WELCOME TO CHAFER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY We extend a ...

Page 6 Chafer Theological Seminary Catalog 2009-2011
I NTRODUCTION
CTS DISTINCTIVES
• Literal Hermeneutics. We apply a consistently literal (historical and grammatical) hermeneutic in
every section of Scripture.
• Emphasis on Greek and Hebrew Exegesis. We believe that teaching the Word of God from the
original languages best builds believers in the faith for fruitful service. Therefore, Greek and Hebrew
exegesis is foundational to our school’s educational program.
• The Sufficiency of Scriptures. We believe in the complete adequacy of Scripture, for in it God has
“given us all things that pertain to life and godliness.” We hold, therefore, that the Word of God by
itself is sufficient to prepare a person for a lifetime of effective ministry.
• Distinct Theology. As a result of our literal hermeneutic, we believe that Israel and the Church are
distinct entities forever and that God’s purpose in history is to bring glory to Himself.
• The Freeness of God’s Grace. We hold fast to “true grace”—that God saves mankind by grace
alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone. No works before, during, or after the moment of
initial faith in Christ contribute anything to the free gift of forgiveness and eternal life that one
receives through faith in Jesus Christ. The absence of good works during or after the moment of faith
subtracts nothing from one’s eternal position in Christ. However, good works determine whether a
believer will receive eternal rewards.
Brief History
HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY
The idea of Chafer Theological Seminary took shape in the minds of several seminary students between 1965
and 1968. They noticed that at many schools only the most gifted mastered the biblical languages to the
extent that they were able to use them as effective tools for a teaching ministry. Yet they believed it was
important for graduates to have these tools at their disposal. While finishing their academic requirements and
preparing for ordination, these students discussed the possibility of forming a seminary that would put a
focused emphasis on the original languages and exegesis.
In October 1992, several meetings took place during the National Teaching Pastors’ Conference in
Huntington Beach, California. These former students and other like-minded pastors, after considerable
discussion and prayer, determined that the time was ripe to start such a seminary. The Lord’s blessing was
evident in that gifted teachers, administrative support, access to superb libraries, and an excellent location
were immediately available.
Our Philosophy
We hold that a believer with the appropriate spiritual gifts at the time of new birth needs preparation for
ministry. Scripture reveals a pattern of God using prepared men and women. We see this pattern in the
examples of Moses, who did not begin his ministry until he was 80 years old, and Paul, who did not start his
first missionary journey until more than 10 years after his conversion.