Being a busy, diligent Christian turned out to be hazardous to my spiritual health.
As a young man in high school and later in college, I was super-busy serving Jesus.
On Tuesdays I ran Awana clubs for kids. On Fridays I taught at the youth group. On Sundays I played the piano (poorly) as our little church worshiped God. Toss in Wednesday night Prayer Meeting, Sunday night church services, and all kinds of service opportunities...
I was the poster child for a faithful servant of Christ.
Except for one little problem. I was doing all this stuff out of fear, and I really didn't know the God I served.
Bill Giovannetti
Pastor | Professor | Author
Pastor | Professor | Author
I was afraid. I was afraid of Judgment Day. I was afraid of going to hell. I was afraid of the disapproval of the people in my church.
Most of all, I was afraid that my salvation didn't stick. There were so many things wrong with me, I felt God's giant foam finger of shame wagging at me all the time.
I longed to really know and love God... but He confused me, and the Bible just didn't offer the answers I needed.
So, like any good Christian, I tried harder.
More service. More prayer. More fellowship. More Bible study. More holiness. More discipleship. More striving. Seminars. Books. Repeated repentance. I became an expert on the ins and outs of Christianity.
But... it was all an epic fail. I was more confused than ever. God just didn't make sense to me. I was learning the Bible in bits and pieces, but it felt like a jumbled up puzzle without the box top.
I discovered all the church's programs and activities were missing ONE giant thing.
This ONE thing made all the difference for me...
I was completely surprised when I found out what it is.
I was completely surprised when I found out what it is.
I was ready to quit my faith, until...
I was reading a famous author named J.I. Packer. He hit me between the eyes with a massive realization.
Packer wrote, "Disregard the study of God, and you sentence yourself to stumble and blunder through life blindfolded." That was me!
Everybody was telling me how to serve God, but not how to know God.
> I studied Christian service, but not Christ.
> I was more committed to serving God than to knowing God.
The devil had trapped this sincere Italian young man into a web of exhausting duties and religious obligations that could never be enough to please God.
My church kept demanding I perform all these activities but treated the thing I needed most as a dirty word.
Imagine the relief of finally getting the boxtop showing how to put Christianity's jumbled pieces together.
> Imagine peace and forgiveness from God so deep that the devil can't stick in a guilt-trip edgewise.
> Imagine a faith that is a delight, not a burden.
> Imagine a wisdom that gains you the respect of Christian leaders and peers.
> Imagine unshakeable confidence in the knowledge of God and His Word.
> Imagine power in ministry, effectiveness in service, and joy in serving Jesus.
>Imagine making sense of every part of the Bible... and being able to teach it with authority.
What was the "dirty word" that made such a difference in my life?
"THEOLOGY"
When was the last time you heard a message or teaching on a biblical word like justification or propitiation?
Have you heard any teachings on the Trinity? The omniscience of God? The union of two natures in one Person in Christ?
Almost everything I was hearing was about MY behavior, not GOD's nature! Obedience, performance, service, sacrifice, surrender -- everything was about me, not about the depths of the knowledge of God.
I'm not saying it's the only thing, but for me, THEOLOGY is the main thing. Here are FIVE HUGE BENEFITS OF STUDYING THEOLOGY in my life.
1. Studying theology gave me the WHY for all the activity I did for Christ.
2. Studying theology gave me supernatural power to live a life of grace-powered holiness.
3. Studying theology taught me not to serve God for blessing, but from blessing.
4. Studying theology gave me an airtight case to shut Satan's mouth every time he accused me.
5. Studying theology delivered me from legalism, guilt, and shame.
I'm not saying it's magic. But if you're willing to put in some work... if you can devote some screen time to God... I promise you will see indescribable power and freedom as you come to know Him, "whom to know is life eternal."
Check out my article "How Theology Makes Us Better People."
God gave me a passion to help everyone I know to find the same treasure I found when I found the in-depth knowledge of my Savior and my God.
