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XploreNations Bible College
Student Handbook

MISSION STATEMENT

Here at XploreNations, our goal is to advance this Gospel for the Kingdom in all the world by ‘Training Leaders to Impact Their Nations! With college campuses across the globe on multiple continents, our students are challenged to understand and pursue their calling with passion. The result – Leaders who are trained and equipped to impact their world and see that nations are revolutionized for the Kingdom of God!
 

THE METHOD

XploreNations’ campuses are located around the globe. These campuses can be found in the local churches of various nations. Russ and Judi Jo Adams, founders of XploreNations, join together with National Directors to direct and oversee these college campuses in local churches. These schools are designed to help the local church to teach and train its members to fulfill the great commission.
 
XploreNations brings a variety of ministry gifts together to make a powerful teaching staff. This staff is comprised of international guest ministers, local pastors, and teachers from around the globe. It is our goal to implement a teaching balance of the Word and Spirit. In Acts 19, Paul established a Bible school that within 2 years reached an entire nation.
 
This organizational framework is a very unique and effective way to help fulfill Matthew 28:19, “Go and make disciples in all nations”.
 
 
 
 
 
 
MEET DR. RUSS & JUDI JO
 
Russ Adams Ministries International was launched in 1993 as Dr. Russ & Judi Jo started their great adventure together in India. In Asia they heard the cry of the great commission and went on to live in Estonia, Spain, Thailand, and the Philippines. Their passion to fulfill God’s call has now carried them to over 20 countries, bringing life to the lost and help to the hurting. Hand in hand, they have started Bible schools, founded children’s homes, pioneered churches, hosted crusades, and worked together in various evangelistic outreaches.
 
Dr. Russ holds his Doctorate of Divinity from Heritage University and Seminary. He also has a Bachelor’s of Theology Degree and two years further education in youth ministry. Judi Jo has a Bachelor’s Degree in Counseling from Anderson University, with a minor in Christian Education, and two years further education in world missions.
 
Currently, Dr. Russ & Judi Jo can be found embarking upon one of their greatest passions, starting XploreNations Bible College campuses around the world. So far they have schools in the Middle East, Europe & Central America. Their goal is to carry these strategic schools into all regions of the world. Dr. Russ & Judi Jo also travel throughout America, with their sons Wesley & Evan. They have a passion for the lost that is electrifying and a mission from God that will stir your soul.
 
 
 
 

A NOTE FROM DR. RUSS

Welcome to XploreNations Bible College!
 
The pages of this handbook will help you to become familiar with the unique set up of this college. A college that is different, yet one that is very focused. XploreNations is a ministry in and of itself. As the mission statement indicates, it is our desire to provide students with the opportunity to walk in all that God has for them. We believe each student has a divine destiny and so we strive to provide an educational environment that will: 1) assist students in identifying their call, 2) help them to gain a thorough understanding of their call, and 3) to encourage them to rise up and walk in it fully. We believe that as we do this, people in the most remote regions of the globe will hear and receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
 
XploreNations seeks to be available to any student. Tuition is kept at an affordable rate, so that financial status is not a hindrance for attending school. In addition, the campuses are located in remote locations where classes are offered via DVD. This allows for smaller remote campuses to be established where travel is difficult. The faculty within XploreNations volunteer their time in order that tuition can remain affordable. As mentioned above, XploreNations truly is a mission effort. These instructors sacrifice their time simply because they believe in you and want to see you walk in your God given destiny.
 
Should you decide to enroll in XploreNations Bible College, you will find a Christ-centered administration and faculty providing an education that will not only help you to grow, but will walk with you on this spiritual journey!
 
We look forward to seeing you soon!
 
Dr. Russ Adams
XploreNations Founder & CEO
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

COLLEGE HISTORY

Although Dr. Russ and Judi Jo have over 20 years of knowledge and experience in the area of missions, it wasn’t until 2009 that God called Dr. Russ to Cairo, Egypt. Here, the XploreNations first campuses were established. These works are located around the capital city, as well as up to 6 hours out into the desert in what is known as Upper Egypt.
 
And just one year later, XploreNations Spain was established. In 2010, Russ returned to Barcelona, Spain – a nation that had been a part of their missionary journeys since 1996. XploreNations works in Spain are located around the capital city of Barcelona, as well as cities throughout the region of Catalunya. Best of all, our students represent many nations, such as Romania, Bolivia, and Argentina, to name a few.
 
