to these processes in Christian education.

CE411 BIBLE TEACHING METHODS: A detailed examination of the specific needs in presenting the Bible in teaching situations. REQUIRED for the Bachelor of Religious Education degree program

CHURCH ADMINISTRATION

CA211 CHURCH ADMINISTRATION. An examination of the distinctives of Christian administrative procedures and practices.

CA311 UNIQUE CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES: To acquaint the student with the educational ministries of the church, those outside the church, and Christian organizations with which the church may cooperate.

CA421 CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP: Introduces the student to basic leadership principles and methods. Unique aspects of Christian leadership are examined.

COMPARATIVE RELIGION

CR411 INTRODUCTION TO THE CULTS. A survey of the major non-Christian cults and their roots in the great religions of the world. How to deal with cultists with the Gospel. It focuses on development of a working definition of a cult and cultic PSYCHOLOGY, followed by a survey of the major world religions, secular religion, and the major PSEUDO-Christian cults. It also examines the personality cults, occult and mystical cults, and a general survey of the minor cults prevalent in North America. Prerequisites: BI111, TH111, and TH112, or permission of the Instructor and the Dean.

CR420 MAJOR WORLD RELIGIONS: Introductory study of the history and teachings of the major religions of the world, including Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism,, Shintoism, Zoroastrianism, Islam, Sikhism, Judaism, and Christianity. The course includes discussion of the influence f these religions on the non-Christian cults of North America. Prerequisite: TH212, TH213.

CR480 SURVEY OF CHRISTIAN DENOMINATIONS: Comparison of denominational distinctives within evangelical, orthodox Christianity. Prerequisite: TH212, TH213.

GENERAL EDUCATION

EN100 ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE: A course which provides students with the basics of the English language. Required of student’s only if their written work demonstrates an inability to communicate in the WRITTEN English language.

EN102 ENGLISH GRAMMAR: An introductory level course providing the student with a knowledge of the “who, what, why, where, when, and how” of the English language. Lessons which will provide the student with better writing skills will be addressed.

EN202 ENGLISH COMPOSITION: A course designed to provide the student with an active role in the process of written communication. Students will be required to complete a number of writing assignments, each geared to provide that student with the ability to energize their creative abilities.

EN204 ENGLISH LITERATURE : A course designed to provide the student with the opportunity to experience the study of literature.

HI111-112 WORLD HISTORY: An examination of history from the Garden of Eden to current times. Each component earns the successful student three units. HI111 covers the Garden of Eden to the beginning of the Napoleonic era. HI112 Covers the Napoleonic era to the current time.

MA201 GENERAL MATH: A college level course designed to provide students with a foundation for life skills which require a knowledge of mathematics.

MA202 BUSINESS MATH: This course is designed to introduce the student and busy Christian worker to the world of mathematics as required in the business world.

PM250 ORGANIZATIONAL FINANCE: The details of how and why a church and/or para-church organization operates financially.

SC101 LIFE SCIENCE: An introduction to the world around us. An in-depth examination of the animal and plant life which covers this planet.

SC202 PHYSICAL SCIENCE: An examination of our planet and its various components.

MISSIONS AND EVANGELISM

EV211 PERSONAL EVANGELISM: Methods of sharing the Christian faith. Incorporation of the Bible and various methods of personal witnessing. Prerequisite is TH111 or permission of the Instructor.

ME311 INTRODUCTION TO MISSIONS: The philosophy of missions; independent and denominational mission boards and their organization and procedures; methods of evangelism; training the nationals in Christian leadership; practical problems on the mission field which face missionary workers.

ME312 HISTORY OF MISSIONS: The Biblical basis of missions; historical view of missions with emphasis on the past fifty years.

ME331 CROSS CULTURAL MINISTRIES: A study of the social organization, institutions, and social forces of our society; the nature of man and his culture; the development of institutions and the challenges of social change; the role of the church as an instrument of social change.

ME411 MISSION ADMINISTRATION: Business management of Christian organizations, especially missions; effective use of personnel, time, funds, and other resources.

ME412 MISSIONS FUNDRAISING: Principles and techniques of raising support for home/foreign missions.

NEW TESTAMENT

NOTE: GSST has developed courses which are based on the Bible and other GSST provided resources only. These do not require a normal text to complete. Students may elect to take either regular text based courses or Bible text only courses for their New Testament course requirements. Courses based on Bible text only are indicated by a “B” designator after the course number and title. (i.e., NT450B) BIBLE TEXT ONLY COURSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR ALL OF THE BOOKS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT, EVEN IF THEY ARE NOT LISTED IN THIS CATALOG.

