THE TEXAS GULF COAST BIBLE

INSTITUTE

School Catalog2009

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TABLE OF CONTENTSTopic PageIntroduction and overview 3

Demographics 3Formation of the TGCBI 3Mission 4

Personnel 4Board 4Faculty/Staff 4

Academic information 5Curriculum 5Full-time students 5Practicum 5Israel 6

Part-time students 6Registration 7

Student policies 7Attendance 7Class participation 8Conduct 8Personnel 9Grading 9Legal papers 9

Financial information 10Technology 10

Laptops 10Logos software 11The Red de Institutos Biblicos (Biblical Institute Network) 11Video conferencing 11Online courses 11Christian Universities 12

Declarations and signatures 12Contact information 13

Appendix A—Faculty and staff information 14Appendix B—Courses and course descriptions 15Appendix C—Interview process for full-time students 22Appendix D— Full-time student registration forms 23Appendix E— Video conferencing 29

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Appendix F—Video Conferencing sites 31INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

DemographicsThe Hispanic population in the United States is exploding. In

1990, the Hispanic population numbered 22.4 million—9% of the U.S. population. In 2003, that jumped to 39.9 million—13.7%. And by the year 2050, some projections state those numbers will rise to 102.6 million and 24.4%. The Hispanic population has spread more rapidly throughout the country than any immigrant group in history, to all the expected places like Los Angeles, Miami, Houston, and New York, as well as other centers such as Phoenix, Riverside, Austin, and Dallas.

The numbers for Harris County and Houston dramatically reflect this reality. According to 2006 demographic statistics, more than 5.5 million people live in greater Houston, of which 38.2% are Hispanic, meaning that more than 2.1 million Hispanics live in the Houston metro area—now the largest ethnic group in the city. By the year 2030, experts estimate that almost half of all of Houston’s population will be of Hispanic origin.

Formation of the TGCBIThis rapid growth presents us with an unparalleled opportunity

for evangelism. The church desperately needs many more qualified Spanish-speaking leaders to be able to respond to this challenge.

After much prayer, investigation, and research by a number of Christians in the Houston area, the Texas Gulf Coast Bible Institute (TGCBI) was begun. A board of directors was selected in November 2003.

The school is incorporated in the state of Texas and has also received 501c(3) status as a tax-exempt organization. The school is primarily supported by a growing number of Houston-area churches and individuals.

The TGCBI signed an agreement to be a branch school of the Sunset International Bible Institute. Sunset has given the TGCBI complete freedom to develop its program as necessary to fulfill its mission. Now, after the first five-year contract with Sunset was completed in the fall of 2008, Sunset and the TGCBI have modified their relationship to be partners, associates in ministry training.

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MissionThe TGCBI’s mission is that which Jesus gave in Matthew

28:18-20. The primary goal of the TGCBI is to train Hispanic men and women to plant reproducing churches, both in Houston and beyond. Following Paul’s advice in 2 Timothy 2:2, the TGCBI wants to train people in ways that will help them train others in a never-ending process.

God has opened doors at every step of the way for this work, providing people, resources, challenges, and opportunities. The people of the TGCBI are his co-workers. Although he calls them to do their part, he has given and will give the increase. (I Cor. 3:5-9) He will initiate and guide—the TGCBI wants to follow his lead. (John 5:19)

PERSONNELBoard

Randy Bates, Flo Mata, Lanny Partain, Sam Bradley, Alan Mashburn, Todd Morte, Lindsay Gibbons, and Randy King currently form the board of the TGCBI. These people represent 4 different churches in the Houston area. The school is blessed by their Christian commitment and varied expertise.

Faculty/StaffArmando Alaniz, Ignacio Bárcenas, and Kevin Montgomery

are the Houston faculty members of the TGCBI.1 In addition, Stephen Austin serves as the executive director of the TGCBI, and Bárcenas as the church planting coordinator. (Austin serves in this capacity from Abilene, thanks to current technology). God has also blessed the TGCBI with an additional 15 faculty members from the other schools with which we are affiliated through video conferencing.2

ACADEMIC INFORMATIONCurriculum

The curriculum of the TGCBI is a blend of text and ministry courses designed to prepare the student to competently understand 1 For more information on these faculty and staff members, see Appendix A.2 For a list of the various sites involved in video conferencing as of January 24, 2009, see Appendix F.

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and apply the Word in all manner of situations related to church planting and nurture. These courses are taught to two basic different groups—full-time day students and part-time students.3

Full-time studentsFull-time students are mostly those who receive a salary from a

supporting church to pay their living expenses while they study and do church-planting work full-time.

Students attend classes Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, from 9 A.M. to 2 P.M. On Wednesdays, students focus on homework and field work. There are five 8-week study cycles each year. Four courses are offered each cycle; thus the students take a minimum of 40 courses during the two-year program. At the end of the course work, each student that has finished the course requirements will graduate, receiving a certificate of completion that acknowledges his or her work. This certificate is backed by Sunset.

