Course Schedule 2022-2023

EQUIP courses are made available for registration quarterly. EQUIP offers a range of topics attending equally to the Bible, theology, church history, missions, ministry, and current issues. Each two-year schedule contains all the courses required to complete our certificate and licentiate programs.

EQUIP Courses in 2022 Master Schedule - Synopsis & Biodata

1st Quarter 2022

Old Testament Survey **^ (Dr Yee Chin Hong) Mondays 730-930pm | 3, 10, 17, 24 Jan & 7, 14, 21 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. A survey of the Old Testament books in their literary, historical and theological contexts. This course will highlight the message of each book, the broad strokes of Old Testament history, key motifs and themes, the importance of the Old Testament for understanding the New, and its relevance to Christian living and ministry. Biodata. Dr Yee Chin Hong teaches Old Testament at Trinity Theological College. Before joining TTC in 2020, he was on the staff of Cru Singapore (1994-2019), serving in various capacities, including student ministry, short-term missions, and teaching. He and his family worship at Bethel Presbyterian Church.

The Parables of Jesus (Dr Tan Kim Huat) Tuesdays 730-930pm | 4, 11, 18, 25 Jan & 8, 15, 22 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course will help participants better appreciate the meaning and impact of Jesus’ parables when they were first told and to apply them for present-day Christian living. The background and framework within which we are to understand Jesus’ parables will be emphasised, especially the connection with the theme of the Kingdom of God and the fulfilment of the Old Testament. Parables as a powerful vehicle for dismantling long-held assumptions in the new light of God’s revelation will also be featured. It is hoped that participants may gain a better understanding of their faith and be illuminating and transforming parables to their own generation. Biodata. Dr Tan Kim Huat is the Chen Su Lan Professor of New Testament at Trinity Theological College. His enduring interest is in understanding the emergence of Christianity within a Jewish matrix. Kim Huat has a strong interest in strengthening theological education in the region and was been involved in the first-ever regional consortium of colleges, ATESEA (Association for Theological Education in South East Asia). He is currently the Chairman of ATESEA’s Board of Trustees.

Missio Dei: Historical & Holistic Perspectives ** (Rev Dr Andrew Peh) Wednesdays 730-930pm | 5, 12, 19, 26 Jan & 9, 16, 23 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course surveys the expansion and development Christianity as Missio Dei (the mission of God), from both historical and holistic perspectives. The salvation and renewal of all creation, the proclamation and practice of His word, and the growth and witness of the church are essentially understood as God's mission. The first part of the course outlines the significant events/movements in the transmission of the Christian faith. The latter half of the course sketches the significant themes of holistic mission, all of which are understood as God's mission in bringing the whole Gospel to the whole world. Biodata. Rev Dr Andrew Peh, PhD (Asbury Theological Seminary), lectures in the area of mission and mission history at Trinity Theological College. His interests are in the history of Christianity in Asia and mission trends in the 21st century. He also serves in the Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore as a diaconal minister appointed to Charis Methodist Church.

Christian Doctrine **^ (Rev Dr Edmund Fong) Thursdays 730-930pm | 6, 13, 20, 27 Jan & 3, 10, 17 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. Christian doctrine is an articulation of our beliefs that shape and characterise us as the people of God. It is our collection of shared beliefs that enable us to say “This is us!” The lectures will cover the following doctrines: i) Revelation and Scripture; ii) Creation and Covenant; iii) the Trinity; iv) the Person and Work of Christ; v) Salvation; vi) the Last Things and Christian Hope; and vii) the Church. The coverage of these doctrines will be grounded in Holy Scripture, guided by Church tradition(s), and geared towards engaging contemporary issues and challenges. Students will gain a broad overview of the Christian faith and appreciate the importance of Christian doctrines for understanding our identity and spurring our practical living. Biodata. Rev Dr Edmund Fong is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in Singapore and associate minister at Adam Road Presbyterian Church. He did his doctoral studies at the University of Otago (2014–2016) covering the theology of the Swiss-German theological giant, Karl Barth. Edmund teaches systematic theology at Trinity Theological College and lectures on the doctrine of the person and work of Christ and salvation, denominational studies in Presbyterianism, and the theology of John Calvin. His research interests range from Barth to Calvin, Reformed Theology, Theological Anthropology, and Hermeneutics. Edmund is married to Mei Ying and they have 3 children—Phoebe, Chloe, and Jonathan.

