History

Florida Bible Institute (formerly Urban Bible Training Center) began in 1990 as a ministry of the Assemblies of God USA combining the efforts of Global University and Assemblies of God U.S. Missions. The Tampa Bay Center was started in 1994 and has since graduated over 200 students (and counting) who now serve in a variety of ministries in the Tampa Bay Area as well as across the state, the nation and the world.

Our Mission & Curriculum

Our goal is to equip Christian workers for the Lord’s harvest field of America & beyond. We use the nationally recognized Berean School of the Bible (BSB) curriculum in evening classroom settings that are facilitated by qualified and experienced ministers from the local area who volunteer their time to invest in the lives of our students. Global University of Springfield, Missouri provides student services through Berean School of the Bible including preparation and grading of final exams and maintenance of student transcripts. All courses are adult continuing education level and meet the academic requirements of the Assemblies of God for ministerial training. Students are required to participate in an active mentoring program under the guidance of their pastor. Ongoing mentoring by the students pastor or person delegated by the pastor is a key component of FBI.

Our students are also encouraged to have active ministry participation in their local churches. Quality curriculum, enhanced by experienced class room facilitators and on-going mentoring provides FBI students with the necessary tools and skills for productive ministry.

Instructional Methods

There are two 75-minute classes given one night each week starting at 7:00 pm ending at 9:45 PM. Our campus locations are noted on the back of this brochure. The structured 10week quarters keep students motivated and on a schedule. We have observed over these many years that most prefer our method of study that incorporates classroom interaction between students, instructors and each other. Often, lasting relationships are formed in this setting that become vital links for future ministry.

FBI Core Courses

Twelve core courses required for graduation are offered over a period of two years. Another eleven courses are made available for students who may be pursuing ministerial credentials or simply want additional courses to enhance their knowledge and ministry. 1. Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine 2. Prison Epistles: Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians & Philemon 3. The Local Church In Evangelism 4. Acts: The Holy Spirit At Work In Believers 5. Introduction to Hermeneutics: How To Interpret The Bible 6. Christ in the Synoptic Gospels 7. Old Testament Survey 8. New Testament Survey 9. Introduction to Theology: A Pentecostal Perspective 10. Romans: Justification by Faith 11. Eschatology: A Study Of Things To Come 12. Effective Leadership