Discover, Develop, & Deploy Disciples of Jesus Christ.

That is the mission of Village Bible Church and Village Bible Institute (VBI). VBI is a Christian Protestant, Evangelical, non-denominational educational program aimed at training and mobilizing disciples of Jesus Christ. This dynamic program equips believers to understand Christian doctrine and prepare to put their faith into action through a two-year certificate program offered through a partnership with The Think Institute, NFP.


Purpose & Vision

The purpose of Village Bible Institute is to make seminary-quality education accessible to the local church


The vision of Village Bible Institute is to provide courses in theology, apologetics, and practical discipleship to the people of Village Bible Church, taught by qualified teachers in a comfortable, convenient, and engaging environment


Program Summary

Beginning in the fall of 2026, Village Bible Church will offer the opportunity to undertake a structured program of biblical and theological education designed to prepare them for faithful Christian living, leadership, and witness. Participants who complete the program will take four semester-long courses and 3 credits of shorter elective courses in order to earn a 15-credit certificate in Biblical Studies (unaccredited).


Course of Study

The Village Bible Institute course of study consists of four required core courses and 3 credits of elective study. Students must complete a total of 15 credits to earn the certificate in Biblical Studies.


Each core course is one semester long and worth 3 credits. Together, the core curriculum provides a foundation in Christian theology, personal discipleship, and apologetics. Electives are shorter, one-credit courses ordinarily offered as four-week intensives during winter and summer semester breaks.


Certification

When students complete the required 15 credits, they will earn a certificate in Biblical Studies. The certificate acknowledges the student's faithful preparation, academic diligence, and commitment to growing in biblical knowledge and practical Christian maturity. It signifies meaningful preparation for continued discipleship, service, and witness within the church and beyond.

Upcoming COURSES & CLASSES

View:

Core Classes (12 Credits Needed)

CORE COURSE #1:
Systematic Theology I - God and His Word

3 Credits | Instructor: Tabor Troutman


Learn about the inspiration, authority, and sufficiency of the Bible, as well as the attributes of God and the person & work of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

CORE COURSE #2:
Biblical Apologetics

3 Credits | Instructor: Joel Settecase


Learn how to defend the truth of the Christian message in a way that honors Christ, exhibits gentleness & respect, and answers any questions

CORE COURSE #3:
 Systematic Theology II - Creation, Humanity, and Redemption

3 Credits | Instructor: Tabor Troutman


Learn what the Bible teaches about the story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration, as well as human nature, sin, and salvation.

CORE COURSE #4:
Practical Personal Discipleship

3 Credits | Instructor: Joel Settecase


Discover how to interpret the Bible and lead a Bible study, practice spiritual disciplines, discover and use your spiritual gifts, and live out your faith in everyday life.

Elective Classes (3 Credits Needed)

In addition to the four core courses, students must complete 3 credits of elective study. Electives are generally offered as four-week intensives during winter and summer semester breaks. Each elective is worth 1 credit unless otherwise noted.

Electives

Church History

Biblical Worldview & Philosophy

Christian Leadership I

Christian Leadership II