XploreNations Honduras kicked off their first school year in 2012. XploreNations Honduras has campuses located in and around the capital city of Tegucigalpa. This school has continued to grow as government officials have supported and promoted the schools throughout Honduras. The Kingdom of God continues to advance in Honduras and other Central American nations.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
COLLEGE PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

1. To provide students with the opportunity to complete successfully the program of study provide:

a. All students – including those from socio-economically or spiritually oppressed or disadvantaged backgrounds – are able to gain admission and begin the course of study.
b. All students will have the opportunity to earn the 4-year program certificate.

2. To offer a curriculum that promotes the development of Christian knowledge, skills, and values, as well as application of those to daily living. This will include courses in three main areas:

a. Theology – study of the Bible and its truth.
b. Ministry Operations – study of practical side of ministry.
c.  Relationships – study of relationships from a 360 degree perspective.

3. To provide a Christian faculty:

a. Who are committed to leading by example.
b. Who are committed to effective teaching.

4. To manage the College in a way that:

a. Reflects sound financial stewardship.
b. Realizes efficient operations and effective management practices.

5. To use assessment and evaluation in such a way that:

a. Outcomes continually confirm purposes, goals, and objectives.
b. The mission and vision are furthered as a result

 
 

COLLEGE ORGANIZATION

The College is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of pastors, business persons, investors, and civic leaders, sharing a commitment to providing a high quality Christian education. The Board provides direction and spiritual oversight of the college. The college is not affiliated with any church or denomination, but is open to all who share its commitment to the historic Christian faith.
 
The organization of the college is such that Dr. Russ and Judi Jo oversee all the schools from the home base in the US. Each nation has a National Director that manages the schools for that nation. Ideally, the National Director is a native to the nation, so that the school can be adapted to what is customary for that culture.
 
In addition to national directors, there are campus directors. Since the campuses are within local churches, in most cases, the campus directors are the senior pastors from the churches. The campus directors have the closest contact with the students.
 
For each nation, a central zone is determined. The live teachings are done at this central zone. The teachings are recorded live and then transferred to digital media. The live sessions are once a week for 3 hours. It is the campus director’s choice as to whether he will have his students attend the live sessions or use digital media. The school will run for 9 months of the year. Over the course of 4 years, the student will earn the program certificate. An example 4-year course plan can be found in Appendix A.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

