Eschatology

This course teaches the biblical books of Daniel and Revelation along with other sections of prophetic scripture and emphasizes essential doctrines such as the return of Christ, the final judgment, and the eternal kingdom of God.

Explanations and Directions for Class Leaders

The lessons have various lengths, and some of them have controversial topics. To cover one lesson in each class session may not always be possible. If a lesson is not finished in a class session, the class leader should be prepared to introduce the lesson again and finish it in the next session.

There are many different opinions about the topics covered in this course. The class leader should realize that it may be impossible to discuss a topic until everyone agrees. When a topic is covered adequately, the group should move on to the next topic. The class leader should not allow students to become angry and accusing in the discussions.

Notes to class leaders are included throughout the course with directions for specific parts of the lessons. They are italicized.

The symbol ► indicates a discussion question. The class leader should ask the question and give the students time to discuss the answer. If the same student usually answers first, or if some students do not speak up, the leader can direct the question to someone: “Igor, how would you answer this question?”

Much Scripture is used in the course. Scripture that should be read aloud during the class time are indicated in the text. At other times Scripture references are given in parentheses in the text. For example: (1 Corinthians 12:15). Those references are support for the statements in the text. It is not necessary to always read the passages in the parentheses.

Occasionally there is a block quote from a theologian. When the class comes to a block quote, the class leader could ask a student to read and explain the quote. We do not necessarily agree with everything that these theologians taught, but we can learn from them.

Each lesson ends with assignments. Assignments should be completed and reported before the next lesson time. If a student does not complete an assignment, he can do it later.  However, the leader should encourage students to keep on schedule so that they learn more from the class.

At the beginning of each class session the class leader should collect written assignments from the previous lesson. At times, the leader may ask a few students to share about what they wrote for their assignments.

One of the purposes of the course is to prepare students to become teachers. The class leader should give students opportunities to develop their teaching skills. For example, the class leader should occasionally let a student teach a short section of the lesson to the class.

If the student wants to earn a certificate from Shepherds Global Classroom, he should attend the class sessions and complete the assignments. A form is provided at the end of the course for recording the assignments completed.