Karla Martinez serves as the Administrative Assistant for the Discipleship Department at the College of Biblical Studies’ Houston campus. She is also a Discipleship Coach, assisting students with spiritual growth plans to help make their CBS experience not only an academic endeavor, but a transformational encounter with the Living God!
Karla was born and raised in Honduras, then moved to the United States when she was a teenager. In 2016 Karla and her husband, Jeovanny, experienced the loss of their daughter Vanessa at birth. In the midst of her grief, God led Karla to pursue her bachelor’s degree in counseling from CBS so that she could minister to women in their pain and confusion.
Her experience, heritage, and biblically-based training allows Karla to pour God’s love and direction into the lives of a variety of women, in English or Spanish. She also volunteers at the Houston Pregnancy Help Center, ministering to women in various crisis pregnancy situations, and encouraging them with the Good News of Jesus Christ toward their salvation and decision-making.
Karla also enjoys decorating, organizing celebratory events, and keeping her coworkers laughing! She and Jeovanny have been happily married for 12 years, and are proud parents to five beautiful children (four on earth and Vanessa in heaven).
Funding to support small churches in need of audio-visual capabilities!
We want to make you aware of a great opportunity! Does your church, or a small church you are aware of, need funding and technical support that would provide the ability for live-streaming and other online audio-visual services?
If so, click to watch a video that introduces you to the opportunity (instructions for applying for funds is located below the video), or click to view/download the flyer to learn more details.
“With one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 15:6).Discipleship | Discipleship Team | Discipleship Coaching | Formation Courses | Care & Comfort
Virtual Marriage Clinic Opportunity
We want to make you aware of a wonderful opportunity for you and your spouse to attend a three-day marriage clinic by video conferencing. This free clinic is offered by Christway Counseling Center and details are provided in the attached flier.
What is Chapel?
In order to enhance the unity of the CBS family, encourage the saints, intercede in prayer, and bring glory to God, the body of CBS meets weekly for a time of worship, the Word, and prayer.
When is Chapel?
Each Wednesday at 2:00 PM (central time); unless otherwise announced
Who is Included?
Chapel is primarily intended for CBS students, alumni, staff, and faculty. However, family and guests of the CBS family are welcome to participate as well.
Special President's Chapel
What is Convocation?
The word “Convocation” derives from the Latin word convocare, which means “together” (con) and “call” (vocare). A convocation is an opportunity to formally call together or summon.
Fall Convocation marks the start of a new academic year. The event celebrates the start of a new year with the excitement of meeting new people and new challenges - and it moves our students one step closer to commencement. We assemble to celebrate our God, who calls us and equips us for every good work to bring Him glory. During Convocation, we collectively and individually acknowledge our dependence on our Heavenly Father, through Christ Jesus and the power the Holy Spirit. We also reaffirm our striving for personal holiness and focus on personal ministry to others.
Convocation takes place within the first month of the new school year (fall semester).
Discipleship | Discipleship Team | Discipleship Coaching | Formation Courses | Care & Comfort
“Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (1 Timothy 4:7b)
Our spiritual formation courses are designed to support the CBS discipleship initiative. It our heartfelt desire that every student’s CBS experience is not merely an academic endeavor, but a transformational encounter with our Lord Jesus Christ and the Great Commission He calls all of us to carry out! (Matt 28:19-20; 2 Tim 2:2).
This course is designed to aid the student to process their spiritual life under the guidance of the professor. It includes analysis of a proper view of God’s character, cultivating Christ-likeness, and helping the student to process the battles of his or her soul and a study of right responses to walking by the Spirit. It includes a study of relational wisdom, and such matters as anger, fear, guilt, trial, self-acceptance, and moral purity.
This course picks up where MSSF 3011 left of and is designed to aid the student to process their spiritual life under the guidance of the professor. It includes analysis of a proper view of God’s character, cultivating Christ-likeness, and helping the student to process the battles of his or her soul and a study of right responses to walking by the Spirit. It includes a further study of relational wisdom, as well as such matters as anger, fear, guilt, trial, self-acceptance, and moral purity.
Study of relational wisdom, anger, fear guilt and moral purity. Students are required to turn in written evidence from their accountability partner. On campus quads meeting – students meeting with students according to gender. SF3 students have an additional requirement to meet: Kingdom Man/Woman resource by Dr. Tony Evans.
MSSF 4034 is the fourth and capstone in a series of courses designed to help the student engage in the Four Dimensions of the CBS Discipleship Journey. This course completes the journey and assesses the progress made along the journey. It continues the small group participation launched in MSSF 3033 and seeks to bring that experience to a conclusion with each student preparing a Ministry Vision Statement. This course will engage the student in the development of two critical skills for ministry in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic world—namely, how to graciously navigate diverse cultures and how to be rightly involved in race relations. Students will study material prepared by Dr. Charles Ware and Grace Relations as they prepare to disciple the nations in fulfillment of the Great Commission.
The Christian Service Learning Program is a supervised ministry process that is designed to help students develop and enhance their commitment and competence in ministry by promoting the practical outworking of the biblical, theological, and theoretical principles learned in the classroom setting.
“The goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” (1 Timothy 1:5).
The purpose of the Discipleship Coach is to prayerfully work with each CBS student help ensure the success of their spiritual transformation as they pursue a degree from the College of Biblical Studies.
Student meets with Discipleship Coach in order to:
Assessment
Initial assessments administered at the start of each student’s CBS experience establishes a base line for growth. Concluding assessments administered upon graduation displays growth and development. The results of each assessment will be documented for each student in the form of a “Scorecard”.
Mentorship
An important facet of the discipleship journey for each student will be the presence of a mentor to help guide them through their CBS experience. Each incoming student will be assigned a carefully screened, qualified mentor to provide spiritual support for their first academic year at CBS.
The mentor is expected to minister to the student in four vital ways, the CARE model:
Counsel: Help the student to gain perspective on various challenges by giving them wise counsel and biblical advice. Become a trusted friend to them.
Accountability: Hold the student accountable in their walk with Christ, church involvement, and devotional life.
Relationship: Engage in an authentic relationship with the student. Pray for the student.
Encouragement: Encourage the student in their studies and pursuit of ministry goals. Encourage them to keep pressing on toward the finish line if obstacles and discouragement emerges.
Spiritual Formation not only requires us to pay close attention to our identity in Christ, but also our place in Christ as a community. In order to experience intimate community in the biblical sense, we must learn to reveal ourselves to others. We need to honestly, freely, and thoughtfully tell our stories. Our modern culture makes it easy for people to live isolated and anonymous lives. Because we and others move frequently, we may feel it’s not worth the effort to be vulnerable in short-lived relationships. However, we desperately need to keep intentionally investing in significant relationships.
The CBS Small Group Curriculum is designed to help students create a community of trusted relationships. This will take place in groups of four-five students who will commit to studying the following topics (guidebook provided):
Students are placed into small group communities when enrolling in MSSF 3034 Spiritual Formation 3 (year three of a four-year degree program). The group continues to meet for an additional semester, continuing as part of MSSF 4034 Spiritual Formation 4.
The Discipleship Team is here to serve you. Please let us know how we can be of service toward your spiritual transformation! (Romans 12:2).
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Discipleship | Discipleship Coaching | Formation Courses | Care & Comfort | Events
Discipleship Team | Discipleship Coaching | Formation Courses | Care & Comfort | Events
The Discipleship Team serves the CBS mission by striving to see that every student’s CBS experience is not merely an academic endeavor, but a transformational encounter with the Living God! We come alongside each student to help them fulfill Paul’s directive from the Lord to the believers in Rome: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2).
This objective is accomplished through the application of a carefully - and prayerfully - developed discipleship model, in concert with the work of the Holy Spirit in each student's life:
Transformation through Four Dimensional Discipleship
Goal: Emotional, Cultural and Spiritual Development
Initial Assessments Administered at Start of College Career Establishes Base Line for Growth for Student
Concluding Assessments Administered at End of College Career Displays Growth and Development
Input: Discipleship Coach
Student Meets with Discipleship Coach (DC) in order to:
Goal: Biblical and Theological Knowledge
Input: Professors
Student takes 45+ hours of Bible and Theology from highly qualified Professors
Goal: Accountability and Spiritual Disciplines
Input: Peers
Goal: Ministry and Life Skills Development
Input: Mentors
The student will bring his experiences from the “life context” back into the discipling environment of CBS and seek to learn how to best navigate them in a godly way.
Discipleship Team | Discipleship Coaching | Formation Courses | Care & Comfort | Events
CBS students can choose from online, on campus, or both. We have campus locations in Houston, Indianapolis, and Fort Wayne.
When a crisis or incident disrupts normal college operations, the CBS crisis team activates our crisis management plan to inform, protect, and communicate with our staff, students, other stakeholders, and the community.
The crisis team will communicate with stakeholders via official communication channels including CBS Emergency Alert System, CBS website, local media, Facebook, CBS email, text messaging, news releases, and phone calls.
Janice Jackson Julio Rodriguez Shon Gray
Why Give to CBS? Darryll Brooks
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At the College of Biblical Studies, students are passionate about their community. Their training inspires action - and transformation is set in motion.
The Public Relations and Corporate Communications office is the official channel for managing the corporate identity of the College. Please contact us regarding media inquiries and brand resources including:
Melinda Merillat is the executive director of public relations and serves as the media contact. Contact her at [email protected] or 832.252.0745.
CBS Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month 2020
Are You Ready to Vote?
College of Biblical Studies has joined with other Christian universities across the nation in launching the Because I Care initiative. We want to make voting as easy as possible for everyone, and we want to make sure you are ready to vote no matter what state you are from while attending College of Biblical Studies. For more information on voter registration and early voting in Texas, Indiana, or your home state you can read more in our recent E-News communication on voting!
Vision: Building student community inside the school while encouraging student service outside the school.
Mission: To support CBS in its mission by building student life in the CBS community so that students will be better prepared and equipped to engage their churches and communities through servant leadership.
Purpose: The purpose of this organization shall be to provide guidelines for student council leaders to serve the student body (body of Christ) through the encouragement of their spiritual, physical, intellectual, and social well-being so that they might honor the Lord Jesus Christ. This Purpose is accomplished by:
1. Coordinating and promoting all student-led activities
2. Functioning as a channel for new ideas
3. Fostering interaction between administration, faculty and the student body
4. Seeking to involve students in world evangelization through prayer
5. Provide oversight and financial accountability to all student groups on campus
6. Promoting and encouraging spiritual life and fellowship on campus, and
7. Addressing areas of concern for student life on campus.
Student Council Officers must live their life in a Christian manner in accordance with scripture and the CBS Student Code of Conduct.
Meet your 2020-2021 Student Ministry Officers:
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Iris Davidson President of Student Council (Main Campus) |
Brandon Adkisson Vice President of Student Council & Communication (Indiana Campus) |
Gabriel Orr Vice President for Special Events and Projects (Main Campus) |
Vacant Vice President for Special Events and Projects (Indiana Campus) |
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Carol Smart Vice President for Business Affairs (Main Campus) |
Sarah Church Student Chaplain (All Campuses)
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Christopher Maxie Student Chaplain (All Campuses) |
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Dr. Bill Blocker is president of the College of Biblical Studies headquartered in Houston, Texas. He and his wife Zelda have led numerous Israel Bible study tours and will provide an experience that will change your life forever. Through engaging and enlightening Bible studies, the Blockers' personal experiences will bring the Bible to life in such a way you will witness the transformative power and presence of God as never before.
Dr. Paul Nyquist is vice president of discipleship of the College of Biblical Studies. He and his wife Cheryl have first-hand experience bringing the Bible and its stories to life as you visit the very places you’ve read about all your life.
Act now to ensure you don’t miss an opportunity to study the Bible led by Bible teachers from CBS – one of the top Bible colleges in the nation.
See, hear, feel, smell, and taste the Holy Land!
For Questions or more information, email us at [email protected].
Morning Star Tours will be hosting our Israel tour. A well-respected leader in transformational Israel tours, Morning Star has provided the following information regarding COVID-19. As more information is available, Morning Star will provide CBS with updates. Any updates from Morning Star will be emailed to registrants and can also be found on this page.
Our Israel 2021 tour is still taking place. Morning Star will continue to monitor international travel to ensure that our tour will be safe and uninterrupted. Below are some specific measures that different agencies are taking as tourism is reinstated.
Luzmar Cobos
Interim Dean of Students
Email: [email protected], Tel: 832.252.0757
The Mission of the Office of the Dean of Students is to ensure that all students exemplify academic and spiritual integrity by adhering to the CBS Code of Conduct, and to ensure reasonable accommodations under ADA to all registered students.
The College of Biblical Studies is committed to providing a fully integrated educational opportunity for all students. To provide services for students who self-identify as having a disability, the CBS adheres to guidelines established in section 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act: Americans with Disabilities Statutes of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 as amended.
Students who self-identify with at least 60 days prior notice as having a disability may access services by adhering to the following guidelines:
Documentation needed before request can be processed and deemed complete includes:
After receipt of all documentation, a letter of notification regarding registration for disability services will be issued to the student. If academic adjustments are granted based on an approved disability, the student will receive a Letter of Request for Academic Adjustment and may present the letter to the faculty member. Upon receipt of the letter, the faculty member will comply with academic adjustments.
Students who receive academic adjustments must update their registration for academic adjustments each semester. To register for disability services, please contact the Office of the Dean of Students. [Back to Top]
The College expects all students to exercise personal responsibility over their actions; behaviors should reflect a respect for biblical principles and standards, for the law, and for their obligations to CBS. Further, students are expected to exhibit a consideration for the rights of others, and shared standards of moral and ethical behaviors. For more information, read page 25 in the Student Handbook.
CBS Students are:
1. Responsible for accepting and adhering to the rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the College.
2. Responsible for living and demonstrating good and acceptable principles as a Christian.
3. Responsible for understanding how his/her actions reflect upon the reputation of himself/herself and the College.
4. Responsible for reading all student guidelines, such as the handbook and college catalog, and adhering to the same.
5. Responsible for respecting the authority of the College.
6. Responsible for meeting all college obligations.
7. Responsible for demonstrating the highest degree of integrity at all times.
Related to student disciplinary issues, CBS students have the:
1. Right to be informed, in writing, of all charges.
2. Right to choose not to discuss charges.
3. Right to adequately defend himself/herself by use of witnesses, video tapes, or other means directly related to the case.
4. Right to an open hearing, if one is required.
5. Right to the consultation of an attorney, but an attorney may not attend or participate in the student hearing, unless the College is represented in the hearing by a college attorney.
6. Right to reasonable review, examination of a file containing charges and witness statements.
7. Right to request an immediate hearing.
8. Right to appeal any decision rendered regarding student conduct charges.
9. Right to provide restitution if appropriate and acceptable.
10. Right to seek forgiveness if appropriate. [Back to Top]
The College of Biblical Studies is committed to respecting all members of our community and providing a quality educational experience for all students. Students have the right to file a formal written complaint in reference to academic and institutional functions, personnel, or other members of the College community. The objective of the Formal Student Complaint Policy and Procedure is to ensure that the concerns and complaints of students are addressed fairly and are resolved promptly.
Written student complaints, addressed in the manner specified below, will be handled responsively and follow the procedures stated below. The concerns and complaints of students will be addressed fairly and will be resolved promptly.
Complaints related to this policy are usually the result of behavior that the student feels is unjust, inequitable, or creates an unnecessary hardship. Students may file complaints following this policy if they believe a problem is not governed by other CBS complaint or appeal procedures or if they have exhausted those procedures. Examples of these other procedures not governed by this policy include:
Academic Appeals including:
Academic Suspension/Dismissal
Satisfactory Academic Progress
Grade Appeal
Financial Aid Appeals including:
General Refund Policy
ADA Accommodation Requests
Discrimination Complaints
Sexual Harassment Complaints
Formal Student Complaint Procedures are as follows:
1. Whenever possible, students are encouraged to seek an informal resolution of the matter directly with the faculty or individual/s involved. Following Matthew 18:15-17, offenses against one another should be corrected by the individuals involved (e.g., the student with the complaint should first privately address the offending student, faculty or staff member to resolve the issue). Although the preference is for these matters to initially be dealt with privately, an individual may request a CBS administrator to be present at the initial discussion if the party is concerned about the response of the other individual.
2. Often a complaint can be resolved in this way. However, if an informal approach is neither successful nor advisable, the student should use the following procedure. If there is no resolution to the institutional complaint per item #1, a student may complete a Formal Student Complaint Form; forms are available in the Office of the Dean of Students. When filing a complaint, it is important that all documentation and other evidence associated with the complaint (e.g., witness statements and support documentation) be included. More than one complaint can be filed regarding the same incident. The complaint form will be considered complete only when it is submitted by the complainant.
3. The complaint will be forwarded to the Dean of Students for review, investigation, and resolution. The Dean of Students will notify the student in writing of the final decision within ten business days of the date of the initial complaint and include the notice of a right to appeal.
4. The student has the right to appeal the decision of the Dean of Students to the Vice President of Student and Enrollment Services within ten business days of the date of the written notice of the Dean of Student’s decision. [Back to Top]
The procedures for addressing academic complaints including, but not limited to, faculty members and grades are as follows:
1. Following Matthew 18:15-17, offenses against one another should be corrected by the individuals involved (e.g., the student with the complaint should first privately address the offending student, faculty or staff member to resolve the issue). Although the preference is for these matters to initially be dealt with privately, an individual may request a CBS administrator to be present at the initial discussion if the party is concerned about the response of the other individual.
2. If there is no resolution to an academic complaint, the student should address the matter in writing to the Academic Dean within 120 days of the alleged incident. In some situations, both the Academic Dean and the Dean of Students will meet with the student.
