Comprehensive Strategic Plan 2018 - 2022 - The Bible Seminary
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Comprehensive Strategic Plan
2018 - 2022
1 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary2 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
Purpose ........................................................................................................................................................ 4
Core Values .................................................................................................................................................. 4
Institutional Objectives ................................................................................................................................ 5
Philosophy of Education .............................................................................................................................. 5
Doctrines ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
Ethos ............................................................................................................................................................ 8
Facts ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
History ........................................................................................................................................................ 10
Planning Process, Design, and Utilization ...................................................................................................... 12
Planning Process ........................................................................................................................................ 12
Design......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Utilization ................................................................................................................................................... 13
Plan Components ........................................................................................................................................... 14
Educational Programs ................................................................................................................................ 14
Enrollment ................................................................................................................................................. 18
Staffing ....................................................................................................................................................... 19
Finances ..................................................................................................................................................... 20
Facilities ..................................................................................................................................................... 21
Policies and Procedures ............................................................................................................................. 22
Accreditation.............................................................................................................................................. 23
Alumni ........................................................................................................................................................ 24
Communications and Marketing................................................................................................................ 25
Note: For additional information, consider the TBS handbooks as companion documents to this Strategic Plan.
3 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryINTRODUCTION
The Bible Seminary (TBS) is an independent, non-denominational, 501(c)(3) charitable institution of
higher education incorporated in Texas in 2010 to offer training for laity and vocational ministry
professionals. Programs include Bible Certificate and Licensed Professional non-degree programs, and Dual
Degree Completion, Master of Arts, and Master of Divinity degree programs.
Purpose
The Bible Seminary exists to glorify God by training Christian believers in a context of biblical
community in all 66 books of the Bible so that they can serve the local church and fulfill the Great
Commission by the power of God’s Spirit.
Core Values
Key Verse
"They read from the book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the
people could understand what was being read."
Nehemiah 8:8
• Lordship – Because He is Lord (Philippians 2:11), we will continually ask Jesus Christ to sit on the
throne of the seminary and on the throne of the lives of its faculty, administrators, and students
for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
• Bible – Because the Bible is the fully true Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16), we will offer and require
the study of all 66 books of the Bible before graduation with a degree. We will seek to creatively
integrate classical theological disciplines and ministry training by studying books of the Bible (i.e.
Church History will begin with the Book of Acts and keep going; Pastoral Leadership will come
through the study of the Pastoral Epistles; Systematic Theology will flow out of the study of the
Pauline Epistles)
• Prayer – Because apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5), we will continually seek to plug
into the Vine Jesus Christ through yielding to Him in prayer. We will offer a unique emphasis on
prayer including classes on prayer, a school of prayer, prayer faculty, and multiple prayer
opportunities in the life of the seminary.
• Unreached Peoples – Because the return of Christ awaits the evangelization of all people groups
(Matthew 24:14), we will keep our eyes on the unreached peoples of the world and train our
students to have a heart for the fulfillment of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) by
seeking to reach millions of souls for Jesus Christ.
• Local Church – Because the local church is God’s plan (Matthew 16:18), we will be based in the
local church and have a symbiotic relationship of service and training with local churches and
parachurch ministries.
• Community – Because we were created for community (Genesis 1:26; Romans 12:5), we will seek
to build a campus-based fellowship where the “one anothers” of Scripture are lived out, where
authenticity and accountability are practiced, and where integrity is modeled and taught.
• Compassion – Because God has a huge heart for the poor and overlooked (Mt. 25:31-46), we will
strive to motivate, equip, and train students to minister to “the least of these” as a lifestyle.
4 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryInstitutional Objectives
The Bible Seminary strives to provide a learning environment, faculty, staff, and support services that
enable students and graduates to:
• Believe in Jesus Christ as LORD and trust Him on the throne of their lives for the glory of God.
• Believe the BIBLE is the fully true Word of God, and have integrated the study of all 66 books of
the Bible with studies in classical theological disciplines and ministry training prior to graduating
with a degree.
• Practice a life of PRAYER, continually seeking to plug into the Vine of Jesus Christ.
• Have a heart for the UNREACHED PEOPLES of the world and the fulfillment of the Great
Commission through seeking to reach millions of souls for Christ.
• Have training and experience in the LOCAL CHURCH and have established key relationships with
various local churches and parachurch ministries.
• Have experience in ministry and study amidst a COMMUNITY committed to authenticity and
accountability, and where integrity is modeled and taught.
• Have COMPASSION for the poor and overlooked, and have received motivation, equipping, and
training to minister to "the least of these" as a lifestyle.
Philosophy of Education
• We believe the Bible is one book, written by many authors over time, inspired by one Spirit for all
time – and is the best training manual for ministry.
• We believe that doing ministry, debriefing ministry, and studying ministry – in association with
called, life-giving, seasoned and Spirit-filled professionals – is an effective educational model.
• We believe a balanced, Bible-based, Christ-centered, mission-focused educational approach
includes a comprehensive curriculum that integrates studying through all 66 biblical books along
with studying standard historical, theological, and practical disciplines critical to developing
professional skills for 21st century ministry.
• We believe that challenging and nurturing students, getting them into the Word of God, and helping
them think biblically and listen to the Holy Spirit, involves a unique combination of professional
ministry training, cutting-edge tools, and extraordinary experiences.
• We believe that face-to-face interaction over time, among groups of individuals with a common set
of core values and doctrines and ethical standards, and with diverse backgrounds and experiences,
can offer an exciting, family-friendly, practical, rich, and unparalleled learning environment.
• We believe that a journey of theological education should:
o Glorify the Lord
o Be rooted in His Word
o Nurture an intimate, faithful, trusting relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
o Cultivate a contextual and increasingly more profound understanding of God and creation,
scripture and the world, heaven and earth, culture and history, time and eternity, and things
seen and unseen
o Equip students with relevant experiences, knowledge, relationships, training, and tools for a
lifetime of ministry leadership
o Lead to a passionate commitment to love and serve the Lord and others with all that students
are and have, in perpetuity.
