Regardless about what you know or where you stand concerning the recent history of the school or its merger with Evangel U, it is still tragic that a single purpose Bible college has died and will not be replaced in contemporary times. Call me crazy (or monastic), but I do not think it narrow or foolish to perceive vocational ministry as unique and specific. Faith is a critical part of human existence and individuals will always need and seek out the help of qualified ministers. But with the death of, or at least the severe undermining, of single purpose professional training, what kind of service is this multi-discipline minister going to offer?
Please understand that I am not saying that a minister should not be well-rounded in his/her knowledge of the humanities and only know the narrow dogma of a particular denomination or faith. I am only saying that when we tell ministers that it is equally important, if not more important, for them to have a business degree or the like to compliment their Bible training, we are, directly or not, undermining the primacy of their calling as ministers of faith. No one ever tells a Marine to diversify, nor do they say the same to a Dr, lawyer, or the like. Somewhere along the way, we, the Church, have dropped the ball and blamed our crappy results and ineffectiveness (and/or persecution) on our training rather than our own insecurities. This is tragic and will not lead to any good results.
I am a trained minister and I make no apologies for my singular training, nor do I feel inadequate in any way, shape or form to minister to any person. My living faith and the abiding Spirit overcomes all my weaknesses, and is my sole strength and effectiveness. I learned these truth through my single-purpose Bible College and the experienced and dedicated professors who taught me. I do not know where this passion will take me, but I am remain convinced that a school like CBC needs to be available to future generations for the world's sake!
