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WHITEFIELD
CATALOG
Eighth Edition
MESSAGE y {x PRESIDENT
Thank you for reading our catalog. Reformed theological education has been on the decline in America and around the world since the latter part of the nineteenth century. Many of the institutions which were established to provide a solid Reformed education, especially in training ministers of the Gospel, have been subsequently compromised. Ineffective leaders quickly sold their birthrights for the mess of pottage of the more popular systems of theology. These institutions, while remaining evangelical, have abandoned the distinctives of the Reformation. As a result, the pulpits of our churches are too often manned by graduates trained in defective theology by defective institutions. These graduates preach an impotent gospel, leaving the church without the hope of continued Reformational teachings and practices, and leaving lay leaders with little or no truth: My people perish from a lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). If there is any hope for reformation in America and elsewhere, the Church of Jesus Christ must once again produce pastors who boldly proclaim the whole counsel of God with the anointing of His Spirit. We must establish theologically-sound institutions that meet the present educational needs of the church, and seek to train a new generation of ministers in the old, time-honored, biblical tradition. The mission of Whitefield Theological Seminary is to return to the historic theology and methodology that God has blessed. We are dedicated to training pastors, students and Christian laymen in the theological standards of the Reformation. We are training godly men who are faithful to our Lord Jesus Christ, who will stand on the principles of Gods Word and who will not compromise the Gospel. We seek men who have a vision for the future, and a world-and-life view which seeks to bring all things under the Crown Rights of King Jesus. Come, labor with us to build the Kingdom of God. Your servant in Christ,
WELCOME
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ADMINISTRATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
History of the Seminary Funding and Entanglement Vision of the Seminary Statement of Faith
GENERAL ADMINISTRATION
Educational Philosophy Educational Objectives Directed Study Program Mentorship Program Benefits of the Directed Study Program An Approved Method of Study Recognition and Affiliation Accreditation Transfer of Credits Graduate Admission: Master Degrees Post-Graduate Admission: Doctoral Degrees Seminary Government
GENERAL INFORMATION
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Classification of Students Grading Scale Coursework Integrity Student Conduct Academic Standing Introduction to Doctoral Degrees Graduate Degree Mentor Requirements Post-Graduate Degree Mentor Requirements. Doctoral Candidacy Requirements Thesis and Dissertation Requirements Graduation Requirements Whitefield Communications
ADMINISTRATION
Theological Studies Theology and Church History Theology and Apologetics Master of Arts in Religion Theology, Apologetics, and Church History Lay Degrees Diploma in Theology Master of Ministry in Theological Studies Master of Ministry in Pastoral Studies
GENERAL INFORMATION
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Theological Studies Apologetic Studies Church History Studies Hebrew, Greek, and Latin Studies Biblical Studies Practical Theology Studies Christian Counseling Studies Christian Education Studies Legal Studies
Doctoral Degrees
Doctoral Core Courses Doctoral Major Courses
FURTHER READING
A Biography of George Whitefield
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INTRODUCTION
History of the Seminary / Funding and Government Vision of the Seminary / Statement of Faith HISTORY OF THE SEMINARY
Whitefield Theological Seminary derives its name from the eighteenth century revivalist, George Whitefield. Rev. Whitefield was a man of compassion, dedicated to the preaching of the Gospel. Reformed in his theology, he was one of the major influences of the eighteenth century, both in the British Isles and in the Great Awakening in colonial America. He traveled throughout England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and America to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Several orphanages started under his oversight, and his special ministry for children was evidenced as he saved his income to bring Christian schoolteachers to the southern colonies. His great desire to establish a theological seminary in the South was never realized in his lifetime. Fulfilling Whitefields vision, this Seminary is dedicated to training men for the ministry; men of compassion who desire to proclaim our crucified and risen Lord and King. We desire to train ministers with a vision for reformation, i.e., making the nations Christs disciples (Matthew 28:19). Whitefield Theological Seminary (WTS) was developed during a six-year period of research in the field of higher education. Various academic and practical programs were evaluated, resulting in the founding of Whitefield Theological Seminary in 1980. Whitefield began as a Graduate School of Theology, with both traditional and modular perspectives in learning. Soon, video, DVD and audio programming technologies were implemented, making it possible to develop advanced educational degree programs in a variety of new fields and allowing a better educational delivery method for distance learning. The Seminary added Graduate Schools of Education, Counseling and Church and State, and is currently developing new graduate schools in areas of missions, and philosophy.
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
GENERAL ADMINISTRATION
Educational Philosophy / Educational Objectives Directed Study Program / Mentorship Program Benefits of the Directed Study Program / Recognition and Affiliation Accreditation / Transfer of Credit / Graduate Admission (Masters) Graduate Admission (Doctorate) / Seminary Government Academic Requirements and Related Processes EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
WTS teaches that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and in Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Whitefield is committed to that philosophy which is not after the traditions of men, or the foundational principles of this world, but after Christ (Colossians 2:8). The seminary teaches all subjects from a biblical perspective in order that we might offer an exclusively Christian approach to education. Compromise has effectively destroyed many older seminaries, and we will always need to guard against it. Our fervent prayer is that God will use our commitment to a solid biblical philosophy to keep Whitefield continually faithful to its first principles. The whole concept of Christian education is based on the confession that there is but one truth: the self-revelation of God as set forth in the Holy Bible. Education that is truly and distinctively Christian must be founded upon the principle of an authoritative, sovereign God, who speaks to us about all areas of life. There is nothing in this universe about which human beings can have full and true information unless they begin with the Bible. The very use of the term Christian as applied to education, assumes that it is impossible to understand the process of education apart from the revelation of God in His Word. We believe that the pursuit of knowledge must be built upon this very foundation, if our educational theory and methodology are to be consistently Christian. The sacred Scriptures give certainty to our efforts to educate students correctly concerning life and academic disciplines. Unity in education is bound by the principle that God, in creation, gives purpose and meaning to every fact of life, which can only be understood through His authority in Scripture. A Christian educational philosophy is also devoted to the development of the students spiritual, academic, and physical welfare. It seeks to enable the student to understand his place, meaning,
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES
Whitefield Theological Seminarys educational objectives are to give the student a foundational and an in-depth understanding of Gods Word (its meaning and principles), so that he will better understand Gods world and be able to carry out the cultural mandate as set forth in the book of Genesis. The student will develop an increasing dedication to Jesus Christ and to the building of the kingdom of God, and will develop a standard of ethics that is consistent with the Holy Scriptures. In doing this, we believe we can better prepare the student for successful ministry in his (her) chosen field of endeavor.