5 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryDoctrines
• We believe in the inspiration and authority of Scripture – The Bible is the only inspired Word of God,
fully true, and our sole authority for all that we believe and do (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21;
Matthew 5:18). We hold to the inerrancy of Scripture, as outlined in the “Chicago Statement on
Biblical Inerrancy.”
• We believe in one God – There is only one true God who exists eternally in three Persons: God the
Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:26; Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; John
14:9; Acts 5:3-4,9; 2 Corinthians 3:17; 13:14; Hebrews 1:1-3, I John 5:7).
• We believe in the deity and humanity of Christ – Jesus Christ is Lord, being fully God and yet fully
Man, born of a virgin, as affirmed in the Nicene, and Apostles’ Creeds (Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:26-
38; John 1:1-2,14; Philippians 2:5-8; Colossians 1:13-20; Hebrews 1:8).
• We believe in substitutionary atonement – Jesus Christ died on the cross as our substitute – taking
upon Himself the penalty of the sins of fallen humans (John 1:29; Romans 3:25-26; 5:8, 12-19;
Galatians 3:13; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:18).
• We believe in the resurrection of Christ – Jesus rose from the dead in a bodily resurrection defeating
sin and death (Romans 6:4-9; 10:9; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6).
• We believe in salvation by grace through faith alone – A person is saved from eternal separation
from God as a free gift when that person places their faith in Jesus Christ who is the only way to the
Father (John 1:12; 3:16; 5:24; 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 2:8-9; Revelation 21:27).
• We believe in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ – Jesus Christ will come again to judge the living
and the dead (Matthew 24-25; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 19-21).
• We believe in heaven and hell – Believers in Jesus Christ will be resurrected to everlasting
blessedness and joy in eternal fellowship with God (1 Corinthians 15:35-57; 2 Corinthians 5:1-9;
Philippians 3:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Revelation 21:1-7; 22:1-5). Unbelievers will be
resurrected to conscious separation from God and eternal punishment (Matthew 25:41,46; Mark
9:43-48; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Revelation 14:9-11;20:10-15; 21:8).
WHERE WE STAND ON SOME CONTROVERSIAL SOCIAL ISSUES
We acknowledge that the following social issues have brought much pain and division in some churches,
and we do not approach these issues lightly or glibly. But we also acknowledge that, at the heart, these are
authority of Scripture issues. We believe the Bible is clear about the following:
• Abortion – We believe human life inside a mother’s womb begins at conception and is a real human
being created in the image of God (Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:4-5; Luke 1:39-45) and, therefore,
that abortion is murder and wrong/sin (Exodus 20:13). We believe God offers full forgiveness to an
abortive mother/father who has turned to Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:13-15; Ephesians 1:7).
• Celibacy, Marriage, and Sexuality – We believe God created humans in His image, intentionally and
immutably male and female, each bringing unique and complementary qualities to sexuality and
relationships (Genesis 1:27, 2:21-24, 3:16-20, 4:1; Matthew 19:4-5; Ephesians 5:22-33). Celibacy,
marriage, and sexuality in general are gifts from God to be expressed: (1) within specific boundaries
He designed for our safety and pleasure, and, (2) within the confines of His purposes, which include
gratefully honoring the Lord with our bodies and minds (Proverbs 6:20-7:27; Matthew 6:27-30;
Romans 12:1-2; I Corinthians 7:19-20; Ephesians 4:17-5:20; Philippians 1:20-2:16).
Sexual acts within marriage are God’s solely ordained method for moral human procreation
(Genesis 1:27-28, 2:18-24; Matthew 19:4-9; Mark 10:5-9; Ephesians 5:31). Sexual acts condemned
in the Bible include but are not limited to adultery, bestiality, fornication, incest, lust, prostitution,
same-sex sexual acts, sodomy, and voyeurism (Exodus 20:14; Leviticus 18:7-23, 20:10-21, 21:9;
6 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryDeuteronomy 5:18; Matthew 5:27-28, 15:19; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-13; Galatians 5:19;
Ephesians 4:17-19; Colossians 3:5; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Hebrews 13:4). Therefore, we believe
variant sexual behaviors such as bi-sexuality, homosexuality, lesbianism, pedophilia,
transgenderism, and transsexualism are sinful and defy God’s natural order, plans, and purposes
(Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Genesis 19; Jude 7; Romans 1:26-32; 1 Timothy 1:9-11; 1 Corinthians 6:9-
11). We do not believe in ordaining self-avowed practicers of any of these or any other sexual sins,
and do not believe in ceremonies that celebrate same-sex unions (Romans 1:18-32).
• Ministry Leadership – We believe persons engaged in willful, ongoing sinful practice(s) should not
serve in ministry leadership (Romans 1:18-32; I Corinthians 5:1-13 and 6:9-20; I Thessalonians 4:1-
8; I Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9), and those already serving in leadership that engage in ongoing
sinful behavior(s) should be disciplined and removed from leadership, at least for a season
(Deuteronomy 17:1-7; I Samuel 15; 2 Samuel 11-12 and 24; Daniel 4; I Corinthians 5-6; Revelation
2-3). We believe true repentance and conversion are first steps toward salvation, and essential for
engaging in the process of sanctification (I Corinthians 6:9-11; I Thessalonians 4:1-8). Therefore,
anyone considering ministry leadership via a path that includes seeking a degree from and/or
working for The Bible Seminary should evidence public and private freedom from sinful behavior(s)
over time (Matthew 3:8; Acts 26:20; James 2:14-26), since ministry leadership is incorporated into
official positions and roles at The Bible Seminary including administration, board, faculty, staff, and
students.
7 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryEthos
It is a high honor and privilege to represent God to people by being in the ministry and training for
ministry. When people see someone “in the ministry,” they see that person as representing Christ’s church.
