EQUIP Course Details - Trinity Theological College

EQUIP offers a range of topics attending equally to the Bible, theology, church history, missions, ministry, and current issues.
Each two-year schedule contains all the courses required to complete our certificate and licentiate programmes. EQUIP evening courses and workshops are made available for registration every quarter. Please note the following indicators:
** required course for the Licentiate in Mission Practice
^ required course for a Local Preacher Licence (in collaboration with the Chinese and Trinity Annual Conferences of The Methodist Church in Singapore)

Evening Courses (Online via Zoom)

From the Desert to the City: Christians in Creation Care (Mr Lawrence Ko)
Mondays 7.30-9.30pm | 8, 15, 22, 29 Jan, 5, 19, 26 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course will discuss Christian perspectives on creation care, with a theological framework of human roles and responsibilities in relation to God the creator and his creation. We will examine the impact of human action on various environmental and ecological challenges resulting in climate change. The course will explore responses the Church and believers can make in climate action through our understanding of spirituality and discipleship as priests and stewards of God’s creation. We will look at some practical applications of creation care through the vocational choices and commitments in our daily lives as we point to faith and hope revealed in the Kingdom of God.

Biodata. Lawrence J. C. Ko is founder-director of Asian Journeys Ltd, a social enterprise engaged in Asian cultural research through service-learning. He has been organising youths from Singapore to participate in environmental action and urban service-learning projects in Asia over the past 20 years, including the Green Desert Project in Inner Mongolia. He is author of two books on the environment and cultural anthropology, including Can the Desert Be Green? Planting Hope in the Wilderness (2014) and From the Desert to the City (2020). Lawrence is an associate trainer at the Civil Service College where he has led workshops on understanding China cross-culturally for the past 16 years.

Ministering to Young Adults (Rev Dr Tan Soo Inn)
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Jan, 6, 20 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course investigates the challenge of empowering and equipping emerging young adults to reach their God-designed potential for spiritual transformation. The generation of young adults today is the first that has grown up shaped by the internet and by globalisation while many in church leadership are from an earlier era. As many churches today are multigenerational, how can churches have healthy intergenerational ministries? This course will help participants:

- understand who young adults are especially the Millennials and Gen Zs and the unique spiritual challenges they present for discipleship;
- understand what young adults need as they journey from adolescence to adulthood;
- be introduced to key ministry strategies for ministering to young adults; and
- be exposed to current local research as to how different generations perceive faith.

Biodata. Rev Dr Tan Soo Inn is a director of Graceworks, a training and publishing consultancy committed to promoting spiritual friendship in church and society. He runs this ministry in partnership with his wife, Bernice. Bernice and Soo Inn have four sons. Soo Inn has worked as a dentist, pastored two churches, and served in a number of parachurch organizations. He is an adjunct lecturer in various seminaries and serves as the chaplain of the Christian Medical and Dental Fellowship, Singapore. Soo Inn has a BDS (dentistry) from the University of Singapore, a ThM in New Testament from Regent College, Vancouver, and a DMin from Fuller Seminary. His primary passions include connecting the Word of God to the struggles of daily life, and the promotion of the discipline of spiritual friendship.

Missio Dei: Historical & Holistic Perspectives ** (Rev Dr Andrew Peh)
Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Jan, 14, 21 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course surveys the expansion and development Christianity as Missio Dei (the mission of God), from both historical and holistic perspectives. The salvation and renewal of all creation, the proclamation and practice of His word, and the growth and witness of the church are essentially understood as God’s mission. The first part of the course outlines the significant events/movements in the transmission of the Christian faith. The latter half of the course sketches the significant themes of holistic mission, all of which are understood as God’s mission in bringing the whole Gospel to the whole world.

Biodata. Rev Dr Andrew Peh, PhD (Asbury Theological Seminary), lectures in the area of mission and mission history at Trinity Theological College. His interests are in the history of Christianity in Asia and mission trends in the 21st century. He also serves in the Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore as a diaconal minister appointed to Charis Methodist Church.

Churches, Congregations & Small Groups: Rethinking Life Together (Rev Dr Bernard Chao)
Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm | 4, 11, 18, 25 Jan, 1, 15, 22 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course explores several theological models or ways of viewing the church and congregational life. Students will consider models and practices of congregational life as communities that are gathered, learn together, love each other, experience hospitality, are missional, hold each other accountable, and are worshippers of God together. This course will consider the Christian congregation as a contrast society and how disciples of Jesus can reimagine life and reshape our practices as churches, congregations, and small groups. This course is for every Christian, church leader, and pastor who desires to reimagine and reshape relational practices of our churches as Christian faith communities.