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
The Directed Study Program of Whitefield Theological Seminary is designed to integrate theological education with the practical skills necessary for successful ministry, whether pastoring, teaching, counseling, or other related field of endeavor. The Directed Study Program is not conducted by the old correspondence method, rather it combines traditional and independent study in the context of distance learning. An approved mentor is required for each student to oversee his progress as he pursues his studies, and to assist the student in developing his gifts of ministry and/or service in the Church of Jesus Christ.
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
We offer one basic approach to mentored study: The Media Mentored Program. The Media Mentored Program is our standard study approach and primarily utilizes courses with audio lectures on CDs. The lectures substantially introduce the subject to the student, and the reading and writing assignments further develop it. While the mentor continues to be involved in tutoring the student, the audio lectures reduce the mentors involvement, leaving him primarily responsible for answering questions from both the lectures and reading assignments as might be needed. The Mentor shall report every six months to the seminary on the progress of the student in his seminary studies and church attendance and activities.
2. It provides an opportunity for the local church to receive immediate benefit from the students knowledge gained through his studies, as he instructs others and makes practical application of that knowledge in the local church. 3. It allows the church to keep the student local, so that he can help produce other disciples while training for the pastorate. Thus, a vacuum is avoided, and the core of the church is left
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5. It gives a student an opportunity to cultivate a pastors heart, as he prepares to shepherd the flock of God. 6. In some cases, where the local church supports the student financially in return for his assisting the pastor with daily ministerial duties, his duties may grow into a full-time position especially beneficial to the congregation, since the student already knows the needs of the church.
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7.
It provides many opportunities for the student to develop his speaking gifts via teaching and preaching in his church.
8. It enables the student to be properly evaluated as to his ministerial gifts by the session and congregation, especially in light of meeting their spiritual needs. 9. It offers the possibility of the church establishing a new mission work in the surrounding community through the efforts of the student-pastor. The list of benefits could go on! Throughout the history of the church, many pastors have been trained in the tradition of directed study, which emulates the system used by the Lord Jesus Christ in training His Apostles, who in turn trained others, one-to-one.
ADMINISTRATION
ACCREDITATION
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
A word must be mentioned here about accreditation because it is often a misunderstood practice. The primary reason an institution desires to seek accreditation by a government agency approved by the United States Department of Education (USDOE), is to qualify for federal and state funding and other entitlements programs, not to mention that accreditation has created a monopoly on our postsecondary educational institutions. Accreditation does not address issues of truth or quality or competency in the educational enterprise when it comes to Christian education and ministry. The administration of Whitefield Theological Seminary has determine, according to our educational objectives that our mission is best served by not blending church and state issues in order to accept government entitlements. This is our conviction and is not meant to reflect on others who are willing to participate in such programs. We believe that accountability as to truth or quality or competency rightfully rests with the regulatory (vocational) agencies that oversee and establish quality standards in their related fields of endeavor, such as engineering, etc. In the case of ministries it is the denominations and churches that set the standards of truth and quality and competency according to their statement of faith and practices. It is these type of agencies that should determine the competency of the individual and his/her education in light of proper testing and demonstration of abilities. On the practical side, Whitefield does recognize that there are academic and professional benefits in being associated with agencies that seek to maintain quality education and consistently developing newer programs for the delivery of educational information related to program development, which includes accrediting agencies. Whitefield is concerned with teaching the truth, giving quality education, and providing an education that will allow the student to have the competency necessary to carry out their mission or ministry. Therefore the seminary is seeking ways to affiliate for academic interaction while still being able to maintain a non-entanglement status.
TRANSFER OF CREDITS
While the Seminary has had students transfer to other institutions, both accredited and nonaccredited, the final decision regarding the transfer of credits is always left with the receiving institutions. The United States Department of Education (USDOE) wrote in its publication on accreditation, that: Accreditation does not provide automatic acceptance by an institution of credit earned in another institution [A]cceptance of students or graduates is always the prerogative of the receiving institution[F]or this reason students should take additional measures to determine, prior to enrollment, whether or not their educational goals will be met
ADMINISTRATTION
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
2. A written statement of faith. 3. A written statement giving reasons for pursuing a program of theological study. 4. A letter of recommendation from the students minister and/or church session (elders). 5. Full transcripts of all college or graduate work completed. 6. Letters of recommendation from 3 friends who have known the student for at least 3 years. They should include the following: (a) A brief background of the person writing the reference. (b) How long and under what circumstance the friend has been acquainted with the student. (c) An evaluation of the students character and spiritual development.
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ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
6. Letters of recommendation from 3 friends who have known the student for at least 3 years. They should include the following: (a) A brief background of the person writing the reference. (b) How long and under what circumstance he is acquainted with the student. (c) An evaluation of the students character and spiritual development.
SEMINARY GOVERNMENT
Whitefield Theological Seminary is a ministry of Christ Presbyterian Church of the Reformed Presbyterian Church General Assembly, and is governed by an Executive Board of Directors. This Board has the final authority on all policy and administrative decisions pertaining to the Seminary. The Board of Directors also share in the over sight of academic policies and practices of the Seminary. This board has the duty and responsibility of reviewing and maintaining a quality standard of excellence in its educational programs. The Seminary Administration cares for the daily activities and interacts with students. The Administration has the responsibility to apply and direct the policies provided to them by the Executive Board of Directors and the Board of Directors for Academic Policy. The Board of Regents acts in an advisory capacity and represents the Seminarys interests throughout the United States and internationally.
ACADEMIC STANDARDS
Classification of Students / Advanced Standing / Course Challenge Grading Scale / Academic Honors / Coursework Integrity Student Conduct / Academic Standing / Graduate Degree Mentor (Masters) Graduate Degree Mentor (Doctorate) / Thesis and Dissertation Doctorate Degrees / Research Objectives / Research Philosophy Process of Thesis and Dissertation Requirements / Doctoral Examinations Time Limitation / Graduation Requirements (Masters / Doctorate) Whitefield Weekly / Reformed Theological Association Master Degrees
ADMINISTRATION
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
Senior: Students who have completed 81 hours of degree credit, but less than 101 hours at or above the 2.0 grade scale level; Special: Any student who is enrolled in a contract for learning degree program. This includes a student enrolled in the Master of Ministry in Theological Studies or the Diploma of Theology programs.
