There are a variety of courses offered periodically at Calvary Chapel Sydney to teach, encourage and equip followers of Jesus Christ. These courses are cycled through by various teachers as needed so new and seasoned believers are provided opportunities to grow in faith and practical understanding together as disciples of Jesus.
Christianity Explained is a 6-week course for people who have little or no knowledge of Jesus Christ and the Bible. It seeks to explain who Jesus is and what it means to be a Christian. It is a friendly, non-confrontational course. All materials are provided. It is suitable for individuals or small groups.
The “Growing in Christ” Bible Study goes for 13 weeks and covers the fundamentals of the Christian faith, including salvation, prayer, forgiveness, guidance, the Bible, love, etc. This study is aimed at establishing strong foundations and is therefore suited to new Christians and those who wish to revisit the basics. It is most suitable for small groups, and the cost of the guidebook used is around $20.
These 16-week courses (Introductory Course and Continuing Courses) utilise a variety of resources for personal growth and group discussion with homework. Attendees study a book of the Bible, read through the Self-Confrontation Manual, listen to audio teachings, and read useful books like Transformational Discipleship. All materials are supplied at cost. More than learning facts about Jesus or the Bible, discipleship courses are a wonderful opportunity to personally connect with our LORD and fellow Christians, and for all to be encouraged as we follow Jesus together.
Every Christian should understand "What Do I Believe?" and "Why Do I Believe It?". These are questions that require answers and help us to walk daily with the LORD. The Biblical Theology course(s) provide an in-depth study of the Bible on topics that are fundamental and faith-strengthening to see what the Bible actually says about them and how they impact our lives with a Standard Course (6 weeks) and Expanded Course (14 weeks). Standard Course topics include teaching the whole counsel of God, the centrality of Christ, the Holy Spirit and grace of God. The Expanded Course topics include eschatology, God’s sovereignty and man’s responsibility, the supremacy of love, the divine model for church and ventures of faith.
This 8-week course is an excellent opportunity to learn how to study the Bible yourself through observation, interpretation and application whether you are a Bible teacher or congregant. With weekly homework and discussion, we go through the Scripture, learn the importance of context, explore outlining and charting, and we will dig into passages that include Hebrew poetry, prophecy, and parables of Jesus without reliance upon commentaries or other helps. As the Holy Spirit helps us, this course is incredibly practical to help believers learn to cut their own spiritual meat and better digest it by rightly dividing God’s word.
