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Vice-Chair < Back Previous Next Julia Dean Vice-Chair Julia Dean serves as the Managing Attorney overseeing Estate Planning, Probate, Elder Law at The Dean Law Firm, PLLC based in Sugar Land, Texas. She has successfully argued in federal and state courts, including the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. She worked as Civil Appeals Attorney at Wright & Close (1998-2007) and a Litigation Attorney at Andrews & Kurth (1988-91). She graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor’s in Economics (1983) and University of Houston Law Center with a Juris Doctor (1987). She and her husband, Bobby, have four adult children and are active in ministry leadership at Sugar Land Family Church.

< Back Emmaus Bible College Consortium Partner Emmaus Bible College A 4-year private college located in Dubuque, IA by the Mississippi river that prepares students for a career and life as Christians. The minor in Archaeology offers hands-on experience with how archaeological evidence is discovered, processed, conserved, analyzed, and used to explain the past. The archaeology program combines 15 credit hours of classroom instruction with a required archaeological field study approved by the Archaeology Program Director. Students have opportunities to participate in an archaeological excavation, including at Tel Shiloh, to gain valuable field experience. Previous Next

Discover The Bible Seminary’s new “Surveyor” optionjoin Dr. Craig Evans’ Spring 2026 Theology III course for $99. Attend all sessions, no requirements or credit just the opportunity to listen and learn. Register Today! Survey a course The Bible Seminary’s new “Surveyor” option, launching with Dr. Evans’ Spring 2026 course THE 503 – Theology III, allows participants to attend all class sessions for $99. Surveyors have no requirements, no Populi access, and receive no credit—this option is simply for those who want to listen and learn.

Secretary < Back Previous Next Judy Powell Secretary Judy Powell, has spent her career developing and telling meaningful stories. She currently teaches Creative Writing, and works as an Operations Training Specialist with Montgomery County Elections writing instructional materials and delivering training to election workers. Her experience includes elected positions, from City Council Member, University of Missouri Extension Council Member and Precinct Chair to appointed positions, such as the Texas State Board of Examiners for Professional Counselors (Chair), the Texas State Office of Patient Protection and the Texas Health Services Authority. In all, she has served on over 20 boards and standing committees, bringing a wealth of developmental and administrative experience to the TBS Board. In addition, she has served her Lord and her church in the areas of leadership, discipleship, and foreign missions, traveling on 20 mission trips with her church and the International Leadership Institute. Her experience includes writing, editing, marketing, public relations, mental health facilitation, career development, mediation and member care. She volunteered with OM Arts in the areas of ethnoarts and the contextualization of the Gospel into other cultures, and she is a member of the International Orality Network and the Global Ethnodoxology Network. She leads a Sunday School class of over 200 at her church, Woodlands GMC in The Woodlands, Texas.

Incorporation and Licensing, TBS Founders, Executive Officers, Programs, Faculty, Unique Features, Special Program Elements. Executive Officers • President, Dr. K. Lynn Lewis (2014-present), Executive Vice-President/Provost (2011-13) • Provost, Dr. Scott Stripling (2017-present) • Vice-President of Finance and Administration, Mr. Rick McCalip (2010-present) • Board of Trustees, Mr. Adam Peters (Chair) with 11 total members Faculty • Two full-time administrators who also teach • One full-time faculty member and 15+ adjunct professors • 50+ professionals who serve as mentors and visiting teachers Founders • Dr. James E. Leggett, Founding President (2010-13) • Rev. Paul Helbig, Bible Institute Co-founder and Lead Faculty (2008-16) • Mr. Dan Dunham, Founding Board of Trustees Chair (2010-13) • Grace Fellowship Church, Seed funding for launch (2010-11) Incorporation and Licensing • Independent and non-denominational • Registered Domestic Non-Profit Corporation in the state of Texas (Feb 2010) • Registered IRS 501(c)(3) Charitable Institution of Higher Education (Aug 2010) • Exemption by Texas Workforce Commission (Mar 2011, Oct 2018, Aug 2020) • Exemption by Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (May 2011) • Affiliate Member of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (2012 - Jul 2021) • Approved CEU provider by the Association of Christian Schools International (Oct 2015) • Approved by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) for Applicant Status (Jan 2018); Candidate status (Apr 2019); Accredited status (Oct 2020); and to offer Distance Education (Apr 2021) • Approved accredited member of Evangelical Council Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) (Sep 2019) • Approved member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (Dec 2021, Aug 2023) Programs • Master of Divinity (84-credit hours) • Master of Arts (four majors ranging from 48 to 60-credit hours) • Dual Degree Completion (Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry in conjunction with a TBS MA or MDiv) • Certificate of Theological Studies (27-credit hours) Special Program Elements • Distinctively clear Core Values (Lordship of Christ, Bible as fully true Word of God, Prayer, Unreached Peoples, The Local Church, Community, and Compassion), doctrine, and ethos statements • Holy Land Study Tour opportunity • Technological study and resource tools • Multiple experiential learning opportunities • Strong commitment to helping students graduate with ZERO ($0) seminary debt Unique Features • All programs cover all 66 books of the Bible • Comprehensive, relevant education and training for 21st century leadership • Local mentoring and training opportunities throughout the graduate degree programs • Educational experiences in classrooms, on-site visits to regional locations and international locations, especially in Israel

