Introduction to The Apprentice Academy

We self-consciously seek to pursue all education, knowledge, and learning in humble dependence upon God for the sake of his name. The Apprentice Academy is built on this fundamental conviction.

This fundamental conviction has led us to adopt a holistic approach to The Apprentice Academy. Our aim is to build into our Apprentices habits of mind and heart that will never leave them and will fit them for a lifetime of ongoing growth and spiritual maturity. The well-educated Apprentice has the habits of mind and heart to go on learning what he needs to learn to live in a Christ- exalting way for the rest of his life—in to whatever sphere of life he pursues.

We aim to enable and to motivate the student:
  • To observe his subject matter accurately and thoroughly.
  • To understand clearly what he has observed.
  • To evaluate fairly what he has understood by deciding what is true and Valuable.
  • To feel intensely according to the value of what he has evaluated, to apply wisely and helpfully in life what he understands and feels.
  • To express in speech and writing and deeds what he has seen, understood, felt and applied in such a way that its accuracy, clarity, truth, value, and helpfulness can be known and enjoyed by others.

To this end, The Village Church offers The Apprentice Academy.

In addition to our Core Values, all of our programs are built on these distinctive:

Socratic Methodology

It is our conviction that apprentices learn best through asking questions and solving problems. Thus, while there are lengthy and deep theological lectures, we seek to utilize Socratic discussions that will provoke deep reflection on the lectures as they are broken up in two sessions per evening. In addition, interactive discussions require apprentices to develop key interpersonal and relational skills such as humility, tact, and patience.

God-Centered Faculty

Our pastors and teachers share a common theological and educational vision. All of those who teach in the Apprentice Academy are committed to instructing the minds, influencing the affections, and shaping the lives of the Apprentices under our care.

Cost-Effective

Pastors Matt and Andy believe that one of the biggest obstacles facing an individual who desire deep theological training is the amount of debt accumulated in gaining a quality education. We will not contribute much to the advancement of the Kingdom if we produce godly theologians, passionate missionaries, and faithful leaders and pastors who are saddled with so much debt that they cannot effectively pursue their ministry callings until they have paid off their loans. Therefore, we seek to provide the highest quality seminary at the most affordable price. To this end, the Apprentice Academy cost is $200!! We are working hard to find ways to fund The Apprentice Academy through generous partners who will help us establish a healthy endowment so that we can launch Apprentices into fruitful God centered service without the shackles of university debt.