Biodata. Rev Dr Bernard Chao is Director of EQUIP and Lecturer in Practical Theology at Trinity Theological College. He teaches courses in Christian leadership, Christian education, youth ministry, and Wesleyan theology and is an ordained minister with The Methodist Church in Singapore (Trinity Annual Conference) since 2005. Bernard has served as a youthworker, Boys’ Brigade Captain, school chaplain, pastor, and pastor-in-charge in a number of Methodist churches and schools, associate director of youth ministries and ministry in schools, and Associate Brigade Chaplain of The Boys’ Brigade in Singapore. Formerly a litigation lawyer, Bernard is married with three children.

Workshop (In-Person)

Sermon Coaching: Preaching that Comes Alive ^ (Rev Dr Maggie Low)
Saturdays 8.30am-1pm | 2, 9 & 16 Mar | Location: Trinity Theological College

Synopsis. Sharpen your sermon content and delivery with Rev Dr Maggie Low, author of Preaching that Comes Alive. Learn to have a clear word from the Lord that will enable your listeners to encounter and respond to God. This workshop will help you to build an outline with clear explanations, effective illustrations, and practical applications. You will learn how your sermon can be relevant and engaging. The course is designed for pastors or those who are asked to preach in various settings. You will learn the most if you exegete your preaching text before attending this workshop. Maximum class size is limited to 12 participants in order to facilitate personal coaching.

Biodata. Rev Dr Maggie Low lecturer in Old Testament at Trinity Theological College and teaches Old Testament subjects, including Hebrew and Exegesis. Formerly trained as a lawyer, she is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in Singapore and has served as a pastor for 11 years. She is the author of Preaching That Comes Alive: Delivering a Word from the Lord, which is a recommended textbook for TTC students. Maggie preaches regularly in churches of different backgrounds.

Evening Courses (Online via Zoom)

Introducing World Religions: Asian Religions and Christian Faith ** (Rev Dr Andrew Peh)
Mondays 7.30-9.30pm | 18, 25 Mar, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Apr | via Zoom

Synopsis. An introductory course for Christians to the main religious traditions of Asia. Avoiding being combative with the Other, it takes a serious and respectful approach to learning about Asian religions without ignoring the essential truth-claims of the Christian faith. This course seeks to be accurate in learning about the religious traditions of our neighbours and include the following topics: i) how and why should Christians learn about Religions; ii) Indian religions; iii) Chinese religions; iv) Buddhism; v) the Judeo-Christian tradition; vi) Islam; and vii) religion and society; and the theology of religion.

100,000 Sundays: The History of Christian Worship and Its Ongoing Relevance for Today (Ms Debbie Wong)
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 19, 26 Mar, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Apr | via Zoom

Synopsis. For 2,000 years (approximately 100,000 Sundays), Christians have been worshiping. Over the course of this time, the forms, perspectives, and practices of Christian worship have varied greatly. Yet, some Christians might think that the current state of worship is the way it always has been. This course will dispel that notion by providing an orientation to the large periods and sweeps of Christian worship history even as it highlights some recurring issues still relevant to the worship of churches today. Through a historical examination of these developments, students can gain better perspective on the presumptions current-day worshipers have about what is considered “normal” and “standard.”

Biodata. Debbie Wong has been actively involved in church ministry since 2004 as a worship leader and musician, and has had the privilege to lead and teach worship across Asia and in the United States. Originally from Singapore, she moved to North Carolina in 2016 to pursue a Master of Divinity at Duke Divinity School, where she is currently working towards a Th.D. in Liturgical studies. Her work focuses on worship and formation, with an emphasis on the history, theology, and practice of contemporary and charismatic expressions of praise and worship. Debbie is a contributor to the edited volume Flow: The Ancient Way to Do Contemporary Worship (Abingdon, 2020), and currently serves as the worship leader at First United Methodist Church in Cary, NC. She remains a member of Barker Road Methodist Church in Singapore. You can learn more about her work at deborahannwong.com.

A Christian Perspective on Happiness and Freedom (Ms Khaw Siew Ping)
Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 20, 27 Mar, 3, 17, 24 Apr, 8, 15 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course will explore human flourishing from a Christian perspective and answer questions such as: What is the place of Happiness and Freedom in the Christian life? How do modern notions of Happiness and Freedom compare with their Judeo-Christian counterparts?

Biodata. Khaw Siew Ping is pursuing a Doctorate in Theology at Trinity Theological College. She has been a teacher, home-maker, and church worker involved in a variety of ministries from preaching, administration, to drama and worship ministry. Siew Ping has been a member of St. John’s – St. Margaret’s Church for more than three decades.

Old Testament Survey **^ (Dr Yee Chin Hong)
Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm | 21 Mar, 4, 11, 18, 25 Apr, 2, 9 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. A survey of the Old Testament books in their literary, historical and theological contexts. This course will highlight the message of each book, the broad strokes of Old Testament history, key motifs and themes, the importance of the Old Testament for understanding the New, and its relevance to Christian living and ministry.

