The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (M.A.B.S.) program is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of Scripture, enhance their ministry skills, and become transformational leaders within the Church. This 2-year non-residential, off-campus program (66 credits) provides flexibility for those who want to continue working while pursuing their education. The program focuses on key areas such as biblical theology, church history, socio-religious realities, and ministerial skills, preparing students to serve effectively in their local churches and communities.

Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (M.A.B.S.) Program Overview

  • Duration: 2 Years
  • Credits: 66 Credits
  • Mode: Non-Residential (Off-Campus)
  • Course Delivery: Evening Classes / Online
  • Enrollment Period: For the 2025-2026 academic year

Program Purpose:

The M.A.B.S. program is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the Bible, Christian doctrine, and the historical and social contexts of ministry, while simultaneously developing essential leadership and ministerial skills. The program's primary goals include:

  • Biblical Theology: Training students to understand the theological themes of the Bible and how they apply to Christian life and ministry today.
  • Church History: Providing a deep dive into the history of the Church, the development of Christian doctrine, and the impact of key historical events and movements on the Church.
  • Socio-Religious Realities: Helping students understand the social and cultural challenges faced by the Church in India and beyond, enabling them to minister effectively in diverse contexts.
  • Ministerial Skills: Developing practical skills for church leadership, preaching, counseling, pastoral care, and community engagement.

This program is tailored for individuals who wish to serve as effective leaders in the local Church and engage in ministry that fulfills the Great Commission, both within India and globally.

Key Specializations in the M.A.B.S. Program

  1. Biblical Theology

    • Study of Scripture: In-depth exploration of the Bible, focusing on its key theological themes, narrative structure, and foundational principles.
    • Theological Application: Training in how to apply biblical principles in contemporary ministry and everyday Christian life.

  2. Church History

    • Historical Development: Study of the history of the Church, key movements, and influential figures in Christian history.
    • Impact on Modern Church: Understanding how historical developments continue to influence the theology and practices of the Church today.

  3. Socio-Religious Realities

    • Cultural Contexts: Analyzing the social, cultural, and religious contexts in which ministry takes place, particularly focusing on the socio-religious landscape in India.
    • Contextual Ministry: Training on how to engage with contemporary issues such as religious pluralism, societal injustice, and community development.

  4. Ministerial Skills

    • Leadership Development: Building skills for church leadership, administration, and community outreach.
    • Preaching and Teaching: Developing the ability to communicate effectively through preaching, teaching, and counseling.
    • Pastoral Care: Training in pastoral ministry, including counseling, crisis management, and spiritual guidance.

Program Structure and Delivery

  • Evening and Online Classes: The program is designed to accommodate working individuals, offering evening classes and online learning options. This allows students to pursue the program without having to leave their existing responsibilities.
  • Assignments and Examinations: Students will complete assignments and take exams online or during scheduled in-person sessions, ensuring flexibility while maintaining academic rigor.
  • Interactive Learning: The program includes lectures, virtual discussions, and collaborative assignments to encourage engagement with fellow students and faculty.
  • Practical Ministry Integration: The program encourages students to apply what they learn in their local ministry contexts, helping them become more effective leaders in their churches and communities.

Admission Requirements

  • Educational Background:

    • Candidates must have completed 12 years of formal education or its equivalent.
    • Applicants should have a three-year Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.) degree from an accredited institution (ATA/SSC) or a university degree.
    • If the B.Th. degree is from an unrecognized program, candidates must successfully pass a qualifying examination in Biblical Studies, Theology, and Christian Ministry.

  • English Proficiency:

    • Proficiency in English is required for understanding lectures, completing assignments, and taking exams.

  • Church Membership:

    • Applicants must be active members of a church and provide a letter of reference from their pastor.

  • Ministry Involvement:

    • Candidates must be involved in ministry and have a demonstrated commitment to living out their Christian faith through a witnessing life.

Benefits of the M.A.B.S. Program

  1. Flexibility: The non-residential, off-campus format allows students to balance their studies with work and ministry commitments.
  2. Comprehensive Training: Students receive holistic training in theology, ministry, and leadership, enabling them to lead with knowledge and compassion.
  3. Practical Application: The program emphasizes real-world application, equipping students to serve in diverse ministry settings and respond to the needs of their communities.
  4. Transformational Leadership: The program is designed to develop leaders who are equipped to transform their churches and communities by fulfilling the Great Commission.
  5. Global Perspective: While focused on India, the program prepares students to engage in global ministry and understand the broader socio-religious dynamics impacting the Church worldwide.

Ideal Candidates for the M.A.B.S. Program

  • Church Leaders and Ministers: Individuals already serving in ministry or leadership roles who wish to deepen their theological knowledge and develop new ministry skills.
  • Christian Educators: Those seeking to teach in theological institutions, schools, or churches.
  • Missionaries: Individuals preparing for cross-cultural mission work and seeking an in-depth understanding of biblical theology and social realities.
  • Lay Leaders: Church members who wish to further their education and enhance their ability to serve in leadership or teaching capacities.

Application Information

  • Enrollment Period: For the 2025-2026 academic year, applications are now being accepted.
  • Application Process: Candidates must submit an application form, provide academic transcripts, submit a letter of reference from their pastor, and demonstrate English proficiency.
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The M.A.B.S. program offers a flexible and rigorous educational experience for individuals who are passionate about deepening their biblical knowledge, developing their ministerial skills, and becoming transformational leaders in their local churches and communities. The focus on biblical theology, church history, socio-religious realities, and ministerial skills prepares students to engage effectively with the challenges of modern ministry.