2nd Quarter 2022

Video Games, Esports and Virtual Worlds as Ministry (Mr Lang Tien) Mondays 730-930pm | 21, 28 Mar & 4, 11, 18, 25 Apr & 9 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. The video games industry is now bigger than the music and film industry combined. Top Esports athletes are often more recognizable to young people than traditional athletes. Virtual worlds are fast becoming indistinguishable from real worlds. Our young people are being discipled in these spaces, with or without the Church. How can we incarnate Christ in these spaces? How can we make the Gospel relevant to a generation that is native to digital spaces? What are the theological, practical and spiritual considerations we should consider as we seek to redeem these spaces for Jesus, and what can we learn from them? This course aims to examine these digital spaces from a Christian perspective and provide participants with the frameworks to do practical ministry in these areas. Biodata. Mr Lang Tien is a pioneer in the Singapore Esports scene, he was both a tournament organizer and competitor in local and international fighting game events. He is also the founder of GG (www.godandgames.com), a ministry that seeks to bridge the world of gaming and the church. Lang has a Master of Divinity from Singapore Bible College and has served on the ministry and preaching team of a Bible-Presbyterian church from 2012-2019, with a special focus on youth and young adults.

A Theology of the Liturgy (Rev Dr Simon Chan) Tuesdays 730-930pm | 22, 29 Mar & 5, 12, 19, 26 Apr & 10 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. The Christian liturgy is the most basic and comprehensive way of worshipping the triune God. Over the centuries it has evolved and assumed many forms, but there are certain “givens” which do not change because underlying the liturgy is the unchanging truth of God’s revelation. This course explains the basic theological givens or components in the liturgy. It seeks to show that liturgical worship is necessary if the people of God are to worship “in Spirit and in truth,” and that by participating faithfully in the liturgy, Christians are being formed holistically. Biodata. Rev Dr Simon Chan had taught theology and other related subjects such as liturgical, spiritual, and contextual theologies at Trinity Theological College for more than 30 years. He is currently the editor of Asia Journal of Theology and the author of several publications including Liturgical Theology: The Church as Worshiping Community (2006).

Missionary Selection and Care * (Ms Susan Kaur & Ms Yeo Hwee Joo) Wednesdays 730-930pm | 23, 30 Mar & 6, 13, 20, 27 Apr & 4 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. How should a church go about identifying and selecting missionaries that it sends? What are some of the issues that may need to be explored or resolved along the way? Thereafter, how can the church care for its missionaries? The different dimensions of missionary well-being, and common issues relating to their care will be discussed. Biodata. (1) Ms Susan Kaur is currently the National Director of OMF Singapore. She has international experience in law and public policy. She served in a CAN for more than 20 years and has been bi-vocational, first teaching at universities and then as executive director of an NGO. In the past, she has owned a consultancy that conducted leadership development, training and coaching; and was involved in the selection of candidates, oversaw the training and preparation of new workers. She has undertaken part-time bible education at Singapore Bible College. (2) Ms Yeo Hwee Joo spent 27 years (1990 – 2017) in Japan with OMF involved in church planting, youth work and counselling. She graduated from NUS (1985) with a BA in Social Work and has a Masters in Biblical Studies from Singapore Bible College (1989). She is presently serving with OMF Singapore in member care, training and development.

God’s Enduring Word in Isaiah 40-55 (Bishop Dr Gordon Wong) Thursdays 730-930pm | 31 Mar & 7, 28 Apr & 5, 12, 19, 26 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course provides an exposition of the pastoral comfort and challenge that comes out of each of the 16 chapters in Isaiah 40-55. Biodata. Bishop Dr Gordon Wong began pastoral ministry 35 years ago. He holds a BA (Hons) from the London School of Theology and a PhD from the University of Cambridge. His publications include a book on the relevance of Christian faith (God Makes Sense), Old Testament commentaries on the books of Daniel (Faithful to the End), Habakkuk (God, Why?), Isaiah (The Road to Peace: Pastoral Reflections on Isaiah 1-12), Ruth (The Power of Love) and an academic monograph entitled Foolish Leaders and the Will of YHWH: Editorial Effects in Isaiah 19.