It is for this reason that the Bible outlines in 1 Timothy 3 some of the expectations and qualifications of a
leader in the church. It is very important for each member of the seminary community (no matter what
their position) to seek to live up to these standards (with God’s help and empowerment). Thus, we ask each
member of the seminary community to covenant to lead a life that is “above reproach” as defined by the
following Ethos Statement. The heart of this document is healthy community full of grace and truth (John
1:17).
As a member of the seminary community, I agree, with God’s help and empowerment, to live by the
following ideals to the best of my ability:
• I will seek to walk with God through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (Genesis 5:22; John
17:3; Mark 12:29-31; Ephesians 2:8-9).
• I will seek to have no other gods than Jesus Christ (Exodus 20:3-6; 1 Peter 3:15). I will seek to keep
myself from idolatry (1 John 5:21) by not making idols out of money, sex, power, people, material
things, school, or ministry success.
• I will work as “unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23-24). I will give God my best in my family, in my job
performance and in my training for ministry.
• I will refrain from sexual immorality (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). If I am married, I will be faithful to my
spouse (Exodus 20:14). If I am single, I will remain celibate in my singleness. I will not engage in
homosexual practice (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
• I will refrain from drunkenness or the use of illegal drugs (Ephesians 5:18). I will not allow a
substance to control me, rather I will seek to be controlled by God. If I choose to “drink socially,” I
will do so in a way that does not cause other people to stumble (1 Corinthians 8).
• I will practice Biblical conflict resolution. If someone hurts or offends me, I will go to that person
and speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15,25) and forgive them (Ephesians 4:32). If this does not
resolve the issue, I will then involve a second person as prescribed in Matthew 18:15-17. I will not
slander another person by talking negatively about him/her without him/her present (Ephesians
4:31). I will seek to build others up with my words (Ephesians 4:29). If I cannot bring resolution
through these steps, I will seek counsel.
• I will be respectful of those in authority over me and submit to their leadership (Hebrews 13:17)
unless they were to call me to do something contrary to Scripture (Acts 5:27-29). I will seek
humbleness in my life (1 Peter 5:5-6).
The purpose of this Ethos Statement is order (1 Corinthians 14:40) and to uphold integrity, respect,
honor and character (2 Timothy 2:20-22). There is plenty of grace in this community for mistakes (James
5:16), whereas there is not room in this community for blatant and unrepentant rebellion (1 Corinthians 5).
I agree to do my best to live by this Ethos Statement with God’s help and power through Jesus Christ and
for His glory.
8 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryFacts
Incorporation and Licensing
• Independent and non-denominational
• Registered as Domestic Non-Profit Corporation in the state of Texas, Feb 2010
• Registered as IRS 501(c)(3) Charitable Institution of Higher Education, Aug 2010
• Exemption granted by Texas Workforce Commission, March 2011
• Exemption granted by Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, May 2011
• Affiliate Member of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), 2012
• Approved CEU provider by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), Oct 2015
• Approved by the Texas Veterans Commission, July 2017
• Approved for Applicant Status by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
(TRACS), January 2018
Founders
• Dr. James E. Leggett, Founding President (2010-13)
• Rev. Paul Helbig, Bible Institute Co-founder and Lead Faculty (2008-16)
• Mr. Dan Dunham, Founding Board of Trustees Chair (2010-13)
• Grace Fellowship Church, Seed funding for launch (2010-11)
Executive Officers
• President – Dr. K. Lynn Lewis
• Provost – Dr. Scott Stripling
• Vice-President of Finance and Administration – Mr. Rick McCalip
• Board of Trustees – Mrs. Heidi Arneson (Chair), 9 regional and national representative members
Programs
• Master of Divinity – 84-credit hours, first classes offered in Fall 2012, and first 7 graduates in
2015
• Master of Arts – Four majors ranging from 48 to 60-credit hours, added in 2015, first graduate in
2015
• Dual Degree Completion (Dual track to obtain both a Bachelor's and Master's degree) – Added
in 2015
• Licensed Professional – 18-credit hours, added in 2015
• Bible Certificate – 10-credit hours, first 10 graduates in December 2012
Faculty
• Two full-time administrators who also teach
• One full-time faculty and 15+ adjunct professors
• 50+ professionals who serve as mentors and visiting teachers
Unique Features
• All programs cover all 66 books of the Bible
• Comprehensive, relevant education and training for 21st century ministry
• Local church mentoring and training opportunities throughout the graduate degree programs
• Educational experiences in classrooms, on-site visits to many regional locations and locations in
Israel
Special program elements
• Distinctively clear doctrinal and ethos statements
• Commitment to seven core values - Lordship of Christ, Bible as fully true Word of God, Prayer,
Unreached Peoples, The Local Church, Community, and Compassion
• Holy Land Study Tour opportunity
• Technological ministry study and resource tools
• Multiple experiential learning opportunities
• Fundraising training
• Strong commitment to helping students graduate with no seminary debt
9 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryHistory
The passion for a vibrant Bible-based, Christ-centered, mission-focused training center for church laity
and professional ministers began in the life and ministry of Dr. Jim Leggett, founder and senior pastor of
Grace Fellowship United Methodist Church in Katy, Texas.
Part of the church’s founding vision in 1996 included eventually creating a school offering seminary-
level training to laity. Initially visualized as a “Growth Institute,” the idea evolved into a “Bible Institute”
under the leadership of Grace Fellowship UMC Teaching Pastor, Paul Helbig – a former teacher and key
leader at the College of Biblical Studies in Houston, Texas.
The church officially established a Bible Institute in 2008 to teach a series of lay courses covering all 66
books of the Bible. Classes were designed to be highly engaging and transformative, a joy and not a burden,
taught by seminary-trained, credentialed instructors, and more intensive than typical Bible studies, but not
quite as intense as a full-level seminary class.