Seminars on Demand Dr. K. Lynn Lewis Boss Like God A contemporary, practical review of business relationships recorded in the Old Testament books of the Bible exploring how the Supreme CEO hired, managed, fired, and helped employees leave well. Based on the book, Boss Like God: A Blueprint for Elite Workplace Performance , by K. Lynn Lewis and Beau McBeth. Perfect for leaders, managers, and supervisors, as well as continuing education and staff and team training workshops. On Demand Request Dr. Craig Evans Lost Books of the Bible? Are there lost books of the Bible? What Jewish writings are preserved from the time between the Old and New Testament? What insights can the Dead Sea Scrolls and extra-biblical first century texts give us about Jesus? Scripture is the authority for Christians. But what about these other books? Can we learn from them? Join us to find out! Our presenter is Dr. Craig Evans, one of the world's leading experts on the Dead Sea Scrolls, intertestamental literature, and first century Judaism. On Demand Request Dr. Scott Stripling The Archaeology of Judges The Book of Judges covers a critical period in the development of Israel as a nation. Through seven cycles of apostacy to repentance, we see the beauty and depravity of the human condition. This seminar explores these cycles and the archaeological synchronisms which accompany them. On Demand Request Dr. Ralph Neighbour Jr. Multiply Like Jesus The Bible Seminary will offer a 12-hour course, empowering Christians to help others become Christians. Enrolled students can attend in person or online. Dr. Ralph W. Neighbour, Jr. is the founder of TOUCH Outreach Ministries and the author of 42 books on cell group life and leadership. His most widely read resources include The Survival Kit for New Christians (Lifeway) and Where Do We Go From Here? His most recent book, Christ's Basic Bodies, delves deep into the centrality of Christ in biblical community. Dr. Neighbour continues to write, speak, travel internationally, and consult churches at 81 years of age, and remains one of the movement's strongest voices. Dr. Neighbour and his wife live in west Houston, Texas. On Demand Request Dr. Scott Stripling Joshua’s Conquest This seminar focuses on the internal biblical chronology and the external archaeological evidence of the Conquest as presented in the book of Joshua. On Demand Request Dr. Rich Cozart SOULutions How to apply the Bible to daily challenges of life, including practical ways of advising others and offering hope to those who long for encouragement and biblical wisdom. On Demand Request Paige Brevick Egyptology Seminar Seminar sessions will cover Animal Life, Religion and Mythology, Astronomy and Cosmic Mythology, and Egypt in the Old Testament. On Demand Request Dr. Craig Evans and Dr. Jeremiah Johnston Jesus and the Jihadis This seminar will explore five things: (1) Muhammad and the origins of Islam, (2) the Qur’an (what it is and how it came to be written), (3) the relationship of the Qur’an to the Bible, with focus on biblical characters, (4) the portrait of Jesus in the Qur’an, and (5) Islam’s violent history and contemporary expressions of violence. Purchase the books Jesus and the Jihadis: Confronting the Rage of ISIS: The Theology Driving the Ideology & Getting Jesus Right: How Muslims Get Jesus and Islam Wrong On Demand Request Dr. Craig Evans Late Second Temple Writings and Ossuaries Insights on the explosion of Jewish literature in the two centuries before Jesus’ ministry (including the Apocrypha, Pseudepigrapha, and Dead Sea Scrolls), as well as the change in Jewish burial practices in the late Second Temple period. Based on the book, Jesus and the Ossuaries , by Craig Evans. On Demand Request Dr. Scott Stripling Top 10 Finds in Biblical Archaeology This seminar investigates the significance of the Top 10 Finds in Biblical Archaeology. Dr. Scott Stripling juxtaposes the biblical text and the archaeological finds, while refuting inaccurate arguments from the past. Students will be inspired and informed. On Demand Request Dr. Israel Steinmetz The First Apologists Two of the first apologists for the Christian faith were Peter and James. Explore how they called upon Christians to defend their faith by reading the letters of 1 Peter and James through apologetic eyes. On Demand Request

The Dual Degree Completion (DDC) program allows students with an Associate’s degree (or equivalent), coursework toward an unfinished undergraduate degree, and life experiences that may count toward college credit to enroll in The Bible Seminary on a degree track culminating in both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Students who successfully complete this program earn a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies (BACS), and either a companion Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree as described elsewhere in this catalog. The BACS incorporates previous college coursework (such as a 60-credit hour Associate’s degree), prior learning assessments, additional college studies, and TBS core graduate courses that can serve as dual bachelor/master credits. Dual Degree Completion <<< back Purpose Apply Details DDC Credits This program allows students with an Associate’s degree (or equivalent), coursework toward an unfinished undergraduate degree, and life experiences that may count toward college credit to enroll in The Bible Seminary on a degree track culminating in both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Students who successfully complete this program earn a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies (BACS), and either a companion Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree as described elsewhere in this catalog. The BACS incorporates previous college coursework (such as a 60-credit hour Associate’s degree), prior learning assessments, additional college studies, and TBS core graduate courses that can serve as dual bachelor/master credits. Details TBS only offers a combined BA/MA or BA/MDiv – or a separate MA or MDiv – but not a stand-alone BA. The combined degree can be completed in as few as two (2) or three (3) years for some full-time students. Additional time may be required for students who have not satisfied all of the non-TBS degree requirements. Accepted students may enroll in a TBS graduate program without any modifications and transfer in or work concurrently to complete any non-TBS undergraduate requirements. Dual-degree graduates complete a combined total of between 138 and 150-credit hours for a BA/MA degree, or 174-credit hours for the BA/MDiv degree. Students are eligible to receive both degrees together after all requirements are completed for BOTH the undergraduate and graduate degrees and after all other conditions are met as detailed in the Graduation Policy in the TBS Student Handbook and TBS Policy Manual. The customized degree may require students to take courses from other colleges or universities. Tuition for any additional college courses and prior learning assessments outside of TBS and required to complete the bachelor’s degree are the responsibility of the student. Students enrolling in the program are responsible for applying, registering, enrolling, and transferring in credits from other schools and LearningCounts.org with respect to non-TBS undergraduate degree requirements. TBS tuition and fees for dual-credits and graduate credits are the same. This type of combined degree structure conforms to the guidelines found in various accrediting agencies, including ABHE (Association for Biblical Higher Education), ATS (Association of Theological Schools), SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools), and TRACS (Transnational Association of Christian Schools). Financial aid through the TBS Student Scholarship Fund may be available to help fund dual-credit and graduate-level