THE ASSOCIATION FOR THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION

BY EXTENSION

PROSPECTUS
for entry into TAFTEE's

GRADUATE LEVEL
PROGRAMME

Leading to the award of

Master of Divinity
(M. Div.)

This degree is accredited by the Asia Theological Association (ATA) as

equivalent to a Bachelor of Theology (B.Th)

TAFTEE 1 M.DIV Prospectus

CONTENTS
1. Message from the Director …………..……..............3
2. TAFTEE……………………………………………4
3. Title of the Degree………..………………...............7
4. Recognition of the Degree………………….............7
5. Language of Study…………………….......................7
6. Background and Rationale…………………………8
7. The Aims of the Course……………………………9
8. The Objectives of the Course………………………9
9. Skills and Competencies………..…………………..10
10. Ministerial Formation………….…………………12
11. Personal Formation…………….………….............13
12. Course Features………………….……………….14
13. Course Synopsis………………….………………22
14. Tutorials ………………………….………............26
15. Residential Schools and Personal Research…..28
16. Assessment………………………………………29
17. Course Development………………………..........31
18. Recruitment Criteria ……………………………..31
19. Fees.………………………………………………31
20. Outline Syllabus…………………………………..34
21. Future Developments…………………………….42
22. Other TAFTEE Programmes…………………….42

TAFTEE 2 M.DIV Prospectus

Message From TAFTEE Director
Since its foundation in 1970 the Association for Theological
Education by Extension (TAFTEE), widely recognised as the most
important grass root level discipleship and ministry training
movement in India, has been offering various innovative leadership
development programmes at different levels. The BTS course, the
first among the pioneering programmes launched by TAFTEE over
the years, is unique in many ways. This course, characterised by
academic excellence, cost effectiveness and ministry involvement,
has evolved over the years as a model in offering field based
practical theological education for those who are unable to avail of a
formal residential theological programme. This course is specially
designed for those involved in various forms of Christian ministry in
the local church who wish to grow in their faith and improve their
skills in order to build up the body of Christ without having to leave
family, job or church.
This BTS course, accredited by the Asia Theological Association as
equivalent to a B.Th, provides high quality discipleship and
ministerial training to Indian Churches, Missions and other Christian
Organisations. Based on a holistic approach to ministerial training,
the curriculum integrates guided study of well designed self study
materials on different disciplines related to Christian Ministry,
tutorials with ministry mentors, active involvement in ministry and
residential schools. Our link with most of the denominational
Churches and key Christian organisations also helps in effectively
offering this course in India.
This prospectus contains information about our BTS programme and
an application form. Every year up to 1000 candidates with passion
for growth in discipleship and ministry and desire for training study
this course throughout India. I invite you to join this unique ministry
training course which, I am sure, will benefit you and equip you
further to serve Christ and His work in India and the neighbouring
countries.

David Samuel
Director, TAFTEE.Director.

TAFTEE 3 M.DIV Prospectus

 TAFTEE
The Association for Theological Education by Extension (TAFTEE),
based in Bangalore, India, has been involved in offering non-
residential theological education since 1971 to those who are unable
to avail themselves of a formal Residential Theological Education.
TAFTEE already offers a range of courses for various constituencies.
Mission Statement:
Based on Ephesians 4:12 which has formed the motto of the
organisation for many years, the Mission of TAFTEE is:
To assist the Church in preparing all God's people for
the work of Christian service through Open and
Continuing Theological Education.
Aims:
TAFTEE is committed to provide theological education that is:
• accessible
enabling all the people of God to be equipped for
Christian service, irrespective of denomination,
educational background, gender or ethnicity.
• applied
enabling students to reflect thoughtfully on their
involvement in Christian mission and ministry and so
to improve their effectiveness in ministry.
• academic
making the best use of scholarly tools and educational
technology to enable students to enhance the
effectiveness of their ministry.
• appropriate
allowing students to reflect on the Gospel in a
contextually and culturally appropriate manner and so
increase the relevance of their ministry in the Indian
context.

TAFTEE 4 M.DIV Prospectus

 • accredited
creating links with churches and academic institutions
to ensure the accountability of its programmes for
effective mission and ministry in the local church.
• affordable - offering cost effect programmes so that
all sections of people can afford to study and equip
themselves in the knowledge of God.
• apostolic - enabling students to understand and grow
in the apostolic teaching of the Christian faith as
affirmed in Christian scripture.
The seeds of Theological Extension Education were sown in India in
1970 in a workshop conducted by Dr. Peter Wagner and Dr. Ralph
Covell. The concern for training people who are not able to attend
regular theological school took shape and “The Association For
Theological Education by Extension (TAFTEE)” was formed in 1971.
TAFTEE is an Association of churches, missions, educational bodies
and theological seminaries for the purpose of equipping all the
people of God for effective mission and ministry, not only in the
Church but in society as well.
TAFTEE began by offering the “Bachelor of Theological Studies”
(BTS), a Degree level programme, in four centres: Mumbai
(Bombay), Hyderabad, Chennai (Madras), and Bangalore. Now
TAFTEE offers courses all over India and in many parts of the world.
TAFTEE courses are translated into Singhalese, Urdu, Arabic, Nepali,
Bengali, etc and groups in United Kingdom, New Zealand, Kenya,
Seychelles, Thailand, Singapore and Gulf countries are using the
materials in their programmes. Many Seminaries and Bible Colleges
too are using TAFTEE materials in their programmes.
From 1976, TAFTEE began offering a programme for discipleship and
ministry training at the Certificate Level. The main course in
TAFTEE’s Certificate Level Programme is based on the Life of Jesus
Christ and has been adapted for India from materials originally
written by SEAN (Study by Extension for All Nations) to equip leaders
for effective ministry in the Church in South America. This course is
now offered in 9 different Indian Languages. This course forms the
basis of TAFTEE’s present ministry and is by far the most significant

TAFTEE 5 M.DIV Prospectus

programme that TAFTEE offers in terms of leadership and
discipleship training.
From 1994 - 2000, TAFTEE offered an M.Th in Applied Theology in
India in partnership with Westminster College Oxford as part of its
Open Learning Programme. This course proved remarkably popular
and also effective in helping Christian ministers deal seriously with
their context of ministry. The course was basically aimed at those in
ordained Christian ministry or those with a degree in Theology who
are in full-time Christian ministry. From 2000, TAFTEE has been
offering its own M.Th programme in Pastoral Theology which is
validated by the University of Wales. Since 2002 TAFTEE has been
offering an M.Th programme in Linguistics and Cross-Cultural
Studies in collaboration with Word For All (previously known as the
Indian Institute for Cross-Cultural Communication – IICCC). This
programme is also validated by the University of Wales.
In 2004, TAFTEE started this M.Div programme for those who have
completed a previous theological degree and want to continue their
studies and equip themselves further for ministry. The programme
fills a gap for those who want to enhance their ministerial
effectiveness without the specialized focus of M.Th studies.
In addition to applying for this M.Div programme, you might like to
think of making use of other TAFTEE programmes to equip the
Christians in your Church. TAFTEE can offer a well-structured
training programme to suit the needs of your congregation. If you
have a degree in Theology you could also become an accredited
TAFTEE tutor for the Degree Level Programme.

