PRBI Trumpet - Winter 2015

Trumpet W i n t e r

2 0 1 5

Equipping This Generation to Make Disciples

Holding Forth the Word of Life

President’s Message PRBI’s future remains strong due to the ongoing need to disciple the next generation. In the last Trumpet I reported about the current state of our Canadian Christian Youth. With the current church youth exodus, churches and Bible schools definitely have opportunities to grow young people in their relationship with Jesus Christ and train them for life and service. I wrote in broad strokes in the last Trumpet about what we do; how we use our classrooms, dorms, sports, student work, etc., to provide an excellent opportunity for spiritual growth for the students who come. Over the next two Trumpets I want to clarify, using PRBI’s vision statement, what we are desiring to do to address this rising concern among our Christian youth. The first phrase of PRBI’s vision statement will be the focus for this article, which is “to train believers to become disciple-makers.”

Our full vision is: “To train believers to become disciple-makers, who 1

Waldie Neufeld

know God, model His character and are able to build into others the life-changing principles of His Word.”

This vision, of course, takes place within the confines of our mission statement, which is: “To conduct a Bible College, the training of students in a thorough knowledge of the Word of God, Holy Scriptures, and the training of students to become ministers, whether at home or abroad.”

To accomplish our vision and mission in an academic setting, relationships become key where a faculty member, staff, or upperclassman disciple students in their journey with Jesus Christ.

We have chosen the words “to train believers” to focus in on the fact that all Christians need to be equipped (Ep 4:11-16) and need to “grow up” in their faith (Ep 4:15). Most students come to PRBI as believers, children of God (Jn 1:12), but not necessarily as disciples or followers. Just as Jesus indicated, the

Equipping this Generation to Make Disciples Great Commission is a process of making disciples. Jesus urged His followers to baptize them and teach them to observe all that He commanded them (Mt 28:19-20).

We believe that students, all, in some way, need to mature in their relationship with Jesus Christ, to be able to trust Him for their own life and to be able to reach out to others for Him. This does not always relate to one’s chronological age. The author of Hebrews argued, “For every one who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant” (5:13). Paul wrote, “And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to men of flesh, as to infants in Christ” (1 Co 3:1) or his numerous texts (Ro 6:1-14; Gal 5:13-18, etc.) on the spiritual battle with the flesh. Each passage highlights the fact that there is an infancy stage and a spiritually maturing process, a growing up in Christ (Ep 4:15).

The growing up stage, going from initial

belief to discipling others, means learning to walk in the Spirit not their flesh. This is what Jesus meant when He called us to “deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me” (Lk 9:23). For this reason, we have chosen the word “believer” in the opening phrase of the vision statement, to indicate that it is a journey from initial belief through to the point where we are discipling others, and then moving on into eternity. Now we know that not all students start at the “infant” stage to be sure and some may not move much further while here at PRBI. Regardless of what stage they are at when they come, we believe a solid understanding of God’s Word, the Bible, has the answers to life and equips us to know God, walk in His truth, and serve others in grace and truth. We focus on helping students develop a biblical worldview that answers their questions and the questions of others around them. As they grow in their faith, their 2

relationship with God, they are better Please continue to pray for equipped to help others in their journey and invest in PRBI’s students this year, with Jesus Christ. Thus, academics and which changes lives for Jesus Christ! their spiritual formation come together The investment happens in a moment as one, fostering a balance between but changes a life forever, and that life knowledge and their relationship or impacts another, and on, and on! Thank experience with God. you for your consideration.

Their growth as a disciple then In the spring Trumpet, I will naturally leads into the last part of the talk about the last three clauses of our opening statement visions statement, “to become disciple- “To train believers to become “who know God, makers.” As they disciple-makers, who know model His character, move from initial are able to build God, model His character and belief, towards into others the lifeand are able to build into changing principles being a disciple, our goal is to produce of His Word.” The others the life-changing disciple -makers, middle two relative principles of His Word.” disciples who can clauses actually replicate the process in others. Paul become our greatest challenge as we speaks to this when he writes, “The engage with each other and the students. things which you have heard from me Tune in next time to see how. in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Tm 2:2).

The purpose of discipling is spiritual growth and the equipping of other faithful disciples. The discipleship Waldie Neufeld, Ph.D. process completes the circle when President the disciplee can in turn produce a disciple-maker.

Waldie has been at PRBI for 24 years. He Under God’s guidance so many especially enjoys teaching the Gospel of Mark years ago (1990), then President, Reuben on disciple-making. He and his wife, Sharon, have four children and 13 grandchildren.

Kvill, and the Board focused the School in on this disciple-making vision. This vision impacts our homes, our communities, and our world. We, whether staff or you our friends, partner with our Lord Jesus Christ in the Lord’s mandate of discipling here at PRBI. For that we want to thank you! Your conversation encourages young people to come and your financial investments afford them the opportunity to study and grow in Jesus Christ. We have appreciated so much the overwhelming willingness to invest in student lives here at PRBI. Thanks!!

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COME SEE BEFORE YOU DECIDE. eVIEW 2015 MARCH 5-7 GRADE 10+ SFORD@PRBI.EDU

SAVE THE DATE

From Our Faculty “The Bible is the most revered, respected, and celebrated book of all-time. Since the first published book rolled off the Gutenberg Press over five hundred years ago (a Bible, of course!), it has been a perpetual best-seller, far surpassing sales of any other volume in human history. For Christians, however, the Bible is not just a best-seller, it is “God’s Word” – a divine message to us in human language”1 (2 Tm 3:16; 2 Pe 1:21).

