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

3. Purchase Textbooks:

1. The Man Christ Jesus
2. Spiritual Gifts: What They Are and Why They Matter

This Year’s Course

The Theology of Jesus and the Holy Spirit

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

Course Description:
Explore the biblical truths of the person and work of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in this engaging and theological course. Students will study the essential doctrines of Christology and Pneumatology — diving into the deity and incarnation of Christ, and uncovering the ongoing ministry of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers and the Church.

Whether you’re preparing for ministry or simply seeking to deepen your faith, this course will guide you through foundational doctrines that shape Christian thought and life.

Class Details:

When: Wednesday nights, 7:00–9:00 PM

Dates: September 3 – December 3

Where: Fellowship Baptist Church

Professor: Pastor Nathan Mestler

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

Credit Cost: First class is FREE!

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:

The Man Christ Jesus

Spiritual Gifts: What They Are and Why They Matter

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
Call or Text: 208-869-6133 (Pastor Jeff)