The original Bible Institute courses included Bible Study Methods, three Old Testament and three New
Testament classes, and one missions class. Each course was one semester in length, and students generally
met one night per week throughout a semester. During the six-year span between the first class offered in
the spring of 2008 and the spring of 2014, more than one thousand students enrolled in Bible Institute
courses. The first twelve students to complete all eight courses finished the Bible Institute program track
in December 2011.
Also in 2008, several key Grace Fellowship UMC members began working diligently with Dr. Leggett and
others to develop a graduate school as a separate, non-denominational, charitable, educational
organization. The team selected a name – The Bible Seminary – and worked to establish bylaws, a Board of
Trustees, core values, doctrines, ethos, financial support, incorporation in the state of Texas, institutional
policies, and a program track for a three-year Master of Divinity degree aimed at attracting full-time,
residential students. These tasks were completed or advanced significantly under the leadership of seminary
Board Chair, Dan Dunham, and seminary Vice-President of Finance and Administration, Rick McCalip.
In the fall of 2010, the new Board officially named Dr. Jim Leggett President of The Bible Seminary, and
hosted a fundraiser targeted toward the Grace Fellowship UMC congregation. Ultimately, more than 260
church members and friends committed in excess of $1,100,000 to help launch the seminary.
Shortly thereafter, the Board launched a nationwide search for an Executive Vice-President/Provost. Dr.
K. Lynn Lewis – a dynamic professional with more than 25 years of experience as an entrepreneurial
businessman, educator, fundraiser, and ministry leader – began serving TBS in July 2011.
That same year, TBS received an exemption for its Master of Divinity program by the Texas Workforce
Commission in March, received a similar exemption from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board in
May, officially transferred the Bible Institute from Grace Fellowship UMC to The Bible Seminary in July, and
began publicizing and recruiting students for a new, 32-course, 96-hour Master of Divinity graduate school
program in the fall. The graduate program launched with 12 inaugural students the next fall on September
4, 2012. Faculty included Dr. Lewis, Professor Helbig, and select adjunct professors.
TBS received approval for Affiliate status with the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) in
April 2012. As an Affiliate institution of ABHE, The Bible Seminary participates in and contributes to collegial
and professional development activities of the Association. Affiliate status does not, however, constitute,
imply, or presume ABHE accredited status at present or in the future.
During the 2013-14 school year, the seminary offered an expanded slate of classes and options for both
the Bible Certificate and Master of Divinity programs, as well as a Biblical Leadership Series of monthly
seminars on various topics.
Founding President, Dr. Jim Leggett, transitioned to a new role at the seminary in January 2014, and the
Board of Trustees selected Dr. K. Lynn Lewis to serve as the new President. The seminary then launched a
nationwide search for a new Provost (Chief Academic Officer), and in October 2014, Dr. Steve Adamson – a
seasoned corporate and academic manager with worldwide experience – became the seminary’s new
Provost.
10 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryIn 2015, TBS formally established a Master of Arts program, and developed a dual degree completion
option enabling those without a completed bachelor’s degree to enroll at TBS and graduate with both a
bachelor’s and master’s degree. TBS awarded its first graduate degrees – including seven Master of Divinity
and one Master of Arts – on May 17, 2015. TBS added an 8-10 course Licensed Professional program in
September 2015, enabling those without a bachelor’s degree to obtain core TBS graduate level education.
The Bible Certificate program added Spanish language classes in the fall, and received approval by the
Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) in November 2015 to provide continuing education
units for K-12 Christian education teachers.
In 2016, the seminary began expanding course offerings into the northwest Houston region in
association with churches and ministries in that area. By the end of the year, founding Professor Paul Helbig
switched from full-time TBS employment to full-time disability leave due to complications from Multiple
Sclerosis.
In 2017, the seminary hired a new Provost with 36 years of experience serving professionally as a pastor,
principal, superintendent, professor, Development Director, teacher, coach, archaeologist, and more – Dr.
Scott Stripling. TBS also hired a new full-time faculty member with an extensive background worldwide in
educational administration, research, and teaching – Dr. Douglas Petrovich. TBS also implemented major
revisions to the Bible Certificate program, added the “Bible Panorama” Bible Certificate course and “Biblical
Archaeology” graduate course, and added new teaching sites in southwest Houston and in Luling, Texas. In
December, TBS received recognition by the Knowledge Review as one of the 10 Most Preferred Divinity
Schools for Religious Studies 2017.
In 2018, TBS approved graduate program academic revisions that included a reorganization and
expansion of the Master of Arts programs to include four distinct majors with varying credit hours required
for completion depending on the major: Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology (MABHA), Master
of Arts in Biblical Languages and Culture (MABLC), Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (MABS), and Master of
Arts in Church History and Theology (MACHT). The seminary also reduced the required hours to complete a
Master of Divinity (MDiv) from 96 to 84-credit hours, and increased the number of required Licensed
Professional program courses from eight (8) to nine (9). The revisions included integrating “Bible Panorama”
as a required foundational course into all TBS educational programs, and adding a capstone course to every
graduate degree program schedule. TBS also hired a part-time Communications Director and is in the
process of hiring another full-time faculty member.
11 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryPLANNING PROCESS, DESIGN, AND UTILIZATION
Planning Process
The Bible Seminary’s Comprehensive Strategic Plan (CSP) depicts a summary progression of ongoing
planning, budgeting, engagement and governance processes. It ensures alignment of the institution’s
Mission and Purpose, Overarching Objectives, Philosophy of Education, Core Values, Doctrines and Ethos
with the near and medium term objectives, goals, budgets, and implementation timing. This alignment
spans key areas of Educational Programs, Enrollment, Staffing, Finances, Facilities, Policies & Procedures,
Accreditation, Alumni, and, Communications & Marketing, each of which are addressed directly in the CSP
component sections.
Beginning in the fall of 2010, an annual planning and budgeting process has been ongoing, involving
both the Administration and the Board, the governance process of which is detailed in the TBS by-laws.
