“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”1 Timothy 2:15
The Thornapple Center for Biblical Studies is a church based training program committed to a biblical foundation of learning with a Reformed theological focus and practical discipleship. This is not a typical online study program as the courses and one year certificate program provide guided input from the instructors and graded assignments. Each course is supported by textbook assignments and lectures suited to the study. Instructors and board members hold advanced degrees in theology and history along with years of ministry experience.
The study program is designed for those desiring to become church leaders or are currently in ministry who want to further develop their theological knowledge and ministry education. Our online courses are convenient for those who are in full-time ministry or careers and unable to leave their local churches and communities. Along with the study center’s commitment to the Scriptures and historical doctrine, the leadership affirms the contemporary work of the Holy Spirit in the church and the world.
Students may choose from one of the individual courses offered below or the 12 month certificate program. The in-depth 12 month program will challenge and shape leadership development and is only available for the qualified learner. Since the study center is committed to the work of the local church it is important that non-ministry students obtain the recommendations of their pastors and elders. Click here to preview a few of our course lectures.
Application Requirements
Candidates are approved for a course of study after the application has been received and reviewed along with its recommendations.
Applicants will be expected to demonstrate traits of a growing follower of Christ, with commitment to their local church and its leadership.
Each potential student applying for the year-long study program must submit a theological essay of 1500 words based on a biblical subject in consultation with the director of the program. This essay is due at the beginning of the application process.
Those who use English as a second language must demonstrate proficiency in English in order to be accepted into the study center’s programs.
Courses Individual
Christian Foundations
Evangelism and Discipleship
Christian Worldview
Intro to the Old Testament
Into to the New Testament
Intro to Theology
Leadership Development
Cost of each course is $200.00, this does not include costs for the textbook material. Each course requires a 3 month commitment.
One Year Program Includes the following courses:
Intro to Doctrine and Theology
Intro to Biblical Intrepretation
Intro to the History of Christianity
Intro to the Old and New Testaments
The completion of the 12-month program leads to a certificate from Thornapple Center for Biblical Studies. Each applicant must give evidence of academic ability by providing a 1500 word essay, covering an agreed upon theological topic with the director. Total cost is $1,500 and does not include the text book material.
About the Director Gary Finkbeiner has more than 30 years of ministry experience in the areas of pastoral leadership and church planting. Currently, Gary is the founding president of Reach the Nations Ministries. He is currently working on an advance research degree with a concentration in Systematic Theology.
Calvin Theological Seminary: Master of Theological Studies degree in Theological Studies
Calvin College: Undergraduate Studies, Seminary Prerequisite Core Courses
Covenant Theological Seminary: Master of Divinity Studies in Soteriology and Missions Studies
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Gary Finkbeiner has more than 30 years of ministry experience in the areas of pastoral leadership and church planting. Currently, Gary is the founding president of Reach the Nations Ministries. He is currently working on an advance research degree with a concentration in Systematic Theology. 