TAFTEE 6 M.DIV Prospectus

 TITLE OF THE DEGREE
TAFTEE’s Graduate Level Programme comprises a modular
programme for those with prior theological learning leading to the
award of:

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

RECOGNITION OF THE DEGREE

TAFTEE is seeking accreditation for the Master of Divinity (M.Div)
degree from the Asia Theological Association, a member of the
International Council of Accrediting Agencies of the World
Evangelical Fellowship.
Many churches and organisations use TAFTEE’s various programmes
to train their congregation and staff members for effective Christian
ministry and Mission. In addition, various seminaries are using the
our Degree Level Programme (BTS) in equipping leaders for the
Indian church.
TAFTEE works closely with other similar organisations throughout
the world including the UK, Pakistan, New Zealand, Bangladesh and
Mongolia. TAFTEE also has agreements to share courses with
various colleges that offer similar programmes. TAFTEE is also a
member of the Board for Theological Education of the Senate of
Serampore College (University).

LANGUAGE OF STUDY
The Master of Divinity Programme is offered in English.

TAFTEE 7 M.DIV Prospectus

 BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE
There are many Christians actively involved in mission and ministry
who have felt God’s call to witness to their neighbours and or who
are compelled by God’s love to bring about change in society who
have only undergone a basic theological training at the Bachelors
Level. Because of family, ministry or financial commitments, such
people are often not in the position to leave their employment, or
their ministry, to pursue studies.
This Programme seeks to address these particular needs. It is aimed
at training Christians in and for leadership positions within their
churches and denominations as well as for training those who are
actively involved in various forms of Christian mission in society. It
seeks to enable such people to be reflective and effective
practitioners of the ministry to which they are called.
Building on the strengths of TAFTEE’s Bachelor of Theological
Studies (BTS) and Master of Theology programme (M.Th), this Master
of Divinity programme is a unique non-residential degree level
theological training programme combining well-designed self-study
materials, weekly discussion meetings, mentoring by senior
Christian leaders and active mission and ministry involvement.
Students are also expected to attend Residential Schools of about 5
days to interact with a wider group of students and expert faculty.
Courses cover the areas of Biblical studies, Theology, History,
Ministry, Comparative Religions, Communication, and Social
Analysis. The course materials are all periodically revised to take
into account recent scholarly views and changing contexts. Several
new courses are under various stages of production. The level of
study and training offered in these courses is, in the opinion of an
increasing number of Church leaders and theological educators,
equivalent to that of the B.Th/BD degree of the residential
Seminaries.

TAFTEE 8 M.DIV Prospectus

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE
The M.Div Programme aims to:
• Provide a cohesive programme of study which offers
appropriate diversity to allow individuals to meet their own
training needs according to the time available to them.
• Enable students to grow in their own devotional life, Christian character,
knowledge of the Christian faith and in theological and biblical knowledge
• Enable students to grow in the skills and competency necessary for
involvement as Christian leaders who will challenge, enable and equip others
to be witnesses of Jesus Christ in Church, family and society.
• Develop in students a critical awareness of the relationship between theology
and ministry

At the end of this programme of study, the student will be able to:
• demonstrate an understanding of:
a) the Bible in its original context, showing a knowledge of
issues related to the literary, historical, social and religious
setting of particular books, including basic knowledge of one
Biblical language.
b) doctrinal, ethical, historical, pastoral, leadership and
missiological theological thinking relevant to ministry in India
today.
c) contemporary Indian society, including a sympathetic
understanding of other religions, poverty and its causes,
people groups and issues related to Christian’s in the work
place.
• show:
a) how to interpret a biblical passage in the present Indian
context, taking into account the type of literature, its
historical setting, and its place in Scripture.
b) evidence of developing a Christian worldview by
reasoning through a subject, reflecting on it and showing its

TAFTEE 9 M.DIV Prospectus

 implications in the context of ministry.
c) skills of leadership, including preaching, leading bible
studies, evangelism and team work
• give evidence of constructive Christian reflection on personal
active involvement in:
a) the local church and its activities.
b) Christian mission, both in terms of evangelism and social
involvement.
c) family and workplace.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

To gain the qualification the student will have demonstrated i)
subject knowledge and understanding ii) cognitive skills iii)
ministerial and professional skills and iv) personal
development/formation in the learning outcomes for modules within
the programme.
i) Knowledge and understanding in the context of the subject
• Thorough knowledge of the Bible;
• Knowledge of disciplines such as Biblical Studies,
Hermeneutics, Theology and Ethics, Church History,
Missiology, Religious and Cultural Plurality, Sociology,
Psychology, Communication and Leadership and
Organisational studies;
• Informed and reflective understanding of the beliefs and
practices of the Christian community to which they belong.
• Sympathetic knowledge of beliefs and practices other than
those of the student.
ii) Cognitive Skills
• Ability to read, exegete and interpret texts both critically and
empathetically, while addressing such questions as genre,
content, context, perspective, purpose, original and potential
meaning, and the effect of translation if the text is not read in
the original language;
• Ability to read texts in a different language and ability to

TAFTEE 10 M.DIV Prospectus

 attend closely to the meaning of written documents;
• Ability to handle biblical and theological resources critically
and relate them in appropriate ways to mission/ ministry
within their cultural context;
• Ability to reflect critically on the nature and practice of
Christian Ministry and Mission in the light of biblical and
theological resources and an understanding of personal,
psychological, religious, political and socio-economic factors
that affect ministry and mission;
• Capacity to assess critically the distinctiveness of the
particular ministry in which the student is involved and
suggest methodologies to effect appropriate change;
• Ability to gather, evaluate and synthesize different types of
information;
• Basic critical and analytical skills, including the capacity to
formulate questions and solve problems and a recognition
that statements should be tested, that evidence and
arguments are subject to assessment, that the interpreter's
role demands critical evaluation;
• Capacity to give a clear and accurate account of a subject,
marshal arguments in a mature way and engage in debate
and dialogue with respect for the opposite case or different
viewpoint.
iii) Ministerial \ professional skills
• Capacity to assume roles of responsibility in Church, family
and society and to demonstrate skills of teamwork and
administration;
• Capacity to nurture and mentor other Christians in
discipleship and to challenge and motivate them for active
involvement in ministry and mission;
• Skills to develop strategies for appropriate change in the
practice of Christian Ministry and Mission;
• Ability to communicate learning effectively and sensitively
within and outside the Christian community.
• Presentation skills, both oral and written and writing skills,
including accurate referencing and clarity of expression;
• Ability to make use of appropriate resources for ministry and

TAFTEE 11 M.DIV Prospectus

 mission including Information Technology.
iv) Personal Development \ Formation
• Evidence of growth in their own devotional life, Christian
character, knowledge of the Christian faith and in theological
and biblical knowledge;
• Evidence of a deepening love for the Lord, for his Word and
for people;
• Growing sensitivity to attend to others and have respect for
others' views and show empathy and imaginative insight and
to show interest in new ideas and perspectives;
• Continued and deepening enthusiasm for involvement in
ministry and mission;
• Skills of self-discipline, self-motivation and self-direction in
study and ministry and independence of mind and initiative;
• Ability to reflect on personal strengths and weaknesses in
order to become more effective in ministry.