In the fall of 2008, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board granted authority to the TGCBI to confer a Bachelor of Biblical Studies degree on its graduates. This degree can and will be offered to all graduates, whether local or foreign, who have satisfactorily completed our program. Our graduating class of December 2008 was the first to receive this degree.

Practicum On weekends and some evenings, each student works planting

and nurturing a congregation in the area of his supporting church, or an area selected by the supporting church, the TGCBI, and the student. As church planting coordinator, Ignacio Barcenas visits each student’s site each week, serving as mentor, equipper, and resource person.

Barcenas also helps train the students in group therapy principles in night sessions once a week for part of the year. These sessions also give a chance for the students and their spouses to interact socially.

Each student is required to perform and document at least 10 hours of various kinds of field work each week in his area, turning in reports of this work to Barcenas. The student is graded on the field work and the grade appears on his final transcript.

3 For a complete list of the courses and a description of their content, see Appendix B.

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Thus the students have the chance to learn both academically and practically during the same two-year period, allowing the two areas to influence and improve each other.

Realizing that student budgets may be somewhat restricted, the TGCBI has arranged with area health professionals who will provide free dental, vision, hearing, pediatric, and general checkups for the full-time students and their families. The TGCBI has also arranged with the Impact Church of Christ to provide free food and clothing at least once or twice a month for them. Other benefits may also be available for the full-time students.

Obviously, the character and abilities of these full-time students is crucial. They represent a significant investment of time and resources for the future of the church. The TGCBI has specific policies in place for screening and accepting these students—personally, academically, congregationally, and legally.4

IsraelAs part of a well-rounded education, the TGCBI takes its full-

time students for an intense two-week trip to Israel. During this time we visit between 50-60 sites relating to biblical history, geography, archaeology, and ancient culture. The students are required to do some preparatory work before the trip and also some afterwards. The students receive credit for two courses (biblical archaeology and NT history and geography), for the estimated 80 hours in the field in Israel, and the assignments. Funding for this trip is provided by interested individuals.

Part-time studentsThe TGCBI makes available other courses—taught by local

professors or those from the video conferencing network-- during come evenings to part-time students. These students are primarily members of area churches, in Houston or other locations on the video conferencing network, or can be anyone else interested in improving their knowledge of the Bible or of ministry. Part-time students from any area are also welcome to take specific day courses, alongside of the full-time students.

It is possible for part-time students to earn not only a certificate of completion for each course, but also a certificate acknowledging

4 To see the application for the full-time students, see Appendix D.

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completion of a longer track of courses, such as biblical text or church growth.

RegistrationRegistration for part-time classes begins shortly before each

semester of study. Students must fill out a simple registration form, available from school officials or online (www.tgcbi.org), and then pay a small course fee, which helps defray expenses of course materials. Anyone is welcome to register for part-time classes if they are willing to comply with school policies and the instructor’s requirements.

Full-time students must comply with the requirements of the student interview process, as listed in Appendix C, in order to be accepted.

STUDENT POLICIESAttendance

Part-time students may have a total of three absences per course, excused or unexcused. If they have more than three, they may not receive credit for the course. Any work missed during absences must be made up to the satisfaction of the professor and the director.

Full-time students are expected to attend all classes. If the student misses any classes, he must provide an excuse acceptable to the professor and director, and make up any work missed during his absence. Two unexcused absences will result in the student being put on probation for the rest of the quarter. The professor, director, and church planting coordinator will meet with the student to determine what measures are needed (preventive, punitive, or instructive) to help the student make the necessary improvements to his work.

A third unexcused absence can result in the student being dismissed from the school. The director, professor, and church planting coordinator will be responsible for meeting with the student and making the final decision regarding such dismissals.

All students are expected to arrive on time for class. For full-time students, three tardies will be counted as one unexcused absence.

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Class participationThe fact that some courses are taken by video conferencing

from remote professors means that students will occasionally be in the classroom without a local professor. This requires a certain degree of maturity and self-discipline. Students will be expected to remain in class at all times, paying attention to the remote professor. Students should not engage in any activity that would distract other students or teachers from the class at hand, or lead to a perceived lack of respect by professors or other students. Conduct

All students represent Christ, the church, their families, and the school. Their behavior should be Christ-like and biblical in all respects. Their physical appearance, grooming, and clothing should be modest, clean, and well-kept. Any problems in these areas will be dealt with according to Matthew 18:15-22.

Within the school environment, students should be respectful, hard-working, kind, good-humored, and humble. Their academic work should be thorough, well-organized, concise, practical, and punctual.

Appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken by the professor and director for the following reasons:

a. Incompetent workb. Cheating of any kindc. Immoral behavior, as defined by the Bible.d. Ungodly attitudes, as defined by the Bible.All disciplinary measures should first of all be instructive, then

preventive, and last, if necessary, punitive, so that the students may learn and grow from their mistakes.

All students and school personnel should cooperate in school activities, such as devotionals and special events, as well as simple things like school cleanliness and maintenance, since the school in a very real sense belongs to all of them.

PersonnelIt should be obvious that all faculty and staff members will be

expected to provide a Christian example for each other and the students in all areas of behavior, at all school activities, as well as in their churches, their marriages, and their families.

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GradingThe director will meet with each local professor concerning the

syllabus requirements and grading policies for each course. If a course is taught by a professor from another site, the Houston director will talk to either the professor or school director for that site, or both. It is understood that, due to differences in class material, course requirements will vary, including tests and projects.

Upon approval of these requirements, all students will be expected to complete them as set forth by each professor, and backed by the director.

The following general policies will apply to all grading:a. Any work not turned in on time will result in an “I”, or

incomplete. b. The student will have two weeks to turn in such assignments. c. If he turns them in, they will receive a 70. If not, they will

receive a 0, unless other justifiable circumstances are discussed with the professor and director.

d. The final course grade will be registered in the student’s transcript. A grade of 70 is the lowest passing grade for a course; anything lower is a failing grade. Three courses with a failing grade can result in being dismissed from the institute.

The institute recognizes that in life and ministry, there are occasional extenuating circumstances that may necessitate flexibility and adaptation of the preceding policies. Such possible changes will be discussed between the student, the director, professors, and church planting coordinator. It is our goal and desire to maintain high standards and expectations, while at the same time extending the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ to all who need it (which is all of us, at some point!)

Legal papersThe TGCBI requires all full-time students at the Houston

campus to have valid papers of some kind in order to enter and continue in the program. These papers may reflect normal citizen status, permanent residency status, temporary resident status, religious worker status, or a student or work visa.

The TGCBI will also accept a full-time student if he or she can show evidence from the Immigration and Naturalization Service that

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they are in the legal process of receiving papers, even if such papers are not in hand.

Furthermore, the TGCBI will do everything it can legally to help students obtain legal papers in order to live, study, and work here. There are only two basic restrictions on the TGCBI in this regard;

a. The TGCBI cannot and will not do anything illegal to help people gain papers.b. The TGCBI cannot serve as guarantors of financial backing for anyone, according to INS requirements.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The TGCBI does not provide any official financial assistance to its students. In the case of the part-time students, a small fee ($20) will be charged for each course that each student takes, in order to cover the cost of course materials.

The TGCBI helps obtain funding for living expenses for the local full-time students, although these funds usually go directly from the sponsoring congregations or individuals to the local full-time students. The TGCBI will not charge tuition to local full-time students.

TECHNOLOGYLaptops

Through private sponsors, the TGCBI provides a complete computer setup (laptop, printer, software, and some peripherals) for each full-time student or couple, which will be essential to his study. The laptops will be used and cared for by the students, including supplying their own paper and toner, and renewal of necessary licenses. However, the laptops are considered to be the property of the TGCBI until the successful completion of the 40-course program. At that time, the laptops will become the property of the students. If for any reason the student does not finish the full program, the laptop remains the property of the TGCBI, and should be turned into the director when he exits the program.Logos software

The TGCBI will also provide outstanding bilingual Bible software from Logos (the foremost Bible software provider) for the full-time students, already installed for use on their laptops. The students will receive training in the use of the laptops and the

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software. They will also have the opportunity to purchase most academic software from Logos at half-price..

The Red de Institutos Biblicos (Bible Institute Network)The growing cooperation of schools, churches, and professors

in Latin America has led to the establishment of a network that can help provide efficient stewardship of kingdom financial and personnel resources. Students, teachers, and ministers from all Latin America can communicate and work with each other on a daily basis. The best professors can teach their best courses to all; the most successful, experienced church planters and ministers can mentor and teach students and church members. This network can interact through video conferencing, the new online program, or even with possible opportunities with Christian universities.

Video conferencingAs part of its long-distance program, the TGCBI has begun to

transmit and receive classes by video conferencing, which permits students to participate with students in other locations in a live, interactive format. Currently, the TGCBI shares classes in some form with students in 11 countries. 5

Lord willing, we will add several more sites, both internationally and nationally, in 2009, countries such as Colombia, Chile, and Paraguay.6 Our goal is to have at least one site in every Spanish-speaking country by the end of the year 2012, if not sooner.

Online coursesThe online video streaming program was launched in April

2008, a cooperative effort of Sunset personnel, the TGCBI, and other participants in Latin America. The first course is Spiritual Formation, taught by Kirk McAfee, and as of January 2009 this course has 100 students in 23 countries. The next three courses have been recorded and are being formatted to be placed online.