3rd Quarter 2022

Care for Our Common Home (Rev Dr Andrew Peh) Mondays 730-930pm | 18, 25 July & 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Aug | Wesley Methodist Church or via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. This course explores a topic of current interest in the area of mission studies: creation care as an integral part of the mission of God (Missio Dei). It will provide a brief survey of the current context: climate change and the ecological concerns, and will also examine theologically God's purpose(s) for creation and the role of humanity in the stewardship of the created order. Biodata. Rev Dr Andrew Peh, PhD (Asbury Theological Seminary), lectures in the area of mission and mission history at Trinity Theological College. His interests are in the history of Christianity in Asia and mission trends in the 21st century. He also serves in the Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore as a diaconal minister appointed to Charis Methodist Church.

Christian Spirituality and Ministry ^ (Rev Dr Jimmy Tan) Tuesdays 730-930pm | 12, 19, 26 July & 2, 16, 23, 30 Aug | Trinity Theological College or via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. This introductory course will help the participants retrieve insights and practices from our rich Christian spiritual heritage to nurture our life in God into a lived reality. It will draw from a selection of historical texts and themes in Christian tradition to forge a theological foundation and praxis for Christian living and ministry. Participants will be introduced to several rudimentary spiritual exercises, engage in their practice through weekly practicums, and be guided on making the connection between their practice and Christian ministry. Biodata. Rev Dr Jimmy Tan is chaplain and lecturer of pastoral and practical theology at Trinity Theological College, and an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church in Singapore. He received his PhD from Fuller Theological Seminary where his doctoral dissertation focused on the history, theology, and practice of Christian spiritual direction. He is a certified spiritual director and regularly leads retreats and offers spiritual direction at TTC and beyond.

Introducing World Religions: Asian Religions and Christian Faith * (Rev Dr Malcolm Tan) Wednesdays 730-930pm | 13, 20, 27 July & 3, 10, 17, 24 Aug | St Andrew’s Cathedral or via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. An introductory course for Christians to the main religious traditions of Asia. Avoiding being combative with the Other, it takes a serious and respectful approach to learning about Asian religions without ignoring the essential truth-claims of the Christian faith. This course seeks to be accurate in learning about the religious traditions of our neighbours and include the following topics: i) how and why should Christians learn about Religions; ii) Indian religions; iii) Chinese religions; iv) Buddhism; v) the Judeo-Christian tradition; vi) Islam; and vii) religion and society; and the theology of religion. Biodata. Rev Dr Malcolm Tan is the senior pastor of Covenant Community Methodist Church and a guest lecturer with Trinity Theological College. Malcolm has been a Methodist pastor since graduating from TTC in 1984. Besides being an evangelist and pastor, he is also an active interfaith activist and has participated in interfaith discussions for many years with various religious bodies. He has a MA in Asia Pacific Studies from the University of Leeds (Department of East Asian Studies), and a PhD from the National University of Singapore (Malay Studies Department).

Through Christian Eyes: Explorations in the Christian Worldview (Dr Mark Chan) Thursdays 730-930pm | 14, 21, 28 July & 4, 11, 18, 25 Aug | Trinity Theological College / via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. People look at life differently. This much we know. Much of this is down to the interpretive grid that one uses to interpret reality and make sense of the world. In short, people everywhere look at life through a worldview. This course will examine the concept of worldview in general and tease out the key components of the Christian worldview in particular. What constitutes a Christian worldview and how does it compare with other worldviews? How different would life in our modern world look like through the lens of the Christian worldview? Biodata. Dr Mark Chan is the Earnest Lau Professor of Systematic Theology at Trinity Theological College. Mark teaches mainly in the areas of hermeneutics, homiletics, and the intersection between theology and contemporary thought. Prior to joining the faculty at TTC, Mark served with Eagles Communications as its Resident Theologian and Executive Vice-President (1979-2005), as well as honorary preaching pastor for Evangel Christian Church (1981-2011). Mark worships with his wife Sophia at Covenant Community Methodist Church.

4th Quarter 2022

Discipleship: Helping People Become Fully Mature In Christ (Rev Dr Tan Soo Inn) Mondays 730-930pm | 19, 26 Sep; 3, 10, 17, 31 Oct; 7 Nov | Wesley Methodist Church / via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. The gospel is not just about saving people from hell. God is saving people to be a new humanity, people who bear the image of Jesus. Most churches have some discipleship programme but this course will not focus on programmes. We will re-examine, from the context of Scripture and the realities of life today, how to help our people grow in Christlikeness. We will look at what Christlikeness looks like, and at the resources God has given us to help people to be more like Jesus. Our focus is not on some group of spiritual elites but on helping all of God's people become “fully mature in Christ” (Colossians 1: 28 – 29). The class will become a learning community where instructor and class members will seek the Lord together for His wisdom on this critical subject.

