NABC CENTER for BIBLICAL STUDIES

Welcome to the Center for Biblical Studies (CBS) at Nineteenth Avenue Baptist Church! Our goal is to provide graduate level religious studies to the San Francisco community in an open, thoughtful, and graceful environment.

The CBS Certificate curriculum includes six core classes and a variety of electives.

Fall 2025 Intro to Hebrew Scriptures
Spring 2026 Intro to New Testament
Summer 2026 Biblical Studies Elective      
Fall 2026 Christian Theology 1             
Spring 2027 Christian Theology 2         
Summer 2027 Theology Elective       
Fall 2027 History of Christianity            
Spring 2028 Intro to Spiritual Formation       
Summer 2028 Spiritual Formation Elective 

• This class cycle will repeat every three years.

• Other electives may be offered concurrent with these classes and will be advertised in house and via email to participants.

• Persons completing the six core classes and any three electives will be awarded a Certificate of Biblical Studies from CBS and our partnering seminary.

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Introduction to the New Testament

We have begun a new unit of study in our Center for Biblical Studies program. On Sunday mornings at 9:30am, Pastor Joy is teaching an overview of the New Testament that covers the origin, content and purpose behind these accounts and letters that became part of Christianity’s canon. We will be looking at the texts through the lens of the Trinity and exploring how the community of faith forms around the person of Jesus Christ and ultimately reflects the very image of God. We hope you can join us! For more information regarding upcoming classes, please request a brochure at the church.

This class is held on Sundays from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. in the church’s Fellowship Hall.

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FAQ

• Why are you offering these classes?

  The Bible is sometimes more revered than read, fought over more than followed and even weaponized. Our goal is to provide a space where faith, intellect and culture engage the Biblical story in ongoing thoughtful study and conversation.

• Do I have to be a member of the church to participate in the classes?

  No. The classes are offered for all members of the community, persons of any faith, and persons of no faith.

• Are there attendance requirements?

  No. Each class will be 10 to 12 weeks long. We encourage those on the certificate track to be as consistent as possible in their attendance.

• Do I have to take all classes and work toward a certificate?

  No. You may choose to take only those classes that spark your interest. The certificate track is optional.

• Are the teachers certified?

  Yes. All our instructors hold degrees from accredited graduate schools, have taught at the graduate level, and have published in their respective fields.

• How much does each class cost?

  Nothing. CBS is funded by Nineteenth Avenue Baptist Church and supplemented through educational grants.

• Will classes be offered online?

  No. All classes are in person.

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How to Participate

Classes are currently held at Nineteenth Avenue Baptist Church. Classes in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday mornings from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m.

There are two simple ways to register for classes:
1) Call the church office and ask to be added to a class.
2) Complete a registration form when you attend your first class.

Your registration information will be used to keep you informed of class schedule dates and any changes. It will not be distributed to any third parties.

If you have any questions, feel free to call the church office at (415) 564-7721.