Biodata. Dr Yee Chin Hong teaches Old Testament at Trinity Theological College. Before joining TTC in 2020, he was on the staff of Cru Singapore (1994-2019), serving in various capacities, including student ministry, short-term missions, and teaching. He and his family worship at Bethel Presbyterian Church.

Workshop (In-Person)

The Church That Listens: Counselling Essentials for Ministry (Mr Gary Koh)
Saturdays 8.30am-1pm | 13, 20, 27 Apr | Location: Trinity Theological College

Synopsis. This course is designed to equip church members with the skills and knowledge they need to provide counselling support to others in their community. Participants will learn about the basics of counselling, including how to build rapport, listen effectively, and respond in a helpful and supportive way. They will also have the opportunity to practice their skills in a safe and supportive environment. Maximum class size is limited to 30 participants as course activities involve movement, practical observations, and art.

Biodata. Gary Koh is a family counsellor who has spent the past 24 years working with couples, parents, and youth. A pastor at heart, he has served as a full-time minister and previously headed a team of counsellors at a local school. He speaks regularly at community events, churches and schools on family, marriage, and issues pertaining to sexuality and mental health. He now serves as family and missions pastor at Bethesda Bedok Tampines Church.

Evening Courses (Online via Zoom)

The Drama of the History of Christianity (Dr Leow Theng Huat)
Mondays 7.30-9.30pm | 8, 15, 22, 29 Jul, 5, 12, 19 Aug | via Zoom

Synopsis. The Christian faith has a history of about 2000 years (much more if we take into account the Old Testament era). This is a period of time so long that most of us have difficulty comprehending its full extent. What are some of the significant events in these 2000 years? How differently did Christians in the past understand and practise their faith? What are some lessons we can learn from the rich history of Christianity? This course will seek to answer these questions through a brief survey of the history of Christianity; provide a brief overview of some of the significant persons and events in the history of the Christian faith; and help participants reflect on how various aspects of this history might speak relevantly and powerfully to our own contexts.

Biodata. Dr Leow Theng Huat is Lecturer in Theology at Trinity Theological College. His research interests include theodicy, Christology, soteriology, post-Enlightenment theology, and dialectics as a theological method. During his student days at the National University of Singapore, he was actively involved in the ministry of the Varsity Christian Fellowship and has served as an associate staff worker of the Fellowship of Evangelical Students. He is married to Cheng Ping, and they have three children. The family are members of Wesley Methodist Church.

Theology of Mission ** (Rev Dr Andrew Peh)
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 9, 16, 23, 30 Jul, 6, 13, 20 Aug | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course explores the biblical and theological presuppositions and principles that shape the Christian missionary enterprise in today’s world, particularly in the Asian context. This will include a scan of the historical developments, a reading of the biblical text, a survey of the changing social and theological paradigms that affect how the Church understands its missional role and the study of selected missional documents adopted by key Christian groups and traditions.

New Testament Survey**^ (Rev Dr Leonard Wee)
Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 10, 17, 24, 31 Jul, 7, 14, 21 Aug | via Zoom

Synopsis. With accounts of the life and teaching of Jesus, the spread of the gospel, and the issues faced by the various New Testament writers which provide the foundations for the life and theology of Christians and the Church throughout history, the importance of the New Testament cannot be overstated. This course will provide an orientation to the various books of the New Testament by locating them in their social and historical contexts. This course will discuss the New Testament’s relevance to Christians, churches and the world today.

Biodata. Rev Dr Leonard Wee is the Registrar and Lecturer in New Testament at Trinity Theological College. He obtained his PhD at Durham University (UK), specialising in Paul’s interpretation of the Old Testament, and was sponsored by Langham Partnership for postdoctoral research on the use of the Old Testament in Hebrews. He previously served as a pastor for 10 years. Besides teaching Koine Greek, New Testament theology, biblical intertextuality, and other subjects, he also provides supervision for postgraduate research at TTC.

Moral Character of a Christian Leader (Rev Dr Daniel Koh)
Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm | 11, 18, 25 Jul, 1, 8, 15, 22 Aug | via Zoom

Synopsis. What are some of the desirable virtues which will help us identify, nurture, and shape the character of the members of the community in general, and leaders in particular? What are some of the conditions which must be present to assist in the acquisition of virtues and to ensure that the desire for such virtues will not be derailed by the pull of vices? Why, for example, in spite of commendable declarations about the importance of character formation, we still continue to read about scandals and moral failures of public servants, politicians, and pastors? This course will help participants gain a better understanding of what it means to have a good moral character and why having a good moral character is something which faithful Christians must cultivate. We will pay attention to the moral character of a leader, drawing lessons from the Bible, the teachings of the Church and Christian ethicists, and look at ways in which leaders, particularly Christian leaders, must be recognisably virtuous people.