Our goal is to record and place online all 40 courses of our curriculum, so that people anywhere in the world may access them and find training for themselves and their congregations. Lord willing, these 40 courses (perhaps more) will be online by the end of 2012.

5 For a list of videoconferencing sites currently on our network, see Appendix F.6 For more information about how to host video conferencing classes, see Appendix D.

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Directors of the network’s schools will consider the best ways to take advantage of online courses and live, interactive courses through video conferencing, as part of future diplomas or certificates that may be offered.

Christian UniversitiesThere is a growing interest on the part of Christian universities

such as Abilene Christian University, Harding, and Pepperdine, among others, to increase and improve training of ministers for Latin America, training offered in English or in Spanish. Various options are being considered for how best to implement such programs.

DECLARATIONS AND SIGNATURES

Administrative declaration:The faculty and staff of the TGCBI promise to inform students

of all institute rules and policies, and help them conform to them. The faculty and staff also pledge to follow these same rules and policies in letter and in spirit.

Signature ______________________

Student declaration:I affirm that I have read and understand clearly the school

handbook and the information, policies and guidelines in it. I accept my responsibility regarding these rules and will do everything in my power to fulfill and obey them. I will respect the authority of the board, the administration, and those to whom authority is given. My signature below affirms my approval and acceptance of these policies.

Signature: ____________________________________

CONTACT INFORMATION

Texas Gulf Coast Bible Institute1502 Avenue ISouth Houston, Texas, 77587(713) 910-2819

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(713) 472-3000 fax

Flo Mata, chairman of the TGCBI Board(502) 494-0683flomata@msn.com

Stephen Austin, Director, TGCBI733 E.N. 16th

Abilene, TX, 79601austin@tgcbi.org

Kevin Montgomery, Assistant director, TGCBI1502 Avenue ISouth Houston, Texas, 77587(713) 910-2819Montgomery@tgcbi.org

Ignacio Barcenas, church planting supervisor1502 Avenue ISouth Houston, Texas, 77587(713) 206-9594ignaciobarcenas@sbcglobal.net

You may visit TGCBI’s website online at www.tgcbi.org

Or visit the TGCBI link online as part of the Sunset International Bible Institute website: www.sunsetinternational.org

  APPENDIX A

Faculty and staff information**

The following men serve as professors for the Texas Gulf CoastBible Institute, either locally or from remote video conferencing sites: Carlos Acosta, B.A. (Dallas, TX)

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Armando Alaniz, M.A., Ph.D candidate (Houston)Oswaldo Albarracin, B.A. (Quito, Ecuador)Stephen Austin, M.A., M.Div., D.Min (Houston)Ignacio Barcenas, M.A. (Houston)Carlos Camacho, B.A. (Valencia, Venezuela)Juan Flores, Instituto Baxter, (Quito, Ecuador)Carlos Lopez, B.A. (Dallas, TX)Juan Loyola, Quito School of Biblical Studies, (Quito, Ecuador)Kirk McAfee, M.M. (Miami, FL)Joshua Marcum, M.Div. (Cochabamba, Bolivia)Kent Marcum, B.A. (Quito, Ecuador)Enrique Martorell, M.A. (Little Rock, AR)Kevin Montgomery, M.A. (Houston, TX)Alirio Ortega, Universidad de Zulia, Instituto Biblico de Caracas (Maracaibo, Venezuela)Jorge Pineda, Sunset International Bible Institute (Little Rock, AR)Sixto Rivera, B.A. (Dallas, TX)Rudy Wray, M.A., D.Min (Portland, OR)Edgar Yungan, Instituto Baxter (Quito, Ecuador)

**Other professors are added as new sites come online.

APPENDIX BCOURSES AND COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

BIBLICAL TEXT COURSESOld Testament

101 Story of the Bible (OT) 1

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Chronological study of the Old Testament, focusing on the book of Genesis and the patriarchs. Applications for today’s church.

102 Story of the Bible (OT) 2Chronological study of the Old Testament, from Exodus-Deuteronomy—the life and death of Moses, the law, and the people of Israel. Applications for today’s church.

103 Story of the Bible (OT) 3Chronological study of the Old Testament, beginning with the conquest until the end of the united kingdom, including studies of relevant passages from the prophets who are contemporaries of the historical characters mentioned. Applications for today’s church.

104 Story of the Bible (OT) 4Chronological study of the Old Testament--the divided kingdom, including studies of relevant passages from the prophets who are contemporaries of the historical characters mentioned. Applications for today’s church.

105 Story of the Bible (OT) 5Chronological study of the Old Testament--the exile, including studies of relevant passages from the prophets who are contemporaries of the historical characters mentioned. Applications for today’s church.

106 Wisdom literatureTextual study of Job-Song of Solomon, with attention to the characteristics of wisdom literature, as well as application to today’s church.