ADVANCED STANDING
A student seeking advanced standing by transfer of credits, on the basis of work completed at other institutions of higher learning, must send to the Seminary administration copies of all transcripts along with a catalog from said institutions. All students must complete at least 30 credits of study with WTS in order to graduate. No credits will be received in which the grade is below the 2.0 or C grade level on a 4.0 grade scale. The student must keep in mind that the transfer of credits is a privilege, not a right. Therefore, it is possible that some credit hours of study may not be accepted or transferred into the Seminary. Transfer of credit is only granted to students who are enrolling in a degree program with the intention of completing the degree.
ADMINISTRATION
GRADING SCALE
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
Courses completed satisfactorily are applied toward the graduation requirements on the basis of credit hours completed. They are evaluated in terms of letter grades. All grades are final and any course with a D or F grade must be retaken by the student. A+ A AB+ B B= = = = = = 10o 97-99 95-96 93-94 89-92 87-88 C+ C CD+ D D= = = = = = 85-86 81-84 78-80 76-77 73-75 71-72
WF = WP = HP = P = T =
Withdrew Failing Withdrew Passing High Pass (by examination) Pass (by examination) Transfer Credit
ACADEMIC HONORS
Students who have accumulated the following Grade Point Average will be awarded one of the following distinctions: % 100 = A+ Summa Cum Laude (With Highest Honor) % 99 = A Maxima Cum Laude (With Very Great Praise) %97-98 = A Magna Cum Laude (With Great Honor) %95-96 = A- Cum Laude (With Honor)
COURSEWORK INTEGRITY
Students are required to sign a statement when they apply, that their work is their own, and that they will not share their work with any other student. No lecture tapes, CDs or DVDs may be copied in any form without written approval from the Seminary. Should these principles be
ADMINISTRATION
STUDENT CONDUCT
Student conduct is determined by the standards as set forth in the Holy Scriptures. All students, whether enrolled in WTS or one of its extension seminaries, are under the spiritual oversight of their local church. The students devotional life is an important part of his nurturing in the faith of Jesus Christ. All students must maintain regular daily devotions and regular church attendance. The Seminary reserves the right to terminate a student under either of the following circumstances:
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
1. The student becomes involved in questionable moral and or ethical practices; 2. The student is promoting unacceptable doctrinal teachings which fall outside of the
evangelical faith. In all cases of termination, the student agrees to return all audio/ visual materials to the Seminary.
ACADEMIC STANDING
Courses are passed upon satisfactorily completing all required course work and projects and passing the examinations. This work will be applied toward the graduation requirements on the basis of credit hours completed.
2. Mentors must have a recognized degree, either equivalent to or beyond the degree that the student is pursuing. 3. Students are required to meet with the mentor(s) regularly for review and direction concerning the students progress and comprehension of the course assignments. 4. Students must provide a monthly report concerning his progress either in writing, by phone, fax or email. 5. Mentors must contact the seminary office semiannually and give a full report of the students progress either in writing, by phone, fax or email.
6. Students are responsible to submit all the required work for each course of study to the Seminary.
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8. Students may call the Seminary for advice and instruction concerning the program of study. 9. All master degree students will study their courses one at a time except for Biblical languages, which should be taken simultaneously with the other courses. After completion of all work for each course of study, the student may proceed to the next course of study. 10. All work submitted to the Seminary-courses and projects, tests, theses and dissertation projects-is the property of Whitefield Theological Seminary (students must keep copies of their original work). Students who have the opportunity to have their theses or dissertations published should contact the Seminary for instructions. The Seminary does not expect to receive royalties on published manuscripts.
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
2. Students must also engage the aid of two ministers or professors, who will read and submit letters of recommendation as to the acceptability of the dissertation project. These reviewers are subject to approval by the Doctoral Committee, and must possess an earned doctorate degree in a related field.
Doctorate Degrees
Each student completing a research doctorate (Ph.D./Th.D./Ed.D. is required to write a dissertation that is a minimum of 300 pages or 75,000 words in length but not to exceed 400 pages or 100,000 words, with a bibliography of at least one-hundred recognized scholarly resources supporting reading and research in the field of the students dissertation. The student seeking to complete the Th.D. in Pastoral Ministry degree is required to write a dissertation that is a minimum of 150 pages or 36,000 words in length, with a bibliography of a seventy-five recognized scholarly resources supporting the reading and research in the field of
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RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
Theses and dissertations must meet the following objectives: Academic: It must be a high quality academic work that represents the appropriate graduate or post-graduate level of research and written work.
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
Knowledge: It must advance biblical scholarship. Dissertations must set forth a new approach or thought concerning the subject matter originality is important. Skill: It must demonstrate the students skill in using Gods Word (Holy Scripture) as the foundation and verification for all conclusions reached. Style: It must be written in accordance with the standards of A Manual for Writers of Papers, Theses, and Dissertations by Kate L. Turabian, University of Chicago Press, (current edition), or any other approved guide.
RESEARCH PHILOSOPHY
Students should keep the following in mind as they research and write their thesis or dissertation. 1. All sources of research must be documented and submitted to the Seminary with the first draft of the written project.
2. All quotations should reflect the content of the subject and the subject matter from which the quote was taken. Misrepresentation of any position is unacceptable, and reflects poor scholarship on the part of the student. Be sure that you understand the writers point of view clearly. 3. Research work is to be completed by the student only. A part of the discipline of graduate work is researching, reading and writing. No project will be accepted if the work is not entirely the students own. 4. Do not write a dissertation that consists of nothing more than footnotes. The Seminary is more interested in the thoughts, work and skills of the student, rather than those of others. Use your research to support your position, but do not simply repeat what has already been written. Make your project an original creation. 5. A thesis or dissertation must be of an academic quality that will make a contribution to the advancement of Christian knowledge.
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DOCTORAL EXAMINATIONS
The first examination (if required) is for entrance into the doctorate program. It will be a written examination that will be proctored by an examiner approved by the Administration and must be taken before any course work commences. The second examination will be given orally covering the core course requirements (six courses) prior to approval to begin studies in his major area of concentration. The third examination will be given orally after covering the major course requirements (six courses) prior to approval The Doctoral dissertation exam shall be given orally and will test the candidates knowledge of a specialized field, as well as his ability: 1. To integrate knowledge with other theological disciplines;
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
2. To make scholarly judgments; 3. To critically analyze detractors objections; 4. To grasp bibliographical resources; and 5. To demonstrate knowledge of theological scholarship. 6. The oral examinations will be no shorter than 2 hours, and no longer than 5 hours in length.