Biodata. Rev Dr Daniel Koh obtained his PhD in Ethics from Durham University. He was a lecturer at Trinity Theological College for 17 years. Though retired, he is now a re-engaged pastor attached to Barker Road Methodist Church where he oversees the Oasis BRMC Mission at Bukit Batok. He continues to be active with the Methodist Welfare Services and is involved as a member of a major hospital Ethics Committee, a member of the National Organ Transplant Ethics panel, and a member of the St Luke’s Hospital Institution Review Board.

Workshop (In-Person)

Mobilising Churches for Mission (Rev Manik Corea)
Saturdays 8.30am-1pm | 17, 24, 31 Aug | Location: Trinity Theological College

Synopsis. From a local church perspective, what does the mission of the church really entail or involve? What has it got to do with the average member in our congregation? How are churches called to fulfil the missionary mandate and how can the whole Church be involved in participating in and supporting the whole Mission of God to all the World? We will explore the notion of why and how we mobilise our churches for missions in 3 sessions. The first session will focus on building a strong theology of missions as underpinning the very purpose of the church— its raison d’être‑by looking at the concept of the mission of God in Scripture, and the types or expressions of missionary practice called forth. In the second session, we will explore the practice of missionary mobilisation through a missionary-centred approach. This will include identifying the right training, theological preparation and capacity building for support and flourishing of the missionary on the field. We look at all areas of the mobilisation process, from recruitment to long-term deployment. In the third session, we will explore the roles and responsibilities of the sending base, be it a church or mission agency. These will cover areas like local church mission policy, the recruitment process, and on-going missionary care in the field and on their return. This course is for Christians concerned with mission and especially pertinent for missions coordinators and committees.

Biodata. Rev Manik Corea is a Singaporean of Sri Lankan/Indian descent. He is currently the National Director of the Singapore Centre for Global Missions (SCGM) and Associate Pastor of Crossroads International Church in Singapore. In the past 22 years, Manik has served as a missionary with the New Anglican Missionary Society (NAMS) in the USA, UK, Thailand, and Singapore. He is ordained in the Anglican Church of North America and serves his diocese as Global Consultant in Missions. Manik has a Masters in Intercultural Studies (Church-Planting) from Asbury Theological Seminary and is currently enrolled in their Doctor of Ministry programme.

Evening Courses (Online via Zoom)

The Quest for Beauty: Art and the Gospel (Mr Lawrence Ko)
Mondays 7.30-9.30pm | 30 Sep, 7, 14, 21, 28 Oct, 4, 11 Nov | via Zoom

Synopsis. It is often said that “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” As we appreciate beauty in what constitutes art, tastes, and aesthetics, we begin to discover the diverse perceptual and conceptual elements in different cultural ideas of beauty. In the human quest for truth, goodness, and beauty, we can choose to begin with the quest for beauty which encourages us to explore our common human striving towards selfhood and transcendence. It can be a pathway way to faith as we journey through the aesthetic, the ethical and the spiritual life.

The Discernment of Spirits (Rev Dr Simon Chan)
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 17, 24 Sep, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Oct | via Zoom

Synopsis. Christians in Asia must often deal with what seem like manifestations from the spirit world. What are we to make of them? How can we tell if they originate from God, other spirits, or the human psyche? In this course we will look at the importance of developing discernment as part of spiritual maturity. We will seek to answer these questions by examining some extraordinary phenomena that Christians encounter, especially in the context of primal religions. They include recurring phenomena in some churches (prophecies, special revelations, slain in the Spirit, etc.) and some less frequent phenomena (levitation, poltergeist, etc.).

Biodata. Rev Dr Simon Chan had taught theology and other related subjects such as liturgical, spiritual, and contextual theologies at Trinity Theological College for more than 30 years. He is currently the editor of Asia Journal of Theology and the author of several publications including Liturgical Theology: The Church as Worshiping Community (2006).

Christian Sexual Ethics (Rev Dr Nathanael Goh)
Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 18, 25 Sep, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Oct | via Zoom

Synopsis. Sexual mores have been contested since the earliest days of the nascent Christian movement. The same is true today, where Christian sexual morality is routinely characterized, both within and without, as cruel, hateful, and even immoral. This course seeks to examine human sexuality from the broad perspective of Christian tradition, in order answer this question: does creedal orthodoxy still require traditional sexual ethics?

Biodata. Rev Dr Nathanael Goh is a pastor from the Chinese Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore. He is pastoring at Sengkang Methodist Church. An advocate for the importance of Christian ethics and moral formation, his interests are at the intersection of Scripture, theology, and ethics – especially a retrieval of Christian theological visions of the common good.