Biodata. Rev Dr Tan Soo Inn is a director of Graceworks (www.graceworks.com.sg), a training and publishing consultancy committed to promoting spiritual friendship in church and society. He runs this ministry in partnership with his wife, Bernice. Bernice and Soo Inn have four sons. Soo Inn has worked as a dentist, pastored two churches, and served in a number of parachurch organizations. He is an adjunct lecturer in various seminaries and serves as the chaplain of the Christian Medical and Dental Fellowship, Singapore. Soo Inn has a BDS (dentistry) from the University of Singapore, a ThM in New Testament from Regent College, Vancouver, and a DMin from Fuller Seminary. His primary passions include connecting the Word of God to the struggles of daily life, and the promotion of the discipline of spiritual friendship.

A Short History of Israel (Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun) Tuesdays 730-930pm | 20, 27 Sep; 4, 11, 18, 25 Oct; 1 Nov | Trinity Theological College/via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. This short survey will give students a sweeping view of the history of Israel from biblical times to the modern age. Beginning with Abraham, we will see how the Israelites came to be settled in the Promised Land, how they thrived there, how they were cast into exile, and how the modern state of Israel came into being. We will also briefly look at the challenges facing the modern state and discuss some current views of Israel: is it a place, a people or a state? What is the importance of the state of Israel to Christianity? Biodata. Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun is Lecturer in Church History at Trinity Theological College. He has a PhD from Cambridge and is fond of reading all sorts of histories, military history included. He is an ordained minister with the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) of the Methodist Church in Singapore, and has served as pastor in two churches and as chaplain in two schools. He has been a pastor for over 21 years and has been to the state of Israel three times.

A Christian Response to the Arts and Popular Culture (Ms Lucilla Teoh) Wednesdays 730-930pm | 21, 28 Sep; 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct; 2 Nov | St Andrew’s Cathedral / via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. Being in the world and yet not of the world is a tension for Christians acknowledged by Christ himself. And we live in a world rich with creativity such as music, theatre, visual arts, and dance which have been created for us to enjoy and to worship God. What are our boundaries? Should we have boundaries? This course is a joint exploration of the lecturer and the class on how Christians could respond to what they see, hear and feel through the Arts and Popular Culture. Biodata. Ms Lucilla Teoh was actively involved in the local theatre scene in various capacities in the 80s and 90s. She acted in a seminal Singapore film 12 Storeys and was one of the founders of the Singapore Film Commission. Lucilla graduated from Trinity Theological College with a MDiv in 2009. She also holds a Master in Fine Arts and a Diploma in Education. Lucilla has served as pastoral staff at St James' Church where she worships, the Director of Communications with the Diocese of Singapore, and Senior Manager in charge of Communications at Singapore Anglican Community Services. She is currently a freelance writer and editor.

Hope in History: Christian Mission as Eschatological Event (Mr Lawrence Ko) Thursdays 730-930pm | 22, 29 Sep; 6, 13, 20, 27 Oct; 3 Nov | Trinity Theological College/via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. History began with hope in the creation of God. This hope is evident in the salvation history, from the call of Abraham and the nation of Israel, and now with the call of the church in history. The hope in history was unveiled with the coming of God, in His presence in history, culminating in the Incarnation in Christ and will be fully manifested at the end of history, when God dwells fully among His creation. The call of the Christian missions is to reveal the hope of life in the eternal God, when life with all its fullness is experienced in the glorious presence of God. The course thus explores the holistic nature of the Christian missions, based on the gospel of Christ and the spiritual basis of social engagement and civilisational advance in history. Biodata. Mr Lawrence Ko studied history at the National University of Singapore and has a MDiv from Trinity Theological College. He is the National Director of Singapore Centre for Global Missions. Lawrence served as a pastor for seven years and held management positions in YMCA, ORTV and TWR-Asia. He is founder-director of Asian Journeys Ltd, a social enterprise involved in ministry among heartland youths and urban poor. Lawrence also serves on the Asian Lausanne Committee, Singapore Lausanne Exco and the Asia Evangelical Alliance Mission Committee (as chairman, 2008- 2012). He is author of 2 books, Can the Desert Be Green? Planting Hope in the wilderness (2014) and From the Desert to the City: Christians in Creation Care (2020).