Following the launch of the Master of Divinity program in September 2012, supplemental efforts to the
annual planning process yielded Board commissioned subcommittees to address strategic areas and other
urgent matters with focused, timely effort.
In February 2014, at request of the Board Chair, the Board of Trustees convened for a weekend Board
Strategy workshop with three distinct goals:
1. To understand at a deeper level the current state of TBS, including specific internal and external
challenges to overcome,
2. To identify key priorities in 2014-2015 and longer term, and
3. To identify specific actions by Board and Administration in support of priorities.
The workshop resulted in determining short-term priorities associated with fundraising, recruitment,
volunteer utilization, and narrowed focus, as well as priority enablers such as enhanced marketing plans
and pursuit of accreditation. The next formal meeting of the Board of Trustees resulted in the formation of
a Strategic Plan Sub-committee to advance this work and integrate it with existing TBS planning and
governance processes to formulate the first 5-year Comprehensive Strategic Plan (CSP).
Beginning in June 2014, CSP Subcommittee chair Bob Button initiated sessions with Administration and
the Board Chair to map out the process leading up to CSP presentation and adoption at the September 2014
Board of Trustee meeting. Several milestone events followed. In June 2014, a group (including a cross
section of administration, faculty, and student representatives) held a workshop to provide grass roots
constituency input to the CSP. The session revolved around two questions:
1. What are we currently doing?
2. What might we want to consider doing in the future?
Discussion thereafter ensued between the TBS President, Board Chair, and subcommittee chair. In July
2014, a subcommittee meeting with the TBS President resulted in adoption of the CSP design framework,
identification of component sections, identification of section objectives, goals, timetables, responsible
individuals tasked with completing, financial resources, and item statuses. The Board of Trustees received
the plan design and framework in late July for their consideration, input and identification of missing
components. Following additional engagement with the newly hired Provost in August 2014 , the committee
issued the first draft to the Board in mid-August. After considering and integrating their feedback, the Board
received the final version of the first TBS CAP and approved it at the September 28, 2014 Board of Trustees
meeting.
The CSP is reviewed annually by TBS administration and staff. The Board utilizes the plan as the outline
for their annual Strategic Planning Retreat (normally held each February), and approves the updated plan
annually.
12 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryDesign
The plan outline consists of nine component sections:
• Educational Programs
• Enrollment
• Staffing
• Finances
• Facilities
• Policies and Procedures
• Accreditation
• Alumni
• Communications and Marketing
Each section is further divided to address the following elements:
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Specific goals, Amount(s) Current status
Time ranges, Person(s)
including ranges of 1- required to at the time of
Initiative(s) to pursue deadlines, responsible for
2 year and 3-5 year fund the compiling the
targets, etc. implementation
goals initiative(s) report
Utilization
The TBS administration and staff review and update the CSP annually as part of the ongoing cycle of
planning, budgeting and assessment, incorporating input from all institutional constituencies. The CSP is
also reviewed and approved by the Board of Trustees each year to ensure that it continues to support the
Mission and Purpose of the institution.
This annual planning effort requires systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of relevant
feedback information, for effective impact on the institution’s programs, policies, procedures and budgets.
As such, the results of assessments and continuous evaluation processes are incorporated into the strategic
planning process, specifically as part of the annual Board Strategic Planning Retreat usually held each
February.
Instruments such as the annual Board self-assessment, student course evaluations, faculty
evaluations, annual audits, and donor input are utilized. The Board Chair is tasked with administering the
annual Board self-assessment and ensuring the annual financial audit is conducted with results reviewed by
the Board. The administration is tasked with conducting course and faculty evaluations each semester as
well as staff assessments annually.
13 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryPLAN COMPONENTS
Educational Programs
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Bible Certificate Program (BC)
Offer a BIBLE CERTIFICATE Offer Bible Certificate (BC) Annually Provost 21 consecutive sem.
(BC) program that engages courses every semester Sp 2008 – Sp 2018
students in all 66 books of the 1399 enrollees
Bible. 1958 w/Perspectives
Begin with program consisting Offer at least one Bible Study Annually Provost Offered 19/21 sem.
of 7 core classes plus at least Methods (BSM) class every Sp 2008 – Sp 2018
1 elective. year 488 students total
Offer one OT and NT course Begin 2017 Provost Began 2017-18
every semester
Offer min. 1 Elective/sem. Annually Provost Began 2013
Offer every class at least Annually Provost Began 2013
once every 4 semesters
Deliver instruction face-to- Annually Provost Began 2013
face on-site every semester
Offer Continuing Education Review CEU organizations for 2015 Provost Initiated summer
credit for BC courses options, select one, pursue 2015
relationship, and implement
CEU credits as an option.
Establish relationship with 2015 Provost Approved Nov 2015,
the Association of Christian 1st credits given Dec
Schools International (ACSI) 2015
to offer CEU credit for TBS BC
courses.
