About

Today it can be challenging to find Christ-centered online courses that address subjects like critical thinking (effective, analytical reasoning) and philosophy. Most free "college-level" platforms - such as Coursera, edX and others - feature courses taught by secular professors. While many of these instructors aim to remain neutral regarding matters of faith, those seeking to integrate Christianity with these disciplines often find that such resources are few and far between.

One of my (Ryan Stohldrier) favorite philosophy professors, Peter Kreeft, once mentioned that he had trouble finding philosophers who wrote Socratic dialogues. So he said, "well, if I want to read a modern Socratic dialogue, then I guess I had better write one" (paraphrased). He ended up writing many good ones. In my own search for quality (free) Christian instruction in philosophy and apologetics (the defense of the faith), I have struggled to find such resources. As a result, (following the example of Peter Kreeft) I dedicated myself to studying these subjects - alongside Biblical Studies - so that I might be better equipped to guide others on their own journey into Christian philosophy and apologetics.

At the same time, I am conscientious of the fact that there are many people who presume to teach, yet without the necessary qualifications (qualification does not necessarily mean credentials). Necessary qualifications in the area of Christian philosophy and apologetics would essentially include (but not be limited to):

Substantial knowledge of Logic (formal and informal reasoning), Epistemology, Metaphysics, Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Science, History of Philosophy, Plato and Aristotle, Ethics, and more
Substantial knowledge of Biblical theology, systematic theology, and the history of Christian philosophy (Augustine, Plotinus, Justin Martyr, Aquinas, Kierkegaard, Plantinga, and more)
The ability to synthesize philosophical reasoning with Christian revelation
Independent Study and Peer-Reviewed books and articles
Ability to teach

Mastery of Christian philosophy and apologetics is a life-long pursuit. Just ask such experts as Gary Habermas, William Lane Craig, Peter Kreeft, or J.P. Moreland (or numerous other names I could list). This pursuit starts with learning some basic fundamentals of communication, a basic understanding of logic, a basic understand of elements of the faith, and some experience with introductory subject matter in Philosophy and apologetics. Once you have the basic foundation laid, you can begin to build on that foundation through exploring more in-depth ideas in each of these areas. Finally, when you have explored some of the more in-depth studies, it is time to refine those skills through mastering more advanced materials and producing critical analyses of doctoral-level materials. Throughout the second and third certificate programs, you should be producing your own Socratic Dialogues.

Excelerate Faith is modeled, to some extent, after the traditional training programs of Wing Chun Kung Fu (which Ryan Stohldrier trained in) - no, this does not mean you will be studying martial arts. Wing Chun consists of 3 basic empty-hand levels which correspond nicely with training in Christian philosophy and apologetics. Wing Chun relies heavily on attention to tiny details, refining skill, and producing excellent quality. The first level deals with content and making sure that content is polished and refined. The second level deals with application of the content in the first level along with additional content. The third level is primarily designed to deal with overall mastery and refinement of skills. I hope that you can see the parallel between this and training in Christian Philosophy and Apologetics. In the Elementary Program, you will be learning the basic principles as described in the previous paragraph. The Intermediate Program is designed to build on that foundation as described in the previous paragraph. Finally, the Advanced Program is designed to round out your knowledge and skills in these areas.

It is our hope that your training through these programs will help you to develop into a scholar in your time. We hope to see graduates of these programs becoming influential members of society and champions of the Christian faith!

Accreditation

Because this school operates as a not-for-profit ministry and seeks to make all of its programs freely available, we have chosen not to pursue formal accreditation. Instead, our aim is that the true measure of our credibility will be reflected in the character (faith), knowledge (wisdom), and faithfulness (excellence) of our graduates. In this way, the reputation of the school will rest not on institutional approval, but on the demonstrated excellence and integrity of those who complete our programs.

Elementary Program

In this foundational program, we emphasize mastery of the English language, the development of logic, a basic understanding of philosophy, and a basic understanding of fundamentals of the Christian faith.

While these basic ideas may not be exciting, they play a vital role in laying a proper foundation for later studies. Many have skipped over the basics and jumped straight into the complexities of philosophy, apologetics, and theology; but like King Belshazzar in the Old Testament, they were weighed in the balance and found wanting (inadequate). These basic skills are essential for mastering the rest of the programs.

Intermediate Program

The intermediate program builds on the basic principles laid in the Elementary Program. In this program, students will take deeper looks into the subjects of Metaphysics, Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Science, Ethics, History of Western Philosophy, and grapple with the works of Justin Martyr, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, and more.

This program seeks to integrate philosophy with the foundational principles of the faith presented in the Elementary program. Socrates said "the unexamined life is not worth living;" similarly, the unexamined faith is not worth having. Paul encouraged us to examine ourselves to ensure that we are of the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). That is the emphasis of this program.