courses offered by TBS. See “Financial Aid” resources for more information. Dual Degree Completion General Education (non-TBS) English Composition - 6 Min. Credits College Algebra - 3 Min. credits Natural Science - 4 Min. Credits - Chemistry, Biology, Physics, etc. Finance - 3 Min. Credits - Economics, Accounting, etc. History & Civilization - 6 Min Credits - American, Western, World, etc. Sociology - 3 Min. Credits - Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, etc. Literature - 3 Min. credits - English, Western, etc. Communications - 3 Min. Credits - Speech, Print, etc. General Education Total = 30 Min. Credits Bible and Christian Studies (non-TBS) Old testament Survey - 3 Min. Credits New Testament Survey - 3 Min. Credits Basic Christian Doctrine - 3 Min. Credits World Religions - 3 Min. Credits Cultural Studies - 3 Min. Credits - Philosophy, Culture, Worldview, etc. Bible and Christian Studies Total = 15 Min. Credits Electives (non-TBS) Electives Total = 45 Min. Credits Can be any combination of other college courses and/or, CLEP, competency assessments, or prior learning assessments obtained from CAEL or LearningCounts.org. Combined BA/Graduate-level TBS Courses Culture and Languages - 0-3 Min Credits - Depending on the graduate degree. Hermeneutics - 3 Min. Credits History and Theology - 9 Min. Credits Leadership - 6 Min. Credits Missions and Evangelism - 0-3 Min. Credits - Depending on the graduate degree. Preaching and Teaching - 3-6 Min. Credits - Depending on the graduate degree. Spritual Formation and Ministry - 3-6 Min. Credits - Depending on the graduate degree. Combined BA/Graduate Courses Total = 30 Min Credits Total Undergraduate (BA) credits = 120 Min. Credits Additional Master fo Arts (MA) Credits = +18 to 30 Min. credits - See Master of Arts Programs. Total Combined BA/Ma credits = 138 to 150 Min. Credits Additional Master of Divinity (MDiv) Credits = +54 - See Master of Divinity Program. Total Combined Ba/MDiv credits = 170 Min. credits Purpose Details DDC Credits

< Back Colorado Christian University Consortium Partner Colorado Christian University Premier interdenominational Christian college in Colorado and the eight-state Rocky Mountain region, delivering world class education to thousands of students. The University offers more than 200 academic program options in a variety of disciplines for traditional and adult students. Previous Next

< Back Dr. Chris McKinny TBS Adjunct Professor B.S. in Biblical Studies (2008), The Master's College Master of Arts in Biblical History and Geography (2011), Jerusalem University College Master of Arts in Archaeology and Land of Israel Studies (2014),Bar-llan University Ph.D in Archaeology an Land of Israel Studies (2016), Bar-llan University Dr. McKinny has a PhD from Bar Ilan University (Israel). His dissertation focused on the historical geography and archaeology of the town lists of Judah and Benjamin in the book of Joshua. Chris is also a senior staff member of the Tel Burna Archaeological Project (Biblical Libnah) in which capacity he has contributed a wide-range of peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, and popular essays. Besides being involved in several other writing and research projects, including the Lexham Geographic Commentary Series (ed. B. Beitzel) and the Photo Companion to the Bible(ed. T. Bolen), Chris also authored "My People as Your People: A Textual and Archaeological Analysis of the Reign of Jehoshaphat" (Peter Lang, 2016), "The Tribal Allotments of Judah and Benjamin in the Book of Joshua: A Historical Geography" (Eisenbrauns in process), and co-edited "Tell it in Gath: Studies in the History and Archaeology of Israel Essays in Honor of A. M. Maeir on the Occasion of his Sixtieth Birthday" (with I. Shai, J. R. Chadwick, L. A. Hitchcock, A. Dagan, and J. Uziel - Zaphon, 2018) and "‘And the Canaanite was then in the land’ (Gen. 12:6): Selected Studies on the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages of Southern Canaan" (with A. M. Maeir and I. Shai - DeGruyter, in press). In addition, Chris serves as an adjunct faculty member at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, The Bible Seminary, The Master’s University (IBEX), and William Jessup University. Previous Next

Introduction Accreditation Covenantal Documents Facts History Planning, Use, & Design Plan Components Financial Forecast Organizational Chart Accreditation Covenantal Documents Facts History Planning, Use, & Design Plan Components TBS CSP 2023-27 Comprehensive Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023-27 The most recent version of this document is available for viewing and printing on the TBS website under “About – TBS Documents.” The Bible Seminary Campus: 2655 S Mason Road, Katy, TX 77450 Mailing: 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd Ste H120-930, Katy, TX 77494-3109 281-646-1109 (Phone) Info@TheBibleSeminary.edu TheBibleSeminary.edu Note: For additional information, consider the TBS handbooks as companion documents to this plan. Introduction The Bible Seminary (TBS) is an independent, non-denominational, 501(c)(3) charitable institution of higher education incorporated in Texas in 2010 to offer training for laity and vocational ministry professionals. On-campus and Distance Education programs include a non-degree certificate program, as well as Dual Degree Completion, nine Master of Arts, and a Master of Divinity degree program. The seminary is an accredited member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) approved to offer Distance Education, a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), an approved CEU provider for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), and an accredited member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA). TBS aims to glorify God by impacting multitudes of souls for Christ and to help fulfill the Great Commission by the power of God’s Spirit. Our mission is to foster biblical literacy through comprehensive and strategic studies of all 66 books of the Bible, cultivate professional leadership skills for life and ministry, and deploy Christian disciples in service worldwide. Faculty integrate studies of the Bible with historical, theological, and practical disciplines and engage in experiential education through classroom instruction, study tours, hands-on ministry training, and community-based training with ministry professionals. Leadership includes Dr. K. Lynn Lewis, President; Dr. Scott Stripling, Provost and Vice-President of Donor Relations; Dr. Israel Steinmetz, Dean of the Graduate Programs and full-time Professor; numerous adjunct faculty members, ministry professionals, and mentors who serve as part of the teaching team; and a Board of Trustees. Accreditation The Bible Seminary is a member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) [15935 Forest Road, Forest, VA 24551; Telephone: (434) 525-9539; e-mail: info@tracs.org ] having been awarded Accredited Status as a Category III institution by the TRACS Accreditation Commission on October 26, 2020. This status is effective for