3. If the complaint involves a disagreement between a student and a faculty member, the Faculty Committee may be consulted at the discretion of the Academic Dean. In the event that they are consulted, the Faculty Committee will be the final arbiter in disputes regarding assigned grades as well as any other complaint for which they are consulted. Since the Faculty Committee is the final arbiter, there is no appeal beyond their decision. [Back to Top]
The College of Biblical Studies is committed to maintaining a safe learning and work environment for all students, faculty and staff. Any form of exploitation, intimidation and harassment, including sexual harassment will not be tolerated, and is prohibited by law and our institution’s policy. We believe that education is the most effective way to reinforce this commitment and to create a harassment-free environment. CBS recognizes that all who work and learn at the College are responsible for ensuring that the community is free from discrimination based on sex or gender, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, other forms of sexual misconduct, stalking and intimate-partner violence. These behaviors threaten our learning, living and work environments and will not be tolerated.
College students or employees who experience conduct in violation of this policy are likely to have concerns and questions, including how to report and respond to sex-based misconduct. Title IX complaints by or against CBS students, employees, or third parties, can be filed with the Title IX Coordinator. To discuss concerns or report violations, please contact the Title IX Coordinator:
Paul Keith Title IX Coordinator 832-252-4619 [email protected]Please go to the sexual violence page for further information on sexual misconduct on campus. [Back to Top]
Plagiarism is taking another person’s ideas and presenting them as one’s own or re-submitting work from another course without the faculty member’s permission. If someone else’s thoughts are used, credit must be given to that individual within the text and/or by a citation.
Students should feel responsible for assisting in the maintenance of Christian standards. Students should report acts of academic dishonesty to the professor and help foster a healthy spiritual atmosphere among the student body. Covering up such dishonorable practices is detrimental to the best spiritual atmosphere among the members of the CBS family.
It is the responsibility of the student to be fully informed about the College’s Academic Integrity policy. Lack of knowledge regarding the Academic Integrity policy is not a sufficient basis for appealing disciplinary action.
All initial incidents of academic dishonesty will result in a grade of “F” on the assignment in question, and may subject the student to course failure. Consequently, the incident will be reported to the Academic Dean. Subsequent incidents will result in disciplinary action by the Dean of Students and possible expulsion from the College. In this circumstance, the student has the right to appeal.
There are additional aids that will assist you in avoiding in future circumstances of possible plagiarism
1. A Manual for Writers 8th edition by Kate Turabian gives extensive information on avoiding plagiarism (sections 4.2.3, 7.9, and 15.1).
2. Writing Helps found in http://cbshouston.edu/writing-helps
3. Writing Helps found in http://cbshouston.edu/tutoring
4. Understanding and Avoiding Plagiarism found in https://www.studentlingo.com/cbs.
Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Closed Wednesday 2:00 - 3:15 p.m. and Weekends (Friday - Sunday)
Please contact the Office of the Dean of Students to schedule an appointment
Phone: (832) 252-0757
Email: [email protected]
(Under Construction)
•Student Handbook
•Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (information and form)
•Student Code of Conduct
•Student Responsibility
•Student Rights
•Official Complaint Form
•Academic Complaints
•Sexual Violence
•Plagiarism
Office Hours
Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Closed Wednesday 2:00 - 3:15 p.m. and Weekends (Friday - Sunday)
Please contact the Office of the Dean of Students to schedule an appointment
Phone: (832) 252-0757
Email: [email protected]
Section 18004(e) of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act” or the “Act”)), Pub. L. No. 116-136, 134 Stat. 281 (March 27, 2020), directs institutions receiving funds under Section 18004 of the Act to submit (in a time and manner required by the Secretary) a report to the Secretary describing the use of funds distributed from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (“HEERF”).
Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act requires institutions to use no less than 50 percent of the funds received from Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus (including eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and child care).
On April 9, 2020, the Department published documents related to the Emergency Financial Aid Grants, including a letter from Secretary Betsy DeVos, a form Certification and Agreement for signing and returning by institutions to access the funds, and a list of institutional allocations under 18004(a)(1).
Acknowledgement:
College of Biblical Studies signed and returned the Funding Certification and Agreement for Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students on May 5, 2020. The institution has used, or intends to use, the funds to provide the mandated amount of at least 50 percent of the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) grants to students.
Totals
The following list is in reference to the amount of Emergency Financial Aid Grant funding received, scheduled, and distributed to College of Biblical Studies and its students:
Total Amount of Funding
$101,878: The total amount of funds that CBS has received under the HEERF student portion.
Total Amount of Emergency Financial Aid Grants Distributed to Students
$103,795: The total amount that has been distributed to CBS students as of 07/27/2020.
Total Number of Students at CBS Eligible to Receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants
369: The estimated total number of students at CBS eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA), and therefore eligible to receive an emergency grant as of June 1, 2020.
Total Number of Students who have Received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant
69: The total number of students who have received an emergency grant as of 07/27/2020.
Method(s) used by CBS to Determine who Receives Emergency Financial Aid Grants
The College of Biblical Studies is following the U.S. Department of Education’s guidance on administering the CARES HEERF grants as required by the law. Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act requires institutions to use the funds received from Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus (including eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and child care).
Only students who are or could be eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA), may receive emergency financial aid grants as outlined in the U.S. Department of Education guidance on April 21, 2020.
To be eligible under Section 484 in Title IV of the HEA you must be enrolled and currently attending. We take our role in administering the CARES HEERF program seriously. We have administered the program based on the regulatory language and guidance provided.
Each student completed an application and submit supporting documentation. Each application was reviewed by a committee consisting of representatives from the offices of Provost, Registrar, Admission, and Finance. A collective determination was made if the students request met the qualifications. Approved applications were posted to all committee members to review, then payment requests were processed through usual payment approval processes before disbursement. The average grant was $1,500. The actual grant depended on the students request type, supporting documentation, and availability of funds.
Additional Information Regarding Emergency Financial Aid Grants
The College of Biblical Studies provides information to students on the HEERF Grant program. The information is found on the COVID-19 Updates page on the website.
This webpage provides detailed information on the eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Ongoing Operations of the College of Biblical Studies
In spite of the disruptions and difficulties resulting from COVID-19 and related incidents, the College of Biblical Studies is maintaining full financial operations including employment, vendor, and student financial activities.
Ben Chelladurai serves as the vice president and chief financial officer at the College of Biblical Studies.
Prior to coming to CBS, Mr. Chelladurai served as Director of Finance in Education at Moody Bible Institute; Manager of Accounts and Internal Controls at T&N International Group Company; and Chief Accountant for Big Five Group of Companies. He has also served as Regional Manager in Finance and Administration, Manager of Marketing Finance, and Financial Analyst.
Mr. Chelladurai has been married for 38 years to Jayanthi, and they have 2 adult daughters and three grandchildren. He was ordained by CMA church in Chicago in 2004. Mr. Chelladurai and his wife enjoy equipping and empowering couples in their community with hope and healing in marriages and families through Christ.
The family invites everyone who knew and loved Bob to gather with us at Fairfield Baptist Church (27240 Highway 290, Cypress, TX 77433) for a Celebration of Life Service on Wednesday, July 29 at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to In the Word Ministries (itwministries.com) and the College of Biblical Studies (cbshouston.edu/give-to-cbs).
Dr. A. Charles Ware serves as executive director of Grace Relations and special assistant to the president. He is founder of Grace Relations Network, an international speaker, and serves as a consultant on racial reconciliation and leadership. His ministry is well received by audiences of all ethnic groups.
Prior to coming to CBS, Dr. Ware served as president and president emeritus of Crossroads Bible College, a biblically conservative evangelical institution dedicated to training Christian leaders to a reach multiethnic urban world for Christ. Dr. Ware also served as founder and senior pastor of Crossroads Bible Church in Indianapolis, IN from 2001-2006; founder and pastor of Bethel Bible Church in Camp Spring, MD from 1978-1991; and founder and senior pastor of Scranton Revival Baptist Church in Scranton, PA from 1971-1978.
Dr. Ware and his wife Sharon reside in Indianapolis and have six children, four daughters-in-law, one son-in-law, and four grandchildren.
One Race One Blood (Master Books, 2007). Co-authored with Ken Ham, Answers in Genesis founder and president.
Prejudice and the People of God, (Kregel, 2001).
Another Kind of Courage: God's Design for Fathers of Families Affected by Disability (Joni and Friends Christian Institute on Disability, 2014).
Launching and Leading a Biblical Counseling Ministry in a Multiethnic Church; Biblical Counseling and the Church (Zondervan, 2015).
Christ-Centered Biblical Counseling; The Importance of Multiculturalism in Biblical Counseling (Harvest House, 2013).
Reuniting the Family of God (Baptist Bible College, 2000).
Called to Lead: Wisdom for the Next Generation of African Americans Leaders (Moody Press, 1995).
Understanding Interracial Families: Can the Church Welcome Mixed-Race Couples? Building Unity in the Church of the New Millennium (Moody Press, 2002).
Pastoral Counseling of Multiracial Families; Just Don’t Marry One (Judson Press, 2002).
How Should the Church Respond; The Journal of Ministry and Theology (Baptist Bible Seminary, 2015).
Dr. Nyquist serves as the vice president of discipleship.
Prior to coming to CBS, Dr. Nyquist served as president of Moody Bible Institute, president of Avant Ministries, Graduate Program dean and professor at The Bible Seminary, adjunct professor at Phoenix Seminary and Grace University, and senior pastor at two different churches in the Midwest.
Dr. Nyquist and his wife Cheryl have been blessed with four children (Natalie, Taylor, Carson, and Sawyer) and eight grandchildren.
Discussion 1 Discussion 2 Discussion 3
Discussion 1: Panelists describe their personal experiences with racial injustice.
Dr. Bill Blocker's Response
Dr. Paul Nyquist Response
Dr. Charles Ware's Response
Dr. Phil Sinitiere's Response
Discussion 2: A biblical view of racial injustice and prejudice.
Dr. Bill Blocker's Response
Dr. Paul Nyquist Response
Biblical and Theological Studies LibGuide from the Bible Core Section (BCS) of the Association of Christian Librarians (ACL). This guide is an on-going project of BCS and will introduce you to resources and research skills related to Biblical and Theological Studies. Includes Facts Checker Links on this page. The guide focuses on facilitating access to resources that are completely and freely available.
Biblical & Theological Studies: General Resources – Databases and Search Engines, Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha, Bible Background and History, Apologetics, Archaeology
Biblical & Theological Studies: New Testament – New Testament Commentaries, Dictionaries and Lexicons, New Testament Texts, Bible Translations, Images, Open Access Journals, Early Church and Patristics, Comparative Tools, Ancient World, Archaeology
Biblical & Theological Studies: Old Testament – Old Testament Text, Bible Translations, Web Resources, Dictionaries, Lexicons and Encyclopedias, Archaeology, Commentaries, Images, Open Access Journals, Ancient World, Ancient Near East, Comparative Tools, Open Access Journals
The College of Biblical Studies was founded in 1979 in response to systemic racism. Today, we stand in solidarity with the hundreds of thousands of others in denouncing this oppressive systemic evil. Any assault against God’s creative image is an assault against Him. In fact, in our traditional bachelor’s degree programs, students are required to take a class on Culture, Race and the Church, a curriculum designed by Dr. Charles Ware, founder of Grace Relations and CBS staff member.
Genesis 1:27 says, “God created man in his own image.” Imago Dei is Latin for “image of God,” and the basic understanding of this phrase is that humans are created in God’s own image. Because of that, humans are different from any other creature on earth. Humans reflect God’s divine nature in our ability to achieve the unique characteristics with which we have been heavenly endowed.
In our selfish pursuit of greed, power, or pleasure, humanity blindly attempts to usurp divine authority by ignoring or oppressing the Imago Dei in others. The moral implications of Imago Dei are apparent in God’s greatest commandment, quoted by Jesus in Matthew 22:38-40:
“And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind,’ This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments depend the whole law and the prophets.”
As Christians, we find our highest purpose fulfilled when we love God our Creator and love each other as ourselves. Because of God’s grace, and because we are made in the image of God, we are all His creation through whom His divine plans and purposes are made known to the world.
More resources:
Statement on Biblical and Theological Rationale for Cultural Diversity
The College of Biblical Studies maintains an unwavering commitment to see God glorified, the Gospel proclaimed, the Bible affirmed, and the church unified in an environment that welcomes ethnic and cultural diversity. Our dedication to teaching and practicing truth in love, discipling multiethnic Christian servant leaders, and providing transformative instruction for God’s glory is undergirded and fueled by our obedience to both the Great Commandments and the Great Commission (Matt 22:36-40; 28:18-20). As we seek to love God and our neighbors well and to make Christian disciples of all nations, the College prayerfully and actively pursues ethnic unity and reconciliation with humility, gentleness, patience, grace, biblical truth, and love (Eph 4:1-4, 15, 32; Col 3:12-15; 4:6).
The College’s mission to glorify God by educating and equipping multi-ethnic Christian leaders to impact the world for Christ grounds itself on a biblical and theological worldview in which the Triune God glorifies Himself through unity and diversity. The pursuit of Christian unity in the midst of diversity has its roots within the Triune nature of God. The Scripture declares that there is only one God (Deut 4:35; 6:4; 1 Kings 8:60; Neh 9:6; Is 45:21-22), and He exists from eternity in three Persons: Father (Gen 1:1; Gen 17:1; Ex 3:14; Jer 32:17; Eph 1:3; Phil 1:2), Son (John 1:1, 14; 8:58; 20:28; Rom 9:5; Col 2:9; Heb 1:1-4), and Holy Spirit (Gen 1:2; John 6:63; Acts 5:1-10; 2 Cor 3:17; Ps 139:7-10). Each person of the Trinity is fully God and therefore equal in power, glory, and honor (Is 42:8; Matt 3:13-17; 28:18-20; John 17:1-5; 2 Cor 13:14; Eph 1:20-22; 2 Thess 2:13-14; Rev 1:8). Thus, the Father is God; the Son is God; the Holy Spirit is God, yet there are not three gods, but one God.[i] Likewise, the distinction of persons is always maintained within the Godhead. The Father is, from eternity, the Father, never the Son or the Spirit (Is 63:16; Ps 2:7; Matt 3:13-17; John 3:16; 12:28; Eph 1:17; 2 Thess 1:2); likewise, the Son is, from eternity, the Son, never the Father or the Spirit (John 1:18; 5:19-23; 20:17; Eph 1:7; 2:18); finally, the Spirit is, from eternity, the Spirit, never the Father or Son (John 16:13-15; Rom 8:9; Gal 4:6; 1 Cor 2:10-11; Eph 1:13-14). This unity of divine essence coupled with the diversity of divine personhood is foundational within the Trinitarian life. Thus, when God chose to create man in His image (Gen 1:26-27) and for His glory (Is 43:6-7; 1 Cor 10:31; Ps 24:1; 100:2-3), the Lord ensured that His creation reflected both the unity and diversity that characterizes His own divine nature.
The Scripture declares that the Lord is a God of peace, not disorder (Rom 15:33; 1 Cor 14:33; Phil 4:9). Therefore, unity and diversity can coexist in harmony because it is exemplified within the Triune God (Matt 3:16-17; John 14:26-27; 16:5-15; 17:10, 21-22). For example, when the Lord created those who would bear His image (the imago dei), He created one human race comprised of two genders: male and female (Gen 1:26-27), and this the Lord deemed very good (Gen 1:31). An “image” should reflect the character and qualities of that which it represents. Thus, the oneness of humanity and the distinction of the two genders ensured that human beings properly “imaged” the unity and diversity within God.[ii]
God created human beings with material bodies and immaterial spirits, thereby giving them the ability to relate both to God and man (Gen 2:7, 16, 22). As God reigns over creation, He gave man authority to serve as His vice-regents over the earth, and He commands them to “be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, subdue it, and rule over His creation” (Gen 1:1-2:25, Isaiah 45:18). Having this kind of authority aligns with the likeness of our creator, God. Moreover, the Scripture states that God breathed the breath of life into Adam, thereby establishing a unique connection between God and His image bearer (Gen 2:7). Thus, “to be human is to image God.”[iii] As our Creator, the Lord also remains intimately involved in the formation of every subsequent human life (Ps 139:1-3, 13-16). God gives human beings unique worth and sets them apart from all other creatures (Ps 8:4-8).
Given the fact that Adam and Eve are the parents of all humans (Gen 1:26-28; 2:7, 21-25; 3:20; Rom 5:12-17, 1 Cor 15:45), it makes sense that all human beings are also a part of the same species, Homo Sapiens, and today, even scientists agree that there is only one biological “race” of humans.[iv] While the term “race” is often used as a social construct to denote a person’s cultural background coupled with other physiological characteristics (such as skin color), the Bible consistently employs the term ethnos(Gr. ἔθνος; cf. “ethnic” and “ethnicity”) to describe such distinctives.[v] This understanding is often reflected by missionaries who use the term "people groups" to define “a cluster of human beings that are set apart from others because of their language, culture, geography, or religion.”[vi] Genesis states that from creation to the time of the Flood, humanity“stood in unbroken genetic relation with the first [human] pair, so that the human race constitutes not only a specific unity, a unity in the sense that all men share the same human nature, but also a genetic or genealogical unity.”[vii] Thus, Adam and Eve, along with Noah and his descendants (who repopulated the post-diluvian earth, per Gen 9:1-7, 19; 10:32) possessed the same genetic coding for all subsequent human ethnē or “ethnicities.” Just as God displayed His unity and diversity by creating one human race with two genders, He also reveals the same unity and diversity by creating one human race with various ethnicities. Paul also affirms this in Acts 17:26, when he notes that “God made of one [italics mine] every nation [ethnos] of man to dwell on all the face of the earth.”[viii] Despite the fact that “contemporary notion of ‘races’ is foreign to Scripture, ‘ethnicity’ more accurately describes the real, observable distinctions of nationality, language, culture, and sometimes religion.”[ix] Given its alignment with the biblically-used “ethnos” rather than the culturally-defined term “race,” the word “ethnicity” will be used throughout this statement.