Take a leap of faith and deepen your knowledge of God at
Veritas School of Biblical Ministry.
Veritas School of Biblical Ministry.
You enjoy direct access to personal coaching and direct, private Q & A with your professor in all our Masters Level courses.
Learn at your own pace...
Choose your own workload...
Earn a Master of Ministry Certification...
All without sacrificing your family or quitting your day job.
We are ready to serve all Christians no matter where you are on your spiritual quest.
From Our Students
"All I can say is, wow! I am excited to learn these tools to systematically interpret parts of the Bible! Even just researching the meaning of one word is going to open my eyes and heart to so much." ~Amanda W.
"Meditating on what was taught last night, the nerd in me was awakened and I am loving every minute of it!" ~Tom P.
"From Inspiration to Inerrancy and Text Criticism, my mind is seeping in the new knowledge. What a blissful place to be, I am hungry for more! Looking forward to diving in again this evening." ~Sam K.
"Great job with all the content and the presentation." ~Charlene S.
"I am just a little bit giddy, like a freshman who got an invite to the senior prom!" ~Heather K.
"I want to thank you for your teaching style, and the class!! I look forward to the next class. Addiction!" ~Kevin S.
"Meditating on what was taught last night, the nerd in me was awakened and I am loving every minute of it!" ~Tom P.
"From Inspiration to Inerrancy and Text Criticism, my mind is seeping in the new knowledge. What a blissful place to be, I am hungry for more! Looking forward to diving in again this evening." ~Sam K.
"Great job with all the content and the presentation." ~Charlene S.
"I am just a little bit giddy, like a freshman who got an invite to the senior prom!" ~Heather K.
"I want to thank you for your teaching style, and the class!! I look forward to the next class. Addiction!" ~Kevin S.
Here's what you'll get with your enrollment...
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Self-paced COURSES, to help you open up God's Word for yourself and others like never before. The courses are listed at the bottom of this page.
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Graduate School Level instruction by a seasoned professor. We have realistic requirements for readings, homework, and grades. Everything is designed for busy people who aren't yet in full-time ministry.
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A Master of Ministry Certification to prove to yourself and others the depth of your commitment to serve Christ and his Gospel (*unaccredited).
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DIRECT ACCESS to your professor through a private chat portal.
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FORUMS to discuss theological and important life issues with fellow leaders in Christ's Church.
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Your program will be a combination of LIVE, ONLINE, and [optional] IN-PERSON sessions.
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Ongoing LIVE TEACHING TIMES with Q AND A with your professor online to help you grow deeper and feel connected with fellow students.
A typical seminary education costs $18K to $32K per year... Veritas School equips you with the same learning at a fraction of the cost.
Our tuition at Veritas is $77 per month, and you can withdraw any time.
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Enjoy immediate access to all open courses and regular online Theological Training sessions.
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Create relationships with like-minded lifelong learners of God's Word
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VSBM price normally
$147 per month
LIMITED TIME Special Tuition Reduction price of $77 per month.
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Your tuition will never go up as long as you remain enrolled.
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No contract, no commitment, withdraw any time.
"So now, brothers and sisters, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.
~ St. Paul, Acts 20:32
"Dr. Bill's ability to organize and convey ahuge amount of information in a short period of time is simply impressive." ~Betty L.
"If you are interested in learning an effective systematic way to dive deeper into the Bible with confidence, start here." ~Dave M.
"My excitement about studying the Bible has been elevated to a new level!" ~Dale P.
"Step above your fears and excuses, if I can do this, so can you!" ~Coretta Z.
"Amazing. Better than I could have imagined, because I feel like I actually understand. I enrolled in Veritas to help me become a more confident and better leader in the High School Ministry..." ~Sheila P.
"I have learned a ton in a very short time.. In the very first class I knew it was a great idea that I had enrolled..." ~Nate C.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Are scholarships or discounts available? |
We do not offer scholarships, as we feel every student needs skin in the game.