EQUIP Courses in 2023 Master Schedule - Synopsis & Biodata

1st Quarter 2023

“Dogmatics in Outline” by Karl Barth (Rev Dr Edmund Fong) Mondays 730-930pm | 2, 9, 16, 30 Jan & 6, 13, 20 Feb | Wesley Methodist Church / via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. The German theologian Karl Barth stands as one of the giants in modern theology, whose theology has been described as “orthodox and modern.” Yet, most are afraid to read his works, daunted by the voluminous pages of Church Dogmatics, his magnum opus. This course will introduce participants to the thoughts and theology of Barth through one of his more accessible works Dogmatics in Outline (156 pages only), a collated series of lectures on the Apostles’ Creed that Barth gave during his time at the University of Bonn (1947). Come and hear the substance of the Christian faith as proclaimed by Barth, and experience for yourself this man whose views are orthodox and faithful to the Tradition but yet modern and insightful for our time.

Biodata. Rev Dr Edmund Fong is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in Singapore and associate minister at Adam Road Presbyterian Church. He did his doctoral studies at the University of Otago (2014–2016) covering the theology of the Swiss-German theological giant, Karl Barth. Edmund teaches systematic theology at Trinity Theological College and lectures on the doctrine of the person and work of Christ and salvation, denominational studies in Presbyterianism, and the theology of John Calvin. His research interests range from Barth to Calvin, Reformed Theology, Theological Anthropology, and Hermeneutics. Edmund is married to Mei Ying and they have 3 children—Phoebe, Chloe, and Jonathan.

New Testament Survey **^ (Rev Dr Leonard Wee) Tuesdays 730-930pm | 3, 10, 17, 31 Jan & 7, 14, 21 Feb | Trinity Theological College/via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. With accounts of the life and teaching of Jesus, the spread of the gospel, and the issues faced by the various New Testament writers which provide the foundations for the life and theology of Christians and the Church throughout history, the importance of the New Testament cannot be overstated. This course will provide an orientation to the various books of the New Testament by locating them in their social and historical contexts. This course will discuss the New Testament’s relevance to Christians, churches and the world today. Biodata. Rev Dr Leonard Wee is the Registrar and Lecturer in New Testament at Trinity Theological College. He obtained his PhD at Durham University (UK), specialising in Paul’s interpretation of the Old Testament, and was sponsored by Langham Partnership for postdoctoral research on the use of the Old Testament in Hebrews. He previously served as a pastor for 10 years. Besides teaching Koine Greek, New Testament theology, biblical intertextuality, and other subjects, he also provides supervision for postgraduate research at TTC.

Theology of Mission ** (Rev Dr Andrew Peh) Wednesdays 730-930pm | 4, 11, 18, 25 Jan & 1, 8, 15 Feb | St Andrew’s Cathedral / via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. This course explores the biblical and theological presuppositions and principles that shape the Christian missionary enterprise in today’s world, particularly in the Asian context. This will include a scan of the historical developments, a reading of the biblical text, a survey of the changing social and theological paradigms that affect how the Church understands its missional role and the study of selected missional documents adopted by key Christian groups and traditions. Biodata. Rev Dr Andrew Peh, PhD (Asbury Theological Seminary), lectures in the area of mission and mission history at Trinity Theological College. His interests are in the history of Christianity in Asia and mission trends in the 21st century. He also serves in the Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore as a diaconal minister appointed to Charis Methodist Church.

City of God, City of Men: An Introduction to Christian Political Thought (Rev Dr Nathanael Goh) Thursdays 730-930pm | 5, 12, 19, 26 Jan & 2, 9, 16 Feb | Trinity Theological College/via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. The playwright George Bernard Shaw is dubiously quoted as saying that “politics is the last resort for the scoundrels.” Boies Penrose, a former US Senator, once said “public office is the last refuge of the incompetent.” Though tongue-in-cheek, these quotes suggest why politics is often considered a dirty word. There is a sense of cynicism, frustration, and even despair whenever politics is mentioned. Yet this was not always so. Celebrated thinkers in the Christian tradition have seen politics, if disciplined and informed by a robust Christian faith, as a vocation of high dignity and nobility. This course examine politics from biblical and theological perspectives. Participants will read key figures in the Western Christian political tradition and attempt to recover a theological vision of the good of politics and also consider how this vision might shape political ethics, such as issues of law, justice, human rights and the common good. Biodata. Rev Dr Nathanael Goh is a pastor from the Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore. He is pastoring at Sengkang Methodist Church. An advocate for the importance of Christian ethics and moral formation, his interests are at the intersection of Scripture, theology, and ethics – especially a retrieval of Christian theological visions of the common good.