Despite the aforementioned, God-ordained, human unity in the midst of ethnic diversity, the intrusion of sin fractured the God-human (Gen 3:8-11, 22-24; 6:5-6; Is 59:2), man-woman (Gen 3:12, 16), human-world (Gen 3:17-19), human-human relationship (Gen 4:1-16). Sin manifests itself with both a nature (Eph 2:1-3) and behavior that is hostile toward God and others (Rom 1:18-32). With our rebellion, humans traded our once upright, holy nature for a nature that is characterized by death, disorder, and destruction (Gen 6:5-6; Rom 5:12-21). While the imago dei is still present within all human beings, it is gravely marred, perverted, and tarnished by sin (Rom 3:23; James 3:9-10). Sin is defined as any word, action, and/or desire that violates the word of God and/or conscience and alienates us from the Lord. We sin by actively breaking God’s Word or by not performing what is commanded of us in God’s Word. Rather than reflecting divine beauty and peace, our God-given distinctions in personhood, gender, and ethnicity have been sinfully twisted to serve as instruments of division and hostility. This human failure to reflect God’s glory rightly and to represent His image accurately assaults the very character of God. Because of His goodness, God simply cannot let false imagers abide (Ps 100:5; 107:1; Hab 1:13; Nahum 1:2; Rom 1:18; 1 Pet 1:14-16).
After sin entered the world (Gen 3:1-24), human beings now have the tendency to affirm either unity or diversity to the exclusion of the other and to use their own preferences for sinful means. For example, at the Tower of Babel, human beings stood united in the common purpose of making a tower that reached to heaven, thereby attempting to make themselves god-like (Gen 11:1-4). For this rebellion, the Lord scattered humanity across the earth and also divided the earth into different languages (Gen 11:5-9). Thus, humans exploited “unity” for idolatrous means. Likewise, Scripture also notes that man will not hesitate to renounce diversity in an attempt to elevate self. For instance, when Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses’s Cushite wife (Numb 12:1), the Lord viewed their ethnic hostility as a rejection of His authority and Moses’s leadership, and He judged their rebellion by giving Miriam a skin disease (Numb 12:4-13). Thus, Miriam’s attempt to draw “separation” between a man and his Cushite wife directly led to her “separation” from her own people (Numb 12:14-15).[x] In both cases, God judged the exploitation of unity and diversity. Both must be maintained, and both must be used to glorify the Creator, not the created.
Unfortunately, within the modern history of the church, the Bible has been used as a basis for ethnic prejudice. For example, Dutch Reformed Christians used the Bible to sanction apartheid in South Africa during the modern era.[xi] Throughout World War II, Hitler and the Third Reich wielded the scriptures in the philosophy and practice of Nazism.[xii] Finally, as one of the most blatant historical instances when the Bible has been used in this way, some have used the “curse of Ham” as a biblical justification for slavery and mistreatment of blacks in the American South. However, the text declares that it was Canaan, Ham’s son, who was cursed, not Ham himself (Gen 9:24-27). Later, the text states that Ham fathered “Cush, Mizraim, Put, and Canaan” (Gen 10:6). While Cush, Mizraim, and Put likely correspond to modern Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Libya, which are in Africa, Canaan became the father of nations that were in the vicinity of the current Middle East (Gen 10:15-20).[xiii] While the “curse of Ham” has often been leveled against blacks, nothing in the text of Scripture states that the Canaanites were dark-skinned. True to Noah’s prophecy, God drove the Canaanites out of the land due to their wickedness (Deut 9:4-5). Therefore, the “curse of Canaan” has nothing to do with those of African descent, and its use to justify the African slave trade not only serves as a prime example of poor exegesis, but it also functions as a blatant misuse of Scripture.
In an attempt to press for unity, many within society and the church have tried to function as if they are “color blind” when it comes to engaging those of different ethnicities. While their efforts may be well-intentioned, they are also misguided. Unity and diversity should not be viewed as an “either-or” but as a “both-and.” The Lord created people of different colors, complexions, and ethnicities. We should see and honor His creative work and give glory to the Creator for what He has done. We should see the distinctions and honor them as reflections of divine glory: He creates one human race (thereby establishing the unity of His image bearers) with different ethnicities (thereby cementing the diversity of His creative order). The Lord commanded that His people be one as the Triune God is one (John 17:11, 20). As each member of Godhead retains His individual personhood while sharing full deity, different groups maintain their ethnic distinctiveness while sharing full humanity. Therefore, unity does not equal uniformity. In fact, the Scripture does not shy away from ethnic diversity but recognizes it openly (Jer 13:23; John 4:9; Mark 7:24-29; Acts 8:26-40; Acts 16:1). If the Scripture, the very Word of God, recognizes such ethnic distinctions, then the people of God should follow suit. At the same time, solidarity of purpose does not mandate unanimity of action. Brothers and sisters who fully agree on the need for ethnic unity can, and often will, disagree on how to accomplish that unity. Believers must rely upon wisdom, prayer, and love in order to achieve diversity in a way that honors God and promotes peace (Eph 4:1-7; James 1:5; Rom 12:9-12; 1 John 4:11). Since God creates all people in His image, He therefore gives all “ethnic groups the same status and unique value that comes from being His image bearer.”[xiv]
Christ, the Great reconciler, is the light of the world (John 1:9; 8:12), and He has called a people unto Himself, the church, who reflect His image by serving as lights in the world (Matt 5:14-16).[xv] Now, every person can be reconciled to God through the lifesaving blood of Jesus Christ (Gal 3:26-29; Col 1:19-20; 1 John 2:1-2). As the Lamb of God, Jesus takes away the sins of the world and gave Himself as a ransom for all men and women, regardless of ethnicity (John 1:29; 1 Pet 1:19; 1 Tim 2:5-6). The Lord lauded the faith and righteous acts of Gentiles (Luke 4:24-30; Luke 10:25-37), and he calls His people to proclaim His Gospel message to all nations for His glory (Matt 28:18-20). Just as He began the proclamation of the Gospel to Gentiles, Samaritans, and people from various nationalities (Matt 4:14-17; John 4:1-42), He calls His church to take the Gospel to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit fell on people of many different ethnicities so that all could hear the Gospel in their own distinctive languages and take that good news to their countries of origin (Acts 2:1-13). The same Holy Spirit who was present at creation (Gen 1:2), the same Holy Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead (Rom 8:11), is the same Holy Spirit who indwells believers, regardless of ethnicity (1 Cor 3:16; 6:19; Acts 10:1-48). Empowered by the Holy Spirit whom the Father has sent through Jesus (John 14:26), true disciples commit themselves to obeying the Lord and fulfilling His Great Commission. Therefore, it comes as no surprise to see Peter and the apostles proclaiming the good news in Jerusalem (Acts 1-7), Philip preaching the word in Samaria (Acts 8), other leaders announcing the message to Judea (Acts 9-12), and Paul taking the Gospel to the ends of the earth (Acts 13-28).
A central aspect of the aforementioned Gospel message lies in the fact that salvation is of the Jews (John 4:22).[xvi] While the Lord first took the Gospel to the nation of Israel (Matt 10:6; 15:24), it has always been the sovereign plan of God to extend salvation to the Gentiles (Is 49:6; Rom 11:1-36). Because of Jesus Christ’s perfect salvific work, anyone who receives His message and ministry through faith is no longer an estranged enemy of God (Rom 10:9-13; Col 1:21-23). Even though Gentiles have been engrafted into the people of God, this does not allow anyone to overlook the importance of the Jewish nation throughout creative and redemptive history (Gen 12:1-3; Rom 9:1-5; 11:17-24). In His own flesh, Jesus tore down the barrier of the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile and created a new body, from the two, in Himself, thereby establishing peace (Eph 2:11-21). Therefore, the church of God denounces and decries any attempt to rebuild that wall through inclinations towards and acts of anti-Semitism. The head of the Church, Jesus Christ, was born a Jew, lived as a Jew, died as a Jew, and was raised from the dead as a Jew.[xvii] He intercedes for His people, and He will come again, as a Jew, to reign over the millennial kingdom and ultimately, the new heavens and the new earth. Since anti-Semitism, at its core, blasphemes God the Son, it remains wholly rejected by the Son’s church.
In the clearest terms, the College of Biblical Studies emphatically and unequivocally denounces all forms of ethnic supremacy, racism/racialization, ethnic division, and ethnic prejudice (i.e. what James 2:1-13 describes as personal favoritism, making distinctions, and partiality) because it portrays a false image of God’s Tri-unity, violates the two Great Commandments (Matt 22:36-40), and denigrates His good work of creation. The Christian[xviii] cannot and must not be silent in the face of ethnic prejudice. As she proclaims the Gospel to all nations (Mark 13:10; Rev 14:6), the church must perform her duty and call sin for what it is: sin. While the Lord has given us ethnic distinctions by His own sovereign choice, He also affirms that our heavenly citizenship dwarfs any other allegiance to country, tribe, or nationality (Phil 1:27; 3:20; Mark 11:17). Ethnic supremacy is a moral evil that runs counter to and remains incompatible with biblical Christianity. The Gospel serves as the antidote for this evil. Excusing, ignoring, dismissing, or engaging in ethnic prejudice constitutes a break in our adherence to Christ (Gal 3:26-29). Therefore, the sin of ethnic bias and/or economic exploitation/discrimination must be actively addressed, not passively engaged (Acts 6:1-7; Gal 2:11-21). Whether we battle ethnic superiority within our own hearts (the flesh), with the larger culture and societal structures (the world), or against our old foe (the devil) who brings disunity and hatred toward others (Eph 2:1-3), we wage war against sin in a way that brings honor to Christ (Rom 6:6; 11-14; 7:23; 8:12-13; James 4:4-10). Like any earthly institution, CBS has missed the mark in its past and continues to grow in its present regarding ethnic reconciliation; nevertheless, we strive toward and labor for a future that is marked by Christian love, peace, unity, and diversity across all ethnicities.
As ambassadors for Christ, we must represent Him faithfully as ministers of reconciliation and press toward godly unity and fellowship with brothers and sisters from all backgrounds (1 Cor 1:10; 2 Cor 5:18-21; Eph 4:1-6; Gal 3:28; Col 3:11). The pursuit of reconciliation is not easy; it requires sacrifice, suffering, prayer, and toil (Luke 9:23-26; Col 1:24-29; Eph 6:18). It consists in viewing others as more important than ourselves (Phil 2:3), serving as a slave to all because we are slaves to Jesus Christ (Rom 6:15-23; 1 Cor 9:19-23), forgiving one another as Christ has forgiven us (Mark 11:25; Col 3:13), and embracing fellow brothers and sisters of different ethnic or social standings (Phm 1:10-20). Standing united against ethnic animus means submitting to God, recognizing and resisting the devil’s scheme to sow disunity by dividing people along ethnic lines (Gal 3:28; Col 3:11; James 4:7), confessing individual and corporate sins (James 5:16; 1 John 1:9), purifying our hearts (James 4:8), bearing one another’s burdens (Gal 6:2), humbling ourselves (James 4:10), outdoing one another in honor (Rom 12:10), and showing affection to each other with brotherly love (Matt 5:23-24; Rom 12:10; 1 John 2:9; 1 John 4:7-8, 20). Though we have unity in Christ, this does not necessarily mean that members of God’s household will have the same opinions or arrive at the same conclusions. Nevertheless, as brothers and sisters in the Lord, we must be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry” (James 1:19), particularly as we engage each other on issues regarding ethnic harmony and diversity. Believers are aliens and sojourners in this world, and our witness should proclaim us as such (1 Peter 2:11). Consequently, the unbelieving world should see Christians incarnating the Gospel message by loving one another without holding grudges or seeking its own at the expense of others (1 Cor 13:5). Despite the fact that reconciliation and unity across ethnic lines may be met with hostility (Gal 2:11-14), Christian disciples follow the mandate of the Lord to love one another sacrificially (John 15:12-17; 1 John 4:7-21).
At the final consummation, God will display the beauty and grandeur of His creative and redemptive work. According to Rev. 7:9, the Apostle John sees “a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.” In addition, that multitude cries out with a loud voice, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’” This multitude stands together as one, and the different members openly praise the Lord with “a” loud voice. “When [different ethnic groups] unite in worship to God, the beauty of their praise will echo the depth and greatness of God’s beauty far more than if the redeemed were from only a few different people groups.”[xix] God has therefore sovereignly ordained that unity and diversity typifies heavenly worship. Moreover, the fact that all nations will worship God underscores the fact that He is universally praiseworthy.[xx] “The fame, greatness, and worth of an object of beauty increases in proportion to the diversity of those who recognize its beauty. … Thus the diversity of the source of human admiration will testify to [God’s] incomparable glory.”[xxi] Finally, the new Jerusalem boasts the tree of life, the leaves of which serve for the healing of the nations (Rev 22:2). Since Christians serve the Triune Lord and pray for His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matt 6:9-13), both the local and the universal church must strive to value and embrace the unity and diversity of the One whose image we bear (Col 3:10-11).
As Christ adherents, the members of the CBS community strive to live out our heavenly citizenship (Phil 1:27; 3:20) by remaining rooted in God’s word, focused on God the Son, led by God the Spirit, and committed to God the Father. We seek to value all that Christ values (Matt 6:19-21, 33). God’s glory is demonstrated through the proclamation of the Gospel among the nations; therefore, CBS remains resolute in its commitment to the pursuit of God’s glory by being discipled and making disciples (including faculty, staff, students, and board members) who recognize the value of and work toward ethnic reconciliation and unity.
A Prayer to God
O Triune God, You are the sovereign author and giver of life, and Your very nature reflects perfect unity and diversity. Thank You for creating human beings of different ethnicities, backgrounds, and cultures in Your image, according to Your likeness, and for Your glory.
Father, help us to be honest with You, ourselves, and one another about areas in which we need to grow in our love for You and our neighbors. For the sake of Christian fellowship (koinonia), may our commitment to the pursuit of ethnic reconciliation and unity far outweigh any misplaced allegiance to our own comfort and convenience. When we fail to love You and others rightly, convict Your people, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to recognize our error and to call it for what it is: sin. Forgive us, Lord, when we disparage, belittle, or dismiss others on the basis of their ethnicity or race. We repent of this, and we ask for Your forgiveness. Help Your Church to be one, as You are one. Give Your sons and daughters sacrificial, other-centered, Spirit-driven agape love for people of every tribe, language, people, and nation. May the world know that we are Yours by a love that is demonstrated as we listen humbly to one another, intercede faithfully for one another, and engage intentionally with one another, across all ethnic lines, for the advancement of the Gospel.
Lord, we present this document to You, and we thank You for allowing us to participate in the work of Your ministry. May this work glorify You and strengthen Your church. As ministers of reconciliation and ambassadors for Your Son, use us, in any way that You see fit, as instruments of Your love, justice, truth, righteousness, and peace. Father, bring us shalom and be our shalom through the Prince of Shalom, Jesus Christ. In His name and by Your Spirit we pray. Amen.
[i] “The Athanasian Creed” from John H. Louth, ed., Creeds of the Churches: A Reader in Christian Doctrine from the Bible to the Present, 3rd Edition (Louisville, KY: John Knox Press, 1982), 705. See also “The Definition of Chalcedon” from Louth, Creeds of the Churches, 34-36.
[ii] While men and women are image bearers, the Lord intentionally created both men and women with God-given, complementary distinctions that not only highlight His unity and diversity but also bring Him great glory. For additional information on the College’s position on biblical gender roles, see http://www.cbshouston.edu/gender-roles.
[iii] Michael S. Heiser, The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible, First Edition. (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2015), 42–43. Even though God made human beings in His image, an image is never greater than that which it represents. Therefore, image bearers must worship God, and God alone, as their sovereign Lord and Creator (Ex 20:3-6; Deut 6:13-15; Luke 4:8; Rom 1:18-23).
[iv] Ken Ham and Charles Ware, One Race One Blood: A Biblical Answer to Racism (Green Forest, AZ: Master Books, 2007), 112. Kindle Edition. For additional scholarly statements regarding the opposition to separate “races,” see “AAPA Statement on the Biological Aspects of Race,” from the American Association of Physical Anthropologists, http://physanth.org/about/position-statements/biological-aspects-race/. Accessed on November 4, 2018. See also the “AAA Statement on Race” from the American Anthropological Association, https://www.americananthro.org/ConnectWithAAA/Content.aspx?ItemNumber=2583. Accessed on November 4, 2018.
[v]Τόἔθνος(ethnos)is defined as a body of persons united by kinship, culture, and common traditions, nation, people, (cf. Acts 8:9; Matt 24:14; 28:19; Mark 11:17; 13:10). The term is also used to denote “people groups foreign to a specific people group, specifically, those who do not belong to groups professing faith in the God of Israel, such as the nations, Gentiles, unbelievers” (Acts 11:1, 18; 14:5; 21:21; 26:17; Rom 3:29; 9:24; 15:10). Finally, the word describes non-Israelite Christians, Gentiles of Christian congregations composed of more than one nationality and not limited to people of Israel (Rom 16:4; Eph 3:1).” See William Arndt et al., A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature (BDAG) (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2000), 276-277.