However, we have arranged certain discounts. Only one discount may be applied. All discounts are offered subject to verification AND are subject to change.
However, we have arranged certain discounts. Only one discount may be applied. All discounts are offered subject to verification AND are subject to change.
- Married Couples - 50% off your spouse's tuition (one discount per couple) -- discount remains as long as both remain enrolled. One spouses uses this code, and the other spouse can use another code!
ENTER CODE: SPOUSE50-19 - Vocational Clergy, or those working through licensing or ordination - 20% off tuition.
ENTER CODE: CLERGY20-19 - Volunteer Leaders and Ministry Leaders at Pathway Church, Redding, CA - 20% off tuition
ENTER CODE: PATHWAY20-19 - Official Partners (Members) at Pathway Church, Redding, CA. You went through the Partnership Class, met with our Board Members, and have attended regularly during the last 6 months - 25% off tuition
ENTER CODE: GRACE25-19 - Immediate family member living under the same roof (or away at college): 50% off Enrollment while both remain enrolled:
ENTER CODE: FAMILY50-19
To apply these discounts, please enter the relevant code at the time of ENROLLMENT.
THIS WILL LOCK IN YOUR DISCOUNT FOR THE DURATION OF YOUR ENROLLMENT!
You will be asked to verify how and why you qualify for a particular discount code. Only one code per enrollment.
| Do I need a Bachelor's Degree to enroll? |
No.
But you do need to be pretty good at reading and writing. These classes are taught at a Master's degree level.
If you're okay with the 101 Basics course, you'll do fine throughout the program.
You must be 16 or older to enroll.
But you do need to be pretty good at reading and writing. These classes are taught at a Master's degree level.
If you're okay with the 101 Basics course, you'll do fine throughout the program.
You must be 16 or older to enroll.
| What are the prerequisites? |
The only prerequisites are a basic knowledge of Scripture and a motivation to grow and learn.
A PREREQUISITES course is included in the program.
As soon as you enroll, you gain access to the prerequisites course. This will enable you to brush up on theology and Scripture if you're rusty or if you're new to these studies.
A PREREQUISITES course is included in the program.
As soon as you enroll, you gain access to the prerequisites course. This will enable you to brush up on theology and Scripture if you're rusty or if you're new to these studies.
| Can I get a refund? |
We understand that circumstances change. If you find you're not gaining maximum value for your course, or if you do not feel you are receiving value for your tuition, you may request a no-hassle refund during your first month of enrollment, and your first month's tuition will be refunded.
After your first month, you may withdraw at any time, and your card will not be billed for the next billing cycle.
To withdraw or request a refund, please email [email protected].
After your first month, you may withdraw at any time, and your card will not be billed for the next billing cycle.
To withdraw or request a refund, please email [email protected].
| How much time will each class take? |
Most classes will include sessions on one weekend, plus a Friday and/or Monday-Tuesday.
Sample Schedule for One Class
Friday -- 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Saturday -- 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Monday -- 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Tuesday -- 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
*schedule may vary
Four Classes Per Year, offered quarterly, plus a growing library of Classes On Demand.
| What happens if I withdraw early? |
There is no penalty and no additional cost for withdrawing at any time.
If you have completed 1 year, you will receive a Certificate of Ministry Training.
If you have completed 2 years, you will receive a Certificate of Ministry Leadership.
If you have completed 3 years, you will receive a Master of Ministry degree.
If you have completed 1 year, you will receive a Certificate of Ministry Training.
If you have completed 2 years, you will receive a Certificate of Ministry Leadership.
If you have completed 3 years, you will receive a Master of Ministry degree.
| Do you give grades? |
Our goal is equipping and informing, not adding pressure to your life.
Here is our grading system:
PASS (Credit)
PASS (Audit)
INCOMPLETE (Credit)
INCOMPLETE (Audit)
Incompletes may be completed by attending all missing lectures and turning in missing assignments within 9 months of the class start date.
