Fellowship Institute of Biblical Studies

Growing and Preparing Disciple Makers for Christ

Why a Bible Institute?

The local church has a biblical responsibility to train and equip faithful believers for the work of ministry. As Scripture teaches:

“And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”
— 2 Timothy 2:2

“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to answer every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”
— 1 Peter 3:15

At Fellowship Baptist Church, the Bible Institute exists to partner with pastors and educators to grow and prepare disciple-makers. Our goal is to provide high-quality biblical education not only for college credit but also for high school dual credit and for anyone within the church seeking hands-on, practical discipleship training.

How to Register

1. Fill out the FBC Registration Form

2. Apply through IBCS.edu

Select “Bible Certificate” as your intended program

Please note: if you are auditing the class, you do not need to register through IBCS.

3. Purchase Textbooks:

1. There Really Is a Difference! A Comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology
2. Has the Church Replaced Israel?: A Theological Evaluation

This Year’s Course

dispensationalism 

In partnership with International Baptist College & Seminary
Instructor: Pastor Nathan Mestler (President of IBCS)

Course Description:

This course provides a comprehensive study of dispensationalism as a framework for understanding the unfolding of God's plan for all of human history. Students will explore the grand narrative of Scripture -past, present, and future- examining how God's purposes progress through distinct dispensations. Special emphasis will be placed on the biblical covenants and their role in the outworking of God's plan, from creation to consummation. The course will address key theological themes, interpretive principles, and eschatological and ecclesiological implications, equipping students to grasp the unity and diversity within God's dealings with humanity. By the end of the course, students will appreciate how dispensationalism illuminates the total picture of biblical history, future prophecy, and where they fit in God's big plan.

Class Details:

When: Wednesday nights, 7:00–9:00 PM

Dates: January 14 –May 6

Where: Fellowship Baptist Church

Professor: Pastor Nathan Mestler

Audit Cost: $100 (Financial Aid Available — See Pastor Jeff)

Credit Cost: First class is FREE!  Returning students taking the class for credit will be $470

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who can participate in the class?
A: Anyone! Students must be at least a high school freshman (9th grade) to take the class for credit. Others are welcome to audit or join for personal enrichment.

Q: How do I register for credit?
A: Apply through IBCS.edu and select the Bible Certificate program. A pastoral recommendation is required. See Pastor Jeff for guidance, if needed.

Q: Are there handouts or class materials?
A: Yes, weekly materials will be available through our Learning Management System (LMS). All tests and resources will be hosted there. The handouts will be delivered weekly.

Q: Will there be textbooks?
A: Yes. Two required books:

There Really Is a Difference! A Comparison of Covenant and Dispensational Theology

Has the Church Replaced Israel?: A Theological Evaluation

Q: Can I make up a missed class?
A: Yes, videos will be posted weekly via the LMS. If you miss a session, you can watch the recording and email Pastor Mestler to confirm completion. Make-ups should be reserved for necessary absences.

Q: How do I pay if I audit the course?
A: The church will collect payments and submit a single payment to IBCS. (Audit cost: $100 — financial aid available through Fellowship Baptist Church. See Pastor Jeff.)
Students taking the class for credit will be billed directly through the LMS system.

Q: Will the class be available via video?
A: Yes. Each week’s class video will be posted through the LMS for review or makeup.

Questions?

Email: jnaljbh@gmail.com