a period of five years. TRACS is recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDOE), the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), and the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE). For more information, visit TRACS.org . TBS is an Accredited member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA). Based on the ECFA Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship™, including financial accountability, transparency, sound board governance and ethical fundraising, ECFA accredits leading Christian nonprofit organizations that faithfully demonstrate compliance with the ECFA Standards pertaining to financial accountability, fundraising, and board governance. For more information, visit ECFA.org or call 1-800-323-9473. The Bible Seminary is a participating member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), a private nonprofit organization 501(c)(3) that helps expand students’ access to educational opportunities and ensure more efficient, consistent, and effective regulation of distance education programs. For more information, visit NC-SARA.org . Also see: • Council for Higher Education Database of Accredited Institutions • U.S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Institutions Covenantal Documents The Bible Seminary requires all administration and staff, Board members, faculty, and graduate students to read and sign agreement with the covenantal documents below that help define the ideological, relational, and theological parameters of the seminary community. Generally, everyone signs these documents annually in conjunction with their employment, enrollment or re-enrollment, and service contracts. Vision and Mission Vision: The Bible Seminary exists to glorify God by impacting multitudes of souls for Christ and to help fulfill the Great Commission. Mission: Our mission is to foster biblical literacy through studies of all 66 books of the Bible, cultivate professional leadership skills, and deploy Christian disciples in service worldwide. Core Values Key Verse "They read from the book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read." Nehemiah 8:8 Lordship – Because He is Lord (Philippians 2:11), we will continually ask Jesus Christ to sit on the throne of the seminary and on the throne of the lives of its faculty, administrators, and students for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Bible – Because the Bible is the fully true Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16), we will offer and require the study of all 66 books of the Bible before graduation with a degree. We will seek to creatively integrate classical theological disciplines and ministry training by studying books of the Bible (i.e. Church History will begin with the Book of Acts and keep going; Pastoral Leadership will come through the study of the Pastoral Epistles; Systematic Theology will flow out of the study of the Pauline Epistles). Prayer – Because apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5), we will continually seek to plug into the Vine Jesus Christ through yielding to Him in prayer. We will offer a unique emphasis on prayer, integrated with the curriculum, in classroom settings, meetings, and continual prayer opportunities in the life of the seminary. Unreached Peoples – Because the return of Christ awaits the evangelization of all people groups (Matthew 24:14), we will keep our eyes on the unreached peoples of the world and train our students to have a heart for the fulfillment of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) by seeking to reach millions of souls for Jesus Christ. Local Church – Because the church universal (the body of Christ) is God’s plan (Matthew 16:18), comprised of local churches (Acts 20:28; Romans 16:3-5; Acts 5:42), we will have a symbiotic relationship of service, training and education with local churches and parachurch ministries. Community – Because we were created for community (Genesis 1:26; Hebrews 10:24-25), we will seek to build a unique fellowship where we continually grow together in relationship and as followers of Christ, seeking to live as examples of biblical community, where authenticity and accountability are practiced, and where integrity is modeled and taught (Romans 12:4-5; Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-35). Compassion – Because God has a huge heart for the poor and overlooked (Matthew 25:31-46), we will strive to motivate, equip, and train students to minister to “the least of these” as a lifestyle. Institutional Objectives The Bible Seminary strives to provide faculty, staff, and support services that: • Promote belief in Jesus Christ as LORD and the centrality of discipleship by offering Christ-centered educational programs and courses. • Promote all 66 books of the BIBLE as the fully true Word of God by integrating the study of these biblical books into studies of classical theological disciplines and ministry training. • Promote the vital priority of PRAYER by modeling and teaching prayer in classes, events, meetings, publications, and retreats. • Promote awareness of and compassion for UNREACHED PEOPLES of the world by offering education in missions and engagement in cross-cultural endeavors. • Promote experiential training by integrating LOCAL CHURCH and parachurch ministry leaders, site visits, and service opportunities into educational experiences. • Promote authenticity, accountability, and integrity through genuine communication, collaborative learning, and ethical relationships in an academic faith COMMUNITY. • Promote COMPASSION by providing education and cooperative experiences in ministering to the poor, overlooked, and underprivileged. Progress in achieving each institutional objective is measured with Likert Scale assessments completed by students prior to beginning and upon completion of curriculum. Institutional Outcomes • The student will demonstrate mastery of all 66 biblical books by completing a summative Capstone project (CAP 590) as the culmination of his or her program prior to graduating with a degree. • The student will demonstrate learning proficiency, progression in study skills, and academic achievement through successfully passing course exams, improving scores between pre-course and post-course assessments, research reports, written papers, and class presentations. • The student will demonstrate evidence of core ministry skills in basic and advanced hermeneutics, pastoral leadership, preaching and teaching, biblically-based counseling, and cultivation of personal and group spiritual formation by successfully passing course exams, improving scores between pre-course and post-course assessments, and submitting respectable quality research reports, written papers, class presentations, and ministry service reports. • The student will demonstrate exegetical comprehension and applied learning from the study of biblical cultures, languages, history and theology through successful engagement in course assignments and ministry activities within the seminary educational community and beyond, and by