MINISTERIAL FORMATION
Each M.Div course is designed to equip students with skills and
knowledge for active involvement in Christian ministry and mission.
Whether it be skills of biblical interpretation, knowledge of church
history or specific skills in evangelism and cross-cultural
communication, M.Div courses intend to enable students to apply
their learning to building up the body of Christ and extending his
kingdom in this world.
Each course is studied while students are in ministry. In addition,
active involvement in ministry will be assessed as part of the course
and students will be given credit for evidence of growing
participation in ministry as well as in their ability to reflect on what
they are doing

TAFTEE 12 M.DIV Prospectus

 PERSONAL FORMATION
The courses are designed to be life-changing as students interact
with the word of God and with fellow believers to understand what it
means to follow Jesus today. Because most students are working
while studying, they are in a position to apply what they learn
immediately to their life and ministry. Within the interactive course
materials are given opportunities for students to reflect on their own
personal lives and to seek to apply such insights to their own lives.
The focus of many of the discussions in tutorial groups is likewise
related to personal transformation.
As part of the M.Div programme, students are encouraged to reflect
on their own lives in a more formal way, for which each student
gains credit. Keeping a journal and writing regular reports for their
mentors, enables students to monitor their own personal growth and
transformation as part of the programme.

TAFTEE 13 M.DIV Prospectus

 COURSE FEATURES
The courses help you reflect in depth on your faith and ministerial
involvement as you develop biblical and theological knowledge and
reflective skills. You are also given opportunities to study
contemporary Indian society. You are encouraged to apply your
learning specifically through various ministry and mission courses
related to your involvement in the local church as well as your
outreach to wider society.
Methodology
Each M.Div course is taught by means of a carefully designed
interactive workbook. Each student studies this material at home.
Regular study group meetings provide opportunity to share and
learn from one another’s experiences under the guidance of a
trained tutor. The group meetings offer fellowship, as well as time
for discussion and prayer. While the programme is flexible and
allows student groups the maximum possible choice, it also offers
courses at different levels to encourage learning progression.
Students are required to complete a certain number of Credits from
the Foundational Courses, while the rest can be chosen from the
Optional Subjects.
Course Requirements
Required Credits and Courses for TAFTEE Programmes

For the award of Master of Divinity (Standard Entry), candidates must complete:

A total of 128 Credits, comprising:

96 Course Credits (30 hrs = 1 credit)1
24 Credits from the Supervised Ministry strand
8 Credits from Personal Transformation Strand
Of the total Course Credits, candidates must complete a minimum of:
12 Credits Dissertation/Research Project
10 Credits from Level 5 (5 Section A Credits and 5 Section B Credits)

1
Credits compatible with Indira Gandhi National Open University and ATA

TAFTEE 14 M.DIV Prospectus

 22 Credits from Level 4 (8 Section A Credits and 10 Section B Credits)
46 Credits from Levels 1-3 (16 Section A Credits and 20 Section B Credits)
18 Credits from Level 3
18 Credits from Level 2
10 Credits from Level 1
For the Award of Master of Divinity, candidates are required to complete:
The following courses from Section A:
• Understanding the Bible Today
• Hermeneutics and Exegetical Methods
• either Jeremiah or Mark
• Prophets
• Worship and Psalms
• Synoptic Gospels and Acts or Fourth
Gospel or Writings of John
• Letters of Paul or Romans or 1 Corinthians
The following courses from Section B:
• Homiletics 1 and 2 or Simply
Communicate or Principles of Preaching and
Teaching
• either Greek 1 or Hebrew 1
• Gospel to the Whole Person
• Christian Care and Counsel
• Jesus the Liberator
• Research Methods
Entrance Requirement: Completion of recognised Undergraduate Degree or
Mature Candidate (+25 and 3 Years Ministry and language ability)

For the award of Master of Divinity (Upgrade), candidates must complete:

A total of 76 Credits, comprising:

58 Course Credits (30 hrs = 1 credit)
12 Credits from the Supervised Ministry strand
6 Credits from the Personal Transformation Strand
Of the total Course Credits, candidates must complete a minimum of:
12 credits Dissertation/Research Project
10 Credits from Level 5 (5 Section A Credits and 5 Section B Credits)

TAFTEE 15 M.DIV Prospectus

 18 Credits from Level 4 (6 Section A Credits and 8 Section B Credits)
14 Credits from Levels 1-3 (6 Section A Credits and 6 Section B Credits)
For the Award of Master of Divinity, candidates are required to complete:
The following courses from Section A:
• Understanding the Bible Today or
equivalent
• Hermeneutics and Exegetical Methods
• Sufficient courses from their courses in Levels
1-3 and in their previous B.Th/BTS Degree to be
equivalent to what is required of the standard entry
students.
The following courses from Section B:
• Homiletics 1 and 2 or Simply
Communicate or Principles of Preaching and
Teaching or equivalent
• either Greek 1 or Hebrew 1
• Research Methods
• Sufficient courses from their courses in Levels
1-3 and in their previous B.Th/BTS Degree to be
equivalent to what is required of the standard entry
students.

Entrance Requirement: Completion of a BTS, a recognised B.Th or equivalent with an

average grade of at least B.

TAFTEE 16 M.DIV Prospectus

Section A Courses Section B Courses
Level 1
2 Samuel 3 Simply Communicate Leadership in the
Jeremiah 3 3 Church 4
Mark 3 Homiletics 1 3 House Groups 3
Letters of Peter 3 Homiletics 2 3 Stewards for God 3
Understanding the
Bible Today 6
Prophets 4
22 19
Level 2
Historical Books of Gospel to the Whole Christian Care and
the Old Person 5 Counsel 4
Testament (3 + Christian Education 4 Man and the Future 4
3) Poverty and Greek 1 4
Worship and Psalms Development 6
4
Synoptic Gospels and
Acts 4
Letters of Paul 4
Writings of John 4
22 27
Level 3
Genesis 4 Jesus the Liberator 5 Indian Church History
Exodus 4 Major World 5
Leviticus, Numbers Religions 5 Salt in the Market
and Deuteronomy Health for Everyone Place 4
2 4 Greek 2 4
Fourth Gospel 4
1 Corinthians 4
Hebrews 4
22 27

TAFTEE 17 M.DIV Prospectus

Level 4
Romans 5 Principles of Indian Christian
Outlines of Theology Preaching and Theology
Old Testament Teaching Christian Ethics
Theology Modern Religious and Partnership for
Theology of Mission Secular Mission
Life and Ministry of Movements Purpose Driven
Jesus Christ History of Church
Christianity 20th Century Mission:
Research Methods An Era of Indian
Mission
Old Testament II2

Level 5
Hermeneutics and Hermeneutics: Bible, Understanding the
Exegetical Culture and Indian Religious
Method 5 Context 5 and Cultural
Mission and Context 5
Sociology 5

5 15

2
For non TAFTEE students who join the upgrade M.Div.

TAFTEE 18 M.DIV Prospectus

Programme Structure
The M.Div Programme is structured in two parts. Part 1 comprises
courses at Levels 1-3, which are offered on a termly basis and
studied as part of a weekly Group Tutorial under the guidance of a
qualified tutor. Part 2 comprises courses at Level 4 and 5 and a
significant Research Project/Dissertation of 10,000 words or
equivalent.

