Training for Service is a certification course designed to provide students with a systematic study of the Bible, and to also motivate believers to serve the Lord to the best of their abilities and talents through a comprehensive study of the Word of God. Training for Service is highly recommended for adults of all ages, including new believers and those wishing to obtain a more mature knowledge of the scriptures.
Basic Ministerial Preparation is a first level ministerial certification program that includes both Training for Service and additional coursework. This certificate program is designed to prepare today’s laymen and ministers for 21st century ministry. Preachers, teachers, evangelists, missionaries, youth workers, Sunday school workers, and church members will benefit from these classes.
Students may enroll in any or all courses. All six courses must be completed with a passing grade of 70% in order to receive the Basic Ministerial Preparation certification.)
A one-time $15.00 VLBI registration fee is due at the time of enrollment. If you register for all six courses, a payment plan of $42.00/month for eight months is available for those wishing to make minimum payments to complete the entire coursework. Otherwise, all courses must be paid for in advance. Tuition cost does not include the cost of any required books and/or materials.
Applicants must be 18 years old or older to enroll.
To Register: Complete the VLBI registration form and return it to VLBI either in person, via email or by postal service mail. Our address is 3418 Virginia Ave Kansas City, MO 64109.
For additional information, please contact VLBI via phone at (816) 663-9502 or by email at vlbikc@outlook.com . And please be sure to visit our web site at https://vlbit.org for additional information regarding other courses, and seminars.
I. BIBLE RESEARCH TOOLS
(Currently not offered)
This course is an introduction to the different versions of the Bible; how to use concordances, commentaries and study aides, and an overview of computer software for Bible study. Students will learn how to do word studies, scripture analysis and how to use the various tools necessary to effectively minister the Word of God.
II. TRAINING FOR SERVICE
Sister Cindy Middlebrooks, Instructor
This course is an in-depth, practical, systematic Bible study program for serious students as it is designed to motivate believers to make a deeper commitment to serve the Lord to the best of their abilities and talents.
III. CHRISTIAN PEDAGOGY
Evangelist J. Dollie Rainey, Instructor
This course is an introduction to the methods of effectively teaching children and youth (nursery through 17 years of age) biblical principles in the Church. Students will learn the importance of spiritual preparation, methods of teaching, and how to compose a lesson plan. Course work may include a teaching practicum as a requirement for completion.
IV. MINISTERIAL ETHICS AND PULPIT ETIQUETTE
Evangelist Sherry Nunn, Instructor
This course teaches students the ministerial protocols, customs, and courtesies necessary for today’s ministers of the Gospel. Students will learn the essence of balancing their family life, church commitments, and professional relationships.
V. INTRODUCTION TO HOMILETICS
(To be assigned), Instructor
This course teaches the importance of organizing and structuring a sermon, and a study of the different types and styles of sermons.
VI. BASIC DOCTRINES
Elder Kevin Patterson, Instructor
An in-depth study of the six basic principles of the Christian Foundation of Faith as outlined in the book of Hebrews. The principles of the doctrines of Dead Works, Faith, Baptisms, Laying on of Hands, The Resurrection, and The Judgments are studied individually and collectively. These doctrines are the foundation of the Christian faith and must be learned and understood in order to function in the ministry of Jesus Christ.
VII. CHURCH HISTORY
Evangelist Jia Cahill, Instructor
This course provides the students with a detailed, adventurous journey through the history of the Church and covers the four major periods of the Church from the Day of Pentecost to the present: the Ancient Church, the Medieval Church, the Reformation Church and the Modern Church. The class is designed to provide Christians with an overview of their spiritual heritage.