Evaluate the entire scope, Conduct research, suggest 2016-17 Admin. Completed review
design, and delivery of the BC improvements based on Faculty May 2017
program research, formulate plans, Students
implement plans Alumni Implemented with
Fall 2017 semester
• Refine BC CORE to: Aim to President
implement by Provost
o Bible Study Methods
Fall 2017
o OT I, II, and III
o NT I and II
• Add “Bible Panorama” as
CORE 14-wk launch course
to provide overall Bible
framework perspective
14 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryObjective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
(cont) • Maintain total classroom President Complete
contact hours but lengthen Provost
course sessions and
decrease number of Fall 2017
classes to 8 weeks to help
accommodate two 8-week
sessions per semester
• Add graduate courses as Added 15 auditors to
Fall 2017
electives for $250 audit grad classes
• Deliver new BC program
Fall 2017 Distributed to 150+
book to all BC students
BC students
• Add new adjuncts to Fall 2017
accommodate growth 6 new adjuncts
• Partner with other
Spring 2018 Partnered w/Reasons
churches and ministries to
to Believe to offer
produce select BC classes
“God & Science”
Expand access to BC program Offer BC courses in other Provost
content languages President
• Spanish Fall 2015 Began Fall 2015
Offer BC courses physically in @Location YR began
other locations (Remote • Katy/W Houston
Instructional Locations): @TBS 2012
@GFUMC 2014
• Katy/W Houston Fall 2014 @Kingsland 2015
• NW Houston Fall 2016 @COTHA 2017
• SW Houston Fall 2017 @Ecclesia 2018
• IBC (San Antonio) Spring 2019 @Mission Bend ‘18
• SE Houston Fall 2019 @Parkway 2018
• NE Houston Fall 2020 • NW Houston
• Austin, TX Fall 2021 @Faithbridge 2016
@The Brook 2016
@Windwood 2018
• SW Houston
@SLFC 2017
@COLW 2018
• San Antonio
@MCF 2017
Explore offering BC courses Fall 2018 Tested synchronous
online delivery in Fall 2017,
on hold
Explore offering BC classes or 2018-20
derivative seminars for Exploring
camps, retreats, trips
15 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryObjective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Offer GRADUATE degree Graduate first degree class by May 17, 2015 Administration Complete
programs that walk students May 2015
through all 66 books of the
Bible. Begin with Master of Explore instructional plan Fall 2016 Provost Began Fall 2016
Divinity (MDiv) and consider options offering classes
adding other programs. during nights and weekends
Network with local, national, Annually Provost Ongoing since
and international ministries 2013
to incorporate additional
teaching sites and guest
speakers into the program
Offer select class(es) online Begin 2016 Administration Offered online to
synchronously (live) and Faculty remote students:
record for potential Provost F 2016, SFM 501
asynchronous delivery (on S 2017, SFM 502
demand) S 2017, THE 511
F 2017, THE 520
S 2018, THE 502
S 2018, THE 510
F 2018, GRK 501
F 2018, SFM 506
F 2018, THE503
Offer additional graduate Add Master of Arts (MA)
degrees that are shorter and program President Began Spring
2014-15
provide elective options Provost 2015
Offer a program to meet the Add Dual Degree Completion
need of prospective (DD) program
graduate students who have President Began Spring
2014-15
not yet completed an Provost 2015
undergraduate degree
Offer options for prospects Add Licensed Professional
who may not want or need a (LP) program
President
degree, but who want core 2014-15 Began Fall 2015
Provost
training
Offer STUDY TOURS for Conduct Holy Land study Began 2015 Administration Trips conducted
additional learning trips regularly with TBS • Jan 2015
opportunities students, family and friends Annually • May/Jun 2018
starting 2018
Scheduled
• May/Jun 2019
• May/Jun 2020
• May/Jun 2021
• May/Jun 2022
Offer study trips to other 2019 Administration Exploring
historical/religious locations
in the U.S. and abroad
16 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryObjective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Offer graduate courses, and Begin by offering LP classes in NW Houston
eventually entire programs, in regional proximity locations to President @Faithbridge
other physical locations attract student body for
potential MA and MDiv Complete:
• Other Houston regions 2016 F 2016, SFM 501
• Other Texas regions 2020 S 2017, SFM 502
• Other states 2022 F 2017, PAS 501
S 2018, PAS 511
Scheduled:
F 2018, BSM 501
F 2018, SFM 500
S 2019, THE 510
F 2019, PRE 501
S 2020, THE 501
Assess graduate degree • Match Bible book(s) with Review Provost Ongoing since
courses, programs, and appropriate course(s) every course 2012
schedules • Examine course content every
relative to overall programs semester
• Determine most effective
ways to deliver content
Offer some interchangeable Fall 2017 Provost Began Fall 2017
course options for degrees
Review entire MA program 2017-18 President Completed
• Assess Bible books matches, Provost Spring 2018
course offerings, and Faculty
content Students Switched some
• Explore number of credit Staff Bible book
hours/courses required Board matches, added
o MDiv and changed
o MA some courses
o LP
• Explore possible MA majors Reduced MDiv to
o Biblical History and 84 credit hours
Archaeology (MABHA)
o Biblical Languages and Added MA
Culture (MABLC) majors:
o Biblical Studies (MABS) • MABHA, 60 hrs
o Church History and • MABLC, 54 hrs
Theology (MACHT) • MABS, 60 hrs
o Biblical Counseling • MACHT, 48 hrs
(MABC)
o Christian Education Increased LP
(MACE) from 8 to 9
• Review assessment criteria courses
and methods
Add Capstone
class to MA and
MDiv programs
17 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryEnrollment
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Averages
Establish a healthy Provost YR BC F,S|G F, S
baseline student 12 11,18 | 9, 9
enrollment in each Enroll per CLASS: By: 13 10,12 |15,12
class and program • 10 2014-15 14 14,13 |13,15
• 12 2015-16 15 14,15 | 5, 6
• 10 2016-17 16 12,12 | 5, 7
• 10 2017-18 17 14, 9 | 9, 6
• 12 2018-19 18
• 14 2019-20 19
Enroll LP PROGRAM By: LP Actual
• 3 2014-15 15 = 3
• 5 2015-16 16 = 11
• 7 2016-17 17 = 8
• 9 2017-18 18 =
• 11 2018-19 19 =
• 13 2019-20
Enroll MA PROGRAM By: MA Actual
• 1 2015-16 15 = 3
• 3 2016-17 16 = 4
17 = 9
• 5 2017-18
18 =
• 7 2018-19
19 =