2nd Quarter 2023

Small Groups Ministry: Communities of Accountability (Rev Dr Bernard Chao) Mondays 730-930pm | 20, 27 Mar; 3, 10, 17, 24 Apr; 8 May | Wesley Methodist Church/via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. (Coming Soon) Biodata. Rev Dr Bernard Chao is Director of EQUIP and Lecturer in Practical Theology at Trinity Theological College. He teaches courses in Christian leadership, Christian education, youth ministry, and Wesleyan theology. A pastor in The Methodist Church in Singapore (Trinity Annual Conference) since 2005, he currently serves as Associate Brigade Chaplain of The Boys’ Brigade in Singapore. Bernard has served as a youthworker, Boys’ Brigade Captain, school chaplain, pastor, and pastor-in-charge in a number of Methodist churches and schools. Formerly a litigation lawyer, Bernard is married with three children.

The Miracles of Jesus (Dr Tan Kim Huat) Tuesdays 730-930pm | 21, 28 Mar; 4, 11, 18, 25 Apr; 2 May | Trinity Theological College/via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. The miracles of Jesus have long fascinated many people, but their true significance has to be carefully unpacked to gain a better understanding of Jesus’ aims and ministry, and of God’s character and programme. This course will study Jesus’s miracles in relation to the powerful themes of the identity of Jesus, the Kingdom of God, and the fulfilment of the Old Testament. This course will provide some useful categories for organising these miracles and examine the pressing question of how the meaning and significance of Jesus’s miracles may continue in our time, without our being led astray into making dubious claims or supporting self-aggrandisement agendas. Biodata. Dr Tan Kim Huat is the Chen Su Lan Professor of New Testament at Trinity Theological College. His enduring interest is in understanding the emergence of Christianity within a Jewish matrix. Kim Huat has a strong interest in strengthening theological education in the region and was been involved in the first-ever regional consortium of colleges, ATESEA (Association for Theological Education in South East Asia). He is currently the Chairman of ATESEA’s Board of Trustees.

Issues in Christian Mission ** (Rev Canon Yee Ching Wah & Mr Lawrence Ko)

Wednesdays 730-930pm | 22, 29 Mar; 5, 12, 19, 26 Apr; 3 May | St Andrew’s Cathedral / via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. This course examines some key issues in Christian mission which are critical for effective engagement in overseas cross-cultural settings. The course begins with the discernment of the call to mission, and ends with the challenge to respond to that missionary calling and commitment. We will address the dynamics of missionary sending which involves the local church, the sending agency as well as the host communities, to the key relationship between missionaries and the local church. Practical concerns include missionary support and missionary care as the sending church supports the person and his/ her ministry spiritually, socially, emotionally and financially. We will address living and working in cross-cultural contexts with personalities and worldviews which may be different and diverse. Finally the course will touch on communication and information security issues, in the present world of social media and ongoing terror threat. Biodata. (1) Rev Canon Yee Ching Wah, serves as Director of Missions for the Diocese of Singapore, the Dean of Thailand and an Honorary Priest at St James’ Church. Upon the completion of his theological training at Singapore Bible College in 1997, Rev Yee, his wife, Siew Ling and their three sons, Ivan, Joshua and Ryan were sent by St John’s-St Margaret’s Church to serve as missionaries in Thailand for 14 years. They are based in Singapore now where their children are pursuing tertiary education. He continues to travel monthly to Thailand to coach teams in planting new churches. (2) Mr Lawrence Ko studied history at the National University of Singapore and has a MDiv from Trinity Theological College. He is the National Director of Singapore Centre for Global Missions. Lawrence served as a pastor for seven years and held management positions in YMCA, ORTV and TWR-Asia. He is founder-director of Asian Journeys Ltd, a social enterprise involved in ministry among heartland youths and urban poor. Lawrence also serves on the Asian Lausanne Committee, Singapore Lausanne Exco and the Asia Evangelical Alliance Mission Committee (as chairman, 2008- 2012). He is author of 2 books, Can the Desert Be Green? Planting Hope in the wilderness (2014) and From the Desert to the City: Christians in Creation Care (2020).

