How the Protestant Reformers are Still Changing the World

Tag: Redeemer Theological Academy

“Kick-off Dinner” (Fall, 2024)

Sharing the vision for Redeemer Theological Academy for the new school year

Two weeks ago on Saturday, Sept. 21, Cheryl and I hosted a Fall “Kick-off dinner” in our home for all of the students and their spouses at Redeemer Theological Academy. It was a very a enjoyable gathering with excellent food, good fellowship, and an opportunity for all students to hear the plans for the new school year.

What exactly are our plans? In short, we anticipate adding a second teacher during the Winter term with a class on “New Testament Survey.” In addition, we plan to establish a “Chaplaincy” position to provide spiritual care for our students, and an “Academic Advisor” to assist with students who are writing research papers for the Certificate program. It should be an exciting year!

Currently, our class on “History of the Early Church” is in progress (Thursday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 AM). We have enjoyed a solid turnout averaging over twenty attendees each week. Three students are enrolled in our Certificate of Theological Studies program and making good progress. I also anticipate we will hold one or two “Crucial Question Seminars” over the Fall as well.

The Lord is with us! Thanks be to God!

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven, Director of Redeemer Theological Academy

An Update on Redeemer Theological Academy

In this picture we are discussing the importance of “by faith alone” (Sola Fide) and how Martin Luther came to that understanding as he studied Romans 1:16-17

Over the course of this Winter/Spring term I offered a class in theology on Thursday mornings (9:30-11:30 AM) sponsored by Redeemer Theological Academy. This course focused on the “Doctrine of Salvation.” Along with my teaching times, we worked our way through J. I. Packer’s well-regarded book, Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God, and later this Spring we will read John Murray’s classic study, Redemption: Accomplished and Applied. Throughout the class I regularly bring up citations from the Westminster Confession of Faith. My personal goal is to familiarize students with our Confession of Faith, and also to help them fill-up their own library with excellent Reformed literature.

Here are three of our textbooks–each one is a “keeper!”

We enjoyed a large response to the class this term! Twenty-five students signed-up to attend. Our average attendance over the first seven weeks of class is twenty-one students per session. Three students are taking the class for credit towards a Certificate of Theological Studies. Due to the large turn-out we moved into a larger classroom in Calvin Hall. This more commodious room gives us much more space to set out tables and chairs. We have lots of questions throughout the class time, and I try my best to not let us go down too many “rabbit trails.” I don’t always succeed in that effort! Nevertheless, we all have an enjoyable time seeking to understand the ways of God much better.

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven

Announcing: Redeemer Theological Academy

Our church elders have recently approved the development of a new ministry at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Austin, TX. It is called Redeemer Theological Academy. We will be offering college-level classes in Biblical studies, Theology, Church History, Apologetics, and Ministry skills. I will serve as the director of this endeavor. Other instructors will be added over time. Our plans for the winter months (2024) are twofold: 

  • “The Doctrine of Salvation” – This weekly class begins on Thursday, January 18th in Calvin Hall [Thursday mornings 9:30-11:30 AM, Room 208]. It will be taught by Pastor Marcus Serven. As part of the class we will read J. I. Packer’s Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God, and John Murray’s Redemption: Accomplished and Applied
  • “Burning Theological Questions” – These occasional Friday evening seminars will focus on some of the key questions that many Christians have about the Christian faith—such as “Is there any hope for the future?” and “What evidences are there for the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ?” [dates and locations to be determined]. Various speakers will be presenting these seminars. More information coming soon!  

Both classes and seminars are provided free-of-charge to all members and attendees of Redeemer Presbyterian Church. In addition, students will be able to take classes for “credit” towards a Certificate of Theological Studies, or to “audit” classes. A Certificate of Theological Studies gives each successful student a strong foundation in the study of the Bible and Christian theology so that they can better serve the church in appropriate ministries. Men and women are welcome, plus mature High School and College students.

Questions? Contact Pastor Marcus Serven (mserven@redeemerpres.org

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven