by Jim Edge
There has never been a time in my life when Baptist Bible College has not played a significant role in my spiritual development. I was born and raised in Springfield, the home of BBC. I received my early spiritual training at High Street Baptist Church where many of my Sunday school teachers were BBC students gaining their experience by teaching kids like me.
When I was in the sixth grade, my Sunday school teacher was Leroy Eldridge. Leroy is currently pastoring Temple Baptist Church in Titusville, Florida. He and his date (who is now his wife) picked me up to take me to our Sunday school Christmas party. On the way to Springfield from our farm, Leroy failed to stop at an intersection. The car went over an embankment and then nose-first into a plowed field. These were days prior to seat belts. I took out the windshield of his car with my forehead. Never has a teacher taken so literally the need to make an impact on those he teaches. Just for your information, when I see Leroy and have a chance to go out anywhere with him, I drive.
Listening to testimonies about the significant role that Baptist Bible College has played in the lives of former students and current students is one of the most encouraging things I can think of. Only a couple of weeks ago, I attended the funeral of one of our former employees, Camille May. I sat and listened to her husband, Tim, give a testimony about their meeting each other at Baptist Bible College. Tim then explained with tears about Camille’s love for her alma mater. I was thrilled to understand the importance of Baptist Bible College and the significant role the school played in their life’s work. I was humbled and also challenged to show my love for Baptist Bible College vocally and with my support more that I ever have.
Many of our students are currently teaching Sunday school and ministering in children’s programs just as they did when I was a little boy. I sometimes wonder if one of today’s students is teaching a little kid that might be used of God to affect our nation or even to have a worldwide ministry. I believe it is possible. It is also important to know that many of our current students are finding their life’s mates just as Tim and Camille did 35 years ago. I am excited that Baptist Bible College has given so many people a place that has become a focal point for their life’s work.
Those victories do not come without cost. Baptist Bible College is not a problem-free organization. We had difficulties in our formative years while we were achieving wonderful victories at the same time. We continued experiencing difficulties during our entire 59-year history while we were also seeing great accomplishments. We have challenges today, but we also observe great accomplishments from our students and staff. I prefer to acknowledge what great things the Lord has done and is doing as opposed to pointing out and emphasizing the problems and difficulties.
We need wisdom from the Lord to adequately address the challenges. We need the prayers of our friends. We need the sacrifice of all of our supporters. But most importantly, we need to see a continuation of servants who are willing to give their lives to a cause greater than their selves. Our world is in greater need today for servants of the most High God than perhaps at any other time in history. Let us give our God and our world the best we can.