Process
Students who enter by the standard entry route will normally be
expected to complete their course requirements at Levels 1-3 within
3 years of joining the programme. Students will normally be
expected to complete the second part of the programme within 2
years of progression. The normal course process is for 5 years.

Students who enter by the upgrade entry route will normally be

expected to complete their course requirements at Levels 1-3 within
1 year of joining the programme. Students will normally be
expected to complete the second part of the programme within 2
years of progression. The normal course process is for 3 years.

Extensions may be granted for students at the discretion of the

management committee.

Supervised Ministry
By a combination of personal reflection, assessment by a Ministry
Supervisor and assessment by the TAFTEE tutor, students are
required to submit regular assessment related to the ministry in
which they are involved.

Students involved in mentoring others through TAFTEE’s Certificate

TAFTEE 19 M.DIV Prospectus

Level Programme can opt to study “Tutoring CLP” as part of the
Supervised Ministry.

Personal Transformation
Students are required to interact regularly with their TAFTEE tutor
and to discuss issues of personal growth. A report must be filed
regularly to indicate that this process has been taken seriously.
Students will gain credit for this part of the programme, but will not
be graded for it.

Admissions
Admissions will normally take place once in a year for entry into the
programme in June. Applications should be submitted to the Dean of
the M.Div Programme with necessary certificates and references by
the end of April. The admissions process will be by selection and
students may be required to appear for an interview and to write an
entrance assignment.

Progression
Students are required to pass the minimum number of credits
required from Levels 1-3 with at least 50% in each course before
progression to Level 4 and 5 courses

Students are required to complete successfully complete the

Research Methods course before entering into the Dissertation.

Assessment
Levels 1-3: BTS Assessment plus additional assessment
Weekly Test Exam Additional Total
Assessmen
t

TAFTEE 20 M.DIV Prospectus

 Level 1 50 50 50 150
Level 2 50 50 100 200
Level 3 - 50 25/25 100

Monitoring
The programme will be monitored for ministry outcomes as well as
academic results

Monitoring of Outcomes will take place through:

• Supervised Ministry Reports
• Course Feedback Forms
• Alumni network

Monitoring of Programme Goals will take place through:

• Assessment Procedures (Tests, Examinations and
Assignments)
• Course Feedback
• Tutor Feedback

Fees
Fees will presently be set at Rs 250/- per credit
Additional Fees will be charged for Residential Schools

BTS Students who wish to transfer onto the M.Div

Programme
BTS Students who wish to transfer onto the M.Div Programme will

TAFTEE 21 M.DIV Prospectus

have either to
• Complete the BTS programme and register as M.Div
(Upgrade) candidates
• Or Complete the necessary additional assessment required

It is recommended that students with more than 64 credits in the

present system be encouraged to complete the BTS programme,
while those with less than 32 will be encouraged to complete the
necessary additional assessment requirement. Other students can
be counselled on a case by case basis. Additional Fees will be
required of those who wish to transfer from BTS to M.Div.

Credits
The Credits assigned at BTS need to be reviewed to see if they are
appropriate at M.Div level.
.

COURSE SYNOPSIS
At present TAFTEE offers the following courses. These courses are
offered on a cyclical basis and may not all be available every term.
TAFTEE reserves the right to add new courses, remove courses and
revise courses at any time in an attempt to improve the programme.
 List of Courses: Level 1 Foundational Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
2 Samuel 3 Jeremiah 3
Prophets 4 Mark 3
Letters of Peter 3 Understanding the Bible 6
Today

TAFTEE 22 M.DIV Prospectus

  List of Courses: Level 1 Optional Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Simply Communicate 3 Leadership in the Church 4
Homiletics 1 3 House Groups 3
Homiletics 2 3 Stewards for God 3

 List of Courses: Level 2 Foundational Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Historical Books of the OT 3 Letters of Paul 4
1
Historical Books of the OT 3 Writings of John 4
2
Worship and Psalms 4 Greek 1 4
Synoptic Gospels and 4
Acts

 List of Courses: Level 2 Optional Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Gospel to the Whole 5 Man and the Future 4
Person
Poverty and Development 6 Christian Care and 4
Counsel
Christian Education 4

TAFTEE 23 M.DIV Prospectus

  List of Courses: Level 3 Foundational Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Genesis 4 Fourth Gospel 4
Exodus 4 1 Corinthians 4
Leviticus, Numbers and 2 Hebrews 4
Deuteronomy

 List of Courses: Level 3 Optional Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Jesus the Liberator 5 Indian Church History 5
Major World Religions 4 Salt in the Market Place 4
Health for Everyone 4

 List of Courses: Level 4 Foundational Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Hermeneutics and 5 Romans 5
Exegetical Method

TAFTEE 24 M.DIV Prospectus

  List of Courses: Level 4 Optional Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Partnership for Mission 4 Purpose Driven Church 4
Understanding the Indian 5 Christian Ethics 5
Religious and Cultural
Context
 List of Courses: Level 5 Foundational Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Hermeneutics: Bible, 5 Research Project 9
Culture and Context

 List of Courses: Level 5 Optional Courses

Course Cred Course Cred

it it
Mission and Sociology 5 Liturgy 5
Applied Organisational 5 Personal and Social 5
Studies Psychology

 List of Courses: Personal and Ministry

Transformation Courses

Course Cred
it
Tutoring CLP 5
(12)

TAFTEE 25 M.DIV Prospectus

 TUTORIALS
Regular Tutorials are not only an essential requirement but also an
important component of the whole study programme. Students are
expected to participate in a regular tutorial for about one and half
hours under the guidance of theologically trained tutor. The
Tutorials have three significant aims:
a) Assignments or Tests
TAFTEE believes that continuous assessment helps continuous
learning. Therefore, for courses at levels 1 to 3, about 10 minutes in
tutorials are spent writing the test related to the previous week’s
work. These class exercises are meant to help the students to
recapitulate what they have learnt in their self-study.
Sometimes, especially in levels 4 and 5, there may not be class
exercises for all the weeks. Instead assignments may be suggested.
These could be brief home work essays/activities on the basis of
lessons. Other relevant source materials may also be used to write
these assignments as required or necessary. The details of such
assignments are provided in the study material of each subject and
in the tutor’s guide.
b) Tutorial Discussions
This is one of the main parts of Tutorial for which maximum time is
set apart. The tutorials provide an opportunity to ask questions,
clarifications, doubts, and share points for group discussion from
what has been studied. They also create opportunities to discuss
challenging topics, sharpen each others’ views and opinions and
thereby be beneficial by a lively academic and learning atmosphere.
The role of tutor here is mainly to moderate or mediate the
discussions. The tutor only helps the students to think, to see the
issues involved, and helps to guide them to relate the discussion
with their life and ministry.
c) Prayer and Personal Growth
Many students find that the most beneficial part of the TAFTEE
programmes is in the fellowship that they develop with other

TAFTEE 26 M.DIV Prospectus

students and the opportunities they have to grow in their own
personal faith. Time is set aside to pray for each other and to seek
God’s help in applying what has been learnt to personal life and
ministry.