107 Minor ProphetsFurther study of Hosea-Malachi, with application to today’s church.

108 IsaiahTextual study of this major prophetic book, with special attention to its ties to Christ and the New Testament, as well as

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application to today’s church.

109 Ezekiel/DanielTextual study of these major prophetic books, including attention to the characteristics of apocalyptic literature and connections to New Testament apocalyptic literature, such as Revelation and parts of Matthew and Luke. Applications for today’s church.

110 Jeremiah/LamentationsTextual study of these major prophetic books, with attention to the circumstances of the end of the kingdom of Judah and the beginning of the exile. Applications for today’s church.

New Testament

201 Story of the Bible (NT) 6Chronological study of the life of Christ (part 1) as revealed in the four gospels, with attention to the historical context. Applications for today’s church.

202 Story of the Bible (NT) 7Chronological study of the life of Christ (part 2) as revealed in the four gospels, with attention to the historical context. Applications for today’s church.

203 Story of the Bible (NT) 8Chronological study of the history of the early church (part 1), along with studies of relevant passages from the letters to the churches. Applications for today’s church.

204 Story of the Bible (NT) 9Chronological study of the history of the early church (part 2), along with studies of relevant passages from the letters to the churches. Applications for today’s church.

205 Story of the Bible (NT) 10Textual study of Revelation, with special attention to its implications for eschatology, its connection to the Old

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Testament, and application to today’s church.

206 Johannine literatureTextual study of the Gospel of John and the three letters to the Ephesian church. Applications for today’s church.

207 ActsTextual study of the history of the early church and its relation to the rest of the New Testament. Includes studies of other New Testament letters when applicable. Applications for today’s church.

208 Romans/GalatiansTextual study of these important doctrinal books, and their application to today’s church.

209 Corinthian lettersTextual study of Paul’s letters to the Corinthians, with emphasis on cultural backgrounds, contextualization, and application to today’s church.

210 Prison epistlesTextual study of Paul’s letters written in prison, their historical context, and application to today’s church.

211 General epistlesTextual study of these New Testament letters, with application to today’s church.

212 Pastoral epistlesTextual study of Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus, with application to today’s church.

213 HebrewsTextual study of this important doctrinal letter, with special attention to Old Testament references, and application to today’s church.

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214 RevelationTextual study, with special attention to background information, Old Testament references, apocalyptic literature, and methods of interpretation, as well as practical applications for the individual and the church of today.

BIBLICAL STUDY TOOLS301 Greek 1

Beginning study of Greek grammar and vocabulary, with emphasis on developing basic language skills for the study of the Greek New Testament.

302 Greek 2Continuation of Greek 1, with emphasis on basic reading, and how to use linguistic resources for basic studies.

303 Hebrew 1Beginning study of Hebrew grammar and vocabulary, with emphasis on developing basic language skills for the study of the Hebrew Old Testament.

304 Hebrew 2Continuation of Hebrew 1, with emphasis on developing basic language skills for the study of the Hebrew Old Testament.

305 ExegesisPrinciples and practice of exegesis of biblical text, with special attention to how all biblical study tools can and should be integrated and implemented to understand the biblical message well.

306 HermeneuticsPrinciples and practice of the interpretation of the biblical text, with attention given to the history of interpretation. Includes how the results of biblical exegesis combine with the tools of hermeneutics to result in practical, coherent, biblical lessons for today’s church.

307 Homiletics

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Principles and practice of preaching the Word. Emphasis on how to present a combination of responsible, thorough Bible study and practical application to the church.

HISTORY

401 Intertestamental history Study of the period between the end of the Old Testament and the beginning of the New Testament, with emphasis on historical contexts that shed light on the New Testament.

402 History and geography of the New Testament Study of the historical and geographical setting of the New Testament, in order to better understand the ministry of Jesus and the early church. This course will be studied on site in Israel in a practical fashion, and assignments will be given before and after the trip.

403 New Testament churchIn-depth biblical and historical study of the organization and practices of the New Testament church and how they apply to today’s church.

404 Church history, (part 1)Survey of the history of the church from the end of the first century through 1500.

405 Church history, (part 2)Survey of the history of the church from 1500 till the present.

406 Biblical archaeologyHistorical and scientific study of important finds from the field of biblical archaeology, and how they shed light on current understanding of the biblical text. This course will be studied on site in Israel in a practical fashion, and assignments will be given before and after the trip.

407 Christian Evidences In-depth look at some of the scientific and historical bases for

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the Christian faith, directed primarily at strengthening the faith of the believer rather than the non-believer.

MINISTRY

501 Spiritual DevelopmentStudy of the student’s relationship to Christ. Spiritual disciplines and their application in the student’s life.