STATEMENT OF FAITH

The following is the College’s statement of faith, which is expected to be endorsed by all staff and faculty.
  • We accept the Scriptures as the revealed Will of God, the all sufficient rule of faith and practice, and for the purpose of maintaining general unity.
  • The Bible is the inspired Word of God, a revelation from God to man, the living, infallible, and everlasting rule of faith and conduct, and is superior to conscience and reason. (2 Timothy 3:15-17; 1 Peter 1:23-25; Hebrews 4:12)
  • The triune Godhead is comprised of 3 separate and distinct personalities, The Father, The Son, The Holy Spirit, who are eternally self existent, self-revealed and function as one entity. Jesus Christ, who is God manifested in the flesh, is the second member of the Godhead, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and The Holy Spirit. (John 1:1-5, 10-14; Matthew 28:18-20)
  • Man was created good and upright, for God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness.” But, man, by voluntary transgression, fell, and his only hope of redemption is in Jesus Christ the Son of God. (Genesis 1:26-31, 3:1-7; Romans 4:12-21)
  • Man’s only hope of redemption is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. (Romans 3:24; John 3:3) On the cross, Jesus became sin and sickness providing both salvation and divine healing for all mankind (Psalm 103:3), being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ
  • Jesus. For by grace we are saved through faith (Ephesians 2:8) ‘The word is near you, in your mouth, and in your heart; that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved; for with the heart man believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.” (Romans 10:8-10)
  • The inward evidence to the believer of his salvation is the direct witness of the Spirit (Romans 8:16; 1 John 3:18-19, 24) The outward evidence to all men is a life of righteousness and true holiness. ‘You will know them by their fruits.’ (Matthew 7:16-20)
  • Salvation is by faith in Jesus Christ and not by human works; however, our works will determine the rewards in eternity. (Ephesians 2:8-10; Galatians 2:16; 2 Corinthians 5:10)
  • The ordinance of baptism by a burial with Christ should be observed as commanded in the Scriptures by all who have truly repented and in their hearts have truly believed on Christ as Savior and Lord. In so doing, they declare to the world that they have died with Jesus and that they have also been raised with Him to walk in newness of life. (Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:4; Acts 10:47-48)
  • The Lord’s Supper as demonstrated in Scripture. “And when He had given thanks, he broke it, and said, ‘This is my body which is broken for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood; Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.’ (1 Corinthians 11:24-25,28)
  • All believers are entitled to, and should ardently expect and earnestly seek, the promise of the Father, the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, according to the command of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-5; Acts 2:38) With it comes the endowment of power for life and service, the bestowment of the gifts and their uses in the work of the ministry. (Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:1-31). This wonderful experience is distinct from and subsequent to the experience of new birth. (Acts 2:38; 10:44-46; 11:14-16).
  • The full consummation of the Baptism of believers in the Holy Spirit is evidenced by the initial physical sign of speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance and by the subsequent manifestation of spiritual power in public testimony and service (Acts 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:2, 6; 1:8; Galatians 5:16-26)
  • The church is the body of Christ, the habitation of God through the Spirit, with divine appointments for the fulfillment of her great commission. Each believer, born of the Spirit, is an integral part of the general assembly and church of the first born, whose names are written in Heaven. (Ephesians 1:22-23; 2:19-22; Hebrews 12:23)
  • There is total prosperity spiritually (3 John 2; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21), mentally (2 Timothy 1:7; Romans 12:2; Isaiah 26:3), physically (Isaiah 53:4,5; Matthew 8:17; 1 Peter 2:24), Financial (Malachi 3:10-11; Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Deuteronomy 28:1-14), and socially (Proverbs 3:4;p Luke 2:52; Esther 2:15)
  • Jesus is coming again to gather all His Saints to ever be with Him. (1 Corinthians 15:51-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)
  • Those who have not accepted the redemptive work of Jesus Christ will suffer eternal separation from the Godhead. The devil and his angels, the beast and the false prophet, and anyone whose name is not found written in the Book of Life, shall be consigned to everlasting punishment in the lake of fire which burns with brimstone. The is the second death, the lake of fire. (Revelation 19:20; 20:10-15)
  • The Scriptures promise the return of our Lord Jesus Christ with His saints from heaven to rule and reign for one thousand years on earth (2 Thessalonians 1:7; Revelation 19:11-16; 20:1-6) After this, there shall be a new heaven and a new earth. (Rev 21)

 

 
 

ACCREDITATION STATUS

XploreNations Bible College is a member of the Transworld Accrediting Commission (TAC), [231 E. Alessandro Blvd., Suite A-210, Riverside, CA 92508-6039; (901)951-5586; office@transworldaccrediting.com]; visit TransworldAccrediting.com for more information.
 
For more information about our Eugene Campus accreditation visit www.transworldaccrediting.com/schools/xn/oregon
 

STUDENT POLICIES & GUIDELINES

XploreNations Bible College expects students to maintain standards of personal integrity that are in harmony with the educational goals of the College. Principles of academic honesty, respect for diversity, and pursuit of lifestyles of Holiness are examples of these standards.
 
Application Process
In order to enroll in XploreNations Bible College, an application must be submitted along with the nonrefundable registration fee. These should be given to the campus director at the campus where you plan to attend. XploreNations will contact you with a response to your application prior to the start of the school year.
 
Text Book Procedures
Each course listed has a book that corresponds with the teaching. There will be no additional cost to the student for the books. They will be distributed at the first session of each month. The book should be read by the final class for that topic. A test over the book will be given in the last class session for the topic.
 
Library
Because XploreNations Bible College spans the globe, teaching in many different languages, a media library (Appendix B) is provided for students. This library consists of various web-sites in multiple languages that students may utilize for research as needed. The sites have been compiled based on those used by the teachers in the college, thus they are found to be safe, reliable, and reputable in content.
 