Spiritual Friendship (Rev Dr Tan Soo Inn)
Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm | 19, 26 Sep, 3, 10, 17, 24 Oct, 7 Nov | via Zoom

Synopsis. We live in an increasingly lonely world. This was true before the Covid pandemic. The pandemic exacerbated and deepened our experience of loneliness. Often the church is not any better. In church people are friendly but they are not friends. Yet the earliest negative we encounter in Scripture is God’s declaration that it is not good for humankind to be alone (Gen 2:18). In John 15, Jesus makes this incredible statement that he loved his disciples as friends. Then he commands us to love each other as he loves us. Therefore, the normal Christian life is one where we follow Jesus in the company of friends. We need spiritual friends, friends in Christ. In this course we will look at:

- what is spiritual friendship and why we need it;
- the obstacles to spiritual friendship;
- practical ways we can experience spiritual friendship today; and
- the importance of spiritual friendship for ministry.

Workshop (In-Person)

Youth Ministry for Today (Rev Dr Bernard Chao)
Saturdays 8.30am-1pm | 12, 19, 26 Oct | Location: Trinity Theological College

Synopsis. Youth ministry is challenging. Because youth ministry deals with dynamic, fluid, and ever-changing generations and youth culture, we must constantly challenge our existing beliefs, mental models, and practices in relation to youth ministry and how we minister with youth. This course is for anyone concerned for and involved in youth ministry as youth leaders, adult volunteers, parents, church leaders, or pastors. We will explore how our youth ministries can get unstuck, reach the missing youth, see young people differently, empower youth, change our focus away from programs, partner with others, and engage youth today in digital and other spaces.

Evening Courses (Online via Zoom)

[Course To Be Confirmed]
Mondays 7.30-9.30pm | 6, 13, 20 Jan, 3, 10, 17, 24 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. [To Be Updated]

Biodata. [To Be Updated]

Christian Leadership: Biblical Theology & Congregational Practices (Rev Dr Bernard Chao)
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 7, 14, 21 Jan, 4, 11, 18, 25 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. The identity and practices of the church should inform and shape Christian leadership. This course introduces participants to a biblical construction of Christian leadership that is attentive to congregational life and practices. Participants will explore Christian leadership in relation to the connected themes of hierarchy, personal responsibility, servanthood, roles, gifts, humility, and love in light of the Old and New Testaments, denominational and church history, and the mission of God. We will consider how reimagined Christian leadership that redeems a biblical and theological understanding of persons, the church, and how disciples live and lead together can help churches meet the challenge of production mindsets, phygital realities in a digital age, and a hyperconnected world.

Issues in Christian Mission ** (Rev Manik Corea & SCGM)
Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 8, 15, 22 Jan, 5, 12, 19, 26 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course will explore key and critical issues in Christian mission in local and cross-cultural settings. We begin with a development of the theology and ideas in mission over the history of the church, beginning with the first century and paying particular attention to developments in theory and practice in the last 110 years. We will also consider the pivotal role the local church, mission societies, and agencies, in the work of Christian mission, as well as trace the missional call of the local church in Scripture. We will then spend the rest of the course exploring critical and practical concerns in the missionary enterprise, including looking at the broad spectrum of missionary vocations and foci, missionary strategies in the Scriptures and history, as well as specialised areas of mission that are an indispensable feature of the mission landscape and practice today—including new forms of mission, diaspora missions, urban-centred missions, creation care, and missions in the new era of world Christianity.

Jesus’ Final Ministry in Jerusalem: Sites and Significance (Dr Tan Kim Huat)
Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm | 2, 9, 16, 23 Jan, 6, 13, 20 Feb | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course seeks to enhance our appreciation of Holy Week by focusing on Jesus’ final ministry in Jerusalem. It will cover the key events that took place just before the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Using archaeological data, historical context, and Old Testament passages, we hope to shed new light on familiar stories and draw out their profound significance. All this is done in the hope that we will experience Holy Week like never before.

Biodata. Dr Tan Kim Huat is the Chen Su Lan Professor of New Testament at Trinity Theological College. His enduring interest is in understanding the emergence of Christianity within a Jewish matrix. Kim Huat has a strong interest in strengthening theological education in the region and was involved in the first-ever regional consortium of colleges, ATESEA (Association for Theological Education in South East Asia). He is currently the Chairman of ATESEA’s Board of Trustees.

Workshop (In-Person)

Ministry to Children: Helping Children to Love God and Love Others (Dr Morgan Zhou)
Saturdays 8.30am-1pm | 8, 15, 22 Feb | Location: Trinity Theological College

Synopsis. This course will equip lay Christians with biblical foundations as well as knowledge of processes and strategies to minister to children, including children with diverse educational needs. Participants will draw on principles and practices from Scripture and developmental psychology to establish a coherent and integrated philosophy of ministry to children. In addition, participants will learn about classroom management, motivation and engagement, leveraging teaching and learning resources to help children build an authentic relationship with Jesus, discover and cultivate spiritual gifts, and be released for ministry to serve God with the power of the Holy Spirit.