In addition, the Scripture also uses the term ἡ φυλή(phylē) to describe different subgroups within a distinct nation, such as the12 tribes of Israel (Luke 2:36; Phil 3:5; Heb 7:13; Rev 7:4).For example, the tribe (phylē) of Reuben is a subgroup of the ethnos or “nation” of Israel. SeeWilliam Arndt, BDAG, 1069.
The New Testament also uses the word ό γένος (genos) todescribe a “relativelylargepeoplegroupornation.” William Arndt, BDAG, 194. It should be noted, however, that the term can have several different connotations in the NT, including “family” (e.g., Acts 7:13), “descent or origin” (e.g., Rev 22:16), “race of people or nation” (e.g., Acts 7:19, 2 Cor 11:26, Phil 3:5), “nationality” (e.g., Mark 7:26; Acts 4:36) or “kind” (e.g., Matt 13:47; Mark 9:29). See Moisés Silva, ed., New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology and Exegesis(Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014), 556–557.
Of the terms used, τόἔθνοςoccurs with the most frequency (162 times). See John Kohlenberger III, Edward W. Goodrick, James A. Swanson, The Exhaustive Concordance of the Greek New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1995), 250-252.
[vi] Ham and Ware, One Race, One Blood, 115.
[vii] Louis Berkhof, Systematic Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1938), 188.
[viii] Ibid.
[ix] Thabiti Anyabwile, “Many Ethnicities, One Race,” from the 9Marks Journal, https://www.9marks.org/article/many-ethnicities-one-race/. Accessed on November 4, 2018.
[x] While some have sought to use Scripture to argue against interracial marriage, the Bible issues no such prohibition. The Lord has consistently commanded His people to marry those who worship Him and Him alone (Ex 34:11-16, Deut 7:1-6; Josh 23:11-13; 1 Kings 11:1-8; Ezra 9:1-3; 1 Cor 7:39; 2 Cor 6:14); therefore, inter-faith marriage, not interracial/interethnic marriage, violates divine law. See also John Piper, Did Moses Marry a Black Woman?” https://www.9marks.org/article/did-moses-marry-black-woman/. Accessed on November 5, 2018.
[xi] Several essay collections feature historical and theological analysis related to South Africa, Christianity, and apartheid. See R. Drew Smith, et. al., Contesting Post-Racialism: Conflicted Churches in the United States and South Africa (Jackson: University Press of Mississippi, 2015); R. Drew Smith, ed., Freedom’s Distant Shores: American Protestants and Post-Colonial Alliances with Africa (Waco: Baylor University Press, 2006); William E. Van Vugt and G. Daan Cloete, Race and Reconciliation in South Africa (Lanham, MD: Lexington Books, 2000).
[xii] Important studies of this topic include Susannah Heschel, The Aryan Jesus: Christian Theologians and the Bible in Nazi Germany (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2010); Richard Steigman-Gall, The Holy Reich: Nazi Conceptions of Christianity, 1919-1945 (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2004); Doris L. Bergen, Twisted Cross: The German Christian Movement in the Third Reich (Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1996).
[xiii] John Piper, Racial Reconciliation: Unfolding Bethlehem’s Fresh Initiative #3, Racial Harmony Sunday. Sermon Delivered January 14, 1996. https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/racial-reconciliation. Accessed on October 30, 2018. See also Gordon J. Wenham, Genesis 1–15, vol. 1, Word Biblical Commentary (Dallas: Word Incorporated, 1998), 221. In addition, see J. Daniel Hays, From Every People and Nation: A Biblical Theology of Race, ed. D. A. Carson, vol. 14, New Studies in Biblical Theology (Downers Grove, IL; England: InterVarsity Press; Apollos, 2003), 34. See also Stephen R. Haynes, Noah's Curse: The Biblical Justification of American Slavery. New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 2002. Sylvester A. Johnson, The Myth of Ham in Nineteenth-Century American Christianity: Race, Heathens, and the People of God. New York, NY: Palgrave Macmillan Publishers, 2004).
[xiv] Hays, From Every People and Nation: A Biblical Theology of Race, 202.
[xv] The one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church of Jesus Christ is also comprised of different members with distinctive Spirit-given gifts (1 Cor 12:1-31). Thus, by divine ordination, the bride of Christ also reflects the unity and diversity of the Triune God. Therefore, in His creative work, the Triune God intentionally displays His unity in the creation of one human race and one church; at the same time, He deliberately shows His diversity in the creation of two different, complementary genders; various people groups and ethnicities; and distinctive, edifying gifts among the saints.
[xvi] Throughout the Scripture, the Lord describes Israel as His treasured possession out of all the other peoples on the earth (Deut 7:6; 14:2; 26:18; Ps 135:4). However, the text also declares that Israel’s special status had nothing to do with her own inherent worth; on the contrary, Israel’s election depended solely upon the sovereign grace and love of the Lord who wills as He chooses (Deut 7:7-8). The Scripture also declares that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory, regardless of ethnicity (Rom 2:12-29; 3:10, 23; Eph 2:1-3). In Christ, the Father elects and adopts believers of all ethnicities to the praise of His glorious grace (Eph 1:1-6; 2:4-22).
[xvii] Russell Moore, If You Hate Jews, You Hate Jesus, https://www.russellmoore.com/2018/10/28/if-you-hate-jews-you-hate-jesus/. Accessed on November 4, 2018.
[xviii] The Christian (ὁΧριστιανός) can best be described as “a Christ partisan, one who associates or identifies with Christ” (See BDAG, 1090). Therefore, the Christian’s primary allegiance belongs to Christ. As His ambassadors, we represent Jesus and His interests, not ourselves or our own interests (2 Cor 5:20). Therefore, our adherence to Christ must reign supreme and supersede all other relationships, loyalties, or cultural identifiers, including ethnicity and/or land of origin or residence. Christ’s commitments must be the Christian’s commitments, for we are His (Matt 10:24-25; Luke 6:40; 1 Cor 3:23; Eph 5:1-2). In His flesh and by His blood, Jesus has created one new body, the Church, which is composed of saints from all ethnicities (Eph 2:11-22; Rev 5:9-10; 7:9). The nations are the Messiah’s inheritance (Ps 2:7-8), and since evangelizing and making disciples of those nations remained a clear priority of Jesus Christ (Matt 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; 9:15-16; 22:21; 26:14-18), it should be of the utmost importance to His followers, who only have access to God as a result of Christ’s perfect work and by the power of the eternal Spirit (Rom 5:2; Eph 2:18; 3:12; Heb 9:13-14).
[xix] John Piper, Let the Nations Be Glad: The Supremacy of God in Missions, Third Edition (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic Publishers, 2010), 222.
[xx] Ibid.
[xxi] Ibid., 222-223.
Filing a Student Complaint Against a Texas Higher Education Institution. Click here: http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/links/student-complaints/, or email: [email protected].
Discrimination:
A student has experienced discrimination, they may file with the Indiana Commission for Higher Education using the following secure link: https://secure.in.gov/apps/icrc/discrimination
Within two years of the incident about which the student is complaining, he/she must contact the Commission for Higher Education using our complaint form.
Please note that the Commission cannot, by law, review complaints related to course grades, academic sanctions or discipline/conduct matters. In other areas, such as transferring credits between public institutions, the Commission has greater statutory authority.
Please follow the steps outlined below to submit a complaint:
STEP 1
If a student has concerns related to classroom situations or administrative actions, he/she should contact the faculty or staff member(s) with whom he/she has a conflict. It may be possible to resolve the concerns without the need for formal institutional action. However, if the student’s complaint is not resolved satisfactorily, or if the complaint cannot be resolved by contacting the faculty or staff member(s), the student should proceed to STEP 2.
STEP 2
The student should file a complaint through his/her institution of higher education’s established complaint process. Information on the process can usually be found in the institution’s academic catalog, student handbook or website. If the student is unable to resolve the complaint in this manner, he/she should proceed to STEP 3.
STEP 3
After receiving a complaint through our complaint form, Commission staff will review the submitted materials and contact the submitter for any required additional information or clarifications. The Commission will then send a copy of the complaint to the institution against which the complaint has been filed and ask for a response within three weeks. After receiving the college or university’s response, Commission staff will determine whether the institution’s student complaint process has been followed and exhausted and what additional steps or follow-up may be taken. The Commission will inform both parties involved in the complaint.
If you have additional questions about the complaint process, or want to clarify that your individual complaint is reviewable by the Commission, please feel free to contact [email protected].
In line with its mission to maintain high quality standards, the Office of Institutional Effectiveness oversees the writing, review, and publication of Institutional Policies. The institution has identified key decision-makers as Policy Owners to oversee the quality of their respective policy sections in the policy manual.
CBS’s policy approval process aligns with the SACSCOC Best Practices for Policy Development.
All official, signed copies of policies are archived in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness digital files. For questions related to the Policy Manual (or e-Manual), please email [email protected].
If you are an employee of CBS and would like a link to the e-Manual (the College’s online Policy Manual), please email [email protected].
To initiate a policy, please use the following Policy Template with Signature Page.
Peace in the Storm (Part I)
Finding Purpose Through The Pain (Part II)
Resurrection Power (Part III)
“We will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
(2 Corinthians 1:4).
Discipleship | Discipleship Team | Discipleship Coaching | Formation Courses | Events
The CBS Discipleship Department “Care & Comfort Team” is pleased to provide pastoral care and prayer for our students. As a student of CBS, you have a team of staff and faculty ready to assist you any way we can. College can be a challenging experience, but add to that the stresses and strains brought on by the coronavirus, and it can feel overwhelming! We would be honored to come alongside you to provide prayer, care, and comfort as you cope with health concerns, family needs, economic upheaval, spiritual anxiety, or any other concerns you may have.
PRAYER REQUESTS
Have a prayer need? Contact us or simply fill out this PRAYER REQUEST FORM.
All requests will remain confidential.
DISCIPLESHIP COUNSEL
Need some spiritual guidance? Struggling under the weight of the demands of life, school, ministry? Perhaps, you just need someone to listen to you? Our chaplains are here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
CBS CARE & COMFORT TEAM
Hours: Monday – Thursday; 9:00 am – 6:00 pm CST
Discipleship | Discipleship Team | Discipleship Coaching | Formation Courses | Events
Updates and further information will be sent via Watchman Emergency Alert System and on our website. Updates are also available on this page.
March 23-28, 2020
March 16-21, 2020
On-campus classes for all CBS locations canceled March 16-21.
On-campus classes to transition to off-campus beginning March 23.
COVID-19: STUDENT FAQ
Download the latest Student FAQ
1. What is the best way to reach the crisis team or to ask general questions?
2. Who is making decisions on campus crises and health issues?
3. What is the current CDC guidance for colleges and universities?
4. Am I at risk of contracting COVID-19 by coming to work or to class?
5. Is CBS suspending campus visitors at this time?
6. Is there someone at CBS we can contact for prayer or spiritual guidance?
7. Where can I find more information about COVID-19 (coronavirus)?
8. I don’t feel well. What should I do?
9. Can I request a test for COVID-19?
11. What if I encounter someone who is showing signs of illness?
12. When can I return to work or classes if I have COVID-19 or any contagious illness?
14. How will you notify students of any changes?
15. Will the CBS campuses be open even though on-ground classes are cancelled?
16. What resources are available to help students prepare for online classes?
17.What is the pass/fail grading option, and what do I do if I want to take this option?
19. Is commencement cancelled?
20. What do we do if we’ve ordered our cap, gown, or announcements?
21.Can we still order class rings?
22.What events are canceled or postponed?
23. Where can I find the information about the Emergency Financial Aid and CARES Act?
Have a question that’s not answered here? Contact us at [email protected]
Contact information:
Blackboard questions: [email protected]
Media: [email protected]
All others: [email protected]
General Questions
1. What is the best way to reach the crisis team or to ask general questions?
CBS has assigned the following email for all questions and comments related to the coronavirus event: [email protected].
2. Who is making decisions on campus crises and health issues?
The CBS crisis management team includes the president’s cabinet and other functional leadership. For the COVID-19 crisis, the crisis team follows the recommendations of the CDC, health officials, and local government officials.
3. What is the current CDC guidance for colleges and universities?
The CDC’s Resources for Institutes of Higher Education provides guidance for institutes of higher education regarding administration, cleaning, and attendance.
4. Am I at risk of contracting COVID-19 by coming to work or to class?
The main priority of CBS is the health and safety of students, staff, and faculty. We are monitoring the situation around the clock to ensure we are acting in the best interest of our CBS community. Updates are provided through email, our website, and through our Watchman Emergency Alert System.
5. Is CBS suspending campus visitors at this time?
CBS has cancelled all campus events until further notice to limit the number of visitors to our campuses. Information regarding any changes will be provided through email, our website, and through our Watchman Emergency Alert System as appropriate.
6. Is there someone at CBS we can contact for prayer or spiritual guidance?
The CBS Discipleship Department’s “Care & Comfort Team” is available to provide pastoral care and prayer for our students.
We would be honored to come alongside you to provide prayer, care, and comfort as you cope with health concerns, family needs, economic upheaval, spiritual anxiety, or any other concerns you may have. Here’s how you can reach the Care & Comfort Team:
CBS Care & Comfort Team
Hours: Monday – Thursdays from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm CST
Phone #: 832.252.0734
COVID-19 Spread, Symptoms, and Quarantine
7. Where can I find more information about COVID-19 (coronavirus)?
Everyone is encouraged to follow information on preventing COVID-19 by visiting the CDC website.
8. I don’t feel well. What should I do?
If you are ill, contact a doctor and stay home until you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing or other symptom altering medicine. Also, if you have been exposed to the virus, please contact CBS immediately.
Please call a medical professional if, in the last 14 days, you:
As with all contagious illnesses, limit the potential for exposure to other people and do not come to school. Take the following actions:
9. Can I request a test for COVID-19?
Medical personnel, in consultation with the state health department, will determine if an individual should be tested for COVID-19. This test requires a doctor’s order.
Anyone undergoing a self-quarantine should follow the CDC's self-quarantine guidelines:
Stay home for 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread, ongoing community spread, and practice social distancing.
Take these steps to monitor your health and practice social distancing:
For additional questions on monitoring your health, contact your health care provider.
11. What if I encounter someone who is showing signs of illness?
As with Influenza or contagious illnesses such as colds, maintaining a distance of 3 to 6 feet from the person is a starting point. Do not shake hands or make other physical contact. Offer the individual a tissue and ask the person to cover their mouth and nose if they should need to cough or sneeze. Use an antiviral wipe or spray after the person has left to wipe those areas that the person has touched.
12. When can I return to work or classes if I have COVID-19 or any contagious illness?
The current message from health care providers and the CDC is to stay home and do not return to work or school until you have not had a fever for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications. Always follow the instruction of a medical professional.
Classes and Academics
On-campus class sessions are canceled March 16-21. Online classes will continue as usual. In order to protect our staff and students, all on-campus classes and operations will begin an off-campus format beginning the week of March 23 until further notice.
14. How will you notify students of any changes?
Updates will be communicated through email, our website, and Watchman Emergency Alert System. Students will be contacted as early as possible and will be given further instructions. Students should communicate with their instructor as they receive updates from the instructor for course completion requirements.
15. Will the CBS campuses be open even though on-ground classes are cancelled?
CBS operations will continue. However, if it becomes necessary, all CBS campus operations will transition to an off-campus format. Staff and students will be alerted as early as possible.
16. What resources are available to help students prepare for online classes?
Resources are available at CBS Learn student portal. For help with Blackboard or if you would like tutoring, email the Learn Helpdesk at [email protected].
17. What is the pass/fail grading option, and what do I do if I want to take this option?
To offer greater support and lessen the negative impact on you, we have instituted a new policy regarding course grades. As of April 2, 2020, students may choose a “pass” or “fail” grading structure or continue with a letter grade with grade points that correlate with the grade.
Pass/fail can be applied to one class, or as many as you would like. You do not have to apply it to all your classes. However, you must notify your professor before the last date of the class on the syllabus, and make sure you do enough work possible to earn at least a 60 in a face-to-face class or a 600 in an online class.
Please note: This pass/fail option only applies to the Spring 2020 classes that end after April 2, 2020 and Summer 2020 semester classes.
To learn more about this option, please visit our Pass/Fail Grading Option on our website.
18. What if I need to contact student services, such as academic advising, financial aid, or other services?
CBS plans to maintain campus administrative operations as long as possible and will then transition to remote services support throughout this event until campus operations can be resumed.
19. Is commencement cancelled?
At this point, we hope to be able to hold commencement exercises. A final decision will be made at a later date.
20.What do we do if we’ve ordered our cap, gown, or announcements?
Representatives for Balfour have informed us that once the caps, gowns, and announcements are ordered and delivered to the student, there are no refunds. However, if graduates have ordered their caps, gowns, and announcements, but the order has not been received, the order can be canceled, and a refund will be issued.
We recommend that graduates who have not purchased their caps, gowns, and announcements, do not order them until further notice.
21.Can we still order class rings?
Graduates interested in ordering their class rings may still do so. Rings can be ordered anytime and will be shipped directly to the students within 6 – 8 weeks.
22.What events are canceled or postponed?
All CBS events, including campus tours and visits, are canceled until further notice.
23. Where can I find the information about the Emergency Financial Aid and CARES Act?
You can access http://www.cbshouston.edu/heerf to learn more about our reporting on Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund and Emergency Financial Aid to students.
Student FAQ | Updates | Helpful Links | Pass/Fail Option | Higher Ed Emergency Relief Fund
CBS leadership continues to monitor the CDC guidelines on eliminating the spread of COVID-19. Using data and trend lines from CDC, the World Health Organization, and other colleges and universities, we believe it is in the best interest of our students and staff to continue all classes remotely for the Spring 2021 and Summer 2021 semesters. We will continue to monitor conditions in order to determine if we can return to on-campus instruction on July 1, 2021, for the beginning of the CBS Fall 2021 semester. Read the message from CBS President Dr. Bill Blocker.
