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Why Study at Bible College?
There are many reasons why you may wish to study at Bible College. Of course, these reasons differ from one person to the next so what may be true for some may not be true for others. In this article, we shall look at some of the reasons why you might want to apply for Bible College.
To Fulfil a Calling from God
Christians are called to service in all areas of life and while it is not the Lord's plan for every Christian to undertake formal study, He may have a particular call upon some of his people to attend Bible College. All Christians should prayerfully seek God's will regarding their calling in life, and for some, formal training is the correct next step.
To Develop New Skills
We all learn from each other and having access to professional tutors, lecturers and teachers enables us to understand more about the Bible and theology. Such study can enable Christians to be more effective and confident in their current and future service. Pastors, leaders, teachers, evangelists, missionaries and others have a duty to ensure that their work is theologically correct and consistent with Scripture. A Bible college education is a useful tool that can better enable Christians to protect themselves and others from doctrinal error.
To Obtain a Formal Qualification
In some professions (e.g. teaching) there is a need to obtain a recognized degree. Most Bible colleges offer full undergraduate degrees in RE, Theology and related subjects. Some churches prefer their pastors to obtain a recognized qualification. For others, a degree is a first step to further academic study at postgraduate and research level.
To Do Something 'Extra' In Their Daily Lives
Not everyone goes to Bible College with a career related goal in mind. Many people join a course simply for the love of studying. It is more like a hobby: something that they enjoy doing outside of their daily work. They may be accountants or zoologists; professional sportsmen or full-time mothers who have a little spare time that they wish to devote to something they really want to do. This accords with an increasingly popular option. Many Bible colleges provide individual modules that can be taken part-time from home via distance learning. They are ideal for people in this situation.
To Study in a Christian Environment
Many students prefer the spiritual environment of the Bible College, especially one that is consistent with their own doctrinal beliefs. In contrast, University theology departments are usually much more secular and may not provide an environment that positively enhances a person's Christian faith. Bible College should not be a dry, academic discipline but an integrated part of a person's spiritual life.
To Meet New People
Friendships often develop from opportunities to study and learn from each other. The social interaction offered through a college education (including distance learning) provides opportunities to forge lifelong relationships with others.
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