502 Christian FamilySurvey of basic aspects of family dynamics and family problems, and biblical applications for them, as well as a review of the some of the resources available today to the Christian family.

503 Pastoral Counseling/Conflict ResolutionPrinciples and practice of pastoral counseling, particularly in the local church. Study of healthy processes and methods to resolve conflict on the levels of church, family, and individuals.

504 Effective leadershipPrinciples of church leadership and leadership training, using biblical teaching, practical experience, various church-planting methods, and case studies.

505 Church GrowthBasic principles of church growth, using biblical teaching, practical experience, various church-planting methods, and case studies.

506 Christianity and CultureA Christian’s response to the difficult issues facing him or her (and the church) in today’s society and culture. Emphasis on developing a biblical paradigm for responding to these issues.

507 The Work of MinistryExplores biblical perspectives on the work of ministry focusing especially on the ministry of Jesus and Paul as examples of

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how effective incarnational mission and ministry are conceived and accomplished.

508 Small groups/Cell groupsThis course helps students understand the basic principles of church growth as used within small or cell groups. Students will study applicable biblical passages and small group principles, and learn how to apply these in a small group setting.

509 Religious groupsConcentrated study of other major religious groups—their origins, doctrines, and practices. Emphasis is placed on how to understand and relate to them in a biblical, godly fashion.

510 Church plantingExplores the biblical and missiological literature on urban church planting techniques and models to determine what church planting methods have been most effective in North American urban contexts.

511 WorshipA practical orientation regarding developing a biblical theology of praise and worship, with emphasis on the process involved. Instruction and practice of basic music theory as training for worship leaders.

512 HeavenA textual study of the biblical teaching of heaven and how it impacts our present and future Christian life. Other resources are also utilized as appropriate.

APPENDIX CInterview process for full-time students

I. PersonalA. 3 letters of reference from friends or acquaintance of at

least 5 yearsB. Personality evaluation—Taylor-Johnson Temperament

AnalysisC. Doctrinal/theological position evaluation

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D. Evaluation of biblical knowledge E. Application fully filled out (see application packet online at

http://tgcbi.org/index.asp?s=1173, or in Appendix E.F. All results of above discussed in face to face interview

II. AcademicA. High school degree, GED, or some equivalent of it from

other country.B. Demonstrated ability to read and write well, based on oral

and written test.III. Congregational

A. At least 3 references from congregations where candidate has been a member, from such people as the minister, co-workers, and other members.

B. A ministry resume for the work done in the congregation(s).

IV. LegalA. Each student must have legal papers of some kind,

whether already a citizen here, temporary resident, student visa, religious worker visa, or papers showing he is legally in the process of getting such papers.

B. The institute will do whatever it can legally to help each student acquire the appropriate papers so that he can work freely.

C. The institute recognizes that each case will have to be handled on its own merits and conditions, and that a change in status from worker to student, for example, (among other possible status changes), may present complications in getting the right papers. The intent of TGCBI is to make it possible for each student to work legally here.

APPENDIX DPAQUETE DE APLICACIÓN PARA

LOS ALUMNOS TIEMPO COMPLETO

A los alumnos prospectivos del Instituto Bíblico del Golfo:

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Gracias por su interés en ser alumno en el programa tiempo completo del Instituto Bíblico del Golfo. Si desea aplicar para ser considerado como candidato, por favor provea la información pedida en las páginas siguientes.

Esperamos con gusto sus respuestas, y será un placer conocerle.

Que el Señor le bendiga,

Esteban AustinDirector, Instituto Bíblico del Golfo

Ponga “x” en el espacio cuando lo haya terminado cada hoja o cada paso del proceso.

____ 1. Aplicación ____ 2. Hoja con otra información.____ 3. Evaluación de creencias doctrinales y/teológicas.____ 4. Certificado de haber completado la secundaria, o su

equivalente (GED, etc.)____ 5. Evaluación de conocimiento bíblico. (Panorama)____ 6. Prueba de residencia legal en los Estados Unidos.

INSTITUTO BIBLICO DEL GOLFOREGISTRO--ALUMNOS TIEMPO COMPLETO

Información de contacto

Nombre y apellido _________________________________________________Dirección_________________________________________________________Teléfono (casa) ________________ (cel.) ______________________________Correo electrónico _________________________________________________

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Sexo ____________ Estado civil ____________________________________Nombre de esposa _________________________________________________Nombres de hijos o hijas ____________________________________________Número de Seguridad Social _________________________________________Número de otro documento legal relevante______________________________

Diploma y entrenamiento Escuela Ciudad y estado Diploma ¿Terminó?

