Pursue excellence in reformed theology
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:
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
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?
Aspiring Ministers
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Teachers,
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Journalists,
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Active Church Members
Course Highlights
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
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
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 recognises the New Testament as the infallible Word of God.
The Three Catholic Confessions of the Church
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
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 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
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
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
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.