Here is our grading system:
PASS (Credit)
PASS (Audit)
INCOMPLETE (Credit)
INCOMPLETE (Audit)
Incompletes may be completed by attending all missing lectures and turning in missing assignments within 9 months of the class start date.
| How long does each class take? |
The courses in our Master of Ministry certification program are offered quarterly (every three months). You are offered readings and assignments ahead of time, and then assignments afterwards to complete each course.
Live lectures are 2-3 hours per session, and 4-6 sessions per class.
THERE ARE NO DEADLINES. You can work at your own pace.
In between each class, we offer and OPTIONAL Mini Course (such as 115 Providence) or Webinar (Such as Eternal Security).
You can stay as busy or as relaxed as needed to thrive in our program. It's always up to you!
Live lectures are 2-3 hours per session, and 4-6 sessions per class.
THERE ARE NO DEADLINES. You can work at your own pace.
In between each class, we offer and OPTIONAL Mini Course (such as 115 Providence) or Webinar (Such as Eternal Security).
You can stay as busy or as relaxed as needed to thrive in our program. It's always up to you!
| What do you believe? |
The staff, faculty, and teachings of VSBM are conservative and evangelical in theology and life. We believe the Bible, interpreted according to grammatical-historical methodology, is the supreme authority for faith and life.
We also see God's Amazing Grace as the centerpiece of Scripture and Theology.
We affirm the doctrinal statement of the Christian & Missionary Alliance, and fully endorse the Chicago Statements on Biblical Inerrancy and Hermeneutics.
We also see God's Amazing Grace as the centerpiece of Scripture and Theology.
- The heart of Scripture is Christ.
- The heart of Christ is Grace.
- The heart of Grace is the Cross.
We affirm the doctrinal statement of the Christian & Missionary Alliance, and fully endorse the Chicago Statements on Biblical Inerrancy and Hermeneutics.
| How long will it take me to complete my Master of Ministry certification program? |
The Master of Ministry certification will take about 2-3 years. You can complete it faster if you like. Each year offers 4 classes plus one service project, for a total of 12 classes and 3 service projects.
| Do I have to come to California? |
No.
Classes will be offered live (when permissible) at Pathway Church in California, and you are welcome to attend.
You are also welcome to attend via the online portal. You will be able to ask questions, and to see the classroom and professor. You will also have access to all downloads and materials.
Please login to each session early to leave time to troubleshoot technical issues.
Classes will be offered live (when permissible) at Pathway Church in California, and you are welcome to attend.
You are also welcome to attend via the online portal. You will be able to ask questions, and to see the classroom and professor. You will also have access to all downloads and materials.
Please login to each session early to leave time to troubleshoot technical issues.
| Is Veritas School of Biblical Ministry accredited? |
No. But these are the same classes that have been taught for over 25 years by Dr. Bill Giovannetti at seminary and university in two states. The goal is that you get equipped for greater, deeper, broader ministry effectiveness than ever before -- for Christ and His Gospel!
We are working on a partnership with A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary and you "may" receive credit there for an additional fee.
Details coming soon.
We are working on a partnership with A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary and you "may" receive credit there for an additional fee.
Details coming soon.
| Will I study Hebrew and Greek? |
We offer course 401 STARTING BIBLICAL GREEK as an extra add-on to our program. This is entirely optional. It's a kinder, gentler way of learning New Testament Greek.
At this point, we are not offering Hebrew classes, though students may cross-register with A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary for Hebrew.
At this point, we are not offering Hebrew classes, though students may cross-register with A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary for Hebrew.
| Do I have to take tests and turn in homework? |
Our goal is to expose as many students as possible to in-depth equipping and teaching in handling God's Word and leading God's church.
Homework is required for the Master of Ministry degree.
Homework is NOT required, however, if you simply want to audit the program.
Once you begin a course, all work must be submitted within 9 months to obtain credit for that course.
Auditors will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
Homework is required for the Master of Ministry degree.