NT211 NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY I: Gospels, Acts, Pauline Epistles

NT212 NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY II: General Epistles And Revelation

(Each courses earns the successful student three (3) credit units)

A foundational study of each book of the New Testament to provide the student with a grasp of the entire New Testament, each book as a whole, and each book in its relation to God's total revelation. This course is designed to prepare the student for further work in New Testament Studies.

NT312 PRISON EPISTLES: An expositional study of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon, emphasizing the Church as the body and bride of Christ, presenting Him as model, example, and sufficient and supreme source of truth and life. Prerequisite: NT212 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT313 GENERAL EPISTLES: A systematic study of the seven epistles of Peter, James, John and Jude, with emphasis on the historical background, doctrinal development, and practical application of each epistle. Prerequisite: NT213 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT316 PAULINE EPISTLES: An expositional study of each of the letters of the Apostle Paul.

NT400/NT400B GOSPEL OF JOHN: A detailed study of the Gospel of John from the Bible as a text. The student will learn the importance of this gospel.

NT412 or NT412B LIFE OF CHRIST : A chronological study of the four gospels with attention to their historical setting, the relationship of the accounts, and the practical and doctrinal truths, with emphasis placed on the teachings of Jesus and their proper dispensational interpretation and application. Prerequisite: NT211 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT413 or NT413B PASTORAL EPISTLES: A detailed study of Paul's Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon, with emphasis on his instructions concerning the work of the ministry and organization and discipline of the Church.

NT414 or NT414B ROMANS: A complete analysis of this important Church epistle will be examined.

NT415 or NT415B HEBREWS: An analysis of this book is made with a view of the connection to the Old Testament.

NT418 or NT418B REVELATION: A Bible text only course of this vital eschatological book.

NT419 THE LIFE OF PAUL: An examination of the life and ministry of the Apostle Paul.

NT450 or NT450B EPHESIANS: An analytical study of Ephesians through the regular textbook method.

NT451 or NT451B MATTHEW: An examination of the writings of the first Gospel. Special detail is given to Christ as He came to be the Messiah of the Jews.

NT452 or NT452B ANALYSIS OF MARK: An exposition of Mark's Gospel, with emphasis on its presentation of Christ as Servant and Miracle worker. Prerequisite: NT211 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT453 or NT453B ANALYSIS OF LUKE: A detailed analysis of Luke's presentation of Christ as the Perfect Man. Luke's reliability as an historian is emphasized, an introductory overview of the Lucan theology, which provides a foundation for NT455. Prerequisite: NT211 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT454 or NT454B ANALYSIS OF JOHN'S EPISTLES I,II,III John, with particular emphasis on the development and interpretation of Johannine theology. Prerequisite: NT211 and NT213 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT455 or NT455B ANALYSIS OF ACTS: An exegetical study of the Book of Acts, including consideration of critical problems, providing the student with an outline of primitive Church history and Lucan theology. Prerequisite: NT211 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT457 or NT457B ANALYSIS OF GALATIANS: An expositional study, noting the problems of Law vs. Grace. Both Paul's defense of pure grace and Christian liberty and the practical aspects of these doctrines as presented by James are examined. Prerequisite: NT213 and NT213 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT457L GALATIANS FROM MARTIN LUTHER: A detailed examination of this vital book based on the Commentary of Galatians written by Martin Luther.

NT460 or NT460B ANALYSIS OF COLOSSIANS: An expositional study, leading the student on an explorative study of the Supremacy and Deity of Christ, the role and “model” of the Christian in home and society, and the ancient heresies with which the ancient church had to contend.

NT462 or NT462B ANALYSIS OF I and II TIMOTHY: The teaching of I & II Timothy will be explored for content and application.

NT462B EXPLORATION OF THE LETTERS OF TIMOTHY, TITUS, AND PHILEMON. This course uses as its sole text the Bible text. All assignments are taken directly from scripture.

NT463 ANALYSIS OF THIRD JOHN: A detailed expositional study of the epistle(s) with special attention given to the historical background, doctrinal affirmations, interpretive problems, and the practical application. Prerequisite: NT213 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT465 THE EPISTLE OF SECOND PETER: The contents of this book will be studied very carefully.

NT466 or NT466B ANALYSIS OF PETER'S EPISTLES: A content and method study of the epistles with particular attention to the development and interpretation of Petrine Theology. Prerequisite: NT213 or enrollment at the Graduate level.