TIME LIMITATION
All work for the Doctoral degrees must be completed within ten years after admission to the Doctoral program. If a student fails to complete his doctoral degree program in the specified time, the student must petition the Seminary to be reinstated for an additional time of study, after which the program must be completed with out additional extension (2 additional years will be permitted).
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Graduate Degrees: Masters
The following requirements must be met by a student in order to graduate from the Graduate Degree program.
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2. Each student shall contact the Seminary for an examination date. Whitefield Theological Seminary will establish a regional testing center for any student who resides outside North America. Such students should contact the Seminary for information on the location of the testing center. 3. In order to graduate, the student is expected to score at least an 80% passing grade on the comprehensive examination at the completion of his degree program. No degree will be awarded without completion of all required courses. 4. A student must be enrolled at WTS at the time of his graduation, and have maintained a cumulative 3.0 (B) grade point average. 5. Graduation from each degree program requires the completion of a thesis. 6. The thesis must be preapproved by the Seminary. 7. No student will receive a degree without fulfilling all the course graduation and financial requirements as listed in the catalog, administrative bulletin or otherwise communicated to the student.
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
Degree program:
1. The completion of all admission and candidacy requirements to the satisfaction of the Doctoral Degree Committee and the administration.
2. All financial obligations must be paid in full, or acceptable arrangements made with the administration. 3. Successfully completing all three oral exams and the students dissertation with the approval of the Doctoral Examination Committee. 4. The submission of a typed dissertation (five copies, professionally hard bound) with the approval of the Committee Chairman and Executive Director. This includes completing the Five Phase Program for the Completion of the Graduate Doctoral Degree, as listed previously.
Whitefield Weekly
The Whitefield Weekly is an official publication of Whitefield Theological Seminary. The Whitefield Weekly is published to update students on the activities of Whitefield Theological Seminary, theological issues of importance, changes in policies or courses, and additional information of interest to the student. Whitefield Seminary also operates a posting service and a
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PROFESSIONAL DEGREES
Master of Divinity (M.Div.) Pastoral Ministry (Presbyterian. Baptist, and Episcopal)
The Master of Divinity in Pastoral Ministry with a Presbyterian Emphasis is a three-year study program designed specifically to train men for the office of minister. The degree requirements are based on the rules for examination for ordination as set forth by the Westminster Assembly in 1645, as stated in The Form of Presbyterian Church Government: He shall be examined touching his skill in the original tongues, and his trial to be made by reading the Hebrew and Greek Testaments, and rendering some portion of some into Latin [now English]; and whether he hath skill in logic and philosophy. What authors in divinity he hath read, and is best acquainted with; and trial shall be made in his knowledge of the grounds of religion, and of his ability to defend the orthodox doctrine contained in them against all unsound and erroneous opinions, especially these of the present age; of his skill in the sense and meaning of such places of scripture as shall be proposed unto him, in cases of conscience, and in the chronology of the scripture, and the ecclesiastical history. Acceptance into this degree program requires an acceptable bachelor degree or a first theological degree from an approved graduate school of theology. This track is designed for those students who plan on entering a Presbyterian, Baptist, or Episcopal ministry. Required Courses for Presbyterian ministry: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American
Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) Without Biblical Languages Students who desire to take the Master of Divinity degree program, but do not want to complete the Greek and Hebrew requirements, may receive a Bachelor of Divinity degree which will be designated as a major in English Bible only. Master of Theology (Th.M.) The Master of Theology (Th.M.) degree is a three year program of study offered in the two following areas: Reformed Theology and Interpretation and Reformed Theology and Biblical Languages. The degree requires the completion of a Bachelors degree from an approved institution of higher learning. The Following courses are required for the completion of the degree. Reformed Theological Interpretation Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Advanced Interpretation and Exegesis: History of the Reformation; History of Christian Thought; Westminster Confession: History and Theology; Larger Catechism (Westminster); Current Theological Issues I: Justification; Master Thesis Reformed Theology and Biblical Languages Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; Historical Theology Introduction to New Testament Greek I; Introduction to New Testament Greek Syntax; Intermediate Greek I Rapid Greek Reading/Translation; Intermediate Greek II - Introduction to the Septuagint; Exegetical Methodology and Tools; Exegetical Practicum; Introduction to Biblical Hebrew; Intermediate Hebrew I - Introduction to Biblical Hebrew Syntax; Intermediate Hebrew II Reading/Translation; Hebrew Exegesis; Hebrew Exegetical Practicum. Master Thesis. Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) The Doctor of Theology is the highest professional degree awarded by the Seminary. It is a
Educational Objectives
The Graduate School of Church-State Relations shall endeavor as the grace of God enables it, to explore the relevant passages of Scripture relating to issues of church and state in the areas of culture, advocacy and public policy. The program will also explore the extant literature relevant to Church-State relations in history and the current milieu, and expound ways and means to bring current Church-State relations into more biblical parameters. The pedagogy of churchstate relations shall involve a conference format whereby a student will proceed through a tailormade annotated bibliography as a map, with continual conferencing to encourage, guide and refine the students understanding and skill in church-state thought.
DOCTORAL DEGREES
PROFESSIONAL AND ACADEMIC DEGREES
Doctor of Philosophy / Doctor of Theology Doctor of Education / Doctor of Literature
History of the Doctorate Degree
The term doctorate comes from the Latin word doceo meaning I teach. The doctorate appeared in medieval European universities as a license to teach, from the Latin phrase licentia docendi. The concept of doctor can be traced back to the Early Church when the term referred to the Apostles and Elders of the Church whose calling was to teach church doctrine and defend the faith of the Church. Later the term was applied to the Church Fathers and other Christian authorities who taught theology and bible interpretation. The right to grant a licentia docendi (license or doctor to teach) was originally reserved to the organized Catholic (universal) Church of Jesus Christ. In order to receive the distinction the applicant was required to pass theological and biblical exams. Candidates were also required to take oaths of allegiance to the Church, its leadership, and dogma as officially interpreted and settled. This right of granting a
Research Doctorates
Although the research doctorate is almost universally accepted as the standard qualification for an academic career, its standards are a relatively new invention primarily in American universities. The European research type doctorates were based solely on research, writing, examinations, dissertation and its oral defense. Even to this day, many European doctorates are based on this methodological approach. This doctorate program normally requires qualifying entrance exams, completion of assigned doctoral courses and/or colloquies and research seminars. Requirements may vary as a result of the degree major and/or university requirements. The research doctorate is more academic and theoretical than practical. Upon the completion of the core prerequisites, the student is given an oral examination in order to qualify to continue his dissertation. The dissertation is normally directed by the institution, and faculty advisors are assigned to oversee the dissertational research and writing. Upon completion the candidate is required to orally present and defend his dissertation before a committee appointed by the institution and upon successful completion, the student is awarded the doctorate degree. It normally takes about five years to complete this type of doctorate (or six years without a masters degree).