Ascertaining the Atonement: How does Jesus reconcile us to God? (Dr Leow Theng Huat) Thursdays 730-930pm | 23, 30 Mar; 13, 20, 27 Apr; 4, 11 May | Trinity Theological College / Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. The “atonement” is one of the central beliefs of the Christian faith. It refers to what our Lord Jesus Christ has done, through his life, death and resurrection, to reconcile us sinners to the holy God. But how did these acts of Jesus achieve the atoning effect? We will examine and evaluate the different ways Christian thinkers through the ages have answered this question. We hope, in the end, to gain a richer and more comprehensive understanding of how Jesus saves us—one that will help us in our life and ministry. Biodata. Dr Leow Theng Huat is Lecturer in Theology at Trinity Theological College. His research interests include theodicy, Christology, soteriology, post-Enlightenment theology, and dialectics as a theological method. During his student days at the National University of Singapore, he was actively involved in the ministry of the Varsity Christian Fellowship, and has served for a period of time as an associate staff worker of the Fellowship of Evangelical Students. He is married to Cheng Ping, and they have three children. The family are members of Wesley Methodist Church.

3rd Quarter 2023

Ministry to Children: Helping Children to Love God and Love Others (Dr Morgan Zhou) Mondays 730-930pm | 10, 17, 24, 31 July & 7, 14, 21 Aug | Wesley Methodist Church/via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. This course will equip lay Christians with biblical foundations as well as knowledge of processes and strategies to minister to children, including children with diverse educational needs. Participants will draw on principles and practices from Scripture and developmental psychology to establish a coherent and integrated philosophy of ministry to children. In addition, participants will learn how to leverage teaching and learning resources to help children build an authentic relationship with Jesus, discover and cultivate spiritual gifts, and be released for ministry to serve God with the power of the Holy Spirit. Biodata. Dr Morgan Zhou holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University. He has worked as a former vice-principal and teaching fellow at NIE. Morgan has served in the Boys’ Brigade and children ministry in his church and currently chairs the Board of Children's Ministry in the Trinity Annual Conference of The Methodist Church in Singapore. He is passionate about mentoring, outreach to disadvantaged families, and keenly interested in strengthening the education of children and youth with diverse abilities and special needs.

Church History ^ (Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun) Tuesdays 730-930pm | 11, 18, 25 July & 1, 8, 15, 22 Aug | Trinity Theological College / Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. (Coming Soon) Biodata. Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun is Lecturer in Church History at Trinity Theological College. He has a PhD from Cambridge and is fond of reading all sorts of histories, military history included. He is an ordained minister with the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) of the Methodist Church in Singapore, and has served as pastor in two churches and as chaplain in two schools. He has been a pastor for over 21 years and has been to the state of Israel three times.

Cultural Anthropology * (Rev Dr Andrew Peh) Wednesdays 730-930pm | 12, 19, 26 July & 2, 16, 23, 30 Aug | St Andrew’s Cathedral / via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. Cultural anthropology is the study of people and their cultures. This is an introductory course that presents some basic concepts of cultural anthropology (which includes an understanding of human behaviour and beliefs, kinship systems, world view, social organizations, economic and political systems) with special attention to the application of an anthropological perspective for Christian mission. Biodata. Rev Dr Andrew Peh, PhD (Asbury Theological Seminary), lectures in the area of mission and mission history at Trinity Theological College. His interests are in the history of Christianity in Asia and mission trends in the 21st century. He also serves in the Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore as a diaconal minister appointed to Charis Methodist Church.

Christ-centred Preaching in the 21st Century ^ (Rev Dr Christopher Chia) Thursdays 730-930pm | 13, 20, 27 July & 3, 10, 17, 24 Aug | Trinity Theological College / Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. Why are Christians and church so anaemic? One of the main reasons could be the impoverished preaching from our pulpits. How can we return to the fidelity and vitality of centering our lives and churches on the gospel, Jesus and God? This course seeks to equip us to read, live, evangelize, and mature in God’s Word with this pivotal Christ-centered focus. Biodata. Rev Dr Christopher Chia is Senior Pastor at Adam Road Presbyterian Church. He was converted at Billy Graham Crusade in 1979 while studying in Sydney, Australia. A former journalist, he has preached the gospel internationally, including the UK, Australia, China, India, Kenya, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. His passion is being a pastor to pastors, raising the next generation, training leaders, and building godly marriages and families. He holds an MTh (Oxford) and a DMin in Preaching (Gordon Conwell Seminary). Married with two children, he has ten siblings, two dogs, and a neglected terrapin.