NT470 or NT470B EXPLORATION OF JAMES:

NT471 or NT471BB EXPLORATION OF I&2 THESSALONIANS:

NT472 or NT472B FIRST AND SECOND PETER & JUDE:

NT473 or NT473B I CORINTHIANS:

NT474 or NT474B PHILIPPIANS:

NT479B or NT479B II CORINTINIANS:

OLD TESTAMENT

NOTE: Course numbers followed with a “B” designate books of the Bible that use the Bible only as a text, (i.e., OT495B). Please keep in mind that GSST is in the process of developing Bible Text only courses for most of the 39 books of the Old Testament. If a book you desire to study is not listed, CONTACT YOUR MENTOR to inquire as to its availability.

OT101 OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY I: The Pentateuch, Historical, and Poetical Books

OT102 OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY II: Major and Minor Prophets

(Each of the above courses earns three (3) credits upon successful completion)

A foundational study of each book of the Old Testament which provides the student with a grasp of the entire Old Testament, each book as whole, and in its relation to God's total revelation. This course is designed to prepare the student for further work in the Old Testament studies. Prerequisite: BI111.

OT311 SURVEY OF THE PENTATEUCH: A study of the five Mosaic books with emphasis on the lives of the Patriarchs. Attention is given to the Exodus wanderings. Includes an analysis of the Tabernacle and the sacrificial system. Prerequisite: OT111.

OT312 SURVEY OF THE HISTORICAL BOOKS: A study of the geography, history, chronology, and harmony of events in the Old Testament. Joshua through Esther are surveyed against this background. This includes a brief survey of intertestament history. Prerequisites: OT112.

OT313 SURVEY OF THE POETICAL BOOKS: An analysis of the principles of interpreting Hew poetry and an application of these principles to Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. Prerequisite: OT112.

OT314 SURVEY OF THE MAJOR PROPHETS: A presentation of the principles of interpreting prophetic writings followed by a survey of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel. Prerequisite: OT113.

OT315 SURVEY OF THE MINOR PROPHETS: The lives and messages of Hosea through Malachi are studied in their historical settings. Prerequisite: OT113.

OT451-499 and OT451B-499B OLD TESTAMENT ANALYSIS: A detailed study of any selected Old Testament book. Three units of credit will be granted for each book studied, except Minor Prophets (see OT315). Jeremiah/Lamentations count as one course, as do I&II Samuel, I&II Kings, and I&II Chronicles, and Ezra/Nehemiah. Prerequisites: any appropriate survey course (from OT111-113 or OT311-315) in which the book has been introduced. Specific course numbers are as follows:

OT451 ANALYSIS OF GENESIS

OT456 ANALYSIS OF JOSHUA

OT457 ANALYSIS OF JUDGES & RUTH

OT462B ANALYSIS OF EZRA/NEHEMIAH

OT463B ANALYSIS OF ESTHER

class=Section2>

OT464B ANALYSIS OF JOB

OT465 ANALYSIS OF PSALMS

OT466B ANALYSIS OF PROVERBS

OT468B ANALYSIS OF THE SONG OF SOLOMON

OT469B ANALYSIS OF ISAIAH

OT470 ANALYSIS OF JEREMIAH/LAMENTATIONS

OT471 ANALYSIS OF EZEKIEL

OT472/472B ANALYSIS OF DANIEL

OT473B ANALYSIS OF HOSEA

OT474B ANALYSIS OF JONAH/NAHUM

OT475 ANALYSIS OF HABAKKUK

OT480 THE INTERTESTAMENT PERIOD: An investigation of the history and literature of the intertestament period. Includes a survey of the Apocryphal and PSEUDEPIGRAPHA literature and discussion of the various Jewish sects which paved the way for the foundation of the Church.

OT481 THE TABERNACLE: God Himself designed The Tabernacle in the Wilderness which became the center of all worship of the children of Israel during their journeys. This course presents an in-depth study of the inexhaustible riches of the types and pictures of the Savior, the Believer, and the plan of salvation contained in its design, furnishings, and rituals.

PASTORAL MINISTRY AND PASTORAL OFFICE

PM211 INTRODUCTION TO PASTORAL CARE: The shepherding function of the minister. Emphasis on pastoral day-to-day ministry. Basic ministry methods examined in relation to typical situations faced in the pastoral ministry.

PM212 ETHICS: Systematic study of the philosophical standards of right and wrong, consideration of ethical issues from the biblical perspective of moral behavior. Special emphasis on the particular ethical challenges faced in pastoral ministry.

PM250 ORGANIZATIONAL FINANCE: An examination of the theory and application of the knowledge necessary for the successful business operation of a Christian organization.

PM311 BEGINNING HOMILETICS: Laboratory course providing introductory techniques of sermon preparation and delivery. Various methods will be examined, such as expository, topical, etc. Students will be required to develop and deliver sermons.

PM312 ADVANCED HOMILETICS: Advanced techniques of sermon preparation and delivery. Emphasis will be placed on expository sermon presentation and pulpit appearance.

