PTEE provides cost-effective “Leadership Education on Location”

Established in 1981 by the Evangelical Churches of the Middle East, the Program for Theological Education by Extension (PTEE) in Jordan serves to make biblical and practical training accessible for church leaders in their given context. PTEE is one of the most cost-effective theological programs in the Middle East. Tutors work on a volunteer basis, classes are run in established buildings and course development/administrative costs are covered by supporters of the program.

In the 12 week program, students learn independently through self-instructional textbooks and together in weekly tutor-led discussion seminars. All courses are developed in Arabic by Arabs, dealing with relevant issues of the region from an Arab perspective. Through this training, the leaders develop skills in leading discussions, illustrating ideas, eliciting feedback from students and encouraging their ministries. Once trained, tutors return to their own communities and teach theology courses to strengthen churches throughout the Arab World. In this way, PTEE is reaching people in remote villages in southern Egypt, in regional cities in Iraq and in countries where churches do not exist. Classes are currently operated in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt and Sudan, as well as in Arabic language churches in Europe, North America and Australia. Over 2,000 students have successfully completed one or more courses.

PTEE hopes to offer 36 courses geared toward training Christian leaders in 22 Arab countries. The program currently offers Certificate, Diploma and Bachelor’s degrees in Theology and has plans for a GED in Ministry and an extension Master of Ministry.

PTEE hopes to purchase the four-story building currently rented as their hub for regional extension in Amman.

Despite hardships, student scholarship recipient Matthew* is thankful for the Lord’s faithfulness and guidance as he studies through PTEE. “I’m enjoying the studies so much because they give me the strength and ability to communicate the Good News to many,” he says. “I have accomplished some wonderful results in this field. Moreover, I plan to continue studying because it will help me in the future to minister among different people, especially among those who are [Syrian] like me.” Please pray for Matthew as he faces opposition and persecution.

*Name has been changed for security purposes.