The gospel is good news to herald. It is also a good deposit to preserve, protect, and pass on to others. Gospel preaching and gospel stewardship go together. Bethlehem College & Seminary’s first and overarching institutional goal is “to spread a passion for the supremacy of God in all things for the joy of all peoples through Jesus Christ.” Our strategy for accomplishing this glorious aim is gospel stewardship in the form of intentional leadership development.
In 2 Timothy 2:1–2, the apostle writes, “You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” This text informs Bethlehem College & Seminary’s vision for gospel stewardship and leadership development in at least three ways. First, Bethlehem professors do not seek merely to transfer information to students but to empower them with the supernatural grace of the Gospel. Second, the faculty entrust students with the gospel truth in a personal way. In class lectures and discussions, we seek to unpack the good news of Jesus Christ and the way that “in him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17); we also seek to apply the gospel to all of life in one-on-one mentoring relationships, small groups, and local church ministry. Third, we view students as apprentices and leaders in training; we seek to equip them for gospel maturity and gospel service in the home, church, and world.
Brian Tabb Academic Dean, Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies
Chancellor John Piper’s Address at Bethlehem College & Seminary’s Commencement May 13, 2016
Prayer Requests:
1. For faculty, staff, and students who are spreading a passion for Christ this summer on short-term ministry trips in countries around the world including Japan, Myanmar, Indonesia, Brazil, Sweden, and Ethiopia.
2. For the 50+ recent graduates who are transitioning from Bethlehem College & Seminary and pursuing new opportunities. Pray especially for those graduates who are still discerning next steps and trusting for God’s guidance.
3. For faculty who are preparing for fall classes; writing books, articles, and dissertations; and traveling for ministry and vacation.
4. For our fiscal year-end giving during the next three weeks. Join us in asking the Lord to bring in the remaining Serious Joy Scholarships needed to reach 250 for the year.
