Overview

The Second Year Associates Certificate Study Program is a comprehensive biblical and church history education curriculum designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of Christianity's development from its earliest foundations through the first millennium. This advanced certificate program builds upon foundational biblical knowledge to offer in-depth exploration of key historical periods, figures, and theological developments that shaped the Christian faith.

The program combines rigorous academic content with accessible teaching methods, featuring video lectures, historical analysis, and character studies that bring ancient history to life. Students will journey through pivotal moments in church history while gaining practical insights for contemporary faith and leadership.

Course Content Highlights

Biblical History Foundation:

• Comprehensive study of Old Testament books (Joshua, Judges, Ruth, Samuel, Kings, Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther)

• Analysis of key biblical figures and their historical contexts

• Understanding of covenant theology and messianic promises

Early Church History (First 500 Years):

• The Apostolic era and the ministry of Paul

• Constantine's conversion and Christianity's rise to imperial religion

• The development of the Bible and early church councils

• The monastic movement and early theological controversies

• The fall of Rome and transition to the Dark Ages

Medieval Church Development (Second 500 Years):

• Celtic Christianity and the preservation of learning

• The Byzantine Empire and Eastern Christianity

• The rise of Islam and iconoclastic controversies

• Charlemagne and the Holy Roman Empire

• The end of the first millennium and preparations for medieval Christianity

Special Studies:

• In-depth apostolic profiles examining the twelve disciples

• Gnostic movements and alternative early Christian expressions

• The formation of Christian doctrine and creeds

Who Should Take This Course

Ideal Candidates:

• Seminary students seeking comprehensive church history knowledge

• Pastors and ministry leaders wanting to deepen their historical understanding

• Christian educators and teachers

• Serious Bible students pursuing advanced biblical literacy

• Individuals preparing for ministry or theological education

• Anyone fascinated by the intersection of faith, history, and culture

Prerequisites:

• Completion of foundational biblical studies or equivalent knowledge

• Strong interest in historical analysis and theological development

• Commitment to academic rigor and extensive reading/viewing

Student Benefits

Academic Excellence:

• Master the historical foundations essential for theological education

• Develop critical thinking skills for analyzing historical sources and trends

• Gain comprehensive knowledge of church history chronology and key figures

Practical Ministry Applications:

• Understand how historical precedents inform contemporary church practices

• Learn from the successes and failures of historical Christian leaders

• Develop perspective on current theological debates through historical context

Personal Spiritual Growth:

• Deepen appreciation for the sacrifices made to preserve and transmit the faith

• Find inspiration in the courage and dedication of historical Christian figures

• Strengthen personal faith through understanding its historical foundations

Professional Development:

• Earn a recognized certificate for ministry or academic advancement

• Build expertise valuable for teaching, preaching, or Christian writing

• Develop research and analytical skills applicable across disciplines