TAFTEE 27 M.DIV Prospectus

RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS AND PERSONAL RESEARCH

During the course of study, students are required to attend at least

two residential schools organised by TAFTEE. The duration of the
study schools will vary between five and ten days. The benefits of
attending study schools are:
• Face-to-face teaching on various topics
• Training in research
• Expert faculty input
• Discussion in a larger group of students
• Library Research
• Presentation of seminar papers
As part of the M. Div., students are also given the opportunity to
study in-depth a subject that relates specifically to an area of their
own interest. This significant research project also helps students
learn the skills of systematic discovery, analysis and reflection on an
issue of importance in their faith.
One of the aims of preparing research paper is to encourage
independent research skills. It is a training towards using research
materials, tools, and developing coherent thinking. All this enables
the student to come out with independent research, which will then
turn out to be an original contribution to the already existing corpus
in that field of study.

TAFTEE 28 M.DIV Prospectus

 ASSESSMENT
Termly Assessment
Each subject is assessed by a combination of continuous
assessment, examination and essay. Examinations are normally
conducted at the end of each subject, while essays and other
assessment take place during the course.
Specific forms of assessment are set by each module. These
include:
Weekly Tests Term Exams
Weekly Term Essays
Assignments/Activities Comprehensive exams
Term Projects Comprehensive Essays
On completion of each Level of the M.Div. programme students will
be assessed on their overall knowledge, skills and capabilities at
synthesizing what they have learnt.
Research Project
Students are required to submit a Research Project for examination
during the course of their M.Div studies. These are assessed
centrally. Normally these Research Projects are written in the
student’s final year of study.
Supervised Ministry
By a combination of personal reflection, assessment by a Ministry
Supervisor and assessment by the TAFTEE tutor, students are
required to submit regular assessment related to the ministry in
which they are involved. Students involved in mentoring others
through TAFTEE’s Certificate Level Programme can opt to study
“Tutoring CLP” as part of the Supervised Ministry.
Personal Transformation
Students are required to interact regularly with their TAFTEE tutor

TAFTEE 29 M.DIV Prospectus

and to discuss issues of personal growth. A report must be filed
regularly to indicate that this process has been taken seriously.
Students will gain credit for this part of the programme, but will not
be graded for it.

TAFTEE 30 M.DIV Prospectus

 COURSE DEVELOPMENT
TAFTEE seeks to review each of its programmes regularly. Key
scholars, church and mission leaders are asked to review each
course as are students and tutors. TAFTEE seeks to add new
courses to its programme by commissioning friends and supporters
to write courses. Each course has been developed through a long
process of writing, editing, pilot-testing and revision. Some courses
have been adapted from other similar programmes. TAFTEE’s M.Div
courses will continue to be changed and adapted so that they
remain relevant to the context in which we are called to work and
witness.

RECRUITMENT CRITERIA
• Candidates should have completed TAFTEE’s BTS programme
or a B.Th from a recognised theological/Bible college
• Candidates should have a desire to grow in their faith and
knowledge and be actively involved in Christian ministry or
mission.
• Candidates will be selected from the applicants on the basis
of academic merit and ministerial involvement

FEES
Fees
Fees for the M.Div Programme are set at Rs 20,000/- per year for
three years.
Students will be registered for a maximum period of five years after
which additional fees will be payable. Additional fees will be
charged for those who attend additional Residential Schools.

TAFTEE 31 M.Div Prospectus

Receipts
Students should ensure that they receive a receipt for the fees that
they have paid. They should also receive an acknowledgement from
TAFTEE headquarters for any fees that have been paid.
Scholarships
Students who are unable to afford the fees for the M.Div programme
may apply for scholarship to the Director, TAFTEE. Any such
application should be accompanied by a recommendation from the
tutor or from an official in the candidate’s church/organisation.
What the Fees Cover
 Cost of Course Materials.
 Some payment towards the expenses of the tutor.
Note: most TAFTEE tutors provide their time and
services freely because of their commitment to
equipping God’s people for ministry.
 Administrative Expenses related to support of
students, such as the salary and other expenses
of the Regional Coordinator.
 Examination expenses.
 Attendance at two Residential Schools as required
by the programme
Note:
Fees are subject to revision each year and are notified
annually.
It is an invariable rule of TAFTEE that the award of Master of
Divinity is conditional on the payment of all outstanding
debts.

TAFTEE 32 M.Div Prospectus

TAFTEE 33 M.Div Prospectus
 OUTLINE SYLLABUS
AN INDUCTIVE STUDY BASED ON JEREMIAH: Use the inductive
approach to Bible study; apply the method suitable for the study of
the prophetic book; know the structure, historical background,
literary form and message of the book of Jeremiah.
APPLIED ORGANISATIONAL STUDIES: This course considers issues of
power and authority from the perspective of organisational theory.
It looks at charismatic/ bureaucratic leadership styles in relation to
the Church and asks how institutions go about defining their
purposes. Theologians from various denominations examine the
particular case of the Church in India in the light of recent
Organisational theory as well as recent thinking.
CHRISTIAN CARE AND COUNSEL: Know the biblical premises on
which the Christian counselor bases his/her approach to counseling;
appreciate the goals of the counseling process; understand and seek
to cultivate the attitude which a counselor needs; understand and
practice counseling skill.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: Know the characteristics of children of
different age groups and how best to influence each group; obtain a
better grasp of the role of a Christian parent, with regard to position
in the family and responsibility to love, instruct and discipline the
children; develop the ability to take family prayers; acquire greater
understanding of Sunday School organisation, teaching methods and
practical arrangements; become familiar with helpful Christian
education Literature.
CHRISTIAN ETHICS: This Course attempts to help students understand
the complexities of moral decision making in the Indian context in order
to enhance their effectiveness in Christian ministry. A survey of ways
that Christians have approached decision-making leads into a discussion
of how Christian theology and ethical conduct are related. Using tools
from Biblical Hermeneutics, students are given the opportunity to
address specific issues.

TAFTEE 34 M.Div Prospectus

EXODUS: Know the contents of the book of Exodus; explain the
message of the book: it’s teaching about God and various
theological themes; it’s relations to the gospel; it’s relevance to
contemporary situation. Give exegesis and exposition of several
important passages in the book; know how to approach other
passages on the same basis; be familiar with the various approaches
to the Pentateuch and the book of Exodus in particular and help one
to decide on his/her own interpretation in the light of the various
theories of biblical criticism;
FOURTH GOSPEL: Acquire a detailed knowledge of each section of
the Gospel; of John; examine the started aim of the writer and the
great themes, which accord with it; share one’s faith effectively with
others.
GENESIS: Understanding the difference approaches to Genesis 1-11
which are found among professing Christians and decide on ones
own interpretation; be familiar with the main contents of the whole
book.
GOSPEL OF MARK: Use methods of observation, interpretation and
application for studying N.T book; demonstrate ability to form a
paragraph titles and relate them to the nature and purpose of the
Gospel of Mark; prepare study guide for different passages of the
Gospel Mark; study the Synoptic problem and draw one’s own
conclusion.
GOSPEL TO THE WHOLE PERSON: Study wholistic evangelism and
evangelistic methods; identify a people group and prepare a
strategy to reach them.
GREEK 1: A basic introduction to the language of the New
Testament. Gives the opportunity to understand the importance of
understanding biblical languages in the interpretation of the Bible.
Become familiar with basic Greek vocabulary and grammar with a
view to taking language studies further at a later stage.