SecundariaUniversidadPosgraduadoVocacional

1. Dé cualquier otra educación, entrenamiento, habilidades especiales, o certificados y licencias que puedan calificarle para este puesto. ________________________________________________________________2. Dé otros idiomas que hable con fluidez._______________________________3. Dé otros idiomas que lea y escriba con fluidez _________________________4. ¿Puede dar pruebas de su derecho legal de trabajar en los Estados Unidos?________________________________________________________________5. ¿Puede cumplir con las funciones esenciales de este trabajo?________________________________________________________________6. ¿Tiene algún compromiso con otro empleador que afecte su empleo con nosotros?________________________________________________________________

7. Respecto a las tres preguntas que siguen, no incluya convicciones que fueron selladas, borradas, anuladas por una corte, perdonadas, o postergadas.

1. En los últimos 10 años, ¿se ha declarado culpable de, o no ha peleado, cualquier ofensa criminal? ¿Le han declarado culpable de cualquier ofensa criminal?

2. ¿Ha sido arrestado por cualquier ofensa por la cual está esperando juicio?

3. ¿Ha usado drogas de cualquier tipo en los últimos 3 años? Si dice sí, ¿cuáles, y con qué frecuencia?

Si contestó “Sí” a cualquiera de las tres preguntas de arriba, dé los detalles de esa situación. Tener un record de ofensas criminales no necesariamente le descalifica para este empleo. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Experiencia de trabajoDé los últimos tres trabajos que tenido

Trabajo #1¿Dónde?

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¿Qué trabajo hizo?¿Fechas de empleo allá?¿Por qué lo dejó?Supervisor (información de contacto)¿Podemos contactarle?

Trabajo #2 ¿Dónde?¿Qué trabajo hizo?¿Fechas de empleo allá?¿Por qué lo dejó?Supervisor (información de contacto)¿Podemos contactarle?

Trabajo #3¿Dónde?¿Qué trabajo hizo?¿Fechas de empleo allá?¿Por qué lo dejó?Supervisor (información de contacto)¿Podemos contactarle?

ReferenciasDé tres referencias de personas, aparte de los de arriba, que le hayan conocido por lo menos 3 años. (Ponga la información de contacto)

Referencia #1

Referencia #2

Referencia #3

Otra información

Experiencia de iglesia¿En qué iglesia fue bautizado? Describa algo de su conversión, y su participación en esa congregación.

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¿Ha asistido a otras iglesias desde ese entonces? Si la respuesta es sí, diga cuales son, y describa su participación en ellos.

Si ha cambiado de iglesia o de congregación, ¿por cuál motivo cambió? Cuente algo de ese cambio.

¿Cuáles son sus dones o talentos que ha utilizado en la iglesia y en su vida cristiana?

¿Por qué quiere estudiar tiempo completo en el instituto?

¿Cuáles son las metas que tiene para el futuro?

¿Hay algo más que quiera decir de si mismo?

IBGEvaluación Teológica y Doctrinal

1. ¿Qué cree usted acerca de la Biblia? ¿Cuál es el papel que tiene en su vida y en su ministerio, ahora y en el futuro?

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2. Según su entendimiento de la Biblia, ¿quién es Dios? ¿Cómo describiría su relación personal con Él? ¿Cómo afecta su ministerio ahora y en el futuro?

3. Según su entendimiento de la Biblia, ¿quién es Jesús? ¿Cómo describiría su relación personal con Él? ¿Cómo afecta su ministerio ahora y en el futuro?

4. Según su entendimiento de la Biblia, ¿quién es el Espíritu Santo? ¿Qué hace hoy en su vida y en la de la iglesia? ¿Cómo afecta su ministerio ahora y en el futuro?

5. Según su entendimiento de la Biblia, ¿cómo se salva una persona?

6. Según su entendimiento de la Biblia, ¿quién forma parte de la iglesia de Cristo? ¿Cuál es el propósito de la iglesia?

7. Según su entendimiento de la Biblia, ¿Cuáles son los asuntos que podrían ser “asuntos de opinión”? (Romanos 14) ¿Cuál es el proceso para resolver desacuerdos respecto a tales asuntos?

Afirmación y autorización

Afirmo que esta información es verdadera y completa hasta el punto que yo sepa. Afirmo también que cualquier falsificación u omisión de información puede resultar en descalificación de consideración para este empleo.

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Autorizo a todas las personas mencionadas arriba darle información al Instituto Bíblico del Golfo respecto a mi empleo, educación, u otra información relevante, y no le haré culpable a ninguna persona de dar tal información si algún daño resulta de dar tal información.

Si me admiten al Instituto, prometo cumplir con la política de la escuela en todo aspecto, y que me pueden despedir si no cumplo con tal política.

Entiendo y acepto que, según la ley aplicable, es posible que tenga que someterme yo a una prueba para drogas o alcohol. Por eso doy permiso que se me tomen pruebas de sangre u orina para tales pruebas. Doy permiso que el laboratorio dé los resultados sólo al liderazgo del Instituto Bíblico del Golfo. Entiendo que cualquier resultado positivo indicando uso de drogas o alcohol puede resultar en no ser aceptado como alumno.