4th Quarter 2023

Experiencing God in Ordinary Worship (Ms Leong Chin Yee) Mondays 730-930pm | 18, 25 Sep & 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Oct | Wesley Methodist Church/via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. What is the posture that we take as we worship each Sunday or even each time we meet? Do you feel like weekend worship is just getting another routine checked and done with? Worship, regardless of style, does not seem to move you and you wonder if something is wrong with your own spiritual life. This course will lead you in discovering the beauty and depth of worship through its different elements—music, proclamation of the word, sacraments, benediction, prayers from long ago, amongst others. You will be learn to craft prayers, worship orders, and explore songs repertoire. This course seeks to inspire you to engage God in the ritual of worship so that you may be challenged to be God’s instruments in the world the other days of the week—bringing worship into our daily lives. Biodata. Ms Leong Chin Yee is a pastoral team staff at Barker Road Methodist Church. She is a graduate of Trinity Theological College (MDiv, 2005) and was a missionary teacher in two seminaries in Northeast India for four years before returning to local church ministry in 2019. Her two passions are missions and worship. She loves crafting worship liturgies and marvels at how God reveals Himself through worship regardless of how simple it may be when hearts are open to Him.

The Gospel of John (Rev Dr Tan Yak-hwee) Tuesdays 730-930pm | 19, 26 Sep & 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Oct | Trinity Theological College / Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. This course serves as a general introduction to the Gospel of John and addresses several issues and topics, such as the relationship of Jesus and the other Gospels, the character of Jesus, and his discourses with various people. This course will analyze the Gospel from a variety of different perspectives and methodologies and examine contemporary appropriations of the Gospel of John for church and society. After this course, participants should be able to discuss the contents, theology and themes of the Gospel. Biodata. Rev Dr Tan Yak-hwee is Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at Tainan Theological College, Tainan, Taiwan. Yak-hwee was previously the Tutor of New Testament Language, Literature and Theology at Westminster College, Cambridge, UK, and also Affiliated Lecturer of the Faculty of Divinity, University of Cambridge. She is the author of Re-presenting the Johannine Community: A Postcolonial Perspective (2008). Her research interests include Johannine literature, biblical theology, missions and intersectional approaches in bible and theology. Yak-hwee is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in Singapore.

Church Mission Program * (Mr Lawrence Ko) Wednesdays 730-930pm | 20, 27 Sep; 4, 11, 18, 25 Oct; 1 Nov | St Andrew’s Cathedral / via Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. What is Christian mission to the local church? How can the church organise itself to fulfil the Great Commission and the missio Dei? How can pastors and church leaders serve in strategic planning, policy making, and resource development to fulfil the missionary calling of God? How can church mission structures and teams mobilise and equip the saints for Gods mission in the 21st century? This course presents a vision of missiological ecclesiology and explores what it takes to see “the whole church to bring the whole gospel to the whole world.” Biodata. Mr Lawrence Ko studied history at the National University of Singapore and has a MDiv from Trinity Theological College. He is the National Director of Singapore Centre for Global Missions. Lawrence served as a pastor for seven years and held management positions in YMCA, ORTV and TWR-Asia. He is founder-director of Asian Journeys Ltd, a social enterprise involved in ministry among heartland youths and urban poor. Lawrence also serves on the Asian Lausanne Committee, Singapore Lausanne Exco and the Asia Evangelical Alliance Mission Committee (as chairman, 2008- 2012). He is author of 2 books, Can the Desert Be Green? Planting Hope in the wilderness (2014) and From the Desert to the City: Christians in Creation Care (2020).

Challenging Youth Ministry (Rev Dr Bernard Chao) Thursdays 730-930pm | 21, 28 Sep; 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct; 2 Nov | Trinity Theological College / Zoom (TBC)

Synopsis. (Coming Soon)

Biodata. Rev Dr Bernard Chao is Director of EQUIP and Lecturer in Practical Theology at Trinity Theological College. He teaches courses in Christian leadership, Christian education, youth ministry, and Wesleyan theology. A pastor in The Methodist Church in Singapore (Trinity Annual Conference) since 2005, he currently serves as Associate Brigade Chaplain of The Boys’ Brigade in Singapore. Bernard has served as a youthworker, Boys’ Brigade Captain, school chaplain, pastor, and pastor-in-charge in a number of Methodist churches and schools. Formerly a litigation lawyer, Bernard is married with three children.

INDICATIONS FOR COURSES ** required course for the Certificate in Mission Practice * core elective course for the Certificate in Mission Practice ^ required course for Local Preacher License (collaboration with Chinese & Trinity Annual

Conferences of The Methodist Church in Singapore)