TAFTEE 35 M.Div Prospectus

HEALTH FOR EVERYONE: Put into practice the fundamental
principles of healthy living, in one’s family and neighbourhood; be
familiar with first aid, infectious diseases and general disorders of
health; know how to treat elementary complaints and to advise
when sick people should be referred to a doctor; explain the
principles behind the development of community health projects.
HEBREWS: A study of the book of Hebrews. Give the background and
spiritual state of the reader, and relate them to modern readers;
expound any part of the book according to the following steps:
observation, OT background, interpretation and background; explain
some of the great topic of the book, e.g. the high- priesthood of
Christ, the new covenant, the way of faith, etc.
HERMENEUTICS AND EXEGETICAL METHOD: Gives an overview of
issues in Hermeneutics and Exegesis. Encourages interaction with
theoretical issues and principles of interpretation. Gives the opportunity
to engage with various Biblical passages in relation to issues of
importance in the contemporary Indian context. Engages with various
tools of interpretation and offers students tools of exegesis to assess the
significance of a passage of Scripture for today.
HERMENEUTICS: BIBLE, CULTURE AND CONTEXT: This Course builds
on the Course on Hermeneutics and Exegetical Method and
concentrates on the role of Christianity in the modern world.
Students develop further the issues involved in contextualization
and concentrate on how to make the Biblical material relevant in
their culture and context. This Course focuses on the relationship
between Christ and Culture and important issues in Indian society,
such as Caste, Communalism, Poverty, Gender and Ecology. This
Course also addresses specific issues for Christian Mission in Indian
society.
HISTORICAL BOOKS OF THE OLD TESTAMENT I&II: Be familiar with
the contents of Joshua, Ruth, Samuel, Kings, Chronicles, Ezra,
Nehemiah and Esther; understand the problems raised by many
passages and choose one’s own solutions; know how to look for
evidence concerning the date and authorship of a book; summarize
biblical teaching on selected topics, e.g. the Holy Spirit in the O.T,
Supernatural powers, true and false prophecy.

TAFTEE 36 M.Div Prospectus

HOMILETICS I: This subject helps the students to develop skills in
preparing various types; it also helps one to compose his or her own
sermon in writing. A good course for those who want to lead home
prayer fellowship and other services.
HOMILETICS II: Identify the elements of communication to be found
in the presentation of sermons, evaluate others peoples’ sermons
and present one’s own sermons.
HOUSE GROUPS: Relate the rise of House Group to social trends and
to the Doctrine of the Church and Christian Fellowship. Explain the
procedure for starting and running a house group; organise and lead
a house group for at least 6 weeks.
I CORINTHIANS: To understand the background of I Corinthians and
its structure; make a detail study of I Corinthians; draw parallels
between issues mentioned and problem Christian faced today and to
became aware of the important of the I Corinthians for ministry
today.
II SAMUEL: Have an overall and detail understanding of the text of II
Samuel: be familiar with the main features of geography of the
Palestine; understand how to approach the study of a historical book
of the Bible; apply a selection of spiritual truth gleaned from the
study of II Samuel to life today.
INDIAN CHURCH HISTORY: Be familiar with the history of the Indian
church, in order to understand the background of the present-day
Church: apply the lessons learnt in the past to participation in
contemporary Church life; cultivate sensitivity to the differences
between the various Church traditions and develop a spirit of
understanding; write a thesis on the history of one’s own local
church.
JESUS THE LIBERATOR: Understand the theology and ministry of
Jesus in the social setting of the Palestine; relate the principles of
Jesus’ ministry to the contexts of poverty, oppression and injustice in
India; evaluate Church life by these principle; visit and talk with a
poor person.

TAFTEE 37 M.Div Prospectus

LEADERSHIP IN THE CHURCH: Make a detail study of I & II Timothy
and Titus; understand the idea of leadership in the Church and put
the Pastoral Epistles to practical use.
LETTERS OF PAUL: This course, an adaptation of course produce
originally by the Oak Hill Extension College UK, gives the general
introduction to the Letters of Paul, their contents, teaching and
Pauline theology.
LETTERS OF PETER: Be familiar and understand the content of I&II
Peter through a careful verse by verse study of the RSV and through
reference to the other English Versions and to the Greek NT. Practice
exegesis, exposition and interpretation of passages. Apply to the
present day situations the teachings on suffering and false teachers.
LEVITICUS, NUMBERS, DEUTERONOMY: This is the final par of a 3
part course, including Genesis and Exodus to help gain an overall
knowledge of the Pentateuch.
LITURGY: The enjoyment and glorification of God can take countless
forms, but chief among these is the worship of God. Such worship
can be done individually or with others, in groups large and small.
However, when believers come together to worship, they usually
don’t limit their activity to worship alone, for they find it necessary
or helpful to engage in other activities too – such as reading and
listening to God’s word together, reflecting on that word in
meditation or speech, offering to God prayers in various forms,
joining together in celebrating the Lord’s Supper, and other such
activities. Christians have engaged in these activities for two
millennia, and thus it is not surprising that Christians have, and
continue to, employ diverse forms, emphases, contents, and
objectives, as they gather together. In this sense, worship becomes
liturgy.

TAFTEE 38 M.Div Prospectus

MAJOR WORLD RELIGIONS: Be familiar with the sociological
implication of religion as a universal phenomena; through a working
knowledge of Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, and
Zoroastrianism to develop a sympathetic understanding and
appreciation for the religious and their adherents; and through these
personal interaction with Hindus and Muslims to understand the role
of religion in the lives of the vast majority of the Indian population.
MAN AND THE FUTURE: Study the book of Daniel and Revelation;
consider the techniques, characteristics and faith of Jewish and
Christian apocalyptic; relate Jesus to the Jewish apocalyptic
movement; evaluate the relevance of apocalyptic today; understand
the essentials of astrology and have a right attitude.
MISSION AND SOCIOLOGY: The Course gives students opportunities
to understand how sociology can illuminate the nature, purposes
and practices of the Church and its mission. Opportunities are also
given for students to apply within their ministries their growing
understanding of the place of religion in society, and of religion as a
social institution. In the light of an understanding of Indian Society,
what is the task of the Church? The course seeks to enable the
student to think through some Biblical paradigms of mission that are
relevant and can be applied to the context of ministry.
PARTNERSHIP FOR MISSION: The Biblical mandate for Christian
mission is to work in partnership with God and with one another.
This leads to a better stewardship of the resources God has given us
and towards more effective mission as we work in partnership.
PERSONAL AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY: The Course gives students
the chance to understand how psychology can illuminate the nature,
purposes and practices of the Church and its mission. Students do
not need to have previously studied psychology.
POVERTY AND DEVELOPMENT: Know basic statistics of poverty in
India; examine personal attitudes towards poverty and
development; get to know a group of poor people through regular
visits to a slum; apply criteria for development to a number of
situations; as a group, make another group aware of the dimensions
of poverty and injustice and of efforts to bring change.