successfully passing course exams, improving scores between pre-course and post-course assessments, and submitting respectable quality, research reports, written papers and class presentations. Doctrinal Statement • We believe in the inspiration and authority of Scripture – The Bible is the only inspired Word of God, fully true, and our sole authority for all that we believe and do (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Matthew 5:18). We hold to the inerrancy of Scripture, as outlined in the “Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy.” • We believe in one God – There is only one true God who exists eternally in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:26; Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; John 14:9; Acts 5:3-4,9; 2 Corinthians 3:17; 13:14; Hebrews 1:1-3, I John 5:7). • We believe in the deity and humanity of Christ – Jesus Christ is Lord, being fully God and yet fully Man, born of a virgin, as affirmed in the Nicene, and Apostles’ Creeds (Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:26-38; John 1:1-2,14; Philippians 2:5-8; Colossians 1:13-20; Hebrews 1:8). • We believe in substitutionary atonement – Jesus Christ died on the cross as our substitute – taking upon Himself the penalty of the sins of fallen humans (John 1:29; Romans 3:25-26; 5:8, 12-19; Galatians 3:13; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:18). • We believe in the resurrection of Christ – Jesus rose from the dead in a bodily resurrection defeating sin and death (Romans 6:4-9; 10:9; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6). • We believe in salvation by grace through faith alone – A person is saved from eternal separation from God as a free gift when that person places their faith in Jesus Christ who is the only way to the Father (John 1:12; 3:16; 5:24; 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 2:8-9; Revelation 21:27). • We believe in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ – Jesus Christ will come again to judge the living and the dead (Matthew 24-25; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 19-21). • We believe in heaven and hell – Believers in Jesus Christ will be resurrected to everlasting blessedness and joy in eternal fellowship with God (1 Corinthians 15:35-57; 2 Corinthians 5:1-9; Philippians 3:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Revelation 21:1-7; 22:1-5). Unbelievers will be resurrected to conscious separation from God and eternal punishment (Matthew 25:41,46; Mark 9:43-48; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Revelation 14:9-11;20:10-15; 21:8). WHERE WE STAND ON SOME CONTROVERSIAL SOCIAL ISSUES We acknowledge that the following social issues generate much pain and division in some churches, and we do not approach these issues lightly or glibly. But we also acknowledge that at the heart, these are authority of Scripture issues. We believe the Bible is clear about the following: • Abortion – We believe human life inside a mother’s womb begins at conception and that at conception, a real human being is created in the image of God (Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:4-5; Luke 1:39-45) and, therefore, that abortion is murder and wrong/sin (Exodus 20:13). We believe God offers full forgiveness to an abortive mother/father who has turned to Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:13-15; Ephesians 1:7). • Celibacy, Marriage, and Sexuality – We believe God created humans in His image, intentionally and immutably male and female, each bringing unique and complementary qualities to sexuality and relationships (e.g., Genesis 1:27; 2:18, 21-24; Matthew 19:4-5; Ephesians 5:22-33). Celibacy, marriage, and sexuality in general are gifts from God to be expressed: (1) within specific boundaries He designed for our safety and pleasure, and (2) within the confines of His purposes, which include gratefully honoring the Lord with our bodies and minds (e.g., Proverbs 6:20-7:27; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 7:19-20; Ephesians 4:17-5:21). We believe God ordained marriage to be a lifelong union between one man and one woman (e.g., Genesis 2:18, 21-24; Matthew 19:4-9, Mark 10:5-9, Ephesians 5:31). God’s design for sexual acts is within marriage for the purpose of moral human procreation and the unique pleasurable intimacy (one flesh) intended for husbands and wives (e.g., Genesis 1:27-28; 9:1; 35:11; Psalm 127:3; Proverbs 5:18-19; Song of Solomon 7:6-13; 1 Corinthians 7:5). Sexual acts outside God-instituted boundaries are sinful and defy God’s natural order, plans, and purposes (e.g., Exodus 20:14; Leviticus 18:7-23; 20:10-21; Matthew 5:27-28; 15:19; 1 Corinthians 6:9-13; Galatians 5:19; Colossians 3:5; 1 Thessalonians 4:2-8; 1 Timothy 1:8-11; Jude 7, cf. Genesis 19). We do not believe in ordaining self-avowed practicers of such sexual sin and do not believe in the validity of ceremonies that celebrate same-sex unions (e.g., Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:18-32; Hebrews 13:4). • Ministry Leadership – We believe persons engaged in willful, ongoing sinful practice(s) should not serve in ministry leadership (Romans 1:18-32; I Corinthians 5:1-13 and 6:9-20; I Thessalonians 4:1-8; I Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9), and those already serving in ministry leadership who engage in ongoing sinful behavior(s) should be disciplined and removed from ministry leadership (I Samuel 15: Matthew 18:15-18). We believe true repentance is an essential first step in the sanctification process necessary towards restoration of ministry leadership (I Corinthians 6:9-11; I Thessalonians 4:1-8). Therefore, anyone considering ministry leadership via a path that includes seeking a degree from and/or working for The Bible Seminary should evidence public and private freedom from sinful behavior(s) over time (Matthew 3:8; Acts 26:20; James 2:14-26), since ministry leadership is incorporated into official positions and roles at The Bible Seminary, including administration, board, faculty, staff, volunteers and students.” Ethos Statement It is a high honor and privilege to represent God to people by training for and serving in ministry. When people see someone “in the ministry,” they see that person as representing Christ’s church. It is for this reason that the Bible outlines in 1 Timothy 3 some of the expectations and qualifications of a leader in the church. It is very important for each member of the seminary community (no matter what their position) to seek to live up to these standards (with God’s help and empowerment). Thus, we ask each member of the seminary community to covenant to lead a life that is “above reproach” as defined by the following Ethos Statement. The heart of this document is healthy community full of grace and truth (John 1:17). As a member of the seminary community, I agree, with God’s help and empowerment, to live by the following ideals to the best of my ability: 1. I will seek to walk with God through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (Genesis 5:22; John 17:3; Mark 12:29-31; Ephesians 2:8-9). 