Why Bible College or Seminary?

QUESTION RECEIVED:

In regards to Bible schools: The thing I'm a little confused about is that if you know the Bible well enough to determine whether the teachings of the school are good or not, I wouldn't think you'd need to go to a bible school in the first place, but if you don't, then how are you going to know if the school has good teachings?


MY ANSWER:

First before pursuing Christian Education, whether it be a Bible school or seminary,
your first great influences should be your parents and church. In a perfect setting a father and mother would raise you in family Bible study and worship.

Proverbs 22:6
English Standard Version (ESV)
6 Train up a child in the way he should go;
even when he is old he will not depart from it.

In a perfect setting a young person would have grown up in the church. The adult leaders would teach them. They would know his or her gifts and level of Christian growth. Every Bible School or seminary I know of has a church and Pastor endorsement as far as the entrance requirements. Your parents and pastor should be able to recommend a solid school for you. Though every Christian is not in a denomination they definitely are in a faith tradition. Bible Schools and seminaries are found in almost all of the many traditions. You are in a church universal with over 2,000 years of tradition. A problem with young Christians often have is they are not educated in their great heritage and Christian history.

Every Bible College and seminary has a statement of faith and beliefs. Also, most of these schools would have teacher's who are authors. You could read samples of their work. This would give you a great indication of the education you would receive from any prospective school.

2 Timothy 2:15
English Standard Version Anglicised (ESV)
15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.

Bible Schools and seminary's can be great. You have to ask why are you going.
The Lord has established teaching as a spiritual gift that is developed. You can benefit greatly if you are called to education and diligently pursue the right school.