Homework is NOT required, however, if you simply want to audit the program.
Once you begin a course, all work must be submitted within 9 months to obtain credit for that course.
Auditors will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
| How do the SERVICE PROJECTS work? |
The Master of Ministry program includes 3 Service Projects, in volunteering, teaching, and leading.
If you are already participating in these activities in your church or any other ministry setting, great! You can count that experience to satisfy this requirement.
If you're not already serving in these ways, your Service Project is a great reason to get started.
Details will be given during your program of study.
If you are already participating in these activities in your church or any other ministry setting, great! You can count that experience to satisfy this requirement.
If you're not already serving in these ways, your Service Project is a great reason to get started.
Details will be given during your program of study.
The Master of Ministry Certification
Learn at your own pace. Study at a schedule that works for you.
No deadlines. No pressure. No wasted classes. It's all about the learning.
No deadlines. No pressure. No wasted classes. It's all about the learning.
No Bachelors Degree Required
Series One
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101 BASICS // Prerequisites. This is an optional course if you feel rusty or if you are new to the study of theology. You can start right away, becuase it's all online. The Basics will help you lay a solid foundation for a lifetime of service and growth.
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110 BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION (HERMENEUTICS // The processes and tools of correctly interpreting Scripture. This class will spend time in a Christian University library practicing the correct use of research tools.
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112 SOTERIOLOGY // The Cross and its meaning, with emphasis on justification, redemption, propitiation, regeneration, atonement, and expiation. What is and isn't the Gospel?
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114 OVERVIEW OF SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY // An overview of the key doctrines of systematic theology, including Anthropology, Hamartiology, Eschatology, and Christology. Includes a unit on the nature and varieties of theological constructs.
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116 CRAFTING MESSAGES AND SERMONS // The art and science of moving from hermeneutics to a well-crafted sermon, while always showing the relation to the text.
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118 SERVICE PROJECT - VOLUNTEERING // 12 continuous weeks of volunteer service at a local church or other ministry.
Series Two
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210 THEOLOGY PROPER (THE DOCTRINE OF GOD) // Developing the doctrine of the Trinity, and the attributes and names of God.
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212 BIBLE SURVEY // A survey of the 66 canonical books of the Old and New Testaments. Setting, theme, and issues pertaining to each book. Includes a special emphasis on the relationship between the Old and New Testaments.
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214 SANCTIFICATION (THE DOCTRINE OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE) // The theology of how God changes lives through his grace, and an ability to articulate the role of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s everyday life. Includes a unit on spiritual gifts for service.
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216 DELIVERING MESSAGES AND SERMONS // Hacks at being a better public speaker. This class will require participants to give 3-5 very short practice talks, including an evangelistic talk with invitation.
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218 SERVICE PROJECT - TEACHING // 12 sessions of crafting and teaching Bible lessons to any age group in a small group, youth group, children’s ministry or other organization.
Series Three
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310 APOLOGETICS // The art, science, and lifestyle of making the case for Christianity. Defending the authority of Scripture and the Christian worldview.
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312 INTRO TO CHRISTIAN HISTORY AND AMERICA'S GREAT AWAKENINGS // A study of Christianity, emphasizing key figures in American history, with special emphasis on America’s Three Great Awakenings.
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314 EVANGELISM // Methods of integrating evangelism into life and ministry. Training in personal evangelism and witness. Mobilizing a church or group for evangelism. Keeping the Gospel clear. The relationship between evangelism and social ministry.
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316 PRINCIPLES OF PASTORING // The art of shepherding souls, with a basic introduction to pastoral ministry, including basics of counselling, referring, officiating at weddings, and funerals.
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318 SERVICE PROJECT - LEADING // A leadership role in your ministry setting in which you lead leaders for at least 12 weeks.
Additional Bonus Courses Routinely Added - No extra cost to you.
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)
© Copyright 2019-2021 Bill Giovannetti ARR
