Institute of Biblical Studies

THEOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT AND OUR MISSION

We use the Scriptures every day in ministry. Whether proclaiming the life-changing message of the gospel or helping ground people in the truth of God’s Word, the Scriptures inform all we do. The nature of the mission to which we have been called requires kingdom workers with a passion for God who are growing ever deeper in their ability to understand and apply His Word to their own lives and the lives of those to whom they minister.

Institute of Biblical Studies Courses

One important foundation for your biblical and theological development is the eleven core courses offered through the Institute of Biblical Studies (IBS). These eleven courses are designed to equip you for a lifetime of ministry.

IBS Requirements for New Staff

As a new missionary serving with Cru, you will complete three IBS courses before reporting to your initial ministry assignment:

  • Intro to Mission (ITM)

  • Intro to Christian Theology (ICT)

  • Bible Study Methods (BSM)

Immediately following NSO while raising support, you will complete Intro to Mission online. You will receive materials and instructions for this course at NSO.

Those joining Summer NSO and Winter NSO have the option to take Intro to Christian Theology (ICT) and Bible Study Methods (BSM) two weeks before NSO. You can also attend NSO only and return at a later IBS to complete Intro to Christian Theology (ICT) and Bible Study Methods (BSM) in a live, two-week format. 

Those joining Spring NSO and Fall NSO will then return to a later IBS to complete Intro to Christian Theology (ICT) and Bible Study Methods (BSM) in a live, two-week format.

The chart below explains the IBS schedule for those who attend NSO only:

If you complete NSO in:

You attend IBS:


Winter


June of same year


Spring


January of the next year


Summer


January of the next year


Fall


January of the next year

Once you have completed these courses (and reported to your first assignment), you will be eligible to obtain a Minister’s Housing Allowance (MHA); this benefit can substantially reduce your taxes.

Exemption from an IBS Course

If you have previously taken theological courses, you may be exempt from some IBS courses. If you think you may be exempt from an IBS course, go to the IBS website and follow the steps outlined. You can also email the IBS Team (ibs.info@cru.org) to begin the request process.

For more information about IBS courses, exemptions, graduate credit, and more, visit the IBS website.

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