Biodata. Dr Morgan Zhou holds a doctorate in educational leadership and is Chairperson of the Board of Children’s Ministry in the Trinity Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore. He is passionate about mentoring, outreach to disadvantaged families, and keenly interested in strengthening the education of children and youth with diverse abilities and special needs.

Evening Courses (Online via Zoom)

Christian Doctrine **^ (Rev Dr Edmund Fong)
Mondays 7.30-9.30pm | 24 Mar, 7, 14, 21, 28 Apr, 5, 19 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. Christian doctrine is an articulation of our beliefs that shape and characterise us as the people of God. It is our collection of shared beliefs that enable us to say: “This is us!” The lectures will cover the following doctrines: i) Revelation and Scripture; ii) Creation and Covenant; iii) the Trinity; iv) the Person and Work of Christ; v) Salvation; vi) the Last Things and Christian Hope; and vii) the Church. The coverage of these doctrines will be grounded in Holy Scripture, guided by Church tradition(s), and geared towards engaging contemporary issues and challenges. Students will gain a broad overview of the Christian faith and appreciate the importance of Christian doctrines for understanding our identity and spurring our practical living.

Biodata. Rev Dr Edmund Fong is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church in Singapore and associate minister at Adam Road Presbyterian Church. He did his doctoral studies at the University of Otago (2014–2016) covering the theology of the Swiss-German theological giant, Karl Barth. Edmund teaches systematic theology at Trinity Theological College and lectures on the doctrine of the person and work of Christ and salvation, denominational studies in Presbyterianism, and the theology of John Calvin. His research interests range from Barth to Calvin, Reformed Theology, Theological Anthropology, and Hermeneutics. Edmund is married to Mei Ying and they have 3 children—Phoebe, Chloe, and Jonathan.

The Last, The Lost, and the Least: Christian Care in Society (Rev Dr Jeremy-Joe Tan)
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 25 Mar, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Apr, 6 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. Christians have long been concerned with the welfare of others in society. Much of this stems from the Biblical commandment to love God and to love our neighbours. Over the course of the Church’s history, this concern has expressed itself from providing simple meals to the needy to full scale social service agencies. This course explores this impulse of Christian social concern. We will look briefly at the biblical basis for this concern and some landmark historical expressions of it. We will then study the relevant principles or themes such as the dignity of the human person, common humanity, and social order.

Biodata. Rev Dr Jeremy-Joe Tan is an ordained minister with the Anglican Diocese of Singapore. He received his PhD from the University of Edinburgh and is a faculty member of Trinity Theological College. He grew up attending the Chapel of the Resurrection and served there as a youth and chaplaincy staff for nine years. Jeremy was then sent as a faculty-in-development by Trinity Theological College and the Diocese to study at the University of Edinburgh. His research focused on the philosophical and theological underpinnings of Archbishop William Temple’s social thought. Jeremy is married to Tricia. They have two children, Joshua-Joe and Anna-Joy. Jeremy and his family continues to worship and serve at the Chapel of the Resurrection.

God’s New Heavens and New Earth in Isaiah 56-66 (Bishop Dr Gordon Wong)
Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 26 Mar, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Apr, 7 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course provides a biblical exposition of the pastoral comfort and challenge that comes out of each of the 11 chapters in Isaiah 56-66. The course hopes to help all who facilitate Bible study reflection groups on this portion of GOD’s Word.

Biodata. Bishop Dr Gordon Wong is currently the Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore. He began pastoral ministry in 1985 and holds a BA (Honours) from the London School of Theology and a PhD from the University of Cambridge. His publications include a book on the relevance of Christian faith (God Makes Sense), Old Testament commentaries on the books of Daniel (Faithful to the End), Habakkuk (God, Why?), Isaiah (The Road to Peace: Pastoral Reflections on Isaiah 1-12), Ruth (The Power of Love) and an academic monograph entitled Foolish Leaders and the Will of YHWH: Editorial Effects in Isaiah 19.

Christians on Social Media: Shining a Light in the Phygital Space (Ms Lucilla Teoh)
Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm | 27 Mar, 3, 10, 24 Apr, 8, 15, 22 May | via Zoom

Synopsis. How can I be a witness in a space that is everywhere, somewhere, and nowhere?
This is a question I ask myself as I straddle both sides of the physical and digital worlds. No, I don’t have all the answers, but I want to critically examine what are the key issues we face. I do believe that we need to be social influencers for Christ, shining a light in both worlds and offer unity in an ever increasingly fragmented, hyperconnected, and individualized world. Yes, our mission hasn’t changed. And no, we cannot refuse this mission. We are to be and bring the light to the dark corners of our phygital world, be counter-cultural, and make a difference. This course looks at the ethos of the times, our social responsibilities as netizens, and how to use the tools to serve our God. As an artist, art lover, and a Christian, this course will use these lenses to examine and engage with key issues.