________________________________________________Firma Aclaración________________Fecha de firma

APPENDIX EVideo Conferencing—

Being Good Stewards of God’s Resources

One of a minister’s primary goals is to multiply the number of Christians. After some time, another goal assumes more importance for him—to multiply ministers, who can multiply Christians.

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At the Texas Gulf Coast Bible Institute, we believe God has given us a way to multiply schools, which can multiply ministers, who can multiply Christians.

In Houston we have in place our faculty, facilities, curriculum, and most of the school infrastructure. Instead of duplicating this with much cost and effort in every city which wants to train Hispanic men and women in ministry, you can link to our resources through the technology of videoconferencing—live, interactive, audio/visual classes transmitted to you by camera.

For a relatively low initial cost, a very low ongoing cost, and some logistical cooperation from your local site, you will be able to tap into not only our resources, but those from other places as well who are connected to us. If you choose, you can extend your education beyond just information into developing a church planting effort.

Here are the requirements (with some options) that will open the door to this opportunity for you.

One-time expensesOption 1 Cost Option 2 CostMulti-point camera 2250 Single-point camera 900Auxiliary camera (if wanted) 250 Auxiliary camera 250Monitor, 32-inch, 320 Monitor, 32-inch, 320Dell projector, 1800 lumens 500

(if needed)Cables (RCA, CAT-6, 75 Cables (RCA, CAT-6, 75 surge protector) surge protector)

TOTAL 3395 TOTAL 1545Monthly expensesT1 line (1.5 by 1.5) 300-450/mo. DSL (384-512) 40-60/mo.

The local church or group will be responsible for the equipment costs, installation costs, and ongoing line costs.Equipment VendorGebx--Bret Pritchett(847) 289-1100 (1112)http://www.videoconferencesystem.com/?src=overture

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Room requirements One fairly large room, suited to the needs of the amount of

students expected for the class, with a little more room for the equipment and moving around. It’s helpful if the room can be set up so that the screen will not have windows behind it.

The room needs to be accessible for whatever T1 or DSL connections are necessary.

Appropriate measures to install equipment and provide security when classroom is not in use.

PersonnelOne person to coordinate the activities related to hosting the classes. Duties would include such things as:

Making sure equipment is on and functioning for classes, and off and stored afterwards.

Periodic communication with the teacher of the remote class to take care of any special requirements for a particular class session—receiving and preparing for tests, any materials needed, etc. The teacher will be responsible for all grading.

Collecting any fee for the class from the students. Such fees are flexible and generally will go toward any materials or incidental costs for the course.

Helping recruit students, along with others doing the same. Occasionally serving as a liaison between the remote teacher

and the local students.

If the local church and/or students decide to include the church planting element in their Hispanic work, they will also be in charge of that. It is not the desire of the TGCBI to control or oversee others’ local church plants; however, we will always be happy to share ideas, and to learn from you as well.

APPENDIX FVideo Conferencing Sites

ARLINGTON, VA Hector CastilloBAXTER INSTITUTE, HONDURAS Steve WhiteBUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA Ruben Dario Lopera

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COCHABAMBA, BOLIVIA Joshua MarcumDALLAS, TX Sixto RiveraDEL POZO, PEDRO, URUGUAY Pedro del PozoESTEBAN AUSTIN Esteban AustinGUATEMALA CITY, GUATEMALA Denny MartinHIDDEN VALLEY Cruz HernandezHOPE, ARKANSAS Enrique MartorellHOUSTON, TX Kevin MontgomeryHOUSTON, TX 2 Kevin MontgomeryIMPACT IGLESIA DE CRISTO Dimas VelasquezLA PALMA, EL SALVADOR Jose CastilloLITTLE ROCK, AR Fernando RenteríaLIMA, PERU Paul DowellMARACAIBO, VENEZUELA Alirio OrtegaMARACAY, VENEZUELA Jorge PerezMIAMI, FL Allan McAfeeMONTGOMERY, KEVIN Kevin MontgomeryNAPLES, FLORIDA Alejandro del ZottoOCOTEPEQUE, HONDURAS Jorge RodriguezPINEDA, JORGE (Little Rock, AR) Jorge Pineda, Pleasant ValleyPORTLAND, OR Rudy WrayQUITO, ECUADOR Kent MarcumQUITO, ECUADOR 2 Kent MarcumSEATTLE, WA Anthony WilsonSILVER SPRING, MD Elmer PachecoSUNSET IGLESIA DE CRISTO, Miami Jose CastilloTOLUCA, MEXICO Roberto Zepeda HerreraUNIVERSITY CHURCH OF CHRIST (Abilene,Tx) Esteban AustinVALENCIA, VENEZUELA Carlos Camacho

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