• 9 2019-20
Enroll MDiv By: MDiv Actual
• 25 2012-13 12 = 11
• 25 2013-14 13 = 16
• 25 2014-15 14 = 17
• 25 2015-16 15 = 7
• 25 2016-17 16 = 5
• 25 2017-18 17 = 9
• 25 2018-19 18 =
• 25 2019-20 19 =
Expand to additional Add: By: President Added:
PROGRAM locations 1 new location 2016 Provost 16 Faithbridge
where at least 15 new 2 new locations 2020
students commit to 3 new locations 2024
enroll in the program
18 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryStaffing
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Employ FULL-TIME staff to Retain a President (CEO) Annually Board of Trustees Since 2011
help lead the seminary with
annual renewal contracts Retain a Provost (CAO) Annually President Oct 2015
offered each June-May Jan 2017
Retain a Faculty Dean Annually President Jan 2012
(Disability
Nov 2016)
Hire a Full-time Faculty 2017 President/Provost Jul 2017
Hire a Director of Inst. Adv. 2018-19 President On hold
Hire a Full-time Faculty 2019 President/Provost (Jan 2019)
Hire a BC Director 2020 President/Provost
Employ PART-TIME staff to Communications Director Annually President Aug 2012
help manage the seminary Aug 2015
with annual renewal contracts None 16-18
offered each June-May (other
than seasonal employees, Admin. Assistant/Librarian Annually President Jan 2012
such as Summer Interns) Vol. 2018
Administrative Coordinator Annually President Jul 2012
Aug 2014
Mar 2015
Summer Intern(s) As needed President May 2014
Business Manager 2015 President Aug 2016
Communications Coord. 2017 President Aug 2017
Marketing Coord. 2017 President Aug 2017
Finance Administrator 2018 President May 2018
Development Director 2019 President
Registrar 2020 President
Secure regular part-time VP Finance/Administration Annually President Aug 2010
VOLUNTEERS to help with Finance Administrator Annually VP Finance/Adm. Jan 2014
seminary administration Librarian Annually President Jan 2018
Secure seasonal part-time Annual Banquet Team Annually Board Chair 2014, 17
VOLUNTEERS to help with
various events and projects Communications Assistant(s) Annually Com. Director May 2014
Employ sufficient ADJUNCT Classes per semester, BC | G By: Provost Actual
FACULTY to help teach current • 3|5 2012-13 12 3, 3 | 5, 5
program courses • 4|5 2013-14 13 6, 5 | 5, 5
• 5|5 2014-15 14 5, 4 | 7, 5
• 6|6 2015-16 15 6, 5 | 5, 6
• 7|6 2016-17 16 5, 4 | 6, 5
• 8|6 2017-18 17 9, 8 | 7,10
• 9|5 2018-19 18
Employ additional ADJUNCT Hire Hispanic faculty for 2015 Provost 1 Fall 2015
FACULTY to teach new classes Bible Certificate program +1 Sp 2018
+ 1 F 2018
19 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryFinances
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Preliminary and final Preliminary approval None Ongoing
VP Fin/Admin
Maintain an Annual budget approvals by prior to June 1, each since 2010
Staff
Operating Budget Board year; final approval
Board Finance
in September, after
Committee
enrollment finalized
Review and update each Annually each None Ongoing
VP Fin/Admin
Maintain a 5-year year; prepare detailed January since 2010
Staff
financial plan summary/assumptions
Board Finance
for each line item, as
Committee
necessary
Set tuition and fees to Annually President Possible Ongoing
Review tuition and reflect market VP Fin/Admin minimal since 2011
fees schedule consistency and meet Bus. Manager expense for
operational solvency Provost market analysis
Board
Distribute invoices Notify students of Monthly in Postage Ongoing
Business
and statements to payments due conjunction with since 2012
Manager,
students semester schedules
Admin. Coord.
Assist students with Provide procedural Annually Minimal, for Ongoing
fundraising guidance and resource copying/printing since 2012
Provost
materials to students materials and
postage
Host large Provide TBS updates and Bi-annually $16,000-20,000 9/21/14
celebration solicit donor support beginning in 2014 1/27/17
Board
banquet (2/8/19)
Host smaller info Provide TBS updates and Bi-annually $2000 Date, # Attended
meetings solicit donor support beginning in 2018 3/24/18, 34
Administration 4/21/18, 26
(off-set from Board
banquet years)
Conduct financial Audit financial Annual audit $6,000 per year Ongoing
audit statements • Approve auditor since 2012
Board Audit
selection in Spring
Committee,
• Begin after May
VP Fin/Admin
31 close each year
Bus. Man.
• Complete by Nov
1
Complete annual File Form 990 By Oct 15 each year VP Fin/Admin, Postage Ongoing
IRS filings Bus. Man. since 2011
Engage in major Raise per year: By: Actual
fundraising to help $ 500,000 2014 14 = $367
fund the TBS $ 600,000 2015 15 = $455
Board
mission $ 700,000 2016 16 = $568
President
$ 800,000 2017 17 = $553
$ 900,000 2018 18 = $613
$1,000,000 2019 19 =
Subscribe to Access online fundraising By 2013 Since 2013
President
FoundationSearch resources
20 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryFacilities
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Review main campus facilities Assure consistency of Annually Ongoing since
adequacy, maintenance, and facilities with current 2012
President
obsolescence and immediate
VP Fin/Admin
demands, based on
enrollment/programs
Forecast long-range plans for Determine space Annually Board Campus 2008 GFUMC
main campus requirements for Development 2012 GSWEC
seminary activities Committee
Fire/safety inspections Operability and Monthly Minimal, for Ongoing,
adequacy of smoke replacement procedure
detectors, fire VP Fin/Admin of obsolete documented
extinguishers, equipment
evacuation plans, etc.
Secure extension sites to teach Cultivate LOCAL sites and Annually Class locations
both Bible Certificate and ministry partners (not counting
graduate courses, including Israel):
both individual class sessions, Cultivate REGIONAL sites 2014, 21
as well as entire courses and ministry partners President 2017, 37
Provost 2018, 42
Cultivate NATIONAL sites
and ministry partners (see BC and
Graduate
sections)
The Bible Seminary’s main campus facilities consist of leased space with two classrooms (270 = 40
seats, 250 = 32 seats), a Library/Boardroom (14-20 seat capacity), six individual office spaces plus a 3-desk
shared office area, a reception area, and access to common restroom facilities. Total simultaneous capacity
on the main campus approximates 86 - 92 students in three classrooms.