Biodata. Lucilla Teoh graduated from Trinity Theological College with a MDiv in 2009. She also holds a Master in Fine Arts and a Diploma in Education. Lucilla has been actively involved in the local theatre in almost all aspects and film scenes (acting in 12 Storeys and initiating the Singapore Film Commission). She still has a healthy curiosity in developments of all aspects of the arts, including the realm of cyberspace, and is concerned that what goes on in the internet cannot be ignored by Christians—the good, the bad, and the ugly. As an educator, she seeks to encourage students to engage in issues and to evolve their own ethos and operational theology. Lucilla worships at St James’ Church, serving in the library and the visitation ministries. She is currently the part-time administrator for the Anglican Lay Training programs under St Peter’s Hall. She has previously been a JC teacher, lecturer at La Salle School of the Arts, parish worker at St James’s Church, and was handling communications for the Diocese of Singapore and Singapore Anglican Community Services.

Workshop (In-Person)

Understanding Church Planting and Holistic Mission ** (Rev Manik Corea)
Saturdays 8.30am-1pm | 26 Apr, 3, 10 May | Location: Trinity Theological College

Synopsis. This course will explore the biblical theology and practical aspects of church planting and holistic mission in contemporary mission context. In the first two sessions, we will focus on the ministry of church planting in the twenty-first century from a number of biblical, ecclesiological, and missiological perspectives, including looking at the process of starting and multiplying new church plants. The final workshop will examine the biblical and historical basis for holistic mission today and explore some emerging models in contemporary practice.

Evening Courses (Online via Zoom)

Contextualization and Mission ** (Rev Dr Andrew Peh)
Mondays 7.30-9.30pm | 7, 14, 21, 28 Jul, 4, 11, 18 Aug | via Zoom

Synopsis. [To Be Updated]

Letter to the Romans (Rev Dr Leonard Wee)
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 8, 15, 22, 29 Jul, 5, 12, 19 Aug | via Zoom

Synopsis. Paul’s Letter to the Romans is a masterpiece in Christian theology, but it is not a comprehensive theological treatise. This course will examine why this is so. Participants will not only study its message but also explore Paul’s own spiritual journey as a Jewish believer, which is discernible in his presentation of the Gospel in the letter.

Living Biblically: How to (and how not to) Interpret and Apply Scripture (Rev Gilbert Lok)

Wednesdays 730-930pm | 9, 16, 23, 30 Jul, 6, 13, 20 Aug | via Zoom

Synopsis. Most Christians see the Bible as God’s authoritative Word and want to live biblically by applying Scripture in our lives. Yet, how does one coherently distinguish between helpful and not-so-helpful ways of interpreting and applying the Bible for oneself, and help others to do the same? This course provides handles to help participants interpret and apply Scripture in light of its unique human-written yet God-breathed nature, its diverse genres yet unified trajectory, and its historical-cultural distance yet contemporary relevance. Participants will learn to beneficially engage with the interaction between author, text, and reader, and to thoughtfully wrestle with the continual need for fresh interpretation and application of an unchanging Scripture in an ever-changing world.

Biodata. Rev Gilbert Lok is a minister of the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) of The Methodist Church in Singapore, and currently pastors at Barker Road Methodist Church. Following undergraduate training in economics at the National University of Singapore, Gilbert worked as a civil servant, including at the Prime Minister’s Office where he led a small team of policy researchers and strategists. Gilbert holds an MDiv from TTC and an MTh in New Testament from Oxford University.

Natural Theology (Dr Andrew Loke)
Thursdays 730-930pm | 10, 17, 24, 31 Jul, 7, 14, 21 Aug | via Zoom

Synopsis. The beauty and majesty of the natural world have never lost their power to evoke feelings of adoration towards the divine. Scientific study of this world has revealed a stunning mathematical order which appears shot through with signs of a Mind (Polkinghorne 2006). Traditional Christian theology relates these observations to natural theology, which is considered to be based on Divine (General) Revelation in nature. Nevertheless, in recent centuries, natural theology has been subjected to intense criticisms by sceptics and theologians such as Karl Barth and contemporary Barthians. This course offers a response to these criticisms by examining the Biblical, philosophical, scientific, historical, and theological issues related to natural theology, and explains the importance of natural theology for the lives of believers and the ministry of the church.

