Institute

When does it launch?
Fall 2026, running from late August through May each year.

Who is it for?
Missional partners of Redeemer who have completed all 3 Core Classes and want to grow in theological depth, spiritual maturity, and ministry readiness.

What will we study?
This program is intentionally more rigorous than our Core Classes. While the Core Classes aim for accessibility and breadth, the One-Year Program dives deep into theology through primary source reading, classic theological texts, and historical engagement. Students will not just learn what to believe, but why the church has believed it across time.

You’ll study four major areas:

• Systematic Theology – Study the core doctrines of the Christian faith using trusted theological categories and confessional frameworks. Expect to read and reflect on material from both contemporary theologians and historical voices.
• Biblical Theology – Learn to trace the unified story of Scripture—from creation to new creation—and how every part of the Bible points to Christ. We’ll explore covenant theology, typology, and redemptive themes that shape the Christian life.
• Church History – This is a major emphasis. You'll explore the development of doctrine, key figures, creeds, and controversies that shaped the global church. Church history isn’t just background—it’s part of your discipleship.
• Spiritual Formation – Weekly practices in Scripture meditation, prayer, journaling, and evangelism ensure that theology doesn’t stay theoretical. Your heart and hands will be shaped alongside your mind.

This course is designed to stretch you—but in the best way. It’s not academic for its own sake. It’s about forming faithful, humble, doctrinally grounded men and women who are ready to teach others also.

What’s the weekly format?
Each session is designed for deep learning, real community, and practical formation. The rhythm is structured yet relational—serious-minded, but warm.

A typical 2-hour class: 

• Table Cohort Discussion 
  Discuss key questions from the weekly readings with a consistent group of 5–6 peers. These groups provide sharpening, accountability, and shared growth.
• Whole-Class Interaction 
  Cohort leaders or students share insights and questions. The teacher facilitates discussion to clarify key themes and set up the lecture.
• Doctrinal Lecture 
  A rich, Gospel-centered teaching grounded in Scripture, theology, and church history—drawing from primary sources and trusted frameworks.
• Spiritual Formation and Processing 
  Apply what you’ve learned through reflection, prayer, and spiritual exercises like journaling, Scripture memory, and evangelism assignments.

This format ensures that every class is not just informational—but transformational. You’ll process theology in community and apply it in daily life.

What is the workload?
We’re aiming for a steady, sustainable rhythm of about 3–5 hours per week.

• Class Time: 2 hours each week (in-person)
• Homework and Reading: 2–3 hours depending on the week

Assignments include weekly reading, journaling, Scripture memory, occasional book reviews, and a few written reflections throughout the year.

The workload is designed to challenge you—but not overwhelm you. The goal isn’t to create a classroom grind, but to create space for intentional learning, deep discipleship, and lasting formation.

If you can commit to a few hours a week, you’ll see real growth in your understanding, your love for God, and your readiness to lead and disciple others.

What’s the purpose of this program?
To form Biblically grounded, spiritually mature, and ministry-ready leaders for Redeemer Church and beyond.

The local church is God’s Plan A for raising up faithful shepherds, teachers, and gospel workers—not seminaries or institutions. While formal education can be helpful, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars or relocate to be trained for ministry. You can receive robust, theologically rich, and hands-on formation right here, within the life of the church that knows you and will send you.

This program is the primary pipeline for developing:

• Future elders and deacons
• Bible study and cohort leaders
• Aspiring missionaries, church planters, and pastors
• Faithful disciple-makers in every sphere of life

It exists to ensure that Redeemer remains a church where the gospel is preserved, the saints are equipped, and leaders are multiplied for generations to come.

What are the requirements to apply?

Applicants must meet the following criteria to ensure readiness and alignment:

• Be a current missional partner in good standing
• Have completed all three Core Classes
• Be actively serving in a ministry area at Redeemer
• Submit a brief application
• Contribute a $300 materials fee

What does the fee cover?
The $300 fee helps offset the actual cost of delivering a high-quality experience throughout the 36-week program. This includes:

• All required books (pre-purchased and provided)
• Professionally printed class binders and weekly materials
• Access to digital resources and recordings
• Weekly snacks and drinks
• General administrative and supply needs

This ensures that students show up each week fully equipped and cared for—without having to chase down their own books or materials.

We never want cost to be a barrier. Payment plans and need-based scholarships are available. Just let us know in your application.

This program is an investment in your growth and in the future health of our church. If you're ready to go deeper and be trained for lasting gospel impact, we’d love to walk with you.