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Diploma in Theology (D Th.)

The Diploma in Theology at Boyton Institute for Biblical Studies provides a comprehensive understanding of Christian beliefs, biblical texts, church history, and practical ministry skills. This program is designed for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the Christian faith, its foundations, and its application in today’s world. The curriculum equips students to engage in theological reflection, prepare for ministry, and become leaders within the Church and community.

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Course Structure

1. Introduction to Biblical Studies

  • Overview of the Bible: Structure, history, and divisions (Old Testament and New Testament).

  • Introduction to Hermeneutics: Basic principles of biblical interpretation.

  • Key Themes of Scripture: God's covenant, salvation, redemption, etc.

  • The Bible in its Historical and Cultural Context: Understanding the Bible within its ancient settings.

2. Old Testament Studies

  • The Pentateuch: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy.

  • Historical Books: Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, etc.

  • Wisdom Literature: Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon.

  • Prophetic Books: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the Twelve Minor Prophets.

  • Theological Themes in the Old Testament: Covenant, Law, Prophecy, etc.

3. New Testament Studies

  • The Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John – the life and teachings of Jesus.

  • Acts of the Apostles: The early Church and the spread of Christianity.

  • Pauline Epistles: Letters written by Paul, including Romans, Corinthians, Ephesians, etc.

  • General Epistles: Letters from Peter, James, John, and Jude.

  • Revelation: Apocalyptic literature and its theological implications.

4. Christian Doctrine/Theology

  • Systematic Theology: Study of core Christian doctrines (God, Humanity, Sin, Salvation, the Church, Eschatology).

  • Christology: The study of the person and work of Jesus Christ.

  • Pneumatology: The study of the Holy Spirit.

  • Soteriology: The study of salvation.

  • Ecclesiology: The study of the Church and its role in the world.

  • Eschatology: The study of last things, including heaven, hell, and the return of Christ.

5. Church History

  • Early Church History: The Apostolic Age, the Councils, and early Church Fathers.

  • Medieval Church History: The development of monasticism, the Catholic Church, and the rise of the papacy.

  • Reformation and Post-Reformation: The works of Martin Luther, John Calvin, and the Protestant Reformation.

  • Modern Church History: The Great Awakenings, Mission Movements, and the evolution of modern Christianity.

  • The Church in the Global Context: Christianity in non-Western cultures and contexts.

6. Christian Ethics

  • Moral Theology: Understanding Christian ethics in daily life.

  • The Role of the Church in Society: Christian views on social justice, politics, and economics.

  • Contemporary Ethical Issues: Bioethics, human rights, environmental stewardship, and marriage/family ethics.

  • Virtue Ethics: Christian virtues, including love, humility, and forgiveness.

7. Practical Ministry and Leadership

  • Introduction to Christian Ministry: Roles of pastors, leaders, and laypeople in the Church.

  • Preaching and Teaching: Effective communication of the Word of God.

  • Church Leadership and Administration: Church governance, pastoral care, and managing ministry teams.

  • Evangelism and Missions: Theological foundations for outreach and sharing the gospel.

  • Counseling in Ministry: Biblical principles for providing spiritual and emotional support.

8. Worship and Liturgy

  • Theology of Worship: The role of worship in the life of the Church.

  • Worship Practices: Historical and contemporary forms of worship.

  • Music and Arts in Worship: Integrating music, art, and creativity into liturgical practices.

  • Sacraments: Baptism, Communion, and other liturgical practices.

9. Apologetics

  • Introduction to Christian Apologetics: Defending the faith through reason and evidence.

  • Arguments for the Existence of God: Philosophical, theological, and scientific perspectives.

  • The Problem of Evil: Addressing suffering and evil from a Christian worldview.

  • Religious Pluralism and the Uniqueness of Christianity: Responding to world religions and secularism.

10. Christian Spirituality and Formation

  • Spiritual Disciplines: Prayer, fasting, meditation, and other spiritual practices.

  • The Role of the Holy Spirit in Spiritual Growth: Understanding the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer.

  • Living a Christ-Centered Life: Discipleship, sanctification, and transformation.

  • Spiritual Warfare: Understanding the battle between good and evil from a biblical perspective.

11. Research and Biblical Study Skills

  • Introduction to Biblical Research: How to use commentaries, lexicons, and other biblical tools.

  • Writing Papers and Essays: Academic writing skills for theological research.

  • Critical Thinking: Analyzing and evaluating theological and biblical concepts.

  • Church History Research: Conducting research on key figures and movements in Christian history

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Course Details

  • Duration: 12 months 

  • Format: Online, in-person, or hybrid

  • Assessments: Essays, case studies, practical projects, fieldwork, Oral

  • Application intake: September/January

  • Tuition Fee: Free 

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​Boyton Mission

7 Cottons Acre, Boyton, Woodbridge IP12 3LP

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Phone:

0300 102 1741 (UK)

+44 300 102 1741 (International)

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Email:

info@boytonmission.com

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