TAFTEE 39 M.Div Prospectus

PROPHETS: Have a basic knowledge of the phenomenon of
prophecy. Be familiar with the main features of each prophetic book
of the Old Testament.
PURPOSE DRIVEN CHURCH: Focusses on transforming churches to
become healthy, lively and active witnesses to God’s kingdom by
considering the purpose of the church in terms of witness, service,
worship, discipleship and fellowship.
RESEARCH PROJECT: Take the opportunity to reflect on an issue in
Christian Ministry or Mission that concerns you. Grapple with the
issue, read relevant books and articles and interview key people
about the subject. Then write a Research Paper with the help and
guidance of your tutor. Opportunities for more flexible methods of
research are also available.
ROMANS: State the main theme of the Letter to the Romans and
relate it to Christian life style today; Explain its doctrines in detail
and substantiate them from the text; apply the results of a study of
the Letter to the Romans to particular situations in the Church.
SALT IN THE MARKETPLACE: A study of the place of Christian
professionals in their secular jobs, the Biblical teaching on careers,
goals, time-management and planning. Aimed to help them to be
better professionals and witnesses in their work place.
SIMPLY COMMUNICATE: Understand the basic principles of
communication; evaluate the effectiveness of the Church
communication in the light of those principles; become familiar with
a number of media; develop skills for communicating through media
of one’s own choice.
STEWARDS FOR GOD: Relate principles of stewardship to NT
teaching concerning God’s people; assess one’s own Church’s
position in relation to stewardship, list principles regarding abilities,
time, work, the material world etc., and relate them to life situations;
discuss principle involved in tithing, giving and responsible Church
leadership.

TAFTEE 40 M.Div Prospectus

SYNOPTIC GOSPELS AND ACTS: Know the context and theology of
Matthew Mark Luke and Acts. Be introduced to biblical criticism and
learn how to interpret passages of scripture for today.
TUTORING THE CERTIFICATE-LEVEL PROGRAMME: Become capable
tutors and group leaders; develop pastoral skills in dealing with
group members; be familiar with the C.L.P materials and procedures.
UNDERSTANDING THE BIBLE TODAY: Use six Guidelines for correctly
interpreting the Bible. Take 12 practical steps to bring out the
meaning of a passage of Scripture for today, use Concordance,
Dictionary and Commentary in Bible study; as final exam exegete
one passage.
UNDERSTANDING THE INDIAN RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL CONTEXT
Focusses on the nature of Indian society in terms of religious and
cultural diversity. Explores the socio-political and the theological
implications of pluralism for the practice of Christian mission and
ministry. The Course expects the student to make a study of beliefs
and practices of people from another faith situated in or near his/her
context of mission or ministry. Data for such a study will be gained
from the people themselves.
WORSHIP AND PSALMS: Recognize and analyze the main type of
Psalms of all type; evaluate and plan order of service for worships;
choose Psalms, Canticles and hymns for special services; write one’s
own Psalms.
WRITINGS OF JOHN: Study the Fourth Gospel, the book of Revelation
and three epistles of John. Gives information on introduction,
contents, purpose, historical background and themes dealt with in
John’s writings and emphasizes the application of this for today.
Gives knowledge on the contents of the book of Revelation, its
structure by considering the book as a whole and not studying the
book in single parts.

TAFTEE 41 M.Div Prospectus

 FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
Over the next few years, TAFTEE plans to offer many new courses in
the M.Div programme to allow students to focus either on ministry or
various forms of Christian mission. In collaboration with various
partners, TAFTEE plans to make the programme suitable for the
specific training needs of the churches and missions. TAFTEE also
has plans to offer an integrated M.Div programme for graduates who
have no prior theological degree.

OTHER TAFTEE PROGRAMMES

In addition to applying for this M.Div programme, you might like to
think of making use of other TAFTEE programmes to equip the
Christians in your Church. TAFTEE can offer a well-structured
training programme to suit the needs of your congregation. Our
Certificate Level Programme is offered in 9 different Indian
Languages.
A.Certificate Level Programme
1. Following Jesus: A Course in Discipleship and Ministry
based on the Life of Jesus Christ
This course forms the basis of TAFTEE’s present ministry and is by
far the most significant programme that TAFTEE offers in terms of
leadership and discipleship training. By a systematic study of the
Gospel of Matthew, a student is introduced to the major teachings of
Christian faith and is also taught such practical skills as evange-
lism,Bible study and leading prayer meetings. This programme is
designed to help Christians grow in faith and to understand what it
means to be a disciple of Jesus in a day-to-day life. It will also help
them to acquire skills in personal and group Bible Study enabling
them to grow in their devotional life and Christian character.
Through this course one not only learns biblical truths but also
understands what it means to be a servant of Jesus. This course is
available in English, Hindi, Marathi, Oriya, Gujarathi, Telugu, Tamil,

TAFTEE 42 M.Div Prospectus

Kannada and Malayalam.
2. Other Certificate Level Courses
TAFTEE also offers the following Certificate Level courses:
‘Working together for Health’: A 10 Week Community
Health Course
‘Discover Christian Family Life Together’: A Course on
the Biblical basis of Christian family and its practical
application
‘See Through The Scriptures’: A survey Course of the
message of the whole Bible
B. BTS Programme
Based on a full-time Bachelor of Theology (B.Th) degree course, the
programme is flexible and allows student groups the maximum
possible choice. It also offers courses at different levels to encourage
learning progression. The programme is structured in 3 stages and
students can gain TAFTEE’s Certificate in Theological Studies (CTS)
and Diploma in Theological Studies (DTS) as part of this programme.
Students are required to complete a certain number of Credits from
the Foundational Courses, while the rest can be chosen from the
Optional Subjects. Students are also required to be involved in
Supervised Ministry and to reflect on their own personal growth
through the programme. There are regular Residential Schools that
allow students to be involved in personal research. Normally each
course module comprises 12 weeks of study, including introductory
meeting and an examination at the end. For each module, a student
is expected to attend a tutorial each week. For each module, a
student is also required to complete between 7 and 12 hours of
personal study per week.
C. Postgraduate Level Programme
The Master’s programme has four basic strands of specialization:
Pastoral Theology, Linguistic and Cross Cultural Studies, Missiology
and Theology and Development. These subjects are combined for
further opportunities for students to make choices in their studies in
accordance with their ministerial need and interests.
1. M.Th in Pastoral Theology

TAFTEE 43 M.Div Prospectus

The M.Th specializing in Pastoral Theology is especially suited for
those involved in church-based Christian ministry. A student is able
to focus his/her studies on issues of importance for Christian
ministry in India today. In addition to the core subjects, a student
will consider the organisational aspects of church ministry and
issues of personal and social psychology. He/she will also have the
opportunity to choose from a range of guided options related to
his/her own ministry. The Degree is structured to meet the needs of
those with a basic formal theological education (BTS/B.Th/BD) who
wish to improve their skills and enhance their effectiveness and
competency in Christian ministry. The programme offers an
integrated theological perspective focusing on the implications of
the message of the Bible for the Mission and Ministry in India in the
21st Century. Biblical Hermeneutics and Social Analysis provide the
basic unifying perspectives of study for TAFTEE’s M.Th programme.
Using a series of well-written Course Books, regular Residential
Schools and Area Tutorials, the M.Th programme seeks to enrich
both the ministry and personal growth of the student. The courses
have been especially written for the Indian context, using experts
from the different fields of study. TAFTEE's M.Th programme offers
an innovative approach to advanced studies in Christian Ministry and
Mission.
2. M.Th in Linguistics and Cross-Cultural Studies
TAFTEE has entered into a partnership with Indian Missions
Association (IMA) and the Indian Institute of Cross-Cultural Studies
(IICCC) to train Bible translators and literacy workers who wish to
engage in field based postgraduate study whilst continuing to work
in their context. The M.Th course in Linguistics and Cross-Cultural
Studies takes a field-based approach to study. Students participate
in well-structured Residential Sessions offered by TAFTEE once a
year and Residential Sessions of IICCC once a year, comprising
lectures, workshops, tutorials and seminars. The students are given
dedicated time with experts in their field of study as they prepare
assignments based on the linguistic and cultural group among which
they work. The emphasis of the teaching is on applied theory and
the students are expected to learn through a process of action and
reflection, using tools of linguistic and cultural analysis appropriate
to their context.