Due to the restrictions related to the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), we must postpone the Houston commencement on May 9, and the Indiana commencement on June 20.
Our goal is to reschedule both commencements and contact you as soon as we have more information.
There are few events more anticipated and memorable for graduates, their families, and our staff. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience, and I look forward to the time when we can come together once again.
Representatives for Balfour have informed us that once the caps, gowns, and announcements are ordered and delivered to the student, there are no refunds. However, if graduates have ordered their caps, gowns, and announcements, but the order has not been received, the order can be cancelled and a refund will be issued.
We recommend that graduates who have not purchased their caps, gowns, and announcements, do not order them until further notice.
Graduates interested in ordering their class rings may still do so. Rings can be ordered anytime and will be shipped directly to the students within 6 – 8 weeks.
Helpful information:
Technical support for Blackboard, CBS email, and SonisWeb: [email protected]
Librarian support for research needs: [email protected]
Tutors to assist with writing papers and other academic matters: http://learn.cbshouston.edu/tutoring.html
Prayer and pastoral advice at: http://www.cbshouston.edu/ask-a-pastor
All others: [email protected]
Pass/Fail Option Explained: http://cbshouston.edu/pass-fail-explained
On-Campus Classes and Operations Move to an Off-Campus Format March 23, 2020
As of 6 pm (Central Time), Tuesday, March 17, all CBS locations will end on-campus operations and begin remote operations until further notice.
CBS leadership and the crisis management team are keeping informed and staying updated with current information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Office of Emergency Management-Houston, the Indiana State Department of Health, and our government officials.
The health and safety of our students and staff is our first priority. While health officials around the world are still learning about this novel virus, communities, schools, and organizations are being asked to take the same precautions to stop the spread of COVID-19 as we would other viral illnesses (such as the flu).
Prevention is Key:
The Center for Disease Control always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of all respiratory diseases, including:
Following CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask
A seminar about building grace and truth relationships with unbelieving LGBTQ individuals.
Date: April 18th, 2020 (Saturday)
Time: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: The College of Biblical Studies-Indianapolis, 3500 DePauw Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46268
Registration Fee: $25 per person (non-refundable)
Registration Deadline: April 5th, 2020
Register NOW to HEART, MIND & SOUL: LGBTQ Seminar
What is the purpose of the seminar?
Christians often feel a sense of confusion, anger, or even a reluctance to engage LGBTQ individuals in relationship — choosing instead to simply avoid or condemn. Believers’ own attitudes may keep us from sharing the love of Jesus with people from within the LGBTQ community. Yet, that is exactly what God calls each of us to do. The Heart, Mind & Soul: LGBTQ Seminar will help you and your church be better equipped to engage others the same way Jesus did. This is an interactive seminar where attendees learn how to build grace and truth relationships with unbelieving LGBTQ individuals.
What will we be discussing at the seminar?
The seminar is divided into three sections: Heart, Mind and Soul.
REGISTRATION FORM
Questions or need more information?
Contact [email protected] or 317.789.8247. We look forward to seeing you in the seminar at CBS-Indianapolis!
Please share the exiciting news about the event with special guest Tony Dungy and honoring Dr. Charles Ware, with your friends and families!
For more information, please visit cbsgala.com, contact Advancement at 832-252-0759 or email [email protected].
Thank you for your interest of attending the Group Tour to visit our Houston campus! The tour features an opportunity to visit our beautiful building and loving staff, sit in on a CBS class, enjoy refreshments, and hear a presentation on our academic programs.
You are invited to come to a free informational meeting about CBS-Houston. We look forward to meeting you through the individual tour! The tour features an opportunity to visit our beautiful building and loving staff, sit in on a CBS class, enjoy refreshments, and hear a presentation on our academic programs.
Marcus Schrader serves as the Dean of the College of Biblical Studies in Indianapolis, Indianapolis.
Prior to coming to CBS, Rev. Schrader served for 12 years as the Vice President of Administration and Academics at Crossroads Bible College in Indianapolis, Indiana. Marcus Schrader has been with CBS from the start of the CBS/CBC merger and has been involved in local church ministries for the past 24 years.
Rev. Schrader earned his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Pastoral Studies from Baptist Bible College (1999) and a Masters in Biblical Studies (2002) and a Master of Divinity from Baptist Bible Graduate School of Theology in May 2004. He also became a certified corporate Chaplain in 2015 with Marketplace Chaplains and provides chaplains services to organizations in the Indianapolis area.
Marcus Schrader and his wife Jennifer reside in New Palestine, Indiana and have 5 daughters, Jenna, Lily, Emma, Bethany and Isabelle and 2 sons, Andrew and Noah. They are members of New Palestine Bible Church where he serves as an Elder. Marcus also does pulpit supply and helps churches in times of transitions.
Marcus serves on different mission, chaplain and ministry boards and loves to enjoy life in a way that honors the Lord, His word and His ways.
A.B.S., College of Biblical Studies (Biblical Studies)
B.S., College of Biblical Studies (Biblical Studies)
M.S., Kansas State University (Academic Advising)
Current Role: Sr. Enrollment Advisor. Assisting students in their journey from admission to graduation. Enjoy encouraging students to complete what they've started. Interest: Co-leading (with my husband for 17 years Marriage Ministry at my church (Baptist). Passion: Traveling. Enjoy experiencing different cultures and learning new things. Ministry Passion: Includes working with Youth. Past experience: Worked with pastors throughout the Houston area in completing their degree at CBS via scholarships, dinners, retreats, etc.
This Privacy Policy describes Our policies and procedures on the collection, use and disclosure of Your information when You use the Service and tells You about Your privacy rights and how the law protects You.
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The words of which the initial letter is capitalized have meanings defined under the following conditions.
The following definitions shall have the same meaning regardless of whether they appear in singular or in plural.
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CBS awards college credit to students for life experience and other certifications.
Students should present to their academic advisors any military, work, and ministry as well as any licenses or certifications and begin the process to verify whether these experiences can count for college credit. The college automatically recognizes a selection of business certifications and licenses or other life experiences, such as:
Business or Professional Certificates (not a comprehensive list; academic advisors have full list of options)
Military Experience
Ministry Experience (students are recommended to take the 3-credit hour course GNED 2301 Credit for Demonstrated Competency to ensure you are able to maximize your life experience through full portfolio submission)
Earn up to 30 hours of college credit toward a degree. To obtain a full review of ministry, work and life experience, students should sign up for GNED 2301 Credits for Demonstrated Competency (3 credits) class. In this class, a faculty member reviews prior learning assessment according to best practices and in consultation with the registrar, department chairs, and/or the Academic Dean in order to determine the appropriate number of credits for which the student may qualify. A transfer credit evaluation of a student’s portfolio will be completed upon successful completion of the class.
Students appealing a PLA decision should submit a completed General Petition Form (obtained electronically upon inquiry from a student’s Academic Advisor) for review by the Registrar. Students may be asked to obtain more information for decision under appeal.
Besides her credentials, Melissa brings to her position the skills and experience obtained over the years from various office positions before successfully educating her son and daughter at home. Melissa has experience teaching traditional-age college students and adult learners in courses such as writing, literature, communication, psychology, and technology in both face-to-face and online formats. She has taught for Grace College, Indiana Wesleyan University, Purdue University, and University of Indianapolis. One of Melissa’s Purdue University COM 114 student groups won first runner up in the Purdue University Spring 2019 Fraser Speech Competition.
Throughout the year, as a way to bring Christ’s love to hurting families with sick children, Melissa provides card-making supplies to her writing students and delivers the finished cards to the Indianapolis Ronald McDonald House, across the street from Riley Hospital for Children, where Melissa’s infant daughter received chemotherapy treatments for her leukemia in 2007.
Melissa’s passion for people, travel, and God’s word motivates her within the classroom to connect with students and move them closer to their career, personal, and spiritual goals. In addition to ministering to students in her college classroom, Melissa substitute teaches at her church for both children and adult ladies. What brings Melissa joy is seeing God working in her life and hearing how God is working in other people’s lives, too.
Lee Bouldin serves as Director of Spiritual Formation for the College of Biblical Studies' Houston campus. Along with teaching the Spiritual Formation courses, he administers the spiritual formation programs and helps create a spiritual environment that reflects the CBS mission and contributes to personal and organizational transformation. Lee has been on staff with CBS since 2000, having previously served as Manager of Enrollment Marketing, Director of Communications and, initially, Director of Development. Attending CBS classes strengthened Lee’s passion for God’s Word and discipleship. Having enjoyed the privilege of being discipled by a CBS professor, he was inspired to enroll at Dallas Theological Seminary to hone his skills and better prepare himself for service to the body of Christ (M.A., Biblical and Theological Studies, 2017).
Since 2005, until the COVID-19 lockdown, Lee has led a weekly Bible study at Covenant House Texas, a homeless shelter for at-risk young adults. This experience has provided opportunities to disciple and mentor young men toward a biblical worldview and a greater capacity for leading independent lives as socially and economically responsible citizens of their community. Lee is a native of Houston, Texas, and has been a member of BridgePoint Bible Church since 2008, where his service to the body includes Bible teacher, spiritual encourager, and prayer shepherd. He studied graphic design at the University of Houston (B.F.A., 1989), where he qualified for the Yale University summer design program in Brissago, Switzerland. Lee worked for a corporate branding and design firm for 12 years before being called to CBS. Along with discipleship, he enjoys studying history, improving upon administrative processes, hiking and spending time in the hill country.
Dr. Barger’s primary focus will be teaching in the areas of Biblical counseling and theology. He has also taught the courses Building a Biblical Lifestyle, Small Group Ministry Leadership, Developing a Biblical Perspective of Theology and Psychology, The Life of Christ, Marriage & Family Counseling, and Expository Preaching.
He enjoys reading articles, books, blogs, etc. about current issues in counseling. He has always had an interest in the synergy of the body, the brain, and the mind, especially with regards to how cognition and behavior operate under the umbrella of sanctification. He also takes pleasure in studying the original languages of the Bible.
Before coming to the College of Biblical Studies, Dr. Barger was the Equipping Pastor at Wawasee Community Bible Church in Milford, Indiana. He also served as the Senior Pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Oswego, Indiana. He received his Doctor of Ministry degree in biblical counseling in 2014 from Baptist Bible Seminary in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania. Before that Kirk served as a missionary pastor in Norway for 8 years with the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism (ABWE). He was also a Youth & Music Pastor at First Baptist Church of Goshen, Indiana early in his ministry years. Dr. Barger has been a certified counselor with the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC, formerly NANC) since 2002. He was ordained in 1998.
Kirk and Annette have been married for thirty-six years. They have four married children, JoyLynn (Matt) Nesbitt, Ryan (Alejandra) Barger, Melinda (Abe) Kline, and Landon (Brianna) Barger. They also have three grandchildren—Jade, Elliott and Amelia. Kirk has spent most of his life in ministry. His ministry in Norway has further fueled in him a real passion for inter-cultural and multi-ethnic ministry.
Kirk’s hobbies include bike riding, walking, hiking, camping, running, and watching sports. He also loves to read.
The College of Biblical Studies is committed to the safety of our students and staff. Our priority is to create a campus environment in which people are safe from physical harm and property is secure, in a manner that meets or exceeds federal, state and local laws, as well as CBS policies that regulate these matters. It is the intent of CBS to provide a safe and secure environment for students, visitors, and others with whom we serve. Most of the specific threat procedures are listed on the General safety page. CBS rents space from the Summit and therefore is subordinate to some of the emergency policies set forth by the building which includes fire drill activity and other general safety procedures related to the building.
In the event of an emergency take the following steps:
Call the property management office at 260-446-3200 so they can assist EMS in the process.
In the event of a security threat the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) should be notified immediately by calling 911. Local police are the primary response agency for all crimes and incidents on campus, including emergency assistance, investigating, and documenting incidents.
The CBS Watchman Alert System uses text, e-mail, and voice messages to alert CBS students and employees in the event of an emergency or urgent situation. Alert messages are sent to registered mobile phones, home phones, and e-mail addresses.
The Crisis Manager mobile application for the College of Biblical Studies (CBS) makes our emergency information more readily accessible. The average smartphone/tablet user has their mobile device close to them most of the time. During an emergency, it is often intuitive to pick up your mobile device. This customized app places CBS emergency information onto a single platform designed to help guide our staff and students through an emergency event.
This free app provides preparedness/response procedures and emergency contacts behind easily identifiable icons that are categorized by the type of event or emergency situation. This app will provide the CBS family easy access to our Emergency Guide (tiles), which, once downloaded to the device, is not dependent on internet access.
Some of the features included in the app are simple formatted instructions, intuitive graphics, direct dial emergency contacts (smartphones only), a flashlight tool for mobile devices that support it, an audio alarm to alert others of your location if you are in danger or trapped, and a space to input your personalized emergency information such as evacuation routes and meeting locations.
Give us feedback! We would like to know about your experience with the Crisis Management App. Contact us with any comments or questions by emailing us at [email protected] or calling 832-252-4676.
Training videos are offered on our website to be viewed anytime. CBS conducts scheduled drills to simulate an on-campus active shooter. These drills will not only prepare CBS staff and faculty, but will also allow the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) to familiarize themselves with the layout of the building should they ever need to answer such a call.
|
Contact |
Number |
|
VIA Properties Maintenance, Management, and Security |
(260) 446-3200 |
|
Police & Fire Emergency |
911 |
|
Fire Department Administration |
(260) 427-1170 |
|
Indiana State Police - Administration |
(260) 432-8661 |
|
Police Department - Administration |
(260) 427-1222 |
|
Sheriff Emergency |
911 |
|
Sheriff’s Department - Administration |
(260) 449-7535 |
|
Medical Emergency |
911 |
|
Hazardous Chemical Spill/Biological Terrorism |
(800) 424-8802 |
|
Poison Information Center |
(800) 222-1222 |
Campus Map
The College of Biblical Studies (CBS) is committed to the safety of our students and staff. Our priority is to create a campus environment in which people are safe from physical harm, and property is secure, in a manner that meets or exceeds federal, state, and local laws, as well as CBS policies that regulate these matters. It is the intent of CBS to provide a safe and secure environment for students, visitors, and others with whom we serve. Most of the specific threat procedures are listed on the General safety page. CBS rents space in the Pyramids. Therefore, we are subordinate to some of the emergency policies set forth by the building, which includes fire drill activity and other general safety procedures related to the building.
The Pyramids employs Protection Plus security service for the security needs of the building. They are trained to face any threat, and employ many off-duty police officers who have extensive experience in security and are prepared for any situation that may arise. Protection Plus Security has protected clients in the central Indiana area since 1988. Protection Plus and local police are the primary response agencies for all crimes and incidents on campus, including emergency assistance, investigating, and documenting incidents. Protection Plus utilizes Electronic surveillance to monitor the building and parking lots.
The CBS Watchman Alert System uses text, e-mail, and voice messages to alert CBS students and employees in the event of an emergency or urgent situation. Alert messages are sent to registered mobile phones, home phones, and e-mail addresses. CBS Watchman Alert System is fully supported by CBS.
The Pyramids utilizes AMG Alerts as their emergency alert system that can be used to rapidly communicate with tenants, staff and students in case of emergency. Click on the attached link below and fill out the information requested. AMG Alerts is strictly a Pyramids supported system. You can select how you want to be contacted, either by telephone, text or email by clicking on the link below.
Students should park in designated parking spaces listed on the diagram in red.
Students can call Protection Plus for an escort to their vehicles at 317-244-7569. After hours, it will connect with a dispatcher. Once on site, the guard will monitor the area and follow them to their cars in the patrol car.
The Crisis Manager mobile application for the College of Biblical Studies (CBS) makes our emergency information more readily accessible. The average smartphone/tablet user has their mobile device close to them most of the time. During an emergency, it is often intuitive to pick up your mobile device. This customized app places CBS emergency information onto a single platform designed to help guide our staff and students through an emergency event.
This free app provides preparedness/response procedures and emergency contacts behind easily identifiable icons that are categorized by the type of event or emergency situation. This app will provide the CBS family easy access to our Emergency Guide (tiles), which, once downloaded to the device, is not dependent on internet access.
Some of the features included in the app are; simple formatted instructions, intuitive graphics, direct dial emergency contacts (smartphones only), a flashlight tool for mobile devices that support it, an audio alarm to alert others of your location if you are in danger or trapped, and a space to input your personalized emergency information such as evacuation routes and meeting locations.
Here are the official instructions for download:
Give us feedback! We would like to know about your experience with the Crisis Management App. Contact us with any comments or questions by emailing us at [email protected] or calling 832-252-4676.
Training videos are offered on our website to be viewed anytime. CBS conducts scheduled drills to simulate an on-campus active shooter. These drills will not only prepare CBS staff and faculty, but will also allow the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) to familiarize themselves with the layout of our campus should they ever need to answer such a call.
|
Contact |
Number |
|
Pyramids After Hours Emergency Number |
1-866-336-9409 |
|
Pyramids Management Office: Non-Emergency |
317-875-5055 |
|
Police & Fire Emergency |
911 |
|
Fire Department/Haz Mat: Non-Emergency |
317-327-6041 |
|
Police Department : Non-Emergency |
317-327-3811 |
|
Medical Emergency |
911 |
|
St. Vincent Hospital: Non-Emergency |
317-238-2345 |
|
Poison Control Center |
1-800-222-1222 |
The College of Biblical Studies is committed to the safety of our students and staff. Our priority is to create a campus environment in which people are safe from physical harm and property is secure, in a manner that meets or exceeds federal, state and local laws, as well as CBS policies that regulate these matters. It is the intent of CBS to provide a safe and secure environment for students, visitors, and others with whom we serve.
