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
For more information about IBS courses, exemptions, graduate credit, and more, visit the IBS website.
As a new missionary serving with Cru, you will complete three IBS courses before reporting to your initial ministry assignment:
Intro to Mission (ITM)
Bible Study Methods (BSM)
Intro to Christian Theology (ICT)
After you leave NSO, you will complete Intro to Mission online.
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 Bible Study Methods (BSM) and Intro to Christian Theology (ICT) in a live, two-week format. (subject to change to virtual given COVID realities). ** Summer 2021 IBS and NSO will be virtual, so there are four weeks of IBS before the start of Summer NSO. (Summer NSO Information)
Those joining Spring NSO and Fall NSO You will then return to a later IBS to complete Bible Study Methods (BSM) and Intro to Christian Theology (ICT) in a live, two-week format. (subject to change to virtual given COVID realities)
The chart below explains the schedule for those who do not attend IBS along with Summer or Winter NSO.
If you complete NSO in:
January | June of same year |
May | January of the next year |
July | January of the next year |
September | 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.