Tuition/Fees Policy
  • The non-refundable registration fee is due upon the submission of your application. Applications not accompanied with a registration fee, will not be processed.
  • Tuition is due as scheduled for the campus you will be attending. If tuition is not paid by the end of the 2nd week, attendance in future session will be compromised.
  • The promotional/graduation fee, where applicable, is due by the last day of the month prior to graduation. If it is not paid, students will not be allowed to participate in the ceremony.
  • Live teachings are available for purchase on digital media. Payment is due prior to receiving the materials ordered.
  • In the event that a student decides to withdraw from the school, where tuition is paid monthly, they may withdraw at any time. There will not be a tuition refund in this case. Where tuition is paid annually, if 10% or less of the classes have been taught & attended, then a full tuition refund will be given. Beyond that point, no refund will be issued.
Attendance Policy
Attendance is mandatory for graduation. Students must maintain a 90% attendance rate throughout the year. Each student cannot miss more than 1 hour of teaching each month.
 
In the event that there is no way to avoid missing a class, the missed class can be made up. However, it must be made up prior to the teaching the following week. Speak with the campus director regarding makeup classes or to purchase digital media with the missed teaching.
 
If missed courses are not made up, the absences will be recorded against the attendance grade. Failure to comply with the 90% attendance rate will result in the student not receiving the promotional certificate for that year.
 
Community Outreach
Each student is required to participate in community outreaches as outlined by the Campus Director. Students may also help coordinate/organize community outreach, with the Campus Director’s approval.
 
Each month, students must submit a signed form indicating that they have completed their community outreach for that month. Students will be given either a pass or fail grade for their participation.
 
Thesis Paper
In order to receive a four year certificate, all students will be required to submit a thesis paper in their 4th year of school. This paper may be written on a topic of their choice and should be at least 50 pages typed and double spaced (or handwritten). The paper will be given a pass/fail grade. In order to obtain the diploma, a ‘pass’ must be scored on this paper.
Grade Calculation
Each student’s grade will be comprised of 4 components:
 
Attendance – requires 90% to be promoted
Exam Scores – requires 70% to be promoted,
Participation in Community Service – requires 100% to be promoted, and
Thesis Paper – requires a ‘Pass’ to graduate.
The grading scale will be as follows: 90-100 (A) 80-89 (B) 70-79 (C) 69 & below (F).
 
Failure to meet the minimum score requirements in one or more of the above components will result in the student not being promoted that year. If there are extenuating circumstances, the student should speak with the campus director to discuss possible solutions.
 
There will be required homework and required reading material with the courses as part of the student’s final grade.
 
Promotion/Graduation Ceremonies
At the end of each year, the college will provide a promotional/graduation ceremony. For those students who have completed all 4 years, this will be their graduation ceremony. For those who are still working to complete the 4-year certificate program, it will serve as a promotional ceremony. In order to receive the promotional certificate or graduation diploma, all courses must have been completed with a passing score and all fees paid to date. Failure to comply with either of these will result in the certificate/diploma being withheld. A promotional certificate is required to move forward with the next school year.
Commitment of Integrity
XploreNations will refer to 1 Corinthians 13 as the guide for appropriate student conduct. Each student will be asked to adhere to the Commitment of Integrity (Appendix C), which indicates their agreement to abide by the expectations set forth for XploreNations students.
 
Part of being a student of integrity is to come to class prepared. That includes bringing a Bible and any note taking material. In addition, students should come spiritually prepared to receive the Word. To assist in this, prayer services will be held prior to each teaching session.
 
Dress Code
Here at XploreNations, we always want to dress with respect for the anointing on the Word of God and on the calling the Lord has placed on us. With that in mind, we observe a professional casual dress code.
1. Men:
a) Shirts: Button up; ties not required but welcome. NO tee shirts, sports jerseys or gym clothes.
b) Pants: Slacks, jeans (NO holes, tears, ect.), khaki’s. NO shorts.
c) Shoes: Dress or casual shoes, tennis shoes (clean, not torn/ripped). 
 NO flip-flops or beach sandals.
2. Women:
a) Shirts: Blouse or sweaters. NO tee shirts, sports jerseys or gym clothes.
b) Pants: Slacks, * dresses/skirts not required but welcome. (* Must come below the top of the knee). Jeans,
  (NO holes, tears, etc.), khaki’s.  NO shorts.
c) Shoes: Dress or casual shoes, tennis shoes (clean, not torn/ripped).  NO flip-flops or beach sandals.
 
