Missionary Preparation Training Program

BIBLE & MISSIONS CURRICULUM

Scriptural Foundations For Vocational Missions
A consideration of biblical truths which are foundational to vocational missions, including the issue of Scriptural authority, a survey of the program of God throughout history, and a discussion of the Scriptural rational for bearing the gospel to all the world. The missionary candidate will build confidence in his understanding of the Scripture's message, and his skill in using the Scriptures in ministry applications. The candidate will begin to develop discernment in applying the Scripture's message without cultural bias.

The Family And Missions
A careful study of issues relating to the missionary's responsibility to give leadership to his family, with special attention to the unusual demands made upon a family in a foreign culture. The candidate will learn to understand the preeminence of Christ in his family, church, work, and recreational life.

Biblical Principles In Missions Ministry
An overview of mission work as practiced in the New Testament, with special attention to the ministry of church planting in both rural and urban areas. The candidate will learn to understand the sovereignty of God and its implications for the missionary's qualifications, motivations, goals, and methods of ministry. He will begin to discriminate biblical theology from contradictory cultural theologies and traditions. He will gain an appreciation for the parallels in the biblical cultural settings with that of the third world in both its remote and urban expressions.

Doctrinal Issues Influencing Foreign Mission Work
A study of specific areas of doctrine which relate to the work of foreign missions, and/or which have been sources of difficulty and debate among those involved in foreign mission work. The candidate will develop doctrinal discernment, knowing which issues preclude fellowship. He will understand the implications of theological debate at home and on the mission field and ifs effect on mission ministry.


MEN'S TECHNICAL CURRICULUM

Heavy Construction/Mill Work
An introductory course in the basic design theory and construction techniques of small dam, road, and airstrip construction; the basic practices of timber management and the set-up, operation, and maintenance of portable sawmills, with emphasis on designs and techniques appropriate for the limited resources of developing countries.

Mechanics
A program of instruction in diesel engines, gasoline engines and drive trains, designed to equip the student to perform maintenance and repair on a variety of vehicles, machines, and power plants utilized on the mission field. The candidate will learn the various systems used in an automobile and become skilled in the repair and maintenance of those systems. He will learn to develop creativity in emergency breakdowns and routine repairs.

Community Planning And Management
An introductory course in basic community planning in undeveloped areas. Topics include health and environmental considerations, the enhancement of traditional enterprise, and the development of new enterprise appropriate to local resources. Much of this course is devoted to the design, installation, and maintenance of water systems.

Building Construction
A program of instruction in the basic design and construction of residential and light commercial buildings with special emphasis on materials and techniques utilized in developing countries.


WOMEN'S TECHNICAL CURRICULUM

Missionary Life
Discussion of some of the practical demands of living and ministering in a foreign culture, whether rural or urban. The candidates will gain practical skills in basic mission travel, health and first aid, youth and women's ministries, office management, communications, meal preparation and other selected topics. Helps for women's ministries and deputation are covered.

Home And Family
A consideration of the unique challenges intrinsic to the life of a foreign missionary. Special emphasis is given to the demands upon missionary children, and to biblical strategies which anticipate and minister to those demands. The candidate will learn principles involved in being a godly woman and in raising her children biblically. Emphasis is given to aiding the candidate in learning to set the proper atmosphere for the Christian home amidst the many changes and inconveniences encountered on the mission field.

Field Ministries
Instruction in areas of support ministry necessary to foreign mission service. Consideration of how various factors impact the missionary family's lifestyle on different fields and the way they will conduct ministry. The candidate will learn how to prepare and adapt to various contingencies to best fulfill their ministry. Helps for deputation and departure are covered.