Courses

THEO 503 – Theology of Luke-Acts

This course will trace the rise of Pentecostalism in the twentieth century, specifically the development of various distinctives that have come to mark the movement. Particular attention will be given to this evolution by way of Pentecostal readings of Luke-Acts. Topics will include a short history of interpretation of Luke-Acts, hermeneutical developments, and subsequent application of core Pentecostal doctrines and ecclesial practices such as Spirit baptism and healing. Further analysis will be devoted to emerging theologies and practices based upon global readings of Luke-Acts.

THEO 504 – Canadian Pentecostal History

This course is an in-depth study on the Pentecostal Movement in Canada.

By using a combination of sociological, cultural and historical analyses, the course will examine the origins, development, growth, impact, and global expansion of Pentecostal / Charismatic movements in Canada. Specific attention will be given to the role of revivals, institutional development, theological trends, renewal among historic Protestant and Roman Catholic churches, and their impact upon evangelicalism. The course brings understanding not only to the Pentecostal movement’s past but also its current state within Canadian context.

THEO 505 – Preaching in Post-Christian Culture

This course on homiletics explores the specific challenges and opportunities for effective preaching in the western post-Christian culture.   The course discusses how the post-Christian context impacts theology and the dynamics of communication.   A central theme in the course addresses how “narrative intelligence” and the use of imagination in sermon construction and delivery impact the ability of preaching to bring about spiritual transformation for today’s listener.   The course answers questions like, “How does imagination influence the delivery and reception of preaching?”, “How can imagination and story energize sermon development?”, and “What is Pentecostal narrative-imaginative preaching?”

Various approaches to preaching are explored.  The course includes both theoretical and practical elements, which offers the prospect of immediate application to one’s preaching ministry.

THEO 615 / RELG 625 – Pentecostalism and Pneumatology in Global Perspective

The purpose of this course is to investigate global Pentecostalism through the lens of its pneumatology, by putting it in a sympathetic and critical dialogue with both traditional and current developments and themes in the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Alongside the most distinctive Pentecostal beliefs in Spirit-baptism, healing, exorcism, and missionary enthusiasm, the Spirit’s role in creation (including scientific accounts), cosmos, society, and religions will be analysed and discussed.

The nature of the course is dialogical: along with the instructor’s lectures and critical written assignments, the student should be prepared to give [joint-]presentations on given topics that focus on comparing and contrasting Pentecostal and other accounts of the Spirit. Hence, a successful completion of the course requires a careful reading of assigned texts which will then be critically engaged and discussed in the classroom.

BIBE 612 – Studies in Pauline Writings: His Gospel and Leadership

This course is an advanced exegetical study on selected passages in Pauline writings. It brings contemporary issues in society to a discussion point with Pauline writings to formulate doctrine for today’s church. Special attention is given to Pauline teaching about the Spirit in relation to the church, individuals, and society at large. In addition, various topics focusing on the similarities and differences between Lukan and Pauline pneumatology are addressed. The course emphasizes the necessity of biblical doctrine and the work of the Spirit in today’s church.

NPOL 511 - Strategy & Principles for Leading NPOL Organizations 

This course examines the essential practices of leading and governing a Non-Profit Organization to meet community needs. A strong focus is placed on applying leadership skills that build the organization, engage with the community and manage strategic partnerships. Effective operating practices of governing boards and the key working partnership with the CEO are examined, along with developing a leadership lens for engaging in strategic planning. Other topics include: strategic planning, program development, program implementation, evaluating effectiveness, and performance measurement to guide organization and program improvement.

NPOL 512 - Financial Management for NPOL: Fund Principles & Practices 

This course examines the principles, issues and skills of financial management and accountability in managing the financial resources of a Non-Profit Organization. Topics include variance analysis, accounting, financial statement and ratio analysis, forecasting, cash flow analysis, internal controls, and other key financial tools. Focus is placed on developing proficiency in the use of financial data for organization and program decision-making, and to communicate and work with organization stakeholders (governing boards, funders and community) in using financial data and tools. With diverse funding practices in mind, the course provides specific guidance on grant and proposal writing, government contracts and compliance issues with the handling and raising of funds.

NPOL 513 - NPOL Human Resource Management

This course examines the principles, issues and skills of personnel management and accountability in overseeing and leading the employee resources of a Non-Profit Organization. Leadership includes understanding the legal requirements and Biblical basis for how we should and are required to deal with employees and volunteers. Topics include recruitment, hiring, training, developing, compensating staff and volunteers. Effective principles and practices will be identified to help the student develop a framework for Human Resource policy, application and stewardship of staff and volunteers.

NPOL 514 - Business as Mission and Social Entrepreneurship 

This course is an examination of the emerging movement of Business as Mission and Social Entrepreneurship, both international and domestic. The general themes covered in this course include: 1) the theology and definition of Business as Mission and Social Entrepreneurship; 2) practical issues related to using business and Social Enterprise as a vehicle for missions, and 3) specific for-profit business models, ministry models, and case studies.

The student will have a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating business, mission, and entrepreneurship. In addition, this course will increase student’s awareness of the ministry potential of for-profit businesses, motivate them to view their own business career as a ministry, or how to integrate the practices into traditional Non-Profit Organization.

NPOL 515 - NPOL Project Integration

This course provides an opportunity for the practical application of principles learned in an organization that operates in a foreign and/or domestic context. Students will use the applications learned and apply them in a project in a Non-Profit Organization. This will take the form of the student identifying a problem within an organization and coming up with a solution in the form of a consultation to be presented to the Non-Profit Organization.

NPOL 516 - NFP Board Governance

This course features the key requirements, accountabilities, and obligations for not-for-profit directors. Subjects that will be presented include board roles, appointments, responsibilities, risk management, strategic leadership, financial literacy and board succession. This course is suitable for anyone serving on a not-for-profit board or working for a not-for-profit organization, such as a church, NGO, school/institution, or community charity.