Higher Doctorates
There was, in the older universities, what is now called Higher Doctorates which required an extended period of study in a particular field wherein candidates must show themselves to be leading experts in their subjects. These doctorates do not have course, colloquia, or seminar lecture requirements.
DOCTORAL STUDIES
Program Requirements
1. This program normally takes four to eight years of research and writing in the completion of the core requirements and the doctoral dissertation.
2. There are twelve courses of study that will contribute to the students primary or secondary concentration.
Each course requires 2,000 to 4,500 pages of reading and research. A few textbooks require chapter summaries and others text books require interactive
thesis papers (analysis and critique). The course requires a completed thesis of 20 pages (5,000) type written double spaced.
3. Students will be required to complete the orientation seminar for the doctoral degree. Orientation instruction is recorded on CD as an mp3 file. 4. Students must maintain an accumulative 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Students who fail to maintain this grade point average will be placed on probation for one semester. Failure of the student to increase the grade point average to the 3.0 will be terminated from the program. 5. Students must have a proficiency in Biblical Greek and Hebrew. Degree programs that require additional studies will require the student to demonstrate a proficiency in that particular field.
One year of New Testament Greek (Except when degree has additional prerequisites
listed.) One year of Old Testament Hebrew. (Except when degree has additional prerequisites listed.) Proficiency examination may be required of students in Greek, Hebrew, or other foreign language.
DOCTORAL STUDIES
8. An oral review of all core course studies demonstrating the students knowledge is required prior to advancing to commence their studies in the courses required for the students major. The examination will consist of a 2 to 3 hour oral examination. 9. An oral review is required of all major course studies demonstrating the students knowledge prior to commencing his research and writing of the dissertation. 10. The student must, at this time, determine if he will proceed to complete a dissertation or opt for the Doctor of Arts in Religion degree (D.A.R.). The Doctor of Arts in Religion degree does require a 100 page thesis paper and the oral review of the major courses of study. 11. The dissertation requires a minimum of 75,000 to a maximum of 100,000 words (300 to 400 pages).
The dissertation must be double spaced, type written. The dissertation must be typed on 24lb bond paper. The dissertation must be edited with
minimal typos or grammatical errors. Dissertation may be returned to the student for additional editing.
12. The student must submit for the dissertation: Dissertational topic for approval. An outline of the dissertation with chapter summaries. The dissertation when completed must have two seminary approved readers with degrees related to the students field of study approve the project. Readers must be non-affiliated with Whitefield Theological Seminary. Letters of recommendation must be submitted to the seminary by the approved readers prior to the oral examination. 13. The student must submit a first copy of the dissertation for review by the seminary. Upon approval the student shall submit 5 published copies of the dissertation to the Doctoral Committee for oral review. (See the Whitefield Weekly for information on binding and publishing the dissertation). 14. The student shall present an oral defense of the dissertation that shall consist of a minimum of 3 hours with a maximum of 5 hours. 15. The student must submit a monthly report on the progress of his doctorate studies. 16. Dissertations may be published with written permission of the seminary. All published dissertations must note that they were originally submitted for the doctorate degree at
DOCTORAL STUDIES
Doctoral Examiners
The doctoral commission will serve as examiners during the students oral defense of his dissertation. There are two categories of examiners: (1) Visiting Commissioners those with doctoral degrees from other postsecondary institutions, of which one (1) was invited by the student and approved by the administration; one (1) invited by the seminary; and (2) Staff Commissioners those with doctoral degrees from Whitefield Theological Seminary. The Seminary President (or individual appointed by him in his absence) shall preside as Moderator at all examinations. It is required to have a minimum of three commissioners to approve the students dissertation and defense.
Whitefield Doctorates
Whitefield Theological Seminary offers doctoral degrees in several different fields of study. After a student has passed the entrance examinations, he will be required to complete the required six core courses and then take another oral examination covering the material that was studied prior to matriculating to the students major emphasis of study.
Core Courses
The purpose of the six core courses is to ensure that students have been properly prepared in Reformed theological thought prior to matriculating to their major area of study. The student may, upon the completion of the doctoral core courses and oral review, apply for the Master of Sacred Theology degree (S.T.M.) The following are the required core courses for the doctorate degree. DCC 900 Advanced Interpretation and Exegesis DCC 901 History of the Reformation DCC 902 History of Christian Thought DCC 903 Westminster Confession: History and Theology DCC 904 Advanced Reformed Studies: Current Issues in Justification DCC 905 Advanced Reformed Philosophy
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Systematic Theology This major is designed to develop a greater understanding of interpretive systems and their
DOCTORAL STUDIES
This major is designed to develop the students understanding of the nature and purpose of history, the development of Christian thought, and a thorough understanding of Church history. HCH 901 Historiography HCH 902 Historical Theology and Christian Thought HCH 903 The Early Church: History, Councils, and Creeds HCH 904 The Church of the Middle Ages HCH 905 The Reformation Church HCH 906 The Modern Church Doctoral Dissertation (75,000 words minimum to 100,000 words maximum) Prerequisite: Master of Arts in Religion (1 Year of Greek and Hebrew) Reformation History and Theology This major is designed to develop the students understanding of the nature and purpose of history, the development of Christian thought and theology during the time of the Reformation. HCH 901 Historiography HCH 902 History and Theology of the 16th Century HCH 903 History of the Reformation in the 16th Century HCH 904 History of the Reformation in the Time of Calvin HCH 905 Theology of John Calvin HCH 906 Reformation and Post Reformation Dogmatics Doctoral Dissertation (75,000 words minimum to 100,000 words maximum) Prerequisite: Master of Arts in Religion (1 Year of Greek and Hebrew) Exegetical Theology The emphasis of this program is to develop the students understanding in Old and New Testament exegetical studies in history and context. ETS 901 Historical and Contemporary Interpreters ETS 902 Exegetical Theology: Old and New Testament ETS 903 Advanced Old Testament Studies I ETS 904 Advanced New Testament Studies I ETS 905 Advanced New Testament Studies II ETS 906 Advanced Old Testament Studies II Doctoral Dissertation (75,000 words minimum to 100,000 words maximum) Prerequisite: The student must have completed a Th.M. in Exegetical Theology, or a M.A.R. or M.Div. with 4 years of Greek and 4 years of Hebrew studies, and 1 year of Biblical Aramaic, from Whitefield or an approved institution.