To support the CBS security department, the College employs Professional Guard Patrol Security. This department accomplishes its mission through excellence in policing, safety, and security. Professional Guard Patrol and local police are the primary response agencies for all crimes and incidents on campus, including emergency assistance, investigating, and documenting incidents. CBS security is the liaison with local police, fire, and medical response agencies. CBS security may be reached during normal business hours at 281-448-4900 or 713-545-8602.
Students should park in designated parking spaces on the main campus parking lots where the lighting is the most efficient. Security escorts are provided during hours of operation for any reason by calling 713-545-8602.
The CBS Watchman Alert System uses text, e-mail, and voice messages to alert CBS students and employees in the event of an emergency or urgent situation. Alert messages are sent to registered mobile phones, home phones, and e-mail addresses.
Crisis Management App
The Crisis Manager mobile application for the College of Biblical Studies (CBS) makes our emergency information more readily accessible. The average smartphone/tablet user has their mobile device close to them most of the time. During an emergency, it is often intuitive to pick up your mobile device. This customized app places CBS emergency information onto a single platform designed to help guide our staff and students through an emergency event.
This free app provides preparedness/response procedures and emergency contacts behind easily identifiable icons that are categorized by the type of event or emergency situation. This app will provide the CBS family easy access to our Emergency Guide (tiles), which, once downloaded to the device, is not dependent on internet access.
Some of the features included in the app are; simple formatted instructions, intuitive graphics, direct dial emergency contacts (smartphones only), a flashlight tool for mobile devices that support it, an audio alarm to alert others of your location if you are in danger or trapped and a space to input your personalized emergency information such as evacuation routes and meeting locations.
Here are the official instructions for download:
Give us feedback! We would like to know about your experience with the Crisis Management App. Contact us with any comments or questions by emailing us at [email protected] or calling 832-252-4676.
Training videos are offered on our website to be viewed anytime. CBS conducts scheduled drills to simulate an on-campus active shooter. These drills will not only prepare CBS staff and faculty, but will also allow the Houston Police Department (HPD) to familiarize themselves with the layout of our campus should they ever need to answer such a call.
CBS Campus Numbers
|
CBS Campus Security |
Dispatch 281-448-4900 |
|
CBS Facilities #1 |
713-545-8543 |
|
CBS Facilities #2 |
713-545-4906 |
|
Name of Agency |
Contact Number |
|
Ambulance/Fire/Police/Sheriff |
911 |
|
Ambulance Non-Emergency |
713-222-3434 |
|
American Red Cross |
713-526-8300 |
|
Ben Taub Hospital |
713-793-2000 |
|
Boxer Management Company |
713-777-7368 |
|
City of Houston |
713-247-1000 |
|
Electric - Reliant |
713-207-7777 |
|
Fire Non-Emergency |
713-227-2323 |
|
Gas – CenterPoint Energy |
713-659-2111 |
|
Harris County |
713-755-5000 |
|
Hazardous Materials |
911 |
|
Health Department |
713-439-6000 |
|
HPD Non-Emergency |
713-884-3131 |
|
Memorial Hospital Southwest |
713-776-5151 |
|
Poison Control |
1-800-764-7661 |
|
Water |
713-754-0600 |
General Resource Links
Center for Disease Control Prevention
Regional Disaster Preparedness
FEMA
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
World Health Organization
Texas Department of State Health Services
American Red Cross
Harris County Homeland Security & Emergency Management
Admissions | Student Services | Apply | Contact Us
The College of Biblical Studies has an Online campus in additon to physical campuses in Houston, Indianapolis, and Fort Wayne. Leveraging its academic rigor and biblical worldview training, CBS offers a nationally and regionally accredited college education on-ground and online. CBS Houston has provided biblically based education to more than 26,000 students since 1976 and is ranked as one of the lowest tuitions in Texas.
Our online campus offers a wide selection of courses that fit your schedule. Your education is only a click away, anwhere, anytime!
Admissions | Student Services | Apply | Contact Us
The College of Biblical Studies is located in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Houston. Leveraging its academic rigor and biblical worldview training, CBS offers a nationally and regionally accredited college education on-ground and online. CBS Indianapolis prepares students intellectually, spiritually, and relationally for a lifetime of Christian service.
Classes at CBS Indianapolis are offered in 15-week, 5-week, and 1-week formats. We are located in Building One of the Pyramids, 3500 DePauw Blvd., Indianapolis.
In addition to the Pyramids, CBS Indianapolis has offered courses at College Park Church, conveniently located at 2606 W. 96th St., Indianapolis. CBS offers one of the lowest tuitions in Indiana.
Admissions | Student Services | Apply | Contact Us
The College of Biblical Studies is located in Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, and Houston. Leveraging its academic rigor and biblical worldview training, CBS offers a nationally and regionally accredited college education on-ground and online. CBS Fort Wayne offers one of the lowest tuitions in Indiana.
To meet the challenges of busy working adults, CBS Fort Wayne offers classes ONE night a week, ONE class at a time for 5 weeks. Our campus is located at 1025 W. Rudisill Blvd., Fort Wayne.
Admissions | Student Services | Apply |Contact Us
The College of Biblical Studies is located in Houston, Indianapolis, and Fort Wayne. Leveraging its academic rigor and biblical worldview training, CBS offers a nationally and regionally accredited college education on-ground and online. CBS Houston has provided biblically based education to more than 26,000 students since 1976 and is ranked as one of the lowest tuitions in Texas.
Our Houston campus offers day, evening, and weekend classes. We are centrally located at 7000 Regency Square Blvd., Houston, TX 77036.
The purpose of the 120 credit hour program with split majors in Biblical Studies and Christian Leadership culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree is designed to provide Christian leaders with biblical and theological education in order to equip them for a life of vocational or lay service as a leader in the church, parachurch, and/or business. Upon completion of the program, successful students will:
1. Understand and apply the servant leader model for leadership.
2. Develop functional frameworks for effective leadership skills.
Students take only one course at a time in the CBS core curriculum, attending one 4-hour class session, with breakout for small-group collaborative and independent work each week. The courses are accelerated and are five weeks in length. The program is 24 months of six consecutive semesters, requiring 9 credits each semester from the CBS core curriculum. Students are members of a continuing class, a cohort group, among whom an atmosphere of shared learning; personal, family, ministry, and career interests develops. Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a Bachelor of Science Degree with major in Biblical Studies and Christian Leadership.
The Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies and Christian Leadership degree is composed of upper division college-level courses totaling 54 credit hours offered in an accelerated form as follows:
1. The 54 hours consist of eighteen courses.
2. Students’ focus will be on one course at a time.
3. The same group of students will progress through the entire program together.
4. At graduation, successful students will have cumulative college-level credits as follows:
Bachelor students are expected to complete all degree and graduation requirements pursuant to their degree program no later than one year following the successful completion of the research project course. Failure to comply will result in the student being withdrawn from the Bachelor’s program and subjected to re-enrollment procedures and fees.
1. Successful completion of all admissions requirements including completion of high school diploma or GED
2. 54 credit hours of BSCL curriculum
3. 36 credit hours of approved general education
4. 30 credit hours of approved free electives
5. Cumulative 2.0 grade point average
6. Satisfactory completion of 2 units in Christian Service Learning Program and 2 Spiritual Formation units
7. Intent to Graduate Form filed by submitted date
8. Academic advising sessions including all post testing and measurements
9. Graduation/Diploma fee
10. No unresolved disciplinary matter, including but not limited to, student code of conduct violations, library, and/or financial obligation.
11. Completion of exit counseling for students with Stafford or PLUS loans
12. Approval by CBS faculty
13. See Graduation Requirements for additional requirement(s) for all academic programs
English Curriculum
This cohort program is a lockstep program and the MAJOR COURSES are designed to be taken in order as shown by this table:
|
MAJOR COURSES |
HRS |
MAJOR COURSES |
HRS |
|
ENGLISH 9 hours |
|
GENERAL EDUCATION 3 hours |
|
|
English Composition 1 |
3 |
ENGL 3330 Advanced Research and Writing |
3 |
|
English Composition 2 |
3 |
BIBLE and THEOLOGY 27 hours |
|
|
Literature |
3 |
BIBL 3301 Biblical Interpretation |
3 |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE 3 hours |
|
THEO 3330 Major Bible Themes |
3 |
|
Western Civilization or US History |
3 |
BIBL 3311 Special Issues in the Pentateuch |
3 |
|
PHILOSOPHY/SOCIAL SCIENCES/RELIGIOUS STUDIES 6 hours |
|
BIBL 3312 Special Issues in the Historical and Wisdom Literature |
3 |
|
Social Science/Religious Studies1 |
6 |
BIBL 3313 Special Issues in the Prophetic Literature. |
3 |
|
FINE ARTS/HUMANITIES 3 hours |
|
BIBL 3321 Special Issues in the Gospels |
3 |
|
Fine Arts/Humanities2 |
3 |
BIBL 3322 Special Issues in Acts and Pauline Epistles |
3 |
|
MATH/SCIENCES 6 hours |
|
BIBL 3323 Special Issues in the General Epistles |
3 |
|
Computer Science or Math |
3 |
THEO 3331 Theological Method |
3 |
|
Natural Science3 |
3 |
LEADERSHIP STUDIES 24 hours |
|
|
COMMUNICATIONS 3 hours |
|
LSCL 4340 Introduction to Christian Leadership and Leader Development |
3 |
|
Speech4 |
3 |
||
|
GENERAL EDUCATION ELECTIVE 6 hours |
|
LSCL 4341 Personal Pilgrimage and Character in Leadership |
3 |
|
Any courses from the categories above |
6 |
||
|
FREE ELECTIVES 30 hours |
|
LSCL 4342 Relationships and Visioneering in Leadership |
3 |
|
|
30 |
LSCL 4343 Interpersonal Skills for Leadership |
3 |
|
ORIENTATION non-credit |
|
LSCL 4344 Organizational Skills for Leadership |
3 |
|
ORIE 1013 Orientation |
n/a |
LSCL 4345 Case Studies in Leadership and Ethics |
3 |
|
CHRISTIAN SERVICE 2 units |
|
LSCL 4346 Applied Leadership Research Project I |
3 |
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 1 |
1u |
LSCL 4347 Applied Leadership Research Project II |
3 |
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 2 |
1u |
|
|
|
SPIRITUAL FORMATION 2 units |
|
|
|
|
MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation, 1 |
1u |
|
|
|
MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation, 2 |
1u |
|
|
1 History, Philosophy, Logic, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Public Policy, Counseling, Bible, Theology, Foundations of Spiritual Life or Apologetics.
2 Foreign Language, Music Theory, Philosophy or Art Appreciation.
3 Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Geology or Anatomy and Physiology.
4 Expository Preaching classes, MSPM 3301-3305, may substitute for Speech. These classes are for men only. MSCE 3323 Women Teaching Women may substitute for Speech. This class is for women only.
Suggested Sequence
|
Year |
Fall |
Spring |
Summer |
|
1 |
ENGL 3330 Advanced Research and Writing BIBL 3301 Biblical Interpretation THEO 3330 Major Bible Themes |
BIBL 3311 Special Issues in the Pentateuch BIBL 3312 Special Issues in the Historical and Wisdom Literature BIBL 3313 Special Issues in the Prophetic Literature MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation, 1 |
BIBL 3321 Special Issues in the Gospels BIBL 3322 Special Issues in Acts and Pauline Epistles BIBL 3323 Special Issues in General Epistles MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 1 |
|
2 |
THEO 3331 Theological Method LSCL 4340 Introduction to Christian Leadership and Leader Development LSCL 4341 Personal Pilgrimage and Character in Leadership |
LSCL 4342 Relationships and Visioneering in Leadership LSCL 4343 Interpersonal Skills for Leadership LSCL 4344 Organizational Skills for Leadership MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 2 |
LSCL 4345 Case Studies in Leadership and Ethics LSCL 4346 Applied Leadership Research Project I LSCL 4347 Applied Leadership Research Project II MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation, 2 |
Purpose and Objectives: The 120 credit hour Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership at CBS is designed for those pursuing exemplary organizational leadership in business, management, entrepreneurship, church, or parachurch organizations. The curriculum supports a unique philosophy that affirms the business and organizational competencies necessary for success, while challenging students to see organizations as strategic stewardships of Christian leaders. The degree program seeks to develop traits of character and competence in students and prepare them to face the challenges of leadership in an ever-changing world. Upon completion of the program successful students will be able to:
1. Understand biblical leadership and appreciate the value of that leadership in a business environment
2. Develop analytical expertise and functional frameworks drawn from a broad range of managerial skills
Students take only one to two online courses at a time in the CBS core curriculum. The courses are accelerated and are five to seven weeks in length. The program is 24 months of six consecutive semesters, requiring 9 credits each semester from the CBS core curriculum. Students are members of a continuing class, a cohort group, among whom an atmosphere of shared learning; personal, family, ministry and career interests develops. Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a Bachelor of Science Degree with major in Biblical Studies and Organizational Leadership.
The Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies and Organizational Leadership degree is composed of upper division college- level courses totaling 54 credit hours offered in an accelerated form as follows:
1. The 54 hours consist of eighteen courses.
2. At graduation, successful students will have cumulative college-level credits as follows:
Bachelor students are expected to complete all degree and graduation requirements pursuant to their degree program no later than one year following the successful completion of the research project course. Failure to comply will result in the student being withdrawn from the Bachelor’s program and subjected to re-enrollment procedures and fees.
1. Successful completion of all admissions requirements including completion of high school diploma or GED
2. 54 credit hours of BSOL curriculum
3. 36 credit hours of approved general education
4. 30 credit hours of approved free electives
5. Cumulative 2.0 grade point average
6. Satisfactory completion of 2 units in Christian Service Learning Program and 2 Spiritual Formation units
7. Intent to Graduate Form filed by submitted date
8. Academic advising sessions including all post testing and measurements
9. Graduation/Diploma fee
10. No unresolved disciplinary matter, including but not limited to, student code of conduct violations, library, and/or financial obligation.
11. Completion of exit counseling for students with Stafford or PLUS loans
12. Approval by CBS faculty
13. See Graduation Requirements for additional requirement(s) for all academic programs
This cohort program is a lockstep program and the MAJOR COURSES are designed to be taken in order as shown by this table:
|
GENERAL STUDIES |
HRS |
MAJOR COURSES |
HRS |
|
ENGLISH 9 hours |
|
GENERAL EDUCATION 3 hours |
|
|
English Composition 1 |
3 |
ENGL 3330 Advanced Research and Writing |
3 |
|
English Composition 2 |
3 |
BIBLE and THEOLOGY 27 hours |
|
|
Literature |
3 |
BIBL 3301 Biblical Interpretation |
3 |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE 3 hours |
|
THEO 3330 Major Bible Themes |
3 |
|
Western Civilization or US History |
3 |
BIBL 3311 Special Issues in the Pentateuch |
3 |
|
PHILOSOPHY/SOCIAL SCIENCES/RELIGIOUS STUDIES 6 hours |
|
BIBL 3312 Special Issues in the Historical and Wisdom Literature |
3 |
|
Social Science/Religious Studies1 |
6 |
BIBL 3313 Special Issues in the Prophetic Literature |
3 |
|
FINE ARTS/HUMANITIES 3 hours |
|
BIBL 3321 Special Issues in the Gospels |
3 |
|
Fine Arts/Humanities2 |
3 |
BIBL 3322 Special Issues in Acts and Pauline Epistles |
3 |
|
MATH/SCIENCES 6 hours |
|
BIBL 3323 Special Issues in the General Epistles |
3 |
|
Computer Science or Math |
3 |
THEO 3331 Theological Method |
3 |
|
Natural Science3 |
3 |
ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP STUDIES 24 hours |
|
|
COMMUNICATIONS 3 hours |
|
LSOL 3301 Introduction to Christian Leadership |
3 |
|
Speech4 |
3 |
LSOL 3306 Organizational Stewardship and Ethics |
3 |
|
GENERAL EDUCATION ELECTIVE 6 hours |
|
LSOL 3308 Organizational Purpose and the Visioning Process |
3 |
|
Any courses from the categories above |
6 |
||
|
FREE ELECTIVES 30 hours |
|
LSOL 4301 Human Resource Management |
3 |
|
|
30 |
LSOL 4302 Financial Management for Organizations |
3 |
|
ORIENTATION non-credit |
|
LSOL 4303 Principles of Marketing |
3 |
|
ORIE 1013 Orientation |
n/a |
LSOL 4304 Project Planning and Management |
3 |
|
CHRISTIAN SERVICE 2 units |
|
LSOL 4306 Applied Organizational Leadership Research |
3 |
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 1 |
1u |
|
|
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 2 |
1u |
|
|
|
SPIRITUAL FORMATION 2 units |
|
|
|
|
MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation 1 |
1u |
|
|
|
MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation 2 |
1u |
|
|
1 History, Philosophy, Logic, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Public Policy, Counseling, Bible, Theology, Foundations of Spiritual Life or Apologetics.
2 Foreign Language, Music Theory, Philosophy or Art Appreciation.
3 Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Geology or Anatomy and Physiology.
4 Expository Preaching classes, MSPM 3301-3305, may substitute for Speech. These classes are for men only. MSCE 3323 Women Teaching Women may substitute for Speech. This class is for women only.