Advanced Program

In this program, we introduce students to some of the more complicated and difficult areas of philosophy and apologetics. In addition, students will practice providing a robust defense against some of the more difficult objections to Christianity. While traditional learning will take place in this program, the primary goal is to take what has been learned and use it to produce quality works of philosophy and apologetics. Students are encouraged to pursue a more devout spiritual life as well, modeled after the contemplative life of Augustine, but tempered with the understanding that Christianity is more than merely a contemplative life - it is the living and sharing of one's faith with the rest of the world.

About Your Instructors

Ryan Stohldrier

Ryan Stohldrier earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Ministry from the International College of Ministry. He initially pursued studies in Marriage and Family Therapy and Psychology, but after three years, felt God’s clear calling to shift his focus toward Biblical Counseling—approaching the care of souls through Scripture rather than secular psychology. He went on to become a Certified Belief Therapist through the Therapon Institute.

Following a four-year apprenticeship at a non-denominational church, Ryan was ordained as a minister of the Gospel in 2011. In 2017, he and his wife, Rebecca, traveled to Sierra Leone, Africa, on a mission trip to evaluate an orphanage in a predominantly Muslim village. Over the following year, God used them to help raise the necessary funds to build a Christian primary school that continues to serve the local community today, offering a Christian education to those who cannot afford one through the regular schools.

As Ryan deepened his study of Scripture, he began integrating elements of Christian philosophy into his theological work and authored The Shadowland War: A Primer on Spiritual Warfare. In 2024, he was appointed as the first Mississippi Chapter Director for Reasonable Faith, the apologetics ministry founded by Dr. William Lane Craig dedicated to the rational defense of the Christian faith. In 2025, God made a way for him to return to his formal studies and complete his Bachelor’s degree in Ministry—redirecting his academic path from Psychology to Ministerial training—at the International College of Ministry. Having obtained his degree, he now continues his feverish pursuit of the study of philosophy, apologetics, and critical thinking

Rhonda Vaughan

Rhonda Vaughan is a graduate of Freed-Hardeman University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in English and Speech Communication. In addition to her primary studies, she received endorsements in Teaching English as a Second Language and Elementary Special Education. Over the years, she has taught in both public and private school settings, bringing a heart for excellence and compassion to every classroom.

Together with her late husband, Rhonda co-founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving underprivileged children in the island nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Through this ministry, she has helped provide educational opportunities, resources, and hope to communities in need.

Rhonda is also an accomplished author and remains deeply active in her local church, where she serves faithfully as both librarian and pianist. Her lifelong passion for learning, service, and worship continues to inspire those around her to use their gifts in the service of Christ and others.

Statement of Faith

The Nature of God

We believe in one God—the holy, infinitely perfect Creator of all things—who eternally exists in a loving unity of three equally divine Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
The Authority of Scripture

We believe that God has spoken through the Scriptures—the inspired and authoritative Word of God—both Old and New Testaments. Through the words of human authors, God has revealed His will for salvation. When rightly interpreted, the Bible is the ultimate authority for all areas of human knowledge, life, and practice.
The Human Condition

We believe that all people are sinners by nature and by choice—alienated from God and under His just judgment. Only through the saving work of Jesus Christ can humanity be rescued, reconciled, and renewed.
The Person of Jesus Christ

We believe that Jesus Christ is God incarnate—fully God and fully man—in one Person with two natures. He lived a sinless life, was crucified under Pontius Pilate, rose bodily from the grave, ascended into heaven, and now sits at the right hand of God the Father as our High Priest and Advocate.
The Work of Christ on the Cross

We believe that Jesus, as our representative and substitute, shed His blood on the cross as the perfect and all-sufficient sacrifice for our sins.
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit

We believe that the Holy Spirit glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ in all He does. He convicts the world of sin, regenerates sinners, and indwells, enlightens, guides, equips, and empowers believers for Christ-like living and faithful service.
The Church

We believe that the true Church is made up of all who have been united with Jesus Christ in baptism, being justified by God’s grace through faith. United by the Holy Spirit, they form the body of Christ, of which He is the Head.
Sanctification and Mission
We believe that God's justifying grace is never separated from His sanctifying power and purpose. Through the Word of God, the power of the Holy Spirit, and prayer in Christ’s name, believers are called to engage in spiritual warfare and to obey Christ’s Great Commission—making disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and living as witnesses to the Gospel in both word and deed.
The Return of Christ

We believe in the personal, visible return of our Lord Jesus Christ. This blessed hope inspires believers toward godly living, sacrificial service, and passionate mission.
The Call to Respond to the Gospel
We believe that God commands everyone everywhere to respond to the Gospel—by turning to Him in repentance and receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.