INSTITUTE
spiritual equipping FOR all people
The Grace Institute seeks to provide theological formation, personal spiritual development, and leadership training for members of Grace Network churches. The program’s curriculum is aimed at helping men and women grow in their love for God, Scripture, and His mission. The class meets once a week over two 12-week semesters, with class sessions consisting of lectures, cohort discussion, and homework.
The Institute curriculum is built around three fundamental aspects of Christian discipleship: Hermeneutics, the Storyline of Scripture, and Systematic Theology. During the program, we’ll spend a significant amount of time developing skills in reading and interpreting the Bible through several lessons on biblical interpretation. We will also spend time in Scripture examining the story of how God came to establish His Kingdom from Old to New Testaments. Lastly, we will study the doctrines believers have held throughout the history of the church and we will consider together how our participation in the Christian story invites us into a life of worship and mission.
Additionally, participants will commit themselves to a rule of life in order to better pursue their commitment to Jesus and to the church community to which they belong. With accountability and support together, participants will commit to a rule of consistent church service, prayer, weekly sabbath observance, Scripture intake, commitment to good works, and commitment to charity towards other participants.
Registration for 24-25 is: CLOSED
Why an institute?
By providing this opportunity at the church level, the Institute allows participants of different life stages, experiences, and spiritual maturity to receive deep, embodied formation where God has already placed them — their churches, homes, schools, and workplaces. Participants can expect training similar to what is offered at a seminary level.
Who should apply for the institute?
Participation in the Institute is reserved for members of Grace Network churches. Ideal candidates are those who:
(a) Desire embodied theological training and spiritual formation with the support of the church. If you want high-level training in a communal context on how to understand the Bible and pursue spiritual disciplines, this program is for you.
(b) Have the time & space in their lives to do it. The commitment to prepare for and attend weekly meetings, along with fostering relationships with other participants, will require 3-5 hours each week. Participants who have margin in their lives — i.e. college students with a lighter course load, recent retirees and empty-nesters, or high-capacity learners — are ideal candidates for the program.
(c) Give careful consideration to the commitments involved. In God’s wisdom, He often places more or less responsibility before us to carry out in faithfulness. Depending on where God has you in life, you may be especially prepared, or not, to begin a program like this. Potential applicants should seek wisdom from others and be prayerful about whether entering this program is a faithful next step for them.
what are expectations of attendance and participation?
Students are expected to engage with all aspects of the Institute, making it a high but not impossible commitment. In order to foster a community of trust, attendance at class sessions and thoughtful participation in lectures, discussions, and assignments is required. Each student is permitted two absences per semester. When a student misses a class session they are required to complete all of the reading/assignments associated with that week. If a student misses more than two classes in a semester they will be dropped from the Institute and encouraged to enroll in the Institute at a future time. All other expectations are outlined in the syllabus.
how much does the institute cost?
Registration for the Institute is $250. This cost covers printed materials, required books, and other overhead costs. Registration will increase to $300 for registrants that apply less than one week before the program’s start date.
When and where are Institute meetings?
Meetings are on Monday evenings from 6-8pm. The fall meeting location is Grace Church Waco (4610 Bosque Blvd). The spring meeting location is TBD.
Will childcare be provided?
Yes, childcare will be provided for children of Institute participants.