Biodata. Dr Andrew Loke is a Fellow of the International Society for Science and Religion and Associate Professor in the Department of Religion and Philosophy at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU). After graduating from the Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Andrew worked as a medical doctor for 7 years. He then completed his M.A in Philosophy at Biola University and Ph.D. in Theology at King’s College London. He has published multiple books with world-leading academic publishers in peer-reviewed monograph series in the fields of theology, philosophy of religion, historical-critical New Testament studies, and science and religion.

Workshop (In-Person)

Introduction to Christian Spiritual Formation ^ (Rev Dr Jimmy Tan)
Saturdays 8.30am-1pm | 19, 26 Jul, 2 Aug | Location: Trinity Theological College

Synopsis. This course is intended for church leaders to gain an understanding of (1) a brief history of the spiritual formation movement; (2) its major theological underpinnings and foci; and (3) common spiritual formational practices that accompany them. Participants will be introduced to the emergence of the spiritual formation movement and its evolution to the present day. This course will familiarize participants to the theological underpinnings that accompany the different distinctives and practices through the developments, and this knowledge will better equip church leaders on how spiritual formation can be wholistically introduced to members within their ecclesial (church or denominational) context.

Biodata. Rev Dr Jimmy Tan is chaplain and lecturer of pastoral and practical theology at Trinity Theological College, and an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church in Singapore. He received his PhD from Fuller Theological Seminary where his doctoral dissertation focused on the history, theology, and practice of Christian spiritual direction. He is a certified spiritual director and regularly leads retreats and offers spiritual direction at TTC and beyond.

Evening Courses (Online via Zoom)

Sacramental Theology (Rev Dr Samuel Wang)
Mondays 7.30-9.30pm | 22, 29 Sep, 6, 13, 27 Oct, 3, 10 Nov | via Zoom

Synopsis. [To Be Updated]

Biodata. Rev Dr Samuel Wang is an ordained minister of the Lutheran Church in Singapore. Prior to joining TTC he worked as a history teacher and subsequently as a pastor in the Lutheran Church in Singapore. He has pastored two Lutheran churches before pursuing his doctoral studies at Australian Lutheran College in Adelaide, Australia (2013-2016). He is assigned by the Lutheran Church in Singapore for the ministry of theological education in TTC and is currently attached to Bedok Lutheran Church.

A Brief History of Christianity in Asia (Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun)
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm | 23, 30 Sep, 7, 14, 21, 28 Oct, 4 Nov | via Zoom

Synopsis. This course introduces students to the history of Christianity in Asia, from the earliest days in the first century through the arrival of western missionaries in colonial times to more recent developments. Students will gain an understanding of the historical development of Christianity in Asia as parallel and independent branches rather than as later developments to Western Christianity. Topics will include:

- Journey to the East (Nestorianism)
- Christianity under Islamic rule and the Mongols
- Jesuit mission in Asia
- Protestant mission in 19th century Asia
- South Korea: A Christian success story?
- Christianity and Buddhism in Southeast Asia
- Christianity in Islamic Southeast Asia

Biodata. Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun teaches Church History and Global Christianity at Trinity Theological College. He has a PhD from Cambridge and is fond of reading all sorts of histories, military history included. He is an ordained minister with the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) of the Methodist Church in Singapore and has served as pastor in two churches and as chaplain in two schools. He has been a pastor since 2000, currently attached to Kampong Kapor Methodist Church. Ming Shun enjoys both reading and gaming, and has been very happily married to Po Lin since 1998.

Faith of Our Fathers: Gleanings from the Early Church (Dr Roland Chia)
Wednesdays 730-930pm | 24 Sep, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Oct, 5 Nov | via Zoom

Synopsis. [To Be Updated]

Biodata. Dr Roland Chia is Chew Hock Hin Professor at TTC and Theological and Research Advisor of the Ethos Institute for Public Christianity. He graduated with a PhD in Theology from King’s College, University of London, in 1994 and started teaching at TTC in 1995 as an adjunct lecturer before joining the college in 1997. Dr Chia has served as the Director of the Centre for the Development of Christian Ministry (now EQUIP) and Dean of Postgraduate School. He also served as the editor of Church and Society and consulting editor of the Trinity Theological Journal.

Sexuality Matters (Rev Dr Edmund Fong)
Thursdays 730-930pm | 25 Sep, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Oct, 6 Nov | via Zoom

Synopsis. [To be advised]

Workshop (In-Person)

Shaping Learning & Forming Faith in Small Groups (Rev Dr Bernard Chao)
Saturdays 8.30am-1pm | 11, 18, 25 Oct | Location: Trinity Theological College

Synopsis. [To Be Updated]

>> Download the Course Schedule for 2024-2025 here.
>> Click here for Courses Open for Registration.

If you need further assistance or information please email [email protected]

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