Suggested Sequence
|
Year |
Fall |
Spring |
Summer |
|
1 |
ENGL 3330 Advanced Research and Writing BIBL 3301 Biblical Interpretation THEO 3330 Major Bible Themes |
BIBL 3311 Special Issues in the Pentateuch BIBL 3312 Special Issues in the Historical and Wisdom Literature BIBL 3313 Special Issues in the Prophetic Literature MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation, 1 |
BIBL 3321 Special Issues in the Gospels BIBL 3322 Special Issues in Acts and Pauline Epistles BIBL 3323 Special Issues in General Epistles MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 1 |
|
2 |
THEO 3331 Theological Method LSOL 3301 Introduction to Christian Leadership LSOL 3306 Organizational Stewardship and Ethics |
LSOL 3308 Organizational Purpose and the Visioning Process LSOL 4301 Human Resource Management LSOL 4302 Financial Management for Organizations MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 2 |
LSOL 4303 Principles of Marketing LSOL 4304 Project Planning and Management LSCL 4306 Applied Organizational Leadership Research MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation, 2 |
The purpose of the 120 credit hour program with split majors in Biblical Studies and Biblical Counseling culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree is to provide a biblical model for biblical counseling. The training will prepare men and women to engage in church, parachurch, or private biblical counseling, and provide a base for seminary or other graduate training. The courses offered in the curriculum are not designed to meet academic or other requirements of the State of Texas for licensure as a professional counselor. Upon completion of the program, successful students will:
1.Demonstrate an understanding of the Biblical Framework model for biblical counseling.
2.Apply principles of biblical counseling to specific counseling situations.
On ground students take only one course at a time in the CBS core curriculum, attending one 4-hour class session, with breakout for small-group collaborative and independent work each week. The on ground courses are accelerated courses that are five weeks in length. Online students take classes that are five to seven weeks in length, and the classes occasionally overlap. The program is 24 months of six consecutive semesters, requiring 9 credits each semester from the CBS core curriculum. Students are members of a continuing class, a cohort group, among whom an atmosphere of shared learning; personal, family, ministry, and career interests develops. Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a Bachelor of Science Degree with split majors in Biblical Studies and Biblical Counseling.
The Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies and Biblical Counseling degree completion program is composed of upper division college-level courses totaling 54-credit hours offered in an accelerated form as follows:
1. The 54 hours consist of eighteen courses.
2. Students’ focus will be on one course at a time.
3. The same group of students will progress through the entire program together.
4. At graduation, successful students will have cumulative college-level credits as follows:
Bachelor students are expected to complete all degree and graduation requirements pursuant to their degree program no later than one year following the successful completion of the research project course. Failure to comply will result in the student being withdrawn from the Bachelor’s program and subjected to re-enrollment procedures and fees.
1. Successful completion of all admissions requirements including completion of high school diploma or GED
2. 54 credit hours of BSBC curriculum
3. 36 credit hours of approved general education
4. 30 credit hours of approved free electives
5. Cumulative 2.0 grade point average
6. Satisfactory completion of 2 units in Christian Service Learning Program and 2 Spiritual Formation units
7. Intent to Graduate Form filed by submitted date
8. Academic advising sessions including all post testing and measurements
9. Graduation/Diploma fee
10. No unresolved disciplinary matter, including but not limited to, student code of conduct violations, library, and/or financial obligation
11. Completion of exit counseling for students with Stafford or PLUS loans
12. Approval by CBS faculty
13. See Graduation Requirements for additional requirement(s) for all academic programs
This cohort program is a lockstep program and the MAJOR COURSES are designed to be taken in order as shown by this table:
|
GENERAL STUDIES |
HRS |
MAJOR COURSES |
HRS |
|
ENGLISH 9 hours |
|
GENERAL EDUCATION 3 hours |
|
|
English Composition 1 |
3 |
ENGL 3330 Advanced Research and Writing |
3 |
|
English Composition 2 |
3 |
BIBLE and THEOLOGY 27 hours |
|
|
Literature |
3 |
BIBL 3301 Biblical Interpretation |
3 |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCE 3 hours |
|
THEO 3330 Major Bible Themes |
3 |
|
Western Civilization or US History |
3 |
BIBL 3311 Special Issues in the Pentateuch |
3 |
|
PHILOSOPHY/SOCIAL SCIENCES/RELIGIOUS STUDIES 6 hours |
|
BIBL 3312 Special Issues in the Historical and Wisdom Literature |
3 |
|
Social Science/Religious Studies1 |
6 |
BIBL 3313 Special Issues in the Prophetic Literature |
3 |
|
FINE ARTS/HUMANITIES 3 hours |
|
BIBL 3321 Special Issues in the Gospels |
3 |
|
Fine Arts/Humanities2 |
3 |
BIBL 3322 Special Issues in Acts and Pauline Epistles |
3 |
|
MATH/SCIENCES 6 hours |
|
BIBL 3323 Special Issues in General Epistles |
3 |
|
Computer Science or Math |
3 |
THEO 3331 Theological Method |
3 |
|
Natural Science3 |
3 |
COUNSELING STUDIES 24 hours |
|
|
COMMUNICATIONS 3 hours |
|
MSBC 3311 Theological Foundations for Biblical Counseling |
3 |
|
Speech4 |
3 |
||
|
GENERAL EDUCATION ELECTIVE 6 hours |
|
MSBC 3312 Comparative Analysis of Psychological Counseling, Christian Integrative Counseling, and Biblical Counseling |
3 |
|
Any courses from the categories above |
6 |
||
|
FREE ELECTIVES 30 hours |
|
||
|
|
30 |
MSBC 3313 Introduction to Biblical Framework Counseling |
3 |
|
ORIENTATION non-credit |
|
||
|
ORIE 1013 Orientation |
n/a |
MSBC 3314 Analysis of Common Problems Through Biblical Framework Counseling |
3 |
|
CHRISTIAN SERVICE 2 units |
|
||
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 1 |
1u |
MSBC 3315 Marriage and Family |
3 |
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 2 |
1u |
MSBC 4301 Advanced Concepts in Biblical Framework Counseling 1 |
3 |
|
SPIRITUAL FORMATION 2 units |
|
||
|
MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation, 1 |
1u |
MSBC 4302 Advanced Concepts in Biblical Framework Counseling 2 |
3 |
|
MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation, 2 |
1u |
||
|
|
|
MSBC 4303 Biblical Counseling Process and Methodologies |
3 |
|
|
|
1 History, Philosophy, Logic, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Public Policy, Counseling, Bible, Theology, Foundations of Spiritual Life or Apologetics.
2 Foreign Language, Music Theory, Philosophy or Art Appreciation.
3 Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Geology or Anatomy and Physiology.
4 Expository Preaching classes, MSPM 3301-3305, may substitute for Speech. These classes are for men only. MSCE 3323 Women Teaching Women may substitute for Speech. This class is for women only.
Suggested Sequence
|
Year |
Fall |
Spring |
Summer |
|
1 |
ENGL 3330 Advanced Research and Writing BIBL 3301 Biblical Interpretation THEO 3330 Major Bible Themes |
BIBL 3311 Special Issues in the Pentateuch BIBL 3312 Special Issues in the Historical and Wisdom Literature BIBL 3313 Special Issues in the Prophetic Literature MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation 1 |
BIBL 3321 Special Issues in the Gospels BIBL 3322 Special Issues in Acts and Pauline Epistles BIBL 3323 Special Issues in General Epistles MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 1 |
|
2 |
THEO 3331 Theological Method MSBC 3311 Theological Foundations for Biblical Counseling MSBC 3312 Comparative Analysis of Psychological Counseling, Christian Integrative Counseling, and Biblical Counseling |
MSBC 3313 Introduction to Biblical Framework Counseling MSBC 3314 Analysis of Common Problems Through Biblical Framework Counseling MSBC 3315 Marriage and Family MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 2 |
MSBC 4301 Advanced Concepts in Biblical Framework Counseling 1 MSBC 4302 Advanced Concepts in Biblical Framework Counseling 2 MSBC 4303 Biblical Counseling Process and Methodologies MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation 2 |
M.L.S., Sam Houston State University
B.S., College of Biblical Studies-Houston
A.A., Lone Star College
Professor Cobos has been serving at the College of Biblical Studies in various capacities for almost 20 years. She has a Master of Library Science degree from Sam Houston State University. Prior to graduating with a Master’s degree, she obtained her undergraduate degree in Christian Leadership at the College of Biblical Studies-Houston. Professor Cobos also has some postgraduate course work from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
She brings over 15 years of experience working with adult learners teaching library literacy and research skills. Apart from co-teaching research and writing, she is currently also the Assistant Librarian at the College of Biblical Studies.
She is a current member of the American Library Association (ALA), the Texas Library Association, and the Association of Christian Librarians (ACL).
Professor Cobos has also served in various ministry areas throughout her life. She has served in children and youth ministries, prayer ministries, short-term missions, and worship ministries.
She and her husband Marlon enjoy traveling abroad, learning about other cultures and languages, and spending time with their precious nieces and nephews.
Professor Cobos has created a vimeo channel for students to address some of the most frequently asked questions at the library. Click the following link to view https://vimeo.com/librarytutorials, OR if you would like to request a video tutorial on a particular topic or need reference help, please contact the College of Biblical Studies Library through the following link http://www.cbshouston.edu/ask-a-librarian.
Associate Academic Dean; Professor
•B.A., Mississippi College
•M.A., North Carolina State University
•Ed.D. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
Bio
In his role as Associate Academic Dean at the College of Biblical Studies-Houston, Dr. Hantla manages library services, strategizes for academic programming, helps with partnerships, and oversees academic excellence as well as faculty development. Dr. Hantla primarily teaching English and Writing at the College.
Dr. Hantla's current research interests range from researching best practices for implementing the flipped classroom design to working with accrediting bodies to accomplish the goals of institutions of higher education and applying effective methods for leading and managing student assessment efforts. His expertise is in effective pedagogical approaches in higher educational settings, educational technology, and higher educational assessment. Dr. Hantla also works with faith-based institutions to help students in discipleship and spiritual formation. He has led numerous conference workshops on these topics and continues to seek out partnerships, speaking engagements, and consulting relationships to impact the educational community using his expertise.
Dr. Hantla combined his work on critical thinking in a quasi-experimental study researching the effects of flipping the classroom on critical thinking variables measured by a critical thinking rubric. He successfully defended his dissertation with the highest score awarded by SEBTS and is working on turning his dissertation into journal publications.
Publications and Presentations
•Hantla, B. (2018). Setting Up for Success: Qualtrics Surveying Design and Functionality. Presented at the Technology Learning Conference in Houston, TX, October 2018, (see conference proceedings). Available at: https://uhdtlc.wordpress.com/2018/09/25/setting-up-for-success-qualtrics...
•Hantla, B. (2018). Set up for Success: Qualtrics Surveying Design and Functionality. Presented at the Texas Association of Institutional Research Summer Workshop in Austin, TX, July 2018, (see conference proceedings). Available at: https://texas-air.org/assets/pdf/TAIR-Summer-Workshops-2017-Official-Fly...
•Hantla, B., Keith, P. (2017). The Heart of Compliance: Students and Your Policy Manual. Presented at the SACSCOC Annual Meeting in Dallas, TX, December 2017, (see conference proceedings). Available at: https://www.slideshare.net/BryceHantla/the-heart-of-compliance-instituti....
•Hantla, B. (2017). Flipped Classrooms in the Humanities: Findings from a Quasi-Experimental Study. Christian Perspectives in Education, 10(1), 1-21. Available at: http://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cpe/vol10/iss1/1/
•Whitfield, K., Burkett, J., Hantla, B. (2015). Energizing your CASE: A Liberal Arts College’s QEP on Critical Thinking through Writing. Presented at the SACSCOC Annual Meeting in Houston, TX, December 2015 (see conference proceedings). Available at: https://www.slideshare.net/BryceHantla/energizing-your-case-qep-on-criti....
•Hantla, B. (2015). Engaging Students with the Community through the Flipped Teaching Model: Findings from an Experimental Study. Presented at the 3rd International Higher Education Teaching and Learning Conference in Orem, UT, January 2015 (see conference proceedings https://www.hetl.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/HETL-SoTE-Conference-Pro...)
•Hantla, B. (2014). The effects of flipping the classroom on specific aspects of critical thinking in a humanities college: A quasi-experimental, mixed-methods study. A doctoral dissertation for Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, pp. 264. http://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED556925
•Hantla, B. (2014). Noetic Sanctification: Using Critical Thinking to Facilitate Sanctification of the Mind. Christian Perspectives in Education, 7(1), 1-22. Available at: http://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cpe/vol7/iss1/3/
•McGee, D., & Hantla, B. (2013). The Portrayal of Fathers in Popular Media. The Journal of Discipleship and Family Ministry, 3(2), 36-46. http://www.sbts.edu/family/files/2013/09/JDFM-3.2-Spring-2013-vFinal-2.pdf
•McGee, D., & Hantla, B. (2012) An intelligent critique of multiple intelligences: a Christian review for leaders. Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 4(1), 3-16. http://www.regent.edu/acad/global/publications/jbpl/vol4no1/jbpl-vol4no1...
•Coley, K., Hantla, B., Cobb, C. (2013). Best Practices for Beginning a Flipped Classroom in the Humanities. Presented at the NAPCE Annual Conference in Chicago, IL, October 2013 (see conference proceedings). Available at: https://kencoley.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/manuscript-best-practices-f....
Contributions to Academic Encyclopedias
•George Thomas Kurian and Mark A. Lamport (Eds.). (2018). Encyclopedia of the Global South. New York, NY: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. Editorial Consultant.
•Mark A. Lamport (Ed.). (2017). The Encyclopedia of Martin Luther and the Reformation. New York, NY: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. Editorial Consultant.
•Timothy Demy and Paul Shockley (Eds.). (2017). Evangelical America: An Encyclopedia of Contemporary American Religious Culture. Denver, CO: ABC-CLIO, LLC. 10 Article Contributions: Association of Christian Schools International; Graham, Billy; Evangelicalism; Family Research Council; Fellowship of Christian Athletes; InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA; Dobson, James; MacArthur, John; Neo-Evangelicalism; Reformed Tradition, Evangelicalism.
•George Thomas Kurian and Mark A. Lamport (Eds.). (2016). The Encyclopedia of Christianity in the United States. New York, NY: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. Editorial Consultant and 10 Article Contributions: Boardus, Everardus; Gailor, Frank T.; Hammet, William; Hillenbrand, Reynold Henry; Lowrie, Walter; Maxwell, Leslie E.; Onderdonk, Henry U.; Peck, Edmund J.; Slocum, John; Whitfield, James M.
•George Thomas Kurian and Mark A. Lamport (Eds.). (2015). The Encyclopedia of Christian Education. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield. 1 Article Contribution: Dykstra, Craig.
Distance Education Associate Dean of Operations; Assistant ProfessorShane Boothe serves as the Distance Education Associate Dean of Operations and Assistant Professor at the College of Biblical Studies in Houston, Texas.
Prior to coming to CBS, Shane served in a variety of roles in the Information Technology field. Shane's first association with CBS was in 1992 when the school was known as the Houston Bible Institute. From that first Bible Study Methods course he fell in love with biblical higher education in general and the College in particular. Shane has been with CBS full-time since 2003, initially serving as the Director of Information Technology and later as the Distance Education Associate Dean of Operations.
Shane earned his Bachelor of Science in Christian Leadership from the College of Biblical Studies (2006) and a Masters of Christian Education from Dallas Theological Seminary in January 2012.
Shane and his wife Connie reside in Humble, Texas and have two daughters (Katelyn and Gracelyn) and a son (Nathan). They are members of Humble First Baptist Church where Shane serves as a Bible teacher.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
CBS demonstrates a strong commitment to the institution's educational mission through faculty who demonstrate scholarship and a heart for ministry. CBS full-time faculty members have significant ministry experience as well as academic qualifications. For instance, the majority of full-time faculty members and adjunct faculty members serve or have served in a staff position at a local church. Some of these ministries include: Missionary, Church Pastor, Associate Pastor, Director of Church Counseling, Coordinator of Pre-Marital Counseling, Student Ministry Pastor, Pastor of Leadership Development, Evangelism Minister, Christian Education Director, Discipleship Pastor, Worship Leader, Church Planting Pastor, Hispanic Pastor, Pastor of Assimilation, Director of Membership and Maturity, Church Consultant, Consultant for Children's Homes, School Principal, Minister of Missions, Camp Director, Chaplain and Minister to Prisons.
The College of Biblical Studies is located in Houston, Texas. Leveraging its academic rigor and biblical worldview training, CBS offers a nationally and regionally accredited college education on campus and online, with several programs offered in the Spanish language. Students receive transformational education and training for service to families, ministries, businesses, and communities around the world. CBS has provided biblically based education to more than 26,000 students since 1976.
Dr. Joel Badal, Dean of Institutional Effectiveness; Professor
Dr. Kirk Barger, Associate Professor
Dr. William "Bill" Blocker, President, Professor
Shane Boothe, Distance Education Associate Dean of Operations; Assistant Professor
Lee Bouldin, Director of Spiritual Formation, Instructor
Dr. Brittany Burnette, Distance Education Associate Dean of Faculty and Curriculum Development; Professor
Luzmar Cobos, Assistant Librarian; Interim Dean of Students; Instructor
Dr. Richard M. Cozart, Professor
Dr. Nicolas Ellen, Senior Professor
Seferino Esparza, Acquisition & Reference Librarian; Instructor
Dr. Harold Fisher, Professor
Esmeralda Flamenco, Senior Academic Advisor; Instructor
Dr. Bryce Hantla, Academic Dean; Professor
Debbie Harper, Sr. Enrollment Services Advisor; Assistant Professor
Alex Hernandez, Assistant Professor
Paul Keith, Vice President Administration and Chief Operating Officer; Assistant Professor
Dr. Israel Loken, Chair, Bible and Theology Departments; Senior Professor
Artis Lovelady, III, Director of Library Services; Assistant Professor
Dr. Marvin R. McNeese Jr., Chair, General Education Department; Professor
Melissa Mosley, Assistant Professor
Dr. Joseph Parle, Provost; Academic Dean; Professor
Marcus Schrader, Dean of College of Biblical Studies, Indianapolis Campus; Professor
Dr. Phillip Luke Sinitiere, Professor
Dr. Lisa Stewart, Dean of Women’s Discipleship, Director of Student Life and Professor
Dr. Steve Sullivan, Senior Professor and Chaplian
Dr. Debra D. Watkins, Professor
Melinda Merillat, Public Relations and Corporate Communications
Emai: [email protected]; Phone: 832.252.0745 or 936.520.1852.
