Master of Divinity (Distance/Online)
Objectives
- To inculcate Biblical spirituality that will emerge in every aspect of their lives and ministry.
- To lay sound Biblical foundation for faith, practice and ministry.
- To develop research skills that promote a deeper understanding of the Biblical truth of the Church, and its mission within the national context of the students.
- To enhance leadership abilities for the various ministries in the church.
- To awaken the need for participation in mission with a focus on the unreached and unevangelized.
- To inculcate the holistic perspective of missions to integrate different methods in serving the people and society.
Admission Requirements
- Any Christians, irrespective of denomination, living in India or abroad can apply.
- The candidate is required to have a fair knowledge of the English language.
- The candidate should be a member of the Church and produce a recommendation letter from the pastor.
- The candidate must have successfully completed the pre-University course (12th grade) or its equivalent and B. Th. or other equivalent University Bachelor Degree
Application and Registration
- Application forms and prospectus can be obtained on payment of Rs.200/-; the last date to receive the filled in application is on the 31st of April.
- Application after the due date will be considered with a late fee of Rs.50/- up to the 30th of May.
- Each student admitted will be given a Registration number and will be expected to complete M. Div. program in two/three years from the year of registration. Extension of one year shall be considered if there is a valid reason and by paying the continuing fees.
Classes, Practical Work and Exams
- This a residential program conducted on the campus of BIHER. Classes are conducted from Monday to Friday between 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. with a chapel service and lunch break. Students must attend all the classes scheduled for them. Attendance is recorded for each period of class.
- Attending the chapel service and other practical work is a compulsory requirement and part of the training.
- During the academic days, students are expected to concentrate on their studies and maintain good marks. Those who do not show interest in studies and fail in the exams will be asked to leave the institution after evaluation.
- The Academic Dean must approve request for leave, to be absent from class or practical work.
- Exams for the first and second semester will be conducted in November and March. Those who have failed in papers can re-write the exam paying the fees.
- Students will be eligible to receive the degree after completing all the requirements and clearing the fees. The faculty evaluation committee will evaluate each student and make recommendation to the Board.
- 7 Sections
- 21 Lessons
- 48 Hours
Synoptic Gospels
Course Description
This course provides a focused study of the Synoptic Gospels — Matthew, Mark, and Luke — exploring their historical backgrounds, literary features, theological themes, and interrelationship. Special attention will be given to the Synoptic Problem, the distinct portraits of Jesus presented in each Gospel, and their unique theological emphases. Students will engage in historical, theological, and pastoral reflection to understand how these texts inform and shape Christian faith and ministry.
Course Objectives
- To introduce students to the historical, cultural, and literary contexts of the Synoptic Gospels.
- To analyze the distinctive theological emphases of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
- To examine the Synoptic Problem and evaluate various scholarly approaches and solutions.
- To apply insights from the Synoptic Gospels to preaching, teaching, and ministry.
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of the historical and literary background of the Synoptic Gospels.
- Identify and explain major theological themes unique to each Synoptic Gospel.
- Critically evaluate the Synoptic Problem and articulate an informed perspective.
- Integrate exegetical and theological insights into practical ministry and preaching.
Course Requirements
- Complete assigned readings prior to class to ensure active participation.
- Submit weekly assignments and exegetical papers on selected passages.
- Participate actively in discussions, presentations, and group activities.
- Complete a final research paper.
Course Assessment Summary
Component Marks Pass Mark Frequent Assessment (CFE) 70 28 Final CFE 30 12 Total 100 40 0- Unit 1 - Introduction to the Synoptic Problem
Suggested Reading (5 Marks)
- “Approaches to the New Testament” by Benneth Lawrance
- Mark Allan Powell, Introducing the New Testament, Chapters 6–8
- D. A. Carson & Douglas J. Moo, An Introduction to the New Testament, sections on the Synoptic Gospels
Presentation Assignment (10 Marks)
Students will prepare a 3–4 page paper explaining the Synoptic Problem and evaluating at least one proposed scholarly solution. The presentation should demonstrate clarity of thought, research engagement, and theological reflection.
5 - Unit 2 - The Gospel of Mark: Jesus the Suffering Messiah
Suggested Reading (5 Marks)
Reading Assignment: Write a 4–5 page reflection on Mark 8:27–38 with special focus on discipleship and Christology.
Reference:
R. T. France, The Gospel of Mark (NIGTC or TNTC — Introduction and commentary sections)4 - Unit 3 - The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus the Fulfilment of Scripture
Suggested Reading (3 Marks)
Topic: Thematic study of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) with an exercise on Old Testament quotations.
Reference:
R. T. France, The Gospel of Matthew (NICNT or TNTC — Introduction and commentary sections)Assignment (7 Marks)
Task: Write a 5–6 page comparative essay analyzing Matthew’s use of Old Testament quotations in comparison with Mark’s narrative style.
The essay should demonstrate clear exegesis, theological reflection, and an understanding of Gospel-specific literary emphases.
4 - Unit 4 - The Gospel of Luke: Jesus the Savior of All
Suggested Reading (10 Marks)
Topic: Analysis of the Parable of the Good Samaritan and the Parable of the Prodigal Son, with a discussion on Luke’s theology of salvation.
Reference:
Joel Green, The Gospel of Luke (NICNT — Introduction and selected commentary sections)4 - Unit 5 - Theology and Unity of the Synoptics
Suggested Reading (5 Marks)
Topic: Comparative study of a parable across all three Synoptic Gospels (e.g., the Parable of the Sower).
Students should analyze similarities, differences, narrative settings, and theological emphases.Final Project (20 Marks)
Assignment: Write a 10–12 page research paper or prepare a sermon series outline on a major Synoptic theme such as:
- Kingdom of God
- Discipleship
- Parables
The project should demonstrate exegetical depth, theological reflection, and pastoral application relevant to contemporary Christian ministry.
4 - Bibliography
- Allen Jr, O. Wesley & Via, O. Dan. Reading the Synoptic Gospels (Revised Edition). Smyth & Helwys Publishing, 2013.
- Aland, Kurt. Synopsis of the Four Gospels (Revised Standard Version). United Bible Societies, 1987.
- Wintle, Brian. Synoptic Studies: A Primer, Vol. 1. Bangalore: Theological Book Trust, 2010.
- Wintle, Brian. Synoptic Studies: A Primer, Vol. 2. Bangalore: Theological Book Trust, 2010.
- Bennett, Lawrence Arren. Approaches to the New Testament. Bangalore: SAIACS Press, 2021.
- Joseph, H. Lalfakmawia. Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels. New Delhi: Christian World Imprints, 2019.
- Nickle, F. Keith. The Synoptic Gospels: An Introduction. Westminster John Knox Press, 2000.
- Perkins, Pheme. An Introduction to the Synoptic Gospels. Cambridge University Press, 2007.
- Stein, Robert H. Studying the Synoptic Gospels. Bangalore: Omega Book World, 2019.
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Contact
- +91 88833 08330
- PO Box 4, Palampur Post Office, Himachal Pradesh, India, 176061
- info@biher.education