DOCTORAL STUDIES
DOCTORAL STUDIES
DOCTORAL STUDIES
DOCTOR OF THEOLOGY
Pastoral Theology This major covers the history and development of preaching and ministry in the Church. Special attention is given to the Pastoral Ministry from a Reformed theological perspective. DPT 901 History of Reading and Preaching in Worship I DPT 902 History of Reading and Preaching in Worship II DPT 903 Puritan Worship DPT 904 Reformed Ministry and Preaching DPT 905 History of Revivals and Revivalism DPT 906 Pastoral Practicum Doctoral Dissertation: (75,000 words minimum to 100,000 words maximum) Prerequisite: Master of Arts in Religion (1 Year of Greek and Hebrew)
DOCTOR OF LITERATURE
The Doctor of Literature (Litt.D.) degree is based on a major research dissertation that has never been submitted for academic credit. The dissertation must consist of a high academic quality to qualify. The applicant must: (1) have been in the ministry (pastoral or academic) for a minimum of 20 years; (2) submit other written projects for review; (3) take an oral exam in Reformed theology and philosophy; (4) possess the M.A.R., M.Div., or Th.M. degree; (5) insure that the dissertation consists of a minimum of 120,000 words; (6) submit 5 copies, hard bound, to the seminary; (7) complete oral defense of the written project; (8) have two outside readers review and endorse the research project as doctoral quality. Note: This program requires special permission for admission and the student must submit both an application and ministerial portfolio for review by the seminary administration in order to determine the qualification of the individual for admission. The portfolio includes one copy of the dissertation project.
DOCTORAL STUDIES
DOCTOR OF EDUCATION
Christian Postsecondary Administration This major does include the core doctoral courses. The program consists of courses that will develop a Christian philosophy of the collegiate academy, its function and practices. EDD 901 History of Postsecondary Education EDD 902 Christian Collegiate Education EDD 903 Postsecondary Administration EDD 904 Theological Education in Higher Education EDD 905 Faculty as Scholars EDD 906 Developing Curriculum for Higher Education Doctoral Dissertation (75,000 words minimum to 100,000 words maximum) Prerequisite: A doctoral degree.
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Christian Counseling The student will receive advanced training in Nouthetic techniques and applications in particular areas of behavioral issues. This program is designed in particular to reinforce the biblical principles of Nouthetic teaching. BNC 901 Counseling: Old and New Testament Studies BNC 902 Substance Abuse and Counseling BNC 903 Medical Issues in Counseling BNC 904 Anger, Depression, and Abuse BNC 905 Sexual Addiction and Abuse BNC 906 Counseling Issues Doctoral Dissertation (75,000 words minimum to 100,000 words maximum) Prerequisite: Master of Arts in Religion (Christian Counseling Major)
DOCTORAL STUDIES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Church and State Studies The student will be trained in the basic principles of the historical development of church and state throughout the history of Western Civilization. Special emphasis will be given to a biblical and theological view of the relationship between church and state. The major will also offer advanced studies in First Amendment Constitutional Law. The doctoral core courses are required as a prerequisite theological foundation. The courses offered for this study are: CSR 901 Christian Political and Legal Thought CSR 902 Church, State, and Law in Scripture CSR 903 Theological Studies in Church and State CSR 904 Classical Studies in Church and State CSR 905 Doctrine of Church and State: Middle Ages and Reformation CSR 906 Church and State in Europe, Scotland, and America CSR 907 History and Litigation of the First Amendment Doctoral Dissertation (75,000 words minimum to 100,000 words maximum) Prerequisite: Doctorate in Jurisprudence or the Master of Arts in Religion (Christian Culture and Advocacy Major from Whitefield)
DOCTORAL STUDIES
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
MASTER DEGREES SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY
Master of Arts in Theological Studies / Master of Arts in Religion Master of Divinity / Master of Theology
Theological Studies
SYS 500 Theological Research and Reading This course introduces the student to the various tools and resources that are available for biblical and theological studies, such as, commentaries, dictionaries, encyclopedias, biblical language grammars and lexicons, etc. SYS 501 Hermeneutics
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
The student will be introduced to the science of sacred interpretation. Emphases will be given to the grammatico-historical method as it relates to language and historical context. Students will study the various rules on interpretation as it relates to etymology, syntax, context and narrative. Special emphasis will be given to typological and prophetical interpretation. SYS 502 Systematic Theology I This course will cover the basic doctrines of Scripture and theology proper (doctrine of God). The student will be introduced to the Scriptures inspiration, infallibility, inerrancy, perspicuity, and authority concerning all matters relating to life, faith, and practice. The doctrine of God will examine the nature of the Being of God, His attributes, the trinity, decrees, providence and creation. SYS 503 Systematic Theology II A continuation of systematics examining the teachings of Gods covenants, anthropology, Christology and soteriology from a theological perspective as developed both in the history of the Church, but also as it came to be correctly understood during the Reformation. SYS 504 Systematic Theology III The student will be introduced to the history and development of ecclesiastical doctrine. Attention will be given to the nature of the Church as visible and invisible; the three marks of the Church; the Churchs mission; membership; sacraments; and community. SYS 505 Systematic Theology IV An introduction into millennial theology and the various theories developed throughout the history of the Church. The student will especially examine the purpose of God through the ages as expressed in the Kingdom of Christ, and those events leading up to the consummation of the ages. SYS 506 Biblical Theology The student will be taught about the development of progressive revelation as it relates to redemptive history as taught in the Old and New Testaments. Emphasis will also be given to the various theories postulated about the nature of biblical theology as it relates to systematics.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Apologetic Studies
PHL 501 Apologetics I The student will be taught the presuppositional method of apologetics within the context of the historic Reformed confession (Westminster) as it relates to philosophically defending the faith over-against non-Christian truth claims. An emphasis will be given to epistemology, ontology, cosmology, and historiography.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
A course that will instruct the student in the biblical perspective of what God sets forth as the proper construction of government and its functions as taught in Scripture. PHL 506 Christianity and the State The student will be instructed in the contrast between a Christian perspective of government and humanistic statist ideology. Emphasis will be given to critical analysis of the driving philosophical foundations of statism and the Christian response and principles. PHL 507 Christian Economics This course will train the student in the basic principles of what the Scripture defines as acceptable principles of trade and monetary exchanges within a biblical context. PHL 508 Christianity and Culture I The student will engage in the critical analysis of society and culture as to the contrast between humanistic thought versus Christianity as the governing principles for developing a Christian world and life view. A variety of topical areas will be considered. PHL 509 Christianity and Culture II A continuation of PHL 508. PHL 601 Christianity and Culture III A continuation of PHL 509. PHL 602 Christianity and Culture IV A continuation of PHL 601.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Basics of Church Latin as opposed to Classical Latin, emphasis is on phonology, morphology, and syntactical differences between the two; with reading exercises solidifying Church Latin comprehension. LAT 802 Intermediate Ecclesiastical Latin Ecclesiastical Latin is selected texts from the Vulgate with a view towards identifying significant grammatical constructions and vocabulary recognition. LAN 901 LXX/HEB/Latin: Synthesis of selected texts A comparison of passages found in all three versions with a view towards accuracy in translation.