Dismissal Policy
It is the desire of XploreNations that each and every student be successful. To that end, the campus directors and national directors will do all they can to assist students in being successful. However, if at any time a student violates any item on the Commitment of Integrity statement, this violation will result in dismissal from the school.

Appendix A

4 Year Course Plan

It is the intention of XploreNations Bible College to provide a balance across the curriculum. While we understand that living by the Holy Spirit is essential, we understand that it is imperative to also include an equal balance of understanding in the Word. And furthermore, the two of these have to be appropriately applied to everyday life. Therefore, the Curriculum Committee (comprised of Dr. Russ & National Directors) chose the courses below to educate with an equal balance of Spirit and Word, coupled with life application.
 
1st Year-Certificate
1. Basics of Faith
2. How to be Led by the Holy Spirit
3. Intimacy With God
4. Prayer
5. Koinonia-Relationship
6. Biblical Finances
7. Bible Doctrines 
8. Grace
9. Ministry of Helps
 
2nd Year-Certificate
1. Heroes of Faith
2. Leadership 1
3. Obedience & Maturity
4. Believer’s Authority
5. In Christ
6. Vision & Prayer
7. Ephesians
8. Christian Family
9. Great Commission
 
3rd Year-Certificate
1. Faith (Power of God’s Word)
2. In Search of Timothy – Helps 2
3. Kingdom Principles
4. Ethics, Excellence & Integrity
5. Ministry Gifts
6. The Gospels
7. Old Testament Survey
8. Eschatology
9. Holy Spirit 2 (Fruits & Gifts of the Spirit)
 
4th Year-Certificate
1. Faith (Scripture by Scripture)
2. Book of Acts
3. Bible Interpretation
4. Leadership 2 (People Skills)
5. Spiritual Warfare 
6. Preparation for Ministry
7. New Testament Survey
8. Walk Through Hebrews
9. The Epistles
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Appendix B

Media Library

This document contains a listing of internet sites available for researching various Christian topics. Some are available in Spanish and have both the English and the Spanish site listed. Others have several languages to offer.
 
  • http://www.biblehub.com
    • Free
    • Many translations – click on the flag at top for the translation you need
    • Very diverse site – offers lessons, topics, commentaries, etc.
  • http://www.chabad.org
    • Free
    • 100% Jewish perspective
    • Very helpful for Old Testament
    • Includes access to Talmud and Midrash teaching
    • Has online sermons from some rabbis
    • NOT a Christian site
  • http://www.logos.com
    • This is a software application that costs ~ $500 to download all the resources
    • Nearly 500 books online including all major commentaries and history books
    • 5 lexicons and transliteration resources
    • Includes an iPhone app for basic use
  • http://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-International-Version-NIV-Bible
    • Basic site for all common translations
    • This site has a button to toggle between English and Spanish

Appendix C

Commitment of Integrity

We are committed to helping you live a life of the highest caliber with regard to reputation, respect, honesty, and moral integrity. It is our desire that you live a life of character and holiness before God and man.  1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
 
I commit to grow in my spiritual pursuits by developing my personal relationship with the Lord Jesus through Bible Study, prayer, worship, and regular church attendance.
 
I commit to developing good and healthy relationships by living a life of integrity and honesty.
 
I will live a lifestyle that will positively influence my fellow classmates.
 
I commit to take care of my financial obligations, including my class books and tuition in a responsible and timely manner.
 
I commit to live a life of purity by abstaining from all pornography and sexual immorality, including inappropriate dress.
 
I will commit to consecrate myself to God’s will for my life and to live a life of service.
 
I commit to not become intoxicated with alcohol or drugs. (Includes casual use that may not impair my senses.)
 
I commit to be PUNCTUAL and to attend ALL required classes, trainings, ministries and to fully complete ALL assignments as instructed by my teachers, and to faithfully attend church. If I am unable to attend any class or assignment I will communicate that directly to the school director in a timely manner.
 
I commit to abide by the rules and regulations of XploreNations Bible College which may be altered or changed by the leadership. I understand that the director reserves the right to require the withdrawal of any student if, in the judgment of the director, the conduct of the student is deemed to violate XploreNations Bible College spiritual or moral atmosphere.
 
By signing this Commitment of Integrity, I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the above criteria for admittance into XploreNations Bible College. Any violation of this commitment is grounds for immediate dismissal.