2. I will seek to have no other gods than Jesus Christ (Exodus 20:3-6; 1 Peter 3:15). I will seek to keep myself from idolatry (1 John 5:21) by not making idols out of money, sex, power, people, material things, school, or ministry success. 3. I will work as “unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23-24). I will give God my best in my family, in my job performance, and in my training for ministry. 4. I will refrain from sexual immorality (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). If I am married, I will be faithful to my spouse (Exodus 20:14). If I am single, I will remain celibate in my singleness. I will not engage in homosexual practice (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). 5. I will refrain from drunkenness or the use of illegal drugs (Ephesians 5:18). I will not allow a substance to control me, rather I will seek to be controlled by God. If I choose to “drink socially,” I will do so in a way that does not cause other people to stumble (1 Corinthians 8). 6. I will practice biblical conflict resolution. If someone hurts or offends me, I will go to that person and speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15,25) and forgive them (Ephesians 4:32). If this does not resolve the issue, I will then involve a second person as prescribed in Matthew 18:15-17. I will not slander another person by talking negatively about him/her (Ephesians 4:31). I will seek to build others up with my words (Ephesians 4:29). If I cannot bring resolution through these steps, I will seek counsel. 7. I will be respectful of those in authority over me and submit to their leadership (Hebrews 13:17) unless they were to call me to do something contrary to Scripture (Acts 5:27-29). I will seek humbleness in my life (1 Peter 5:5-6). The purpose of this Ethos Statement is to maintain order (1 Corinthians 14:40) and to uphold integrity, respect, honor, and character (2 Timothy 2:20-22). There is plenty of grace in this community for mistakes (James 5:16), whereas there is not room in this community for blatant and unrepentant rebellion (1 Corinthians 5). I agree to do my best to live by this Ethos Statement with God’s help and power through Jesus Christ and for His glory. Academic Freedom Statement The Bible Seminary (TBS) is in mission to provide academic instruction and vocational training for Christian ministers to perform as pastors, counselors, missionaries, church planters, and leaders. Supporting this mission are the seven adopted Core Values of TBS and basic Christian convictions stated in the TBS Covenantal Documents and the Faculty Handbook. Diversity of education and religious viewpoint is available to society through the plurality of global academic institutions. At TBS, we invite the richness of interpretation and study of the Bible as we seek its deepest meaning and truth. TBS is to be distinguished as an academic institution that shares a basic set of Core Values among its students, faculty, administrators, and Board of Trustees. Instruction, research, and academic investigation are to uphold and respect the positions provided in the Core Values, the Ethos and Doctrinal Statements, and the Faculty Handbook. For example, the following statement from the TBS Faculty Handbook summarizes one of our institutional doctrinal positions that we expect all TBS faculty to uphold: Creationism versus Evolution God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1); God set the land to produce seed-bearing plants and trees (Genesis 1:11-12); God created all living things in the sea and on land, and the birds of the sky (Genesis 1:20-25); and God created man, male and female (Genesis 1:26-27). Scientific observations make obvious that God’s creation is uniquely enabled by God to adapt to its environment, making subtle changes over time to survive and thrive in the world – a process often described as “micro-evolution.” Humans have also adapted and diversified, as indicated by the many races, peoples, and societies that have developed through the ages. However, this ability to adapt is not a substitution for the absolute truth that God created humans in His image (Genesis 1:27), breathed life into man (Genesis 2:7), and, after the discovery of sin by the first humans, Adam and Eve, God dispatched mankind to the less-than-perfect circumstances in which we live life today (Genesis 3:14-24). Therefore, while we acknowledge the phenomena of micro-evolution, we reject the macro-evolutionary theory of how plants, animals, and humans came to exist. Rather, we embrace the biblical view of creation that God created the heavens and the earth and all that is within it, including humans. We are open to either a young earth view of creation (where “yowm” = 24-hour period) or an old earth view of creation (where “yowm” = an age). In general, Academic freedom means individuals have rights to engage in intellectual debate, research, and speech, through written or electronic correspondence, on and off campus, without fear of censorship, retaliation, or sanction. This freedom encompasses rights to maintain academic standards and gives faculty members reasonable latitude in deciding how to teach assigned courses; encourages intellectual integrity; sustains pedagogical approaches consistent with disciplines taught; and informs evaluations of student work, all exercised within the shared boundaries defined by the TBS Covenantal Documents. Academic freedom does not involve expressions that substantially impair the rights of others or the imposition of political, religious, or philosophical beliefs on individuals of the TBS community. Academic Freedom does not provide protection of faculty who demonstrate professional ignorance, incompetence, or dishonesty with regard to their assigned discipline or fields of expertise, or who engage in arbitrary or capricious evaluation of students. All members of the TBS community have a right to due process. Anyone alleging or responding to a potential breach of academic freedom should follow the TBS Grievance Policy. Nondiscriminatory Policy The Bible Seminary admits students of any race, sex, color, disability, age, or national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the Seminary. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, disability, age, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its hiring policies, educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other school-administered programs. Philosophy of Education We believe the Bible is one book, written by many authors over time, inspired by one Spirit for all time – and is the best training manual for ministry. We believe that doing ministry, debriefing ministry, and studying ministry – in association with called, life-giving, seasoned and Spirit-filled professionals – is an effective educational model. We believe a balanced, Bible-based, Christ-centered, mission-focused educational approach includes a comprehensive curriculum that integrates studying through all 66 biblical books along with studying standard historical, theological, and practical disciplines critical to developing professional skills for 21st century ministry. We believe that challenging and nurturing students, getting them into the Word of God, and helping them think biblically while listening to the Holy Spirit, involves a unique combination of professional ministry training, cutting-edge tools, and extraordinary experiences. We believe that interactive personal engagement over time, among groups of individuals with a common set of core values and doctrines and ethical standards, and with diverse backgrounds and experiences, can offer an exciting, family-friendly, practical, rich, and unparalleled learning environment. We believe that a journey of theological education should accomplish the following: • Glorify the Lord • Be rooted in His Word • Nurture an intimate, faithful, trusting relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit • Cultivate a contextual and more profound understanding of God and creation, scripture and the world, heaven and earth, culture and history, time and eternity, and things seen and unseen • Equip students with relevant experiences, knowledge, relationships, training, and tools for a lifetime of ministry leadership • Lead to a passionate commitment to love and serve the Lord and others with all that students are and have, in perpetuity. Facts Incorporation and Licensing • Independent and non-denominational • Registered Domestic Non-Profit Corporation in the state of Texas (Feb 2010) • Registered IRS 501(c)(3) Charitable Institution of Higher Education (Aug 2010) • Exemption by Texas Workforce Commission (Mar 2011, Oct 2018, Aug 2020) • Exemption by Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (May 2011) • Affiliate Member of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (2012 - Jul 2021) • Approved CEU provider by the Association of Christian Schools International (Oct 2015) • Approved by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) for Applicant Status (Jan 2018), Candidate status (Apr 2019), Accredited status (Oct 2020), and to offer Distance Education (Apr 2021) • Approved accredited member of ECFA (Sep 2019) • Approved member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (Dec 2021) Founders • Dr. James E. Leggett, Founding President (2010-13) • Rev. Paul Helbig, Bible Institute Co-founder and Lead Faculty (2008-16) • Mr. Dan Dunham, Founding Board of Trustees Chair (2010-13) • Grace Fellowship Church, Seed funding for launch (2010-11) Executive Officers • President, Dr. K. Lynn Lewis (2014-present), Executive Vice-President/Provost (2011-13) • Provost, Dr. Scott Stripling (2017-present) • Vice-President of Finance and Administration, Mr. Rick McCalip (2010-present) • Board of Trustees, Mr. Adam Peters (Chair) with 11 total members Programs • Master of Divinity (84-credit hours) • Master of Arts (four majors plus four concentrations, 48 to 60-credit hours) • Dual Degree Completion (Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry in conjunction with a TBS MA or MDiv) • Certificate of Theological Studies (27-credit hours) Faculty • Two full-time administrators who also teach • One full-time faculty member and 15+ adjunct professors and teaching assistants • 50+ professionals who serve as mentors and visiting teachers Unique Features • All programs cover all 66 books of the Bible • Comprehensive, relevant education and training for 21st century leadership • Local mentoring and training opportunities throughout the graduate degree programs • Educational experiences in classrooms, on-site visits to regional locations and international locations, especially in Israel Special Program Elements • Distinctively clear core values, doctrine, and ethos statements • Holy Land Study tours and archaeological excavation opportunities • Technological study and resource tools • Multiple experiential learning opportunities • Strong commitment to helping students graduate with ZERO ($0) seminary debt History The Bible Seminary’s passion for vibrant Bible-based, Christ-centered, mission-focused leadership training began with Dr. James E. Leggett, founder and senior pastor of Grace Fellowship Church in Katy, Texas. Under the leadership of Teaching Pastor, Paul Helbig, the church established a Bible Institute in 2008 teaching all 66 books of the Bible. A team led by future Board Chair, Dan Dunham, and Vice-President of Finance and Administration, Rick McCalip, helped incorporate The Bible Seminary (TBS) in 2010 as an independent, non-denominational, charitable 501(c)(3), educational institution of higher education. The Board named Dr. Leggett as volunteer President and the church raised $1,100,000 from 260 donors to help launch the seminary. In 2011, the Board hired Dr. K. Lynn Lewis as full-time Executive Vice-President and Provost; received exemptions for its Master of Divinity program by the Texas Workforce Commission and Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board; transferred the Bible Institute from Grace Fellowship to TBS; and graduated the first 12 students from the Bible Certificate program in December 2011. In 2012, TBS received approval for Affiliate status with the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). The graduate program launched on September 4, 2012 with 12 inaugural students. In 2014, Dr. Leggett resigned as volunteer President, the Board named Dr. Lewis as President, and TBS hired a full-time Provost. In 2015, TBS established a Master of Arts program, a Dual Degree Completion program, a Licensed Professional program consisting of core graduate courses, awarded its first graduate degrees (seven Master of Divinity and one Master of Arts), launched a Spanish Bible Certificate program, and received approval from the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) to provide continuing education. In 2016, TBS began offering courses in regional locations. In 2017, the seminary hired Dr. Scott Stripling as Provost and Dr. Douglas Petrovich as full-time faculty member, revised the Bible Certificate program, and received recognition by the Knowledge Review as one of the 10 Most Preferred Divinity Schools for Religious Studies 2017. In 2018, TBS added four new Master of Arts programs, reduced Master of Divinity credit hours from 96 to 84, revised the Licensed Professional program, received approvals of exemption from the Texas Workforce Commission, and added new remote instructional locations. In 2019, TBS hired Dr. J. Paul Nyquist as Dean of Graduate Programs and became an accredited member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA). In 2020, TBS named Dr. Doug Petrovich Dean of Graduate Programs and Mrs. Carousel Pieterse Director of the Bible Certificate Program, renamed the “Licensed Professional” program the “Vocational Ministry” certificate program, and earned Accredited Status with the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS). In 2021, TBS received approval from TRACS to offer Distance Education and became a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). In 2022, TBS added four Master of Arts