Bible Certificate courses begin 2008 hosted in various available local church facilities, mostly at Grace
Fellowship United Methodist Church. In preparation for launching the Master of Divinity program in
September 2012, TBS initially secured temporary office, library and single classroom space at 2655 S Mason
Rd, Katy, TX 77450, on the grounds of the Great Southwest Equestrian Center (GSWEC) via a 3-year lease
from the GSWEC. The original footprint aimed to meet the seminary’s initial 1-3 year needs.
Preliminary work on TBS future facility needs and options for campus development began in 2011, with
a formal Campus Development Committee (CDC), consisting of TBS trustees, established by the TBS Board
in 2012. The CDC charge was to evaluate near term and intermediate future facility needs and the strategy
by which to provide such facilities. In November, 2012 the CDC presented to the Board a comprehensive
strategy to assess future facility needs, evaluate various options, and exercise good stewardship in guiding
TBS into the next phase of campus development. The strategy included maintaining relationship with the
current lessor and evaluating expansion of existing leased space as opportunities became available.
A March 2013 opportunity to expand the then current lease and acquire additional adjacent classroom
space within the same building complex became available. The CDC reviewed this option with the Board on
March 3, 2013, including current capacities and demands, various enrollment based projections for future
space needs, and an overview of the flexibility that additional space would provide.
TBS signed a revised lease for these facilities that extended through July 2018, then signed a new lease
extension for these same facilities through July 2020.
Documentation related to this section includes lease documents, facility inspection records, and Board
Development Committee meeting minutes, all available on file in the TBS offices on campus.
21 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryPolicies and Procedures
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Provide the five handbooks Administrative Policies All reviewed VP Fin/Admin Since 2012
required for TRACS and Procedures and updated
accreditation by 2014, then
Board Handbook annually Board Chair Since 2013
Faculty Handbook Provost Since 2013
Student Catalog President Since 2012
Provost
Student Handbook (Combined President Since 2018
with Catalog Provost
until 2018)
Institute a Comprehensive Write CAP By 2014 Administration Since May
Assessment Plan (CAP) 2014
Implement In 2014
Evaluate and improve Annually
Conduct Annual reviews in (see CAP for details and Annually Administration Since 2014
every area in accordance with schedules)
the CAP
Institute a Comprehensive Write CSP By 2014 Administration Completed
Strategic Plan (CSP) Sep 2014
Implement In 2014 Began 2014
Review, evaluate and Annually Feb 2015
improve the plan during Board Feb 2016
Strategic Feb 2017
Planning Feb 2018
Retreat
22 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryAccreditation
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Prepare for TRACS application • Complete the 10 IER’s Fall 2014 President Submitted
(Institutional Eligibility Provost • Jul 2015
Requirements) Summer • On hold
2015 due to $
concerns
Summer
2017 Resubmitted
• Jul 2017
Approved
• Jan 2018
Apply for TRACS Applicant • Submit TRACS “Applicant Fall 2014 President $6,000 Submitted
status Institutional Profile” Sum. 2017 Provost • May 2015
Win. 2017-18 • Jul 2017
• Jan 2018
Approved
• Jan 2018
Attend TRACS Annual • Send TBS representative Annually President $3,000 Attended
Conferences each Fall • Oct 2013
Engage in additional TRACS • Submit Self-study Proposal Jan 2018 President $2,000 Jan 2018
accreditation processes to • Initial TRACS staff visit Mar 2018 Mar 2018
move from Applicant to • Conduct Self-study #1 Mid-2018 In process
Candidate to Accredited • Submit Self-study Report #1 Fall 2018
status • Host Evaluation Team #1 Nov 2018 $9,000
• Appear TRACS Commission $3,500
Apr 2019
• Pay TRACS Fees for $19,000
Apr 2019
Candidate status
• TRACS Staff visit for $2,000
May 2019
Candidate status
• Conduct Self-study #2 Sum. 2019
• Submit Self-study report #2 Fall 2019
$9,000
• Host Evaluation Team #2 Nov 2019
$3,500
• Appear TRACS Commission Apr 2020
$19,050
• Pay TRACS fees for Apr 2020
Accredited status
Explore additional options for Explore pursuing accreditation (After TRACS President and On hold
accreditation and association with the Association of accreditation) Provost
Theological Schools (ATS)
Explore pursuing accreditation (After ATS President and On hold
with the Southern Association accreditation) Provost
of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Apply for membership with the 2018 President and In process
Evangelical Council for Financial Provost
Accountability (EFCA)
23 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryAlumni
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status
Establish a communication Employ online resources to Annually in Spiritual $0 Initiated
system to engage, highlight, establish connections with SFM 505 class Formation and May 2015
and support TBS Alumni TBS alumni Ministry faculty
• TBS website - assist
current students in setting
up and learning how to
manage and update their
personal profiles online
• Social media sites – form
groups and pages and
establish links to students
(Facebook, Google+,
LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.)
Select officers (President, Annually in Spiritual $0 Began 2018
Vice-President, and SFM 505 class Formation and
Secretary/Treasurer) from Ministry faculty
among graduates to serve as
representatives (i.e.
intermediaries between the
school and alumni)
Include alumni highlights and Annually or Communications $0 Began 2015
updates in The Sentinel bi-annually staff
Post alumni highlights and Regularly Communications $0 Began 2015
updates online in social staff
media posts
Conduct alumni interviews Phone, email, personal visits Annually Provost $0 Began 2015
for support/encouragement
Conduct electronic surveys By 2015
Send survey to all alumni:
• Within two months of Annually
graduating each summer
• After one year
• After every five years
24 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible SeminaryYou can also read
