Biola University has a rich history dating back to February 25, 1908. Its primary purpose was to prepare men and women to become Gospel preachers. By the end of the 1920s, several influential Christian leaders had emerged who are also worth mentioning. To learn more about this history, visit losangeles1.one.
The establishment and prosperity of a theological seminary
In 1908, Lyman Stewart, president of Union Oil Company of California (later known as Unocal Corporation), along with Presbyterian minister and Christian author Thomas S. Horton and Presbyterian minister Augustus B. Pritchard, established the Bible Institute of Los Angeles, now known as Biola University.
Construction of a new institute building in downtown Los Angeles began in 1913. The building featured an auditorium with a seating capacity of up to 3500. In the 1930s, two large neon signs with the phrase ‘Jesus Saves’ were installed on the rooftop, adding to the building’s religious significance. Furthermore, an 11-bell carillon was installed in the building and used to play hymns thrice daily.
The early leaders of the institution wanted to focus solely on Bible and mission studies rather than taking a broad approach to Christian education, which was common practice for Christian liberal arts colleges. The institution initially offered a two-year curriculum. Since the 1920s, there have been attempts to expand it.
First seminary graduates
Since its establishment, the institution has undergone a significant transformation. Overall, it was quite a fascinating period as Christian schools and the nation’s leading seminaries flourished, adopting more liberal views on the fundamental doctrines of the faith.
In 1936, a B.A. degree in Theology was added, followed by the establishment of Bible Theological Seminary in Los Angeles in 1943.
Notable graduates of the private theological seminary were:
- Donald Gray Barnhouse. He was an American Christian pastor, theologian, author and radio pioneer. He served as the pastor of the Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His program, ‘The Bible Study Hour,’ can still be heard today under the modern name ‘Dr. Barnhouse & the Bible.’
- Charles Edward Fuller. It is known that the Biola University graduate later established Fuller Theological Seminary. He was a famous American radio evangelist. Charles Fuller’s radio programs are rebroadcast on many American local radio channels and internet portals.
Biola University’s first presidents
The first was Dr. Louis T. Talbot, who saw the need for a three-year seminary degree. Such an innovation would help bridge the gap created by seminaries with liberal views.
In 1952, during his last year as president of the institution, Talbot began working towards establishing a fully accredited theological seminary. To lead the seminary, Charles L. Feinberg, a renowned Christian scholar, was appointed as the first dean. As a result, the institution was renamed Talbot Theological Seminary, along with his colleagues.
The seminary is known to have moved to La Mirada, California, in 1959 and was renamed Talbot School of Theology. The institution was granted university status in 1981.
University Mission
Biola University is a private Christian university in La Mirada. The primary mission of this institution is to equip students with the necessary mindset and character to make a positive impact on the world in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. It can be challenging due to the growing prevalence of sinfulness in society.
The university administration strives to protect its students from social or civil disturbances. More and more often, young Christians are increasingly disillusioned because they believe their faith should be more socially oriented and progressive.
Some of the issues that contribute to this disillusionment include the culture war, such as LGBTQ, restrictions and anti-mask and anti-vaccination declarations, as well as political interference in the relationship with God.
Regrettably, these issues have affected the operations of one of the oldest religious institutions in Southern California. Biola University’s student enrollment and budget have been declining every year.
Change is inevitable
It is particularly evident in their education, where students have the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects, including criminology, physics, accounting and filmmaking. Additionally, students can conduct gender studies.
When applying to the University, students are required to sign a Statement of Faith. Similarly, faculty members and members of the Board of Trustees have been signing the Workers’ Register and Articles of Faith, also known as the “Red Book,” every year since 1927. The latter are the Articles of Faith as conceived by the founders of the Seminary. This tradition affirms that Biola University’s theological position, as stated in the past, remains a considerable part of the University’s Charter.
Each year, students and faculty pledge allegiance to the truth of Scripture, as it articulates God’s vision for humanity. The university administration also emphasizes that after graduation, students will be witnesses of the Gospel and it will remain unchanged no matter what field of endeavor they choose.
Biola University President Dr. Barry H. Corey notes that for some Christians, the future path is clear and straightforward, consisting of prayer and preaching.
Annual Conferences
- During the spring semester, the Missionary Conference takes place. It is the largest annual conference and also the second largest in the world, with the Urbana Conference taking first place. The primary goal of the three-day student event is to inspire missionary endeavors and provide comprehensive information about them. As a result, classes are canceled from Wednesday to Friday in the middle of the spring semester. The conference is complemented by ethnic meals and cultural excursions. Students have the opportunity to interact with missionaries.
- The Torrey Memorial Bible Conference is a three-day event held during the fall semester. It focuses on the spiritual growth of students. While the topic changes each year, it always meets the needs of the students.
- Additionally, there is a one-day Biola Media Conference, which seeks to promote the integration of faith and the arts. This event brings together Christian media leaders and other Christians for learning and fellowship, making it a source of inspiration.
It is worth noting that, as of 2015, Biola University has introduced a crucial rule for its students. This rule requires students to attend at least five conference sessions and 20 chapel services per semester. Failure to comply with this rule will result in a financial penalty.
Admission in Ukraine
The Kyiv branch of Talbot School of Theology has been operating in Ukraine since 1996 and offers an M.A. degree in Bible and Theological Studies. The institution is based on a unique conservative evangelical program with Western accreditation. The branch is located at 75 Gorlivska Street in Kyiv.
Each year, the program admits 15 to 20 students. The application deadline is April 15th. To apply, the applicant must complete and submit a registration form and an application form, take a three-hour English language exam, and have an individual interview with the administration. After completing these steps, the university committee will make a final decision and notify the applicant by email.
In summary, Biola University is the nation’s leading theological seminary that is both interdenominational and theologically conservative. The institution is dedicated to fostering and preparing future Christian leaders through continuous development and education.