Concentrations, formed a publishing division (Nehemiah Press), opened the 3J Archaeological Museum, hired Dr. Israel Steinmetz as Graduate Dean, and named Dr. Scott Stripling as Provost and Vice-President of Donor Relations. Planning, Use, and Design Planning and Use This TBS Comprehensive Strategic Plan (CSP) depicts a schematic outline summarizing progression of ongoing planning, budgeting, engagement, and governance processes. It ensures alignment of the institution’s Covenant Documents (Mission, Purpose, Core Values, Doctrines, Ethos, Institutional Objectives, Educational Philosophy, and policies) with annual strategic objectives, goals, budgets, and implementation timing. Alignment spans key areas addressed directly in the CSP component sections. Original Version Development Since 2010, as detailed in the bylaws, TBS has engaged in an annual planning and budgeting process involving the Administration and the Board. Following the launch of the Master of Divinity program in September 2012, the Board commissioned subcommittees to provide supplemental annual planning efforts to address strategic areas. Additionally, in February 2014, the Board convened the first annual Board Strategy Retreat with three distinct goals: 1. To understand the current state of TBS, including internal and external challenges 2. To identify key upcoming priorities 3. To identify specific actions needed to advance select priorities Retreat follow-up included forming a Strategic Plan Sub-committee to advance the work and integrate it with existing TBS planning and governance processes to formulate the first 5-year Comprehensive Strategic Plan (CSP). Over the next few months, CSP Subcommittee Chair Bob Button initiated sessions with Administration and the Board Chair to map out a process to develop and approve an official CSP. The process included convening a workshop with administration, faculty, and student representatives to obtain grass roots constituency input. Additional discussions between the TBS President, Board Chair, and subcommittee chair, and then a subcommittee meeting with the TBS President, resulted in adoption of the CSP design framework, identification of component sections, identification of section objectives, goals, timetables, responsible individuals tasked with completing, financial resources, and item statuses. The committee issued the first draft to the Board in mid-August, received feedback, made revisions, the Board received the original version and approved it at the September 28, 2014 Board meeting. Ensuing Versions and Use TBS administration and staff review the CSP annually as part of the ongoing cycle of planning, budgeting and assessments outlined in the Comprehensive Assessment Plan (CAP). The Board utilizes the CSP as the outline for the annual Strategic Planning Retreat, normally held each February or March, and approves updated CSP’s regularly. The back page of the plan notes the dates of the original Board-approved version, most recent Board-approved version, and most recent edited version. Design The outline consists of ten component sections: 1) Prayer, 2) Educational Programs, 3) Enrollment, 4) Staffing, 5) Finances, 6) Facilities, 7) Policies and Procedures, 8) Accreditation, 9) Alumni, and 10) Communications and Marketing. Each section is further divided to address the following elements: In practice, TBS leaders additionally engage in a SWOT analysis of each of the ten areas. The administration, staff, faculty, students, and Board conduct analysis separately during January and February, and these are combined for joint review during the annual Board planning retreat. The graphic below depicts the general format. Plan Components 1. Prayer 2. Educational Programs 3. Enrollment 4. Staffing 5. Finances 6. Facilities The Bible Seminary’s main campus facilities consist of 3,800 sq. ft. of leased space with one 40-seat classroom (Suite 270) and small kitchen area (cabinets, microwave, refrigerator) and storage closet, a museum (Suite 250), a 16-seat Library/Boardroom (Suite 263), five individual offices, a combined office/production studio, a combined office/reception area, and access to common restroom facilities and a parking lot with 100 parking spaces. Total simultaneous capacity on the main campus approximates 40 students in one classroom plus up to 16 in the library. The campus is located at 2655 S Mason Rd, Katy, TX 77450, in the business complex on the grounds of the 80-acre Great Southwest Equestrian Center (GSWEC) and next door to the 30-acre Grace Fellowship Church campus. The Board established a Campus Development Committee (CDC) in 2012 to work with administration to evaluate facility needs and provision strategies. Current leases at the GSWEC extend through July 2023. Options to acquire additional space in the current facilities are reviewed as they come available, but several recent options were declined in favor of improved options related to possible relocation. 7. Policies and Procedures 8. Accreditation 9. Alumni 10. Communications and Marketing Financial Forecast The Bible Seminary 2655 S Mason Road Katy, TX 77450 281-646-1109 (Phone) Info@TheBibleSeminary.edu TheBibleSeminary.edu © The Bible Seminary Comprehensive Strategic Plan Latest revision: 4/4/2023 Current Version: Board-approved October 2022 Original Version: Board-approved September 2014 Financial Forecast Organizational Chart

Adjunct Professor < Back Previous Next Dr. Clyde Billington Adjunct Professor Dr. Billington has been an educator since 1967, teaching at all levels from high school to Ph.D. programs. He is the former president of the Near East Archaeological Society and serves as Editor of ARTIFAX magazine and Executive Director for The Institute for Biblical Archaeology. He has published numerous articles in scholarly publications. He and his wife, Ellie, resides in Florida and have a daughter and four grandchildren. Dr. Billington enjoys the outdoors and plays a five-string bluegrass banjo. He teaches Ancient Near East Archaeology (ANE 501) for TBS.

Discover flexible audit options at The Bible Seminary. Tailor your theological education, explore Bible courses, and customize your spiritual growth journey. Find the perfect path for deepening your understanding of the Scriptures with our customizable audit programs Register Today! Audit a course At The Bible Seminary, auditing a course offers a unique opportunity to enrich your understanding of Biblical studies. For a fee of $435 per course, auditors can choose to attend classes in-person, participate live online, asynchronous, or a hybrid format that blends all options. Participants receive access to course materials and are encouraged to join discussions and ask questions, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere. This opportunity is ideal for lifelong learners, clergy seeking continuing education, or anyone passionate about learning God's word. A TBS Audit student has the option to audit a course for personal enjoyment or do the work (test & assignments), bank it if they decide to migrate into a graduate program at a later time.