Biblical Studies
OTS 601 Introduction and History of the Old Testament This is an intensive course of study examining the introduction to each Old Testament book and its history. Emphasis will be given to content and chronology of events and their meanings. NTS 601 Introduction and History of the New Testament This is an intensive course of study examining the introduction to each New Testament book and its history. Emphasis will be given to content and chronology of events and their meanings.
Practical Theology
PTH 701 Homiletics A course of study that will teach the student the basic principles of sermonic research and development. The student will be instructed in presentation skills that are essential to preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. PTH 702 Pastoral Theology (Presbyterian, Baptist, Episcopal) The student will be trained in the basic principles of biblical pastoral duties with a view
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Christian Counseling
BNC 801 Fundamentals of Christian Counseling The student will be introduced into the principles of Nouthetic Counseling; its theological and philosophical implications, as well as, the conflict with humanistic counseling methods. BNC 802 Marriage and Family counseling I This course examines the biblical principles of marriage and family. The student will be instructed as to the nature of premarital counseling, conflicts that arise in marriage, issues of divorce, and the nature and function of the family and its dysfunctions. The principles of Nouthetic Counseling will be the methodology utilized in resolving the issues. BNC 803 Marriage and Family Counseling II This is a continuation of BNC 802.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
This is a continuation of BNC 806. BNC 808 Theology of Counseling This course will demonstrate the basic relationship between theology and counseling as to developing an understanding of the nature of God, man, and redemption in the life of a believer. Foundational to Nouthetic Counseling is Reformed theology, without which, Nouthetic Counseling is only a pragmatic approach to counseling issues.
Christian Education
CED 601 Christian Education The student will be introduced to the basic principles of the biblical nature of Christian education, its necessity and method basic on theological principles. This is a foundational course of study that contrasts humanistic educational teachings and methods in light of Christianity and the requirement to educate its children in biblically sound institutions. CED 602 History of Christian Education A study in the development of Christian education and its institutions and structure throughout the history of Israel and the Christian Church. CED 603 Christian Philosophy of Education This course will train the student in the basic principles of Christian philosophy towards the development of a biblical world and life view. Emphasis will be given to the necessity of developing a biblically based world and life view as essential to any educational method that considers itself Christian. CED 604 Curriculum: Philosophy and Development The student will be trained in the nature and application of the various departmental studies as they relate to education and the underlying philosophy behind each area of consideration. This course requires the student to first complete CED 603 which is essential in theory and application.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
CED 608 Supervision and Leadership This course will teach the student the basic principles that are essential to good leadership in education, as well as, the nature of supervision in education, both of the educator and students.
Legal Studies
LJP 601 Legal Reasoning A study in the processes of logical deduction within the context of the American legal system with an emphasis on the rational of judicial determinations and case applications. LJP 602 Legal Research and Writing This course demonstrates how the student researches the law, develops legal reasoning as to the meaning of the law, and presents the findings in a written presentation that reflects a legal brief. LJP 603 History and Introduction to Law This course begins with a history of Anglo-American Law. It covers the development of our legal system and its various functions such as courts, juries, judges, lawyers, of religion, and the free exercise thereof. Considerations are viewed in light of the U.S. Constitution with special attention given to questions of equal protection before and after the Fourteenth Amendment. It also introduces the student to the basic judicial process. LJP 604 Constitutional Law This course presents a view of the U.S. Constitution as it relates to the federal, state, and individual legal standings. Consideration is given to the political, economic, and legal structures and procedures. LJP 605 First Amendment Law This course examines the nature of civil rights of the individual as they relate to free speech, freedom of religion, and the free exercise thereof. Considerations are viewed in light of the U.S. Constitution with special attention given to questions of equal protection before and after the Fourteenth Amendment.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
This is a study of civil law and procedures as it applies the principles of constitutional and statutory laws in the federal judicial system of American law. LJP 701 Criminal Law This course is a succinct exposition of substantive and criminal law. It gives an overview of crime and punishment in the court system of the U.S. such as homicide, battery, assult and kidnapping among others. It also surveys the many defenses used to defend the accused. It also stresses criminal law regarding the policy of sentencing and the policy of corrections. LJP 702 Criminal Procedures This is a course of study dealing with constitutional limitations regarding criminal procedures. It covers a variety of criminal offenses and the proper procedure for arrest and prosecution to try the case in court. It also reviews the constitutional constraints on police investigations and proper procedures when the arrest has been made. LJP 703 Tort Law This course presents an overview of Tort Law. The student will learn the purpose and functions of Tort Laws. It covers several defenses regarding liability, damages for physical harm, non-physical harm, misrepresentation, defamation, and privacy. It also covers the increasing number of cases involved in toxic torts and the liability of those who expose innocent people to toxic substances which cause physical or mental damage and the various defenses used to protect individuals or companies. LJP 704 Evidence The goal of this course is to provide a clear roadmap through the vast array of obstacles dealing with the handling of evidence and using it properly in court. It also deals with the vast number of federal regulations that need to be taken into consideration while collecting evidence for judicial use. LJP 705 Family Law In Family Law, the student will examine the nature and civil understanding of American Law as it relates to the family and all its rights and tort actions within the legal system. Emphasis will be on the nature of jurisdiction as it relates to family versus the state.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
DOCTORATE DEGREES
Doctor of Philosophy / Doctor of Theology / Doctor of Education / Doctor of Literature
Doctoral Core Courses
DCC 901 Advanced Interpretation and Exegesis The student will be trained in the history of interpretation, advanced hermeneutics, and exegetical skills. The import of this course is to develop the students understanding of both grammatico-historical method and specialized rules of interpretation in typology, prophecy, and parabolic interpretation. DCC 902 History of the Reformation
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
This course will examine the events leading up to the Reformation, the interpretive and theological issues related to the Reformation, as well as, the study of important individuals who were influential and affected the transformation of the Church and its theology in the tradition of Apostolic doctrine and practice. DCC 903 History of Christian Thought A study in the historical development of theological and philosophical principles that shaped the thinking of Christianity in its doctrinal and practical outcomes through the various stages of chronology. DCC 904 Westminster Confession: History and Theology This course will introduce the student to both the historical events leading up to the commissioning of the Puritans of Church of England to engage in the revision of the 39 Articles of the Church; the debates, revisions, and the eventual development of a new system of theology which resulted. DCC 905 Current Theological Issues I: (Justification) The student will be introduced to the historical teaching on the doctrine of Justification by faith from the early church to the apostasy of the Scholastics and the response developed during the Reformation as to a greater specificity on the nature and function in soteriological thought. DCC 906 Advanced Reformed Philosophy This is a course of study that will equip the student with a system of philosophy that is Reformed in its approach to the various departmental areas of philosophical thought.
