Reformed Theological Academy
Pursue excellence in reformed theology
Deepen your understanding of Reformed Theology and prepare for impactful ministry.
Our Mission
Our mission is to equip believers with a deep understanding of Reformed theology, rooted in the infallible Word of God. We strive to prepare ministers, church leaders, and laypeople to serve Christ's church with knowledge, wisdom, and devotion.
Guided by our motto, "Stuur u lig en u waarheid" (Send your light and your truth), we are committed to: Upholding the authority of Scripture Preserving and advancing Reformed theological traditions Fostering spiritual growth and practical ministry skills Engaging with contemporary challenges through a biblical worldview
As we build on the foundations laid by generations of faithful believers, the GTA looks to the future with hope and purpose. We invite you to join us in this journey of faith, learning, and service to God's kingdom.
Prospectus
The Reformed Theological Academy stands as a beacon of Reformed theological education in South Africa.
Established by the Curatorium of Reformed Churches in South Africa (GKSA) and approved by the General Synod of 2023, we carry forward a rich legacy of biblical scholarship and faithful service.
Are The RTA Courses Right For Me?
The Reformed Theological Academy welcomes a diverse range of individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of Reformed theology and enhance their service to the church and community. Our courses are designed for:
Aspiring Ministers
Those who have been ecclesiastically admitted to ministerial training in the Reformed Churches in South Africa (GKSA), as well as individuals considering theological study or a calling to pastoral ministry who want to "test the waters" before committing to full-time study.
Church Leaders
Elders and deacons who wish to further equip themselves for the ministry of their God-given office in obedience to Christ. Our courses provide valuable insights and skills for effective church leadership.
Church Administrators
Scribes and administrative staff who want to learn more about preparing church documents such as agendas, minutes, reports, and correspondence. Our "Write Accurately" course is particularly beneficial for this group.
Parents
Those seeking to enhance their ability to provide Christian education and guidance to their children within the Reformed tradition
Active Church Members
Congregants, catechists, Bible study leaders, and anyone interested in Reformed Theology. Our courses offer deep insights into Scripture and doctrine for personal growth and more effective service in the church.
Professionals in Related Fields
People working in professions where religion, churches, faith, and theology play a role. This includes: Teachers, Counselors, Journalists, Legal professionals, Psychologists, Social workers, Emergency services personnel, Community development workers, Risk management professionals.
what to look forward too
Course Highlights
At the Reformed Theological Academy, we offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to deepen your understanding of Reformed theology and equip you for faithful service. Our courses blend rigorous academic study with practical application, ensuring you’re well-prepared for ministry and leadership in the church and society.
Our flagship courses include comprehensive studies of the Old and New Testaments, providing a solid scriptural foundation. Students delve into the rich heritage of Reformed theology through courses on the Three Forms of Unity and church history. We place special emphasis on the African context, offering unique insights into the history and theology of the church on our continent.
Practical ministry skills are honed through courses on church order and Christian living, while our worldviews course equips students to engage thoughtfully with contemporary challenges. Whether you’re preparing for full-time ministry or seeking to deepen your faith, our diverse course offerings provide the knowledge and skills you need to serve God faithfully in today’s world.
The Old Testament
The course focuses on the 39 books of the Old Testament. Each book's content is explored and treated with insight.
Upon completing the course, you'll not only know the books by heart but understand how the Old Testament is structured, which books belong together, and how the prophets fit into Israel's history.
You'll see how God's revelation unfolds in the Old Testament: from creation, through Noah, Abraham, Israel, the law, temple service, kings, and prophets.
Above all, you'll discover why Christ's church accepts, teaches, and proclaims the Old Testament as God's Word.
The New Testament
The course provides an overview of the content and background of the 27 books of the New Testament. After completion, you'll be able to explain how the New Testament is composed and distinguish between the types of books it contains.
You'll be able to provide an overview of the life and significance of Jesus Christ. You'll understand the broad outline of salvation's revelation in Christ Jesus as presented in the New Testament.
You'll also learn how the Old and New Testaments connect and why the Christian church recognizes the New Testament as the infallible Word of God.
The Three Catholic Confessions of the Church
In the Psalm Book, one encounters the Reformed confessions, which are signed in Reformed churches because they align with the Bible.
This course introduces the Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, and Canons of Dort. The course covers their historical emergence, structure, content, and lasting impact on church life.
The Heidelberg Catechism's explanation of the Twelve Articles forms a section of the course, sharpening your ability to properly explain church doctrine.
Together with the course on the three catholic (or ecumenical) confessions, you'll be able to distinguish and explain the church's pure doctrine.
The Three Forms of Unity
The Reformed churches' Psalm Book includes three catholic (or ecumenical) confessions: the Twelve Articles, the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed.
One of these is always confessed in worship services as an important moment in congregational gathering. This course explains the history and origins of these three confessions, comparing them step by step. You'll be introduced to the breadth, depth, and height of God's knowledge. After completion, you'll be able to explain church concepts like: "There is one Father, not three fathers; one Son, not three sons; one Holy Spirit, not three holy spirits.
And in this Trinity, none is first or last, none greater or less, but all three Persons are co-eternal and co-equal, so that in all aspects, as stated above, the Unity in Trinity and Trinity in Unity must be worshipped."
The order of Christ in His church
The course examines a foundational Reformation-era document (16th century) - the church order of Palatinate, where Heidelberg was capital.
The Heidelberg Catechism (1563) was incorporated into this church order. Reformed Psalm books contain Christian prayers and baptism/communion forms originating from this order.
The course covers how Christ governs His congregation through Word and Spirit, addressing ministers', elders' and deacons' roles, preaching, teaching, catechism, pastoral work, prayers, sacraments, and mutual care. This church order remains cornerstone for Reformed church life today.
The History and Theology of the Church in Africa
The course covers 2000 years of African church history, from Mediterranean churches and Nile theological schools to Ethiopia. It addresses Islam's arrival (7th-8th centuries), when the Trinity doctrine was violently rejected and Christians persecuted.
It covers the gospel's spread to western/southern Africa (15th century), Catholic and Protestant church development, and Reformed churches' establishment in southern Africa, providing insight into today's theological landscape.
Life and Service Before the Face of God
Studying theology inevitably affects those who study it. The Christian life is characterized by fear of God.
The course traces interpretations of the Law and Lord's Prayer from the Heidelberg Catechism, connecting with the Twelve Articles for thorough understanding.
The Ten Commandments guide GTA participants' conduct. Prayer, being central to our gratitude, receives significant course focus.
Christ and Worldviews
From its start, the African church faced worldviews, religions, challenges, heresies, and temptations that persist today.
Understanding major movements, views, beliefs, and religions (Islam, pantheism, naturalism, African religions, atheism, etc.) in light of Scripture equips one to address them as a Christian.
The course provides knowledge to discern, respond, and properly minister Christ's gospel, helping both in today's world and guiding young, confused people to justify their faith.
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