Adult Education: Philosophy and Faculty

Director: Jim Leffel

Because Xenos emphasizes the ministry of all Christians, education and training is extremely important. Most of our training occurs in the field--in home groups or ministry teams, where we foster personal discipleship. However, we also believe lay leaders need support in the area of formal training. Hence we offer a broad suite of adult courses. Most of our ministry teams require some level of formal course work for their workers. Taking courses has become the "thing to do" at Xenos, and most committed members look forward to taking a great, informative and challenging course at least once a year.

We are also convinced that growing to maturity is rooted in a deep knowledge of God's Word and how it applies to all areas of life.

As you investigate further, you will see that we have put together an elaborate, practical core of courses for Christians at every stage of spiritual development.

That's why every year we have over 1200 registrants enrolling in at least 25 different classes! All of the classes charge tuition, usually about $25 for 5 week courses and $50 for 10 week courses. No, the tuition does not pay our expenses! We simply believe that unless students pay for education, they will not fully value it. Poor students can apply for relief, either in the form of payment schedules or waiving of most (but never all) of the tuition.

About the Staff:

The adult education staff brings a dynamic blend of advanced academic credentials and years of practical ministry experience into the classroom. Of the 22 regular instructors, over half hold masters or doctoral degrees. Xenos instructors have been involved in nationwide publication of 8 books.

Major Areas of Study

Biblical Studies:

Xenos respects the authority of Scripture. We recognize that the scripture is "living and active," and that drinking deep from the riches of scripture transforms our lives. So we have numerous courses to facilitate knowledge of the Bible, and Bible study skills. The introductory courses in Biblical Studies are:

New and Old Testament Surveys These 5 week courses acquaint students to the history, literature and theology of the Bible. The plan of salvation, the Bible's core message, is chronicled from Genesis to Revelation. These survey courses are rich in content, but designed with the young Christian in mind. Students are expected to read major sections of the Bible and summarize their observations as well as pass a test to evidence knowledge of the key thematic and historical issues covered in the presentations. We offer a course in inductive study method. Students are taught inductive method and how to use word study tools. These skills are developed as the workshop-style class applies the inductive principles to Paul's prison letters. By the end of this 5 week class, students have the ability to do in depth Bible study on their own--a life changing experience! More advanced courses are offered in New and Old Testament books. These 5 to 10 week courses range from Hebrews and General Epistles, to the Gospels, the Prophets and the Pentateuch. Authorship and historicity are examined, as well as theological and textual issues. Students complete detailed inductive studies. The instructor facilitates a healthy "give and take" as students defend their interpretation of the text. Students complete the course having written their own inductive commentary of the book(s) studied.
Inductive Book Studies In-depth book studies stressing personal study and interpretation skills are popular.

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