Why Merge? Press Releases Contact
News Release
Contact: Melinda Merillat Public Relations & Corporate Communications [email protected]; 832.252.0745
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 15, 2019
We've merged! Now what? Indianapolis Dean Marcus Schrader gives an insider's view of life after merging
July 1, 2019
Crossroads Bible College and College of Biblical Studies have merged
Houston, TX – The College of Biblical Studies in Houston, TX and Crossroads Bible College in Indianapolis, IN have officially merged. This announcement comes at the end of more than 18 months of preparation by boards and leadership teams of both schools to merge the two institutions. With this merger, CBS has relocated the Indianapolis campus from 601 N. Shortridge to the Indianapolis landmark, Pyramids at College Park.
CBS has worked extensively to expand the opportunities for Crossroads’ students: More degree programs to choose from, lower tuition, expanded scholarships and financial aid, updated technology, modern campus, and most importantly, regional and national accreditation.
“The College of Biblical Studies and Crossroads Bible College have long shared a common goal of bringing quality biblical higher education to a multiethnic population,” said Dr. Bill Blocker, president of the College of Biblical Studies. “This merger equips us to accomplish this mission in new and greater ways, and it establishes a richer foundation for Indiana communities.”
The merging of the two schools expands the reach of CBS with the addition of the Indianapolis and Fort Wayne campuses, as well as broadening the on-campus and online programs. “This merger provides our students with exciting opportunities that were not available before. Regional accreditation and new degree programs will prepare them for the future in ways we could not have done on our own." said Dr. Charles Ware, president emeritus of Crossroads Bible College.
With the completion of the merger, the colleges will operate as the College of Biblical Studies and will offer classes in Houston, Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and online.
About the College of Biblical Studies
The College of Biblical Studies is located in Houston, Indianapolis, and Fort Wayne. Leveraging its academic rigor and biblical worldview training, CBS offers a nationally and regionally accredited college education onground and online with several programs offered in the Spanish language. Students receive transformational education and training for service to families, ministries, businesses, and communities around the world. CBS has provided biblically based education to more than 26,000 students since 1976 and is ranked as one of the lowest tuitions in Texas.
Please click here for a PDF version of this press release.
April 10, 2019
Houston, TX – The College of Biblical Studies in Houston, Texas has just announced the lease of 21,000 square feet in the Indy Pyramids at College Park, Indianapolis. This lease space will be the new Indianapolis location of Crossroads Bible College. Crossroads Bible College and the College of Biblical Studies signed an agreement in early 2018 to pursue a merger of the two schools.
“For CBS-Houston, this merger will expand its reach through the addition of an Indianapolis campus, several regional locations, and online offerings. For Crossroads, this merger will protect its rich heritage while securing a promising future and greater opportunities for students – including regional accreditation,” stated Dr. Bill Blocker, president of the College of Biblical Studies.
In March, Crossroads sold its current property at 601 N. Shortridge to Indiana Black Expo. “One of the most important factors in this merger is providing the best educational experience we can for our students. In selling the current property and relocating to a more modern facility, we can give our students advantages that we are unable to offer at Shortridge,” stated Dr. Charles Ware, president emeritus of Crossroads Bible College.
The decision to lease space at this Indy landmark was based on student and staff needs, such as modern conveniences, 24/7 onsite security, fitness center, onsite café, and proximity to the bus line. Classes will continue to be held at the Shortridge location until June 14, and classes will begin at the new location on June 17. The merger is expected to be finalized by June 30 at which time Crossroads will officially become the College of Biblical Studies.
Please click here for a PDF version of this press release.
About the College of Biblical Studies
The College of Biblical Studies-Houston Board of Trustees are pursuing the merger of Crossroads Bible College in Indianapolis, Indiana, subject to the approval of ABHE and SACSCOC accreditation agencies. Leveraging its academic rigor and biblical worldview training, CBS offers a nationally and regionally accredited college education on campus and online, with several programs offered in the Spanish language. Students receive transformational education and training for service to families, ministries, businesses, and communities around the world. CBS has provided biblically based education to more than 26,000 students since 1976, and is ranked as one of the lowest tuitions in Texas. For more information on the pursuit of merger, visit http://www.cbshouston.edu/merger.
CBS-Houston Pursues Merger With CBC August 2018 - Click to Learn
Why Merge? Press Releases Contact
If you would like more information about the merger, please contact: Melinda Merillat, Public Relations and Corporate Communications. [email protected]; P. 832.252.0745 or 936.520.1852.
July 1, 2019
This merger will accomplish the following:
This is an exciting time! God has graciously provided an opportunity that will help expand the reach of CBS-Houston and Crossroads Bible College. Our combined resources and strengths will result in a stronger, more efficient, more effective collaborative ministry.
About the College of Biblical Studies
The College of Biblical Studies is located in Houston, Texas. Leveraging its academic rigor and biblical worldview training, CBS offers a nationally and regionally accredited college education on campus and online, with several programs offered in the Spanish language. Students receive transformational education and training for service to families, ministries, businesses, and communities around the world. CBS has provided biblically based education to more than 26,000 students since 1976, and is ranked as one of the lowest tuitions in Texas.
Why Merge? Press Releases Contact
College of Biblical Studies (CBS) is committed to protecting the privacy of all students, regardless of modality. As a condition of retaining its regional SACSCOC accreditation, CBS is publishing its written procedure for protecting the privacy of students enrolled in distance and correspondence education courses and programs.
Approach and Procedure
To protect the privacy of all students, including distance learning students, CBS supports and complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. CBS makes the text of the FERPA act available to all constituents via the CBS website and publications such as the Student Handbook and Academic Catalog.
At enrollment, all CBS students are issued a unique student identification number. This student ID becomes the unique identifier for the student throughout his/her academic career at the College. CBS does not allow the use of the student's Social Security number as a means of systems access. The College also issues each student a unique CBS email address.
Through the unique student identification number or the student email address, along with a password, the student is able to access systems such as SonisWeb (student information system), GMail (student email system), Blackboard (learning management system), GlobalVFS (financial aid system), etc.
In a similar fashion, college personnel are also issues unique login credentials for all CBS systems. In the event of CBS personnel no longer being employed by the school, the former employee's accounts are disabled to prevent access.
To further help ensure the privacy of all students, all system account permissions follow the principle of least privilege. This approach ensures that a given individual only has permissions to perform system functions and access data that is appropriate for their needs. All systems also employ encryption so that the data cannot be intercepted and read by 3rd parties. And finally, all systems are hosted and maintained by the vendor, ensuring that the systems stay updated and are housed in world-class data centers.
|
GENERAL STUDIES |
HRS |
ADDITIONAL COURSES |
HRS |
|
ENGLISH 9 hours |
|
BIBLE 21 hours |
|
|
ENGL 1301 English Composition 1 |
3 |
BIBL 1311 Pentateuch |
3 |
|
ENGL 1302 English Composition 2 |
3 |
BIBL 1312 Historical Literature |
3 |
|
ENGL 2312 Research and Writing |
3 |
BIBL 1213 Wisdom Literature |
2 |
|
College Preparedness 3 hours |
|
BIBL 1414 Prophets |
4 |
|
GNED 1301 Steward Your College Experience |
3 |
BIBL 1321 Gospels |
3 |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCES 3 hours |
|
BIBL 1322 Acts and Pauline Epistles |
3 |
|
HIST 2321 Western Civilization 1OR HIST 2322 Western Civilization 2 |
3 |
BIBL 1323 General Epistles and Revelation |
3 |
|
THEOLOGY 15 hours |
|
||
|
NATURAL SCIENCE/COMPUTER 6 hours |
|
THEO 1311 Introduction to Theological Method |
3 |
|
BIOL 2301 Anatomy and Physiology1 |
3 |
THEO 1312 God, Christ, and Holy Spirit |
3 |
|
COSC 1317 Introduction to Computing |
3 |
THEO 1313 Man, Sin, and Salvation |
3 |
|
FINE ARTS/HUMANITIES 9 hours |
|
THEO 1314 Angels, Church, and Prophecy |
3 |
|
ENGL 1311 Fundamentals of Speech2 |
3 |
THEO 3341 Apologetics |
3 |
|
PHIL 2304 Introduction to Philosophy |
3 |
MINISTRY SKILLS 6 hours |
|
|
PHIL 3305 Christian Ethics |
3 |
MSMN 1301 Bible Study Methods |
3 |
|
CHRISTIAN SERVICE 2 units |
|
MSMN 2302 Foundations of Spiritual Life |
3 |
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 1 |
1u |
GENERAL EDUCATION ELECTIVES 12 hours |
|
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 2 |
1u |
General Education Electives |
12 |
|
SPIRITUAL FORMATION 2 units |
|
FREE ELECTIVES 0 hours |
|
|
MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation, 1 |
1u |
No free electives |
0 |
|
MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation, 2 |
1u |
|
|
|
MAJOR COURSES 36 hours |
HRS |
|
WMIN 3302 The Role of Women in Life and Ministry3 |
3 |
|
MSBC 3313 Introduction to Biblical Framework Counseling |
3 |
|
WMIN 3301 Women’s Spiritual Formation |
3 |
|
MSBC 3315 Marriage and Family |
3 |
|
WMIN 4303 Hospitality and Home Governance3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4301 The Role of Women in Church Administration3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4302 Women Counseling Women3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4331 Women’s Ministry Development and Design3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4321 Women Shepherding Women3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4322 Developing Leadership Teams for Women3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4323 Survey of the Ministry of the Pastor’s Wife3, 4 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4324 Spiritual Health of the Pastor’s Wife3, 4 |
3 |
1 ASTR 2301 Astronomy may substitute for BIOL 2301 Anatomy and Physiology.
2 MSMN 1303 Principles of Biblical Teaching and MSWM 3323 Women Teaching Women may substitute for ENGL 1311 Fundamentals of Speech. MSWM 3323 Women Teaching Women is for women only.
3 These classes are for women only.
4 WMIN 4323 and WMIN 4324 are taken in lieu of Free Electives above.
Purpose: The Bachelor of Science Degree in Women’s Ministry with a minor in the Ministry of the Pastor’s Wife is designed to equip pastors’ wives with a vast array of knowledge and skill in understanding and ministering to women. Students in the Ministry of the Pastor’s Wife program will learn how to develop a philosophy for women’s ministry as well as practical skills to minister and care for other women. Additionally, this program is carefully designed to encourage the pastor’s wife in her personal life as a woman of God and further equip her to sojourn with her husband in ministry. The students will receive biblically based education with practical life applications so that they can study the Word, apply it to their lives and then teach other women how to do the same. Upon completion of the program, the student will be a stronger asset to her pastor/husband and her local church.
Suggested Sequence
|
Year |
Fall |
Spring |
Summer |
|
1 |
MSMN 1301 Bible Study Methods ENGL 1301 English Composition 1 COSC 1317 Introduction to Computing GNED 1301 Steward Your College Experience |
WMIN 3312 The Role of Women in Life and Ministry BIBL 1311 Pentateuch THEO 1311 Introduction to Theological Method ENGL 1302 English Composition 2 |
BIBL 1312 Historical Literature THEO 1312 God, Christ, and Holy Spirit ENGL 2312 Research and Writing MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation |
|
2 |
BIBL 1213 Wisdom Literature THEO 1313 Man, Sin, and Salvation MSBC 3313 Introduction to Biblical Framework Counseling BIBL 1414 Prophets General Education Elective |
WMIN 4303 Hospitality and Home Governance MSMN 2302 Foundations of Spiritual Life THEO 1314 Angels, Church, and Prophecy General Education Elective |
WMIN 3301 Women’s Spiritual Formation BIBL 1321 Gospels THEO 3341 Apologetics MCSP 2011 Christian Service Learning Program |
|
3 |
WMIN 4302 Women Counseling Women BIBL 1322 Acts and Pauline Epistles PHIL 2304 Introduction to Philosophy MSCE 4325 Special Issues in Ministering to Women |
MSBC 3315 Marriage and Family BIBL 1323 General Epistles and Revelation PHIL 3305 Christian Ethics General Education Elective |
WMIN 4312 Stages of Women’s Development BIOL 2301 Anatomy and Physiology HIST 2321 Western Civilization 1 or 2 MCSP 2011 Christian Service Learning Program |
|
4 |
WMIN 4301 The Role of Women in Church Administration WMIN 4321 Women Shepherding Women MSBC 4322 Developing Leadership Teams for Women General Education Elective |
WMIN 4323 Survey of the Ministry of the Pastor's Wife WMIN 4324 Spiritual Health of the Pastor’s Wife WMIN 4331 Women's Ministry Planning and Program Design MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation |
|
Minor: Women's Ministry
|
GENERAL STUDIES |
HRS |
ADDITIONAL COURSES |
HRS |
|
ENGLISH 9 hours |
|
BIBLE 21 hours |
|
|
ENGL 1301 English Composition 1 |
3 |
BIBL 1311 Pentateuch |
3 |
|
ENGL 1302 English Composition 2 |
3 |
BIBL 1312 Historical Literature |
3 |
|
ENGL 2312 Research and Writing |
3 |
BIBL 1213 Wisdom Literature |
2 |
|
College Preparedness 3 hours |
|
BIBL 1414 Prophets |
4 |
|
GNED 1301 Steward Your College Experience |
3 |
BIBL 1321 Gospels |
3 |
|
SOCIAL SCIENCES 3 hours |
|
BIBL 1322 Acts and Pauline Epistles |
3 |
|
HIST 2321 Western Civilization 1OR HIST 2322 Western Civilization 2 |
3 |
BIBL 1323 General Epistles and Revelation |
3 |
|
THEOLOGY 12 hours |
|
||
|
NATURAL SCIENCE/COMPUTER 6 hours |
|
THEO 1311 Introduction to Theological Method |
3 |
|
BIOL 2301 Anatomy and Physiology1 |
3 |
THEO 1312 God, Christ, and Holy Spirit |
3 |
|
COSC 1317 Introduction to Computing |
3 |
THEO 1313 Man, Sin, and Salvation |
3 |
|
FINE ARTS/HUMANITIES 9 hours |
|
THEO 1314 Angels, Church, and Prophecy |
3 |
|
ENGL 1311 Fundamentals of Speech2 |
3 |
MINISTRY SKILLS 9 hours |
|
|
PHIL 2304 Introduction to Philosophy |
3 |
MSMN 1301 Bible Study Methods |
3 |
|
PHIL 3305 Christian Ethics |
3 |
MSMN 1302 Principles of Biblical Teaching |
3 |
|
CHRISTIAN SERVICE 2 units |
|
MSMN 2302 Foundations of Spiritual Life |
3 |
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 1 |
1u |
GENERAL EDUCATION ELECTIVES 12 hours |
|
|
MCSP 2011 Christian Service, 2 |
1u |
General Education Electives |
12 |
|
SPIRITUAL FORMATION 2 units |
|
FREE ELECTIVES 6 hours |
|
|
MSSF 3011 Spiritual Formation, 1 |
1u |
Free Electives |
6 |
|
MSSF 3012 Spiritual Formation, 2 |
1u |
|
|
|
MAJOR COURSES 30 hours |
|
|
ETHICS, LEADERSHIP AND COUNSELING COURSES 9 hours |
|
|
LSOL 3301 Introduction to Christian Leadership |
3 |
|
MSBC 3313 Introduction to Biblical Framework Counseling |
3 |
|
BIBLE AND THEOLOGY ELECTIVES 3 hours |
|
|
BIBL 4331 Advanced Hermeneutics |
3 |
|
THEO 3341 Apologetics |
3 |
|
Women’s Ministry - MINOR COURSES 18 hours |
|
|
MSBC 3315 Marriage and Family |
3 |
|
WMIN 3301 Spiritual Formation3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 3302 The Role of Women in Life and Ministry3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4321 Women Shepherding Women3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4322 Developing Leadership Teams for Women3 |
3 |
|
WMIN 4323 Survey of the Ministry of the Pastor’s Wife3 |
3 |
G
1 ASTR 2301 Astronomy may substitute for BIOL 2301 Anatomy and Physiology
2 MSMN 1303 Principles of Biblical Teaching and MSWM 3323 Women Teaching Women may substitute for ENGL 1311 Fundamentals of Speech. MSWM 3323 Women Teaching Women is for women only.
3 These classes are for women only.
Purpose: The Bachelor of Science Degree in Biblical Studies with a minor in Women’s Ministry is designed to equip women with in-depth knowledge of the word of God and the skill to practically apply it to all of life’s many situations. Students in the Women’s Ministry minor will have an opportunity to explore various issues that women face and examine biblical truths that are applicable to those issues. Upon completion of the program the student will be thoroughly equipped to minister to women in their local churches, communities, and families.
|
Year |
Fall |
Spring |
Summer |
|
1 |
MSMN 1301 Bible Study Methods GNED 1301 Steward Your College Experience ENGL 1301 English Composition 1 COSC 1317 Introduction to Computing |