TAFTEE 44 M.Div Prospectus

3. M.Phil/PhD
Many involved in theological teaching and ministry wish to improve
their academic qualifications. However, the cost of postgraduate
research degrees, both to the institution and the individual, can
make it impossible to achieve this desire. In addition, the difficulties
involved in uprooting family and moving overseas may prove to be
too great, especially for those with school-age children. With such
people in mind, TAFTEE has entered into collaboration with the
Oxford Centre for Mission Studies (OCMS) in Britain who offer
postgraduate research programmes (M.Phil/Ph.D) validated by the
University of Wales (UK).
D. Continuing Education
1. Pastors Book Club:
The Evangelical Literature Trust (ELT) makes available free
theological books for pastors in India through TAFTEE. The
membership of this Book Club is open to theologically trained
pastors who have a good grasp of the English language.
Theologically trained lay people in full time Christian Ministry would
also be considered for membership. All members are sent by post,
two copies each from the consignment received from ELT for that
year’s distribution.
2. Leadership Seminars
TAFTEE regularly organises leadership seminars for Pastors and
other Christian leaders. Examples include:
Ministry in the 21st Century – by Rev Dr John Stott
See Through The Scriptures – by Rev Dr Harry Wendt (in
English, Tamil and Marathi)
Purpose Driven Church Seminars – by Rev Chris Nelson (in
Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Nagercoil and
Delhi)
E. North India Leadership Development Project
Training leadership at different levels is an urgent priority for the
church’s mission of reaching the unreached in North India. In
accordance with its mission statement TAFTEE believes that God is
calling it to respond to the leadership training needs of the Church in
North India by means of a systematic leadership development

TAFTEE 45 M.Div Prospectus

initiative and so to build up the body of Christ to fulfil the great
commission of Jesus to go and make disciples of all nations.
By adapting TAFTEE’s present programs and by networking with
Churches and missions in North India, the plan is to train and equip
the people of God in North India by equipping regional leaders, local
supervisors, lay-leaders, evangelists, Suwarthiks, other Christian
workers and local believers who are involved directly in the kingdom
ministry in North India.
The programme seeks to train trainers in order to multiply
leadership. Through carefully designed materials available in
different languages, the trainers are trained to train others. As Paul
said in II Tim.2:2 “the things which you have heard me say in the
presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be
qualified to teach others”. All the well-established denominations in
North India, many Pentecostal movements, and many major
fellowship groups have adopted TAFTEE materials to help and assist
the local Churches for developing leadership. Many mission
agencies, including the Indian Evangelical Mission (IEM), Friends
Missionary Prayer Band (FMPB) and Gospel Echoing Missionary
Society (GEMS), are making use TAFTEE programs as part of the
ongoing training of missionaries and leaders of newly formed
Churches. The North India Leadership Development Project depends
on the ability to collaborate with different churches and missions to
be able to deliver training in the local context. TAFTEE seeks to
work with churches and missions of all denominations who are
concerned to train and equip people for mission, ministry and
witness at the local level.
It is expected that local believers of churches whose leaders are
trained through this programme will grow in Christian maturity and
in their ability to share Jesus with their local neighbours and family.
They will be able to give a reason for the hope that they have in
Jesus and will show maturity in their lives. This in turn will lead to
increase in numbers and the growth of the church.
It is expected that evangelists, catechists, Bible women, Suwarthiks
and other Christian workers at the local level trained through this
programme will grow in Christian maturity. They will gain a

TAFTEE 46 M.Div Prospectus

comprehensive knowledge of the Life of Jesus and the basic
doctrines of the Christian faith. They will learn basic skills of
personal and group Bible Study, evangelism, leading worship and
corporate prayer. It is expected that what they have learned will
also be shared with others and that they will become facilitators of
growth in the lives of other believers. They will demonstrate
practical ministry and mentoring skills more than showing a mastery
of content. They will equip, enable and empower believers,
especially new believers, to witness to Christ and win others for
Christ. They will be join believers in outreach ministries and
encourage healthy and growing Churches in their local situations.
It is expected that local supervisors in mission and churches will
grow in their knowledge of the Bible and will develop skills specific
to the ministry in which they are involved. They will develop
pastoral skills in overseeing the training of grass-root leaders and
will develop their skills in leading house groups and in understanding
principles of evangelism.
It is expected that Regional leaders will make use of the resources of
TAFTEE to develop their skills in understanding mission and ministry
in their own context. They will be expected to reflect critically and
constructively on their practice of mission and ministry with a view
to improving mission practice.

F. Urban Leadership Training Programme

With rapid urbanization throughout India, many migrant workers are
settling in poor slum areas of the major cities. In all these cities,
God is raising up new churches by means of gifted believers who
have come to knowledge of Jesus Christ. The leaders of many of
these new churches are themselves new believers without a
thorough knowledge of the Word of God and without the tools
necessary to disciple other believers. Hundreds of these leaders
need training now to mentor and train believers in Christian life and
witness. One of the needs God has placed before our ministry is to
train pastors of independent churches, house churches and
community churches in Indian cities for effective Christian life and
ministry.

TAFTEE 47 M.Div Prospectus

Over the past decade, TAFTEE has had a growing awareness of the
need to train pastors and leaders of urban poor churches and has
held several seminars with leaders of such pastors. Though TAFTEE
is well accepted among major denominational churches, God has
placed on our hearts a burden for providing ministry training to the
pastors of independent and community churches in the Indian cities,
which are often without connection or access to organised training
programs. These are pastors whose congregation members are
drawn from daily wage earners such as rickshaw pullers, factory
workers, builder and others who are on or below the poverty line.
We increasingly recognize there are many unique ministry
challenges for urban pastors and for this reason we feel it is
necessary to specifically design or re-design some course materials
for them.
We are developing theological education materials focused on the
urban Indian churches with emphasis on wholistic and evangelistic
ministry skills by means of extension study and supervised ministry.
We are redesigning study materials based on our Certificate Level
Course material for particular relevance to urban churches and
believers with emphasis on practical ministry training, arrange
seminars with Pastors and pastoral ministry mentors (to introduce
them to the materials and train facilitators), network with churches
and missions working in cities, by means of a Dean and field staff.
TAFTEE has begun this project with pilot/test groups in Bangalore,
Hyderabad and Madras (Chennai). Following this, the programme
will be reviewed and will also be offered in Bombay (Mumbai),
Calcutta (Kolkata) and Delhi. The third phase of the project will be
to make it available to those working in other cities. In accordance
with TAFTEE’s overall mission, the vision of this project is to work
with churches and organisations to train pastors and other leaders of
urban community churches.

TAFTEE 48 M.Div Prospectus