In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. (Acts 2:17, 18) George Whitefield lived from 1714 to 1770. In his adult life he was as famous as any man in the English- speaking world. From 22 years of age he was the foremost figure in a religious movement that held the attention of the entire English-speaking world-the Great Awakening. Perhaps only the Reformation or even the apostolic age itself could surpass the spiritual fervor God poured out at that time. George Whitefield preached in England, Scotland, Wales, Gibraltar, Bermuda, and the American colonies. As we look back on this era, it seems that so many of the preachers of the time were men of doctrine, and men of fervor who strove to give their lives 100% to Christ Jesus. To understand Whitefield, we must think about the spiritual and moral conditions in England before the revival. In 1730s and 1740s England was foul with corruption and crippled by spiritual decay. The ruling classes were primarily deists, if they were religious at all. The church in England was the Church of England. The preaching from the pulpit at that time was quite cold, and the primary concern was that none should show any sign of being enthusiastic about religion. Meanwhile, public behavior had become so outrageous that importing liquor was banned (1689). The result was the gin craze, where everyone made their own liquor. The effect, according to the Bishop of London, was that gin made the English people what they never were before, cruel and inhuman. In those days, the rich got richer and the poor got poorer. Street children and the insane were cruelly treated, the London Underworld thrived, gambling was everywhere, and stage productions were obscene even by todays standards. The only solace for Christians was in the formation of small private societies. The Church had sanctioned and even encouraged their formation, and by 1730 nearly one hundred existed in London, and a hundred more scattered throughout England. The Societies did not actually do much, but their very existence was both providential and meaningful for they would be the cradle of the Great Awakening. At the very time when revival seemed impossible all of England was stirred by the voice of a preacher barely 22 years old, George Whitefield. He began to speak from the pulpit with fervor and power and soon no church could hold the multitude that flocked to hear him. No one could preach or even sound like Whitefield. His voice was like a trumpet, which could be muted or
Although a number of George Whitefields relatives had gone to Oxford and become members of the clergy, his grandfather was a businessman and his father was proprietor of the Bell Inn in Gloucester. It was the largest and finest establishment in town, and its main hall had two auditoriums, one of which was used to stage plays. But when he was only two tragedy struck this young prosperous family. Georges father died. For the next few years his mother ran the business with the help of her eldest son. For the first sixteen years of his life, George must have seen both the frivolous and the terrible side of life at the Bell Inn. While the other children worked, Georges mother saw his ability and made sure he attended school from the age of 12 in the local parish. He was a gifted speaker, had an excellent memory, and often acted in the school plays. By 16 he was proficient in Latin and could read New Testament Greek. When George was 8 years of age his mother remarried. The marriage was tragic, and the inn was almost lost due to financial difficulties. At age 15 George had to drop his studies and work for a year and a half to help support the family. It seemed tragic, but it was a good experience for George to experience real life. He learned to associate with people from all ranks of society as he poured liquor for them and cleaned up after them. George worked hard by day and at night he read the Bible and dreamed of going to Oxford. In time his stepfather left and his older brother regained control of the inn. However, there was no longer any money to send George to college. For a time he and his mother were heartbroken, but in time they learned that he could go to Oxford as a servitor, and so in 1732, at age 17, he left for the University with great eagerness. Studies at Oxford University Meanwhile, in America, the Puritan era had passed and religious fervor died down-some would say it had fallen asleep. But from just this time to the Revolutionary War itself came the Great Awakening. It began with Jonathan Edwards, a preacher in the Puritan mold from Massachusetts. He was the most learned and respected theologian America had yet produced, and although brilliant in mind, his sermons were reserved and dry. In 1734 he began to preach against the popular notion that man by his own effort could accomplish the purposes of God. Edwards taught that all we accomplish is by Gods grace. With this simple Biblical message a revival began that surprised even Edwards. Within a year a great revival was spreading throughout the towns of Massachusetts. Two years before the Massachusetts revival began Whitefield entered Oxford University. He was extremely devout and he busily visited prisoners and poorhouses with a mind to earn Gods approval. As a servitor he lived as a butler to 3 or 4 highly placed students. He would wash their clothes, shine their shoes, and do their housework. A servitor lived on whatever scraps of clothing or money they gave him. He had to wear a special gown and it was forbidden for students of a high rank to speak to him. Most servitors left rather than endure the humiliation. Initially, other students tried to get George to join their party life, but he resisted, and they soon left him alone. Whitefield plunged ahead in his studies, but he longed for some spiritual fellowship. His mates at Pembroke College had begun to call Whitefield a Methodist, which was the derogatory word they used to describe members of the Holy Club. The Holy Club was a small meeting at of Oxford students led by a University fellow named John Wesley. To other
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WHITEFIELD THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
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CONTACT INFORMATION
WHITEFIELD THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY