Vision School of Missions

Formerly the Our Generation Training Center

Biblical Teaching | Practical Training | Personal Mentoring | Overseas Internship

Training Plan

VSM offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Studies in Missions. Students must complete the prescribed coursework filled with biblical teaching, practical training, personal mentoring, and an overseas internship. Each year consists of two seventeen-week sememters followed by a six-month internship. Completion takes three and a half years if fulfilled consecutively. Students may enter the program at the beginning of any semester.

Biblical Teaching

Students in VSM will be taught the Scriptures. The Bible is our source for growth in spiritual matters. Students will learn and observe doctrine. Teaching at VSM is not just head knowledge; it works out in practice. Students will learn how to live cross-culturally, which is vital for missionaries. Below is a list of courses that students will take at VSM:

BIBL 100 Pentateuch

A study of the first 5 books of the Old Testament. In this course, students learn the history and implications of God’s revelation of creation, the fall of man, the redemption of man promised in the Abrahamic covenant, the foundation of the nation of Israel, God’s divine rescue out of Egypt, and the law for Israel to live as God’s chosen witnesses to a world steeped in sin. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

BIBL 110 Old Testament Historical Books

This course is a study of the historical books in the Old Testament from the entrance into the promised land and the establishment of the kingdom to the exile and restoration. In this course, students will see the character of God as He interacts with mankind and the nation of Israel. Students will not only develop a deeper understanding of the biblical narrative but also uncover valuable lessons about leadership, faith, and the unfolding of God’s plan throughout history. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

BIBL 120 Old Testament Poetic Books

A study of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. Students will learn how to analyze, interpret, and apply the lessons of wisdom, lament, worship and praise from these poetic books. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

BIBL 130 Old Testament Prophetic Books

 This course offers an exploration of the prophetic books in the Old Testament. Students will gain insights into the prophetic messages, historical contexts, and theological significance of these texts. The prophetic books provide an understanding of God’s communication with His people, addressing issues of justice, repentance, and divine redemption. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

BIBL 150 Gospels and Acts

This course offers a comprehensive study of the four gospel records (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) and the Book of Acts from the New Testament. Students will explore the life, teachings, and ministry of Jesus Christ as depicted in the Gospels. Along with a historical presentation of the early church in the Book of Acts, students will consider the implications for church-planting and missionary work. Credit hours: 3 Prerequisites: none

BIBL 160 Pauline Epistles I (Romans to 2 Corinthians)

This course offers an examination of the rich theological content, historical contexts, and cultural relevance of the biblical books from Romans through 2 Corinthians. Students will gain a deep understanding of the apostle Paul’s teachings on faith, grace, and the Christian life, as well as his interactions with the churches at Rome and Corinth.  Participants will explore the practical implications of these texts for contemporary Christian faith and practice. Credit hours: 3 Prerequisites: none

BIBL 161 Pauline Epistles II (Galatians to Philemon)

This course examines the theology, context, and application of the biblical books from Galatians through Philemon. Students will gain a deep understanding of the apostle Paul’s teachings on false doctrine, the church, the home, the return of Christ, and the Christian life.  Participants will explore the practical implications of these texts for local church ministry and leadership. Credit hours: 3 Prerequisites: none

BIBL 170 General Epistles (Hebrews to Jude)

A course offering a detailed examination of the biblical books from Hebrews through Jude. The epistles are classed as “general” because they are from various authors and not addressed to a specific church.  Students will explore the historical contexts, theological themes, and practical implications presented in these books. Credit hours: 3 Prerequisites: none

INTN 191, 192, 291, 292, 391, 392 Local Church Internship:

The most important part of the OGTC program is practical training in a local church. The goal is to give our students something more than theory. Students will either serve in their local church or a church in the area with whom the OGTC has a training partnership. Students will be mentored by church leaders and participate in many aspects of local church life. Credit hours: 1 Prerequisites: none 

INTN 400 Missions Internship (6 months)

The international internship provides the opportunity for students to train for the mission field while on the mission field. This practical overseas experience gives students a great perspective on and heart for world evangelism, whether they go on to be missionaries or not. Students will learn to raise support to fund the cost of their internship expenses. Each internship occurs under the personal supervision of a VBM missionary or another approved missionary, church or ministry. Credit hours: 24 Prerequisites: 30 credits and Administrative Approval

INTN 401, 402 Missions Internship (3 months)

The international internship provides the opportunity for students to train for the mission field while on the mission field. This practical overseas experience gives students a great perspective on and heart for world evangelism, whether they go on to be missionaries or not. Students will learn to raise support to fund the cost of their internship expenses. Each internship occurs under the personal supervision of a VBM missionary or another approved missionary, church, or ministry. Credit hours: 12 Prerequisites: 30 credits and Administrative Approval

MISS 101-106 Missions Class

This course is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of Christian missions by exploring various topics such as church planting, character development, leader training, and language learning.  There will be various instructors having significant missions experience teaching in an open discussion format. May be repeated up to 6 credits. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MISS 120 Introduction to Missions

An introduction to the biblical and practical aspects of missions. Students will develop a biblical theology of mission as well as explore indigenous church-planting and the priority of leader training. Credit hours:2 Prerequisites: none

MISS 130 History of Missions:

This course explores and evaluates key historical events and movement in missions’ history, highlighting the biographies of important missionaries. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MISS 201 Church Planting & Leader Training I

This course introduces students to the major aspects of church-planting, from birth to independence. The principles of this course apply to both cross-cultural and domestic contexts. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MISS 202 Church Planting & Leader Training II

This course builds upon the principles introduced in MISS 201. Students will study the multiplication principles of both Jesus and Paul, gaining valuable insights into how missionaries can effectively fulfill the Great Commission in our generation. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: MISS 201

MISS 210 Spiritual Warfare

This course exposes students to the reality of spiritual warfare in our world and in the ministry. The course will equip student with scriptural tools for victory. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MISS 220 Deputation & Personal Finance

This course is specialized to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective deputation and stewardship.  This course will not only focus on the practical aspects of raising partners in the ministry but also emphasize responsible personal financial planning and distribution of ministry resources. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 101-106 Chapel

This course allows students to engage in planning, organizing, and leading weekly chapel services within an academic setting. The course encourages students to develop and enhance their spiritual growth, leadership skills, and ability to create meaningful worship experiences for the student body, as well as hear encouraging preaching from faculty, missionaries, and pastors. May be repeated up to 3 credits. Credit hours: 0.5 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 110 Personal Evangelism

This class is designed to challenge every student to take the Great Commission personally. In this course a variety of principles and methods for evangelism are explored. Students learn to share the Gospel as well as how to equip others for the work of personal evangelism. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 120 Discipleship

This course studies what the Bible has to say about the importance and impact of discipleship. The course explores the what, why, and how of discipleship. Students will recognize the need to invest their lives into another person for the furtherance of the Gospel. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 200 Christian Home

This course examines the Biblical view of family life, focusing on the principles and practices that contribute to a strong and God-honoring Christian home, with emphasis on how to integrate family and ministry responsibilities. Credit hours: 1 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 210 Disciplines of a Godly Man (Men)

This course is specifically designed for men, to deepen their understanding and practice of spiritual disciplines as they relate to personal character development, leadership, and service. It will prepare them to be approved men of God, ready to serve and teach others. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 220 Spiritual Leadership (Men)

This course will explore the character, skills, and practices of a spiritual leader, especially as it relates to discipling and training others. Credit hours: 1 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 230 Church Administration (Men)

This course is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required for effective church administration. The ability to manage and lead a church as well as train others to do this is vital for successful ministry and missionary endeavors. The course will cover foundational principles as well as practical areas such as church governance, budgeting, ordinances, planning, technology, weddings and funerals, and business meetings. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 250 Disciplines of a Godly Woman (Women):

This course is specifically designed for women, to deepen their understanding and practice of spiritual disciplines as they relate to personal character development, leadership, and service. It will give direction and guidance into becoming a God-fearing woman whom God is preparing for a purposeful life. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 260 Biblical Womanhood (Women)

This course is designed to instruct young ladies on what the Bible specifically teaches about womanhood. Students will understand the purpose God has for them as women, discover how they fit into His plan, learn practical ways to live a life surrendered to His plan and influence others through their actions, words, and attitudes.  Credit hours: 1 Prerequisites: none

MTRY 270 Home Administration (Women)

This course is designed to equip young women with essential knowledge and practical skills for everyday life, including home care and safety, health and hygiene, and family organization and budgeting. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

TEAC 100 Hermeneutics I

Biblical hermeneutics is the science of Bible study. Hermeneutics seeks to bridge the gap between the ancient biblical world and the modern one, providing a framework for interpreting the Bible’s teachings in a way that is faithful to its original intent while addressing the needs and questions of today’s believers. This course is an introduction to hermeneutical principles. It actively engages students in the practice of interpreting the Bible using trustworthy principles. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

TEAC 110 Homiletics I (Men)

This course studies the techniques of sermon preparation and delivery which include selecting and interpreting the text, forming objectives, structuring for content and style, and delivering with clarity. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

TEAC 150 Teaching the Bible I (Women)

This course prepares women to be able to teach the Bible to women and young people. It will explain how to study a Bible passage, prepare a lesson, and apply it to the hearers. Various methods of teaching and illustrating Bible truths will be explored. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

TEAC 200 Hermeneutics II

A continuation of Hermeneutics I. Students continue to develop their skill in interpreting the Bible using the trustworthy hermeneutical principles introduced in the prior course. Specific emphasis will be given to treatment of a variety types of Biblical literature.  Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: TEAC 100

TEAC 210 Homiletics II (Men)

This course focuses on the heart and character of the preacher as well as essential skills for effective expository preaching and spirit-filled delivery. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

TEAC 220 Biblical Counseling I

This introductory course provides the fundamentals of biblical counseling. It grows students in their confidence to apply Scripture for the purpose of addressing individual life issues. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

TEAC 221 Biblical Counseling II

This advanced course is designed to build on the fundamentals of biblical counseling. Students will analyze and apply Scripture to specific counseling situations. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: TEAC 220

TEAC 250 Teaching the Bible II (Women)

This course further prepares women how to teach the Bible to women and young people. It will focus on the heart and character of women who teach the Bible as well as essential skills for effective expository teaching and spirit-filled delivery. Credit hours: 2 Prerequisites: none

THEO 201 Theology I

This course is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of Christian beliefs and doctrines.  It examines the doctrines of the Bible (Bibliology), of God (Theology Proper), and of Christ (Christology). Credit hours: 3 Prerequisites: none

THEO 202 Theology II

This course continues the study of foundational Christian beliefs and doctrines. The focus will be on the doctrines of the Holy Spirit (Pneumatology), of Man (Anthropology), of Sin (Hamartiology), and of Salvation (Soteriology).  Credit hours: 3 Prerequisites: none

THEO 203 Theology III

This course further explores foundational Christian beliefs and doctrines, with a focus on the doctrines of the Church (Ecclesiology), of Angels (Angelology), and of End Times (Eschatology).  The study of End Times will include an investigation of the major views on end-time events with a special emphasis on comparing and analyzing the prophetic portions of Daniel and all of Revelation. Credit hours: 3 Prerequisites: none

THEO 204 Theology IV

This course evaluates the Bible with a particular focus on the unique theological perspectives and distinctives of the Baptist tradition.  The study is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of Baptist theology and its relevance in the context of contemporary theological debates. Credit hours: 3 Prerequisites: none

Practical Training

Our goal is to give our students something more than theory. We provide hands-on practice. Before graduating, we expect our students to preach or teach, to see the lost saved, to make disciples, and to be used by God in the ministry. Below are some ways that students get involved in practical training:

Local Church Involvement

The most important part of VSM training is serving in a local church. Students who are members of a church that is not local to the VSM are required to get involved in a local church in the area that is in agreement with the doctrinal beliefs of Vision School of Missions and with whom VSM has a training partnership. Recommendations for and introductions to local churches will be made by the Administration. At the beginning of each semester, students should inform the Administration about what church they will be attending and how they will be serving in that church.

Upon request, the Administration may offer suggestions to pastors of churches where students are members or who desire to establish a training partnership regarding how they can partner with VSM in training students for ministry. These suggestions may include:

  1. Introducing students to every area of the church’s ministry.
  2. Allowing students to participate in things like mission conference planning, business meetings, Sunday school administration, children and teen ministries, bus ministry, evangelism, discipleship, summer camp, music, etc.
  3. Allowing male students to administer (or assist with) the Lord’s Supper, to baptize, to preach, and to teach. Allowing female students to teach children or ladies.

Training Expectations

During their time in Vision School of Missions, students are expected to aim to do the following so that they are better prepared for the ministry God has for them:

  1. Preach or teach at least 100 times publicly.
  2. Be faithfully involved in local church ministries.
  3. Be faithful to do outreach each week.
  4. Develop a habit of arriving at least 15 minutes early to all services.
  5. Finish 90 credit hours of class work with a satisfactory grade average before going on your internship.
  6. Present the gospel on a regular basis and, with God’s help, lead people to Christ.
  7. Be involved in discipling several adults.
  8. Read 50 books from VSM reading list and seek to discuss them with a member of the VSM Administration or Faculty.
  9. Male Students: Baptize a new convert.
  10. Male Students: Lead the Lord’s Supper.
  11. Complete a six-month internship on the foreign field.

Personal Mentoring

At Vision School of Missions, we have a philosophy of mentoring that we call “life-on-life discipleship.” We believe this method of training is very effective and a biblical pattern seen in the life of Jesus and the Apostle Paul. In his book Mentoring for Mission, Günter Krallman calls it “with-ness,” and we expect each student to seek out time with leaders and members of their local church, VSM Administration and Faculty, and other Godly Christians to learn, ask questions, and be mentored.

Overseas Internship

To graduate, VSM students must complete a six-month internship overseas. The goal is that they train for the field while on the field. We believe that this practical experience overseas gives all of our students, whether they go on to be missionaries, a great perspective on and heart for world evangelism.

Each internship will take place under the personal supervision of a VBM missionary or another missionary/church/ministry approved by the VSM Administration. A student’s internship will take place at the end of their time at VSM and will conclude with a Debrief Meeting with VSM Faculty at the VSM Campus.

Students will be given instruction in how to raise support. Their support will be handled through Vision Baptist Missions Home Office. Once they arrive back from their internship, the VBM Home Office will only handle student support for 30 days, unless they are accepted as a VBM missionary before the 30 days is completed.

Students who have completed their internship and plan to become missionaries with Vision Baptist Missions may request to attend the annual VBM Orientation to learn more about the work of Vision Baptist Missions.