PM413 ADVANCED PASTORAL CARE: Advanced course on the shepherding ministry of the pastorate. Emphasis on counseling. Counseling methods examined in relation to typical situations faced in the pastoral ministry.

PC211 INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY: Study of the nature of man and human behavior. Various factors associated with the development of personality and behavior patterns will be examined.

PC411 BASIC COUNSELING TECHNIQUES: This course is designed to aid the Pastor in some of the basic counseling techniques that he may use in his ministry to his members.

PC413 PSYCHOLOGY OF RELIGION: The religious characteristics, problems, and needs of the individual in the various stages of the human cycle will be examined in the light of the concepts of developmental PSYCHOLOGY. Giving consideration to the function of various religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices against the background offered by modern PSYCHOLOGY.

PC414 CHILD PSYCHOLOGY (DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY) the physical, mental, emotional, and social development of the individual with special emphasis on the years from infancy to adolescence will be examined. General principles of development are carefully considered and applied to specific case studies. Factors are noted which affect the child's development. Prerequisite: PC211.

PC426 GUILT AND GRACE: Intensive study of the PSYCHOLOGY of sin and guilt, and the practical application of the biblical doctrine of grace.

PC427 THE PSYCHOLOGY OF LOVE: The phenomenon and effects of love are examined from biblical perspective.

PC432 LAY COUNSELING: Detailed study of the selection and training of lay persons for ministry in the

counseling programs of the church. How to select and what to teach. Prerequisite: PC411.

PC433 ADVANCED PASTORAL COUNSELING: An intermediate study of the principles and techniques of counseling and their specific application to the work of pastors and Christian leaders whose responsibility is to analyze and give counsel to those with social, emotional, and spiritual problems. Prereq: PC411.

RESEARCH

RE111 RESEARCH METHODS: An introductory course in college level library skills, designed to prepare the student for all courses requiring research. Students will learn how to formulate a research topic, how and where to find relevant information, and how to organize notes and construct an acceptable research paper. Students will be introduced to on-line (computer) literature search methods. THE COURSE IS REQUIRED FOR ALL ASSOCIATE AND BACHELOR DEGREES.

RE431 UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH PAPER OR PROJECT. This culmination of the undergraduate course of study provides the candidate opportunity to demonstrate his/her ability to present information in a style and format consistent with the academic level of accomplishment. The project may be a formal research paper in standard thesis format, or an equivalent research and writing project. For detailed information, refer to the GOLDEN STATE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY RESEARCH MANUAL, 1998 EDITION, prepared and published by GSST Staff.

SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY

TH101-102 SURVEY OF BIBLE DOCTRINES: Prerequisite course for all undergraduate courses in the Division of Theology. Examines essential Christian doctrines of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, Man, Sin, Salvation, the Church, Scriptures, Angels, Satan, and Last Things.

TH211-212 SURVEY OF THEOLOGY I, II Survey of the major divisions of Systematic Theology. These include Theism, Bibliology, Theology Proper, Angelology, Anthropology, Soteriology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology. .

TH254 APOLOGETICS: Evidences for the divine origin of Christianity, the inspiration of the Bible, the nature and character of God, the deity of Christ, and the validity of the Gospel. Includes answers to problems and apparent contradictions in the Bible.

TH311 HOLY SPIRIT: Consideration of all Scriptures concerning the Person and work of the Holy Spirit in the Bible and Church. The work have the Holy Spirit in the life and walk of the Christian, and charismatic gifts are considered.

TH312 APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE: Evaluation of apocalyptic literature as used in Daniel, Revelation, and a number of apocryphal visions. Various schools of interpretation are examined, and attention is given to the Tribulation period, the Millennium, the New Heavens and New Earth.

TH363 DISPENSATIONS A positive presentation of the dispensationalist system of biblical interpretation. Examines the importance of this approach in order to develop and maintain a constant hermeneutic. Presented as an essential part of the historical-grammatical interpretation, and practiced as the only proper method of interpreting Scripture. Prerequisite: TH111 or permission of Instructor.

TH414 BIBLIOLOGY - DOCTRINE OF THE BIBLE: An intensive look at the importance of the Scripture.

TH415 THEOLOGY PROPER - DOCTRINE OF GOD: An extensive look at the person of God as to his person, nature, and attributes.

TH416 CHRISTOLOGY - THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST. Study of the scriptural doctrine of the second Person of the Trinity, including His humanity and divinity.

TH422 DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH: Study of the essential Christian doctrine of the church including its beginning, its officers, its purposes.

TH460 DOCTRINE OF HOLINESS. Study of this essential doctrine of Christianity.