The Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible provides the student with a general education core requirement, a 36-hour Bible major, and a vocation-related double major program in Christian Ministries to fulfil the general purpose and objectives of Southern Methodist College.
The graduate of this program will be able to:
Interpret Scripture using the historical-grammatical method.
Exhibit a foundational knowledge of the integrated content of the Bible.
Describe accurately fundamental Christian doctrine and articulate a personal theology.
Demonstrate a Biblical philosophy of life reflected in personal ethics and personal characteristics necessary for effective ministry.
Communicate the Biblical message and minister persuasively effectively in Christian and non-Christian settings.
Research and compose scholarly papers.
The Christian Ministries double major program prepares the student for competent leadership and effective ministry in a chosen field of Christian service or church-related profession. This program's flexibility allows a student choices in elective courses related to a specific area of interest or ministry. A student may select courses in pastoral studies, missions, youth work, Christian school education, or leadership and ethics.
In addition to the abilities gained through completion of the Bible major, the graduate will be able to demonstrate the following:
Integration of ministry theory into personal life and valuable service.
Personal characteristics necessary for effective ministry, including the ability to work with and minister to all people.
Discovery and development of spiritual gifts.
Evangelization of the lost and discipleship of new Christians.
Leadership in effecting a philosophy and strategy of ministry that results in Christlikeness.
Evaluation of a group's spiritual needs and the development of a ministry program to meet those needs.
The Bachelor of Arts in Bible degree will consist of four components as follows:
Liberal Arts – 36 semester hours minimum
Bible major – 36 semester hours
Double major – 36 semester hours minimum.
Unrestricted electives – 12 semester hours estimated.
The total number of semester hours required for completion of a Bachelor of Arts degree program is 120.