God is the source of all authority (Ro 13:1) and God’s Word is authoritative (Jn 17:17).

God’s Word encourages us (Ps 23; 27; 103:13-14; Zp 3:17; Ro 8:18-39), lifts our spirits (Ps 3:3), comforts us (2 Co 1:3-5), guides us (Ps 119:105), and chides us (Pr 3:11; He 12:5-6). God’s Word builds us up and gives us a firm foundation on which to stand (2 Tm 2:19-21; 1 Pe 5:10). The Bible gives us hope and peace (Jn 16:33; Ro 5:5-8), brings us into a knowledge 5

Dustin Burlet

of the Living God (Jn 20:31; 2 Tm 3:15; 1 Jn 5:13) and through submission to the Scripture’s teachings we may be “perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (Ja 1:4 ESV). 2 In Scripture we have everything we need for life and godliness (2 Pe 1:3). And by it, believers are “thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tm 3:16b NIV).

The Bible holds the answers to life’s toughest questions such as: Who am I? Where did I come from? How did I get here? Where am I going? What really matters in life? In addition to these “big” questions, the Bible also gives us sage council in key areas such as: “What should I look for in a mate?” “How can I have a healthy, God-honoring marriage?” “How can I become a better neighbour, friend, parent, employee or employer?” 3 The question is, “Who knows better how to chart the course for your life: you or God?”

The Value of Bible Study As Colin McDougall notes: “Does God know how your relationships and family work better than anyone, or do you know better?” Unquestionably, “what foundation could one find upon which to build one’s life that would be more certain and secure than the Word of God?” 4 Plunging into the Word of God is similar to sitting down at a meal. Do you long to dig deeper into God’s Word?

Do you long for a more substantial diet?

Perhaps filet mignon or cordon blue vs. McDonalds or delivery? Such well prepared meals require being intentional.

They do not come about by accident but only by discipline and choice. To lay out a full-course meal requires being proactive and purposeful.

One of the responsibilities of Christian teachers, leaders, and pastors, is to help others become self-feeders so that they can come to God’s Word and be able to be spiritually nourished time and time again. This cannot be done apart from

training on how to do a methodological and intentional study of the Word of God. As it is written, “’Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God’” (Mt 4:4 ESV).

Christianity demands radical submission to Christ’s teachings.

Christ has commanded believers to “…make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Mt 28:19-20 ESV).

Beyond question, without a doubt, you cannot teach what you do not know. You cannot give what you do not have and you cannot lead where you will not follow.

Thus, for Christians everywhere, effective Bible study is not an option.

There is no growth apart from the Word of God. We must read the Bible for all its worth! No, this is not a typo. The “its” is “a deliberate wordplay that works only 6

when it appears without the apostrophe; and…our own emphasis lies with this possessive. Scripture is God’s Word, and we want people to read it because of its great value to them. And if they do it “for all its worth,” hopefully they will also find its worth.”5 Effective Bible study is essential for the life of the Church and for spiritual formation and development. All Christians must be able to read, interpret and apply Scripture with consistency, validity, accuracy, and integrity and we must not underestimate the importance of our task.

The apostle Paul once wrote to Timothy, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth” (2 Tm 2:15). The same diligence required of Timothy is required of all believers and Christian leaders/ teachers today. As noted Greek scholar David Black once said, “The Word of God must be handled accurately – or not handled at all.”6 The Bible, however, is a strange book. Some parts of Scripture are easy to understand but much of it is not.

As someone once quipped, “the past is another country – they do things differently there.”7 Undoubtedly, upon maneuvering through seemingly endless genealogies, “levitical laws, bloodshed in Joshua, or Daniel’s apocalyptic visions, sincere readers often wonder what the Old Testament means.”8 To firmly grasp God’s Word, even in the New Testament, is a monumental task indeed! By grasping God’s Word, I mean to rightly understand it. To have 7

the Truth made clear. We grasp an idea or a story or a poem when we can make good sense of the words in their context.

As I repeatedly tell my students, Context is King!

Only when an interpretation makes sense of the parts and the whole can one say: “I’ve got it.”

To grasp, or to understand, or to “get it” is to recognise what an author is saying and doing in his or her text.

It is a challenge to rightly handle the Word of God! We as readers of the Bible are not by nature neutral and objective. We bring a lot of preconceived notions and influences with us to the text when we read.9 Obviously, to navigate these challenging and potentially treacherous waters, we are going to need steady and experienced guides—someone who knows both the world of the text and the ways of God in human history. Friends, that is what the sermon is for and that is why Bible colleges such as PRBI exist – to help people come know God through getting a better grasp of His Word.

In addition to this, commentaries, Bible dictionaries, and good study Bibles also serve to “put the cookies on the shelf where the kids can get them.”10 The ESV, HCSB, NIV (1984/2011) and the NLT study Bibles have become standard and it would behoove you in your study to leverage each Bible’s unique formatting, style, and translation philosophy.

As D. A. Carson asserts: “For an effective teaching and preaching ministry,” [and remember, friends, we are all called to teach and to hold forth the word of life (Ph 2:16; Mt 28:190-20)] “commentaries take their place among other essential

tools. But since different tasks often require different tools, useful commentaries are of more than one kind.” Whatever else be the case, “the dominant need is to understand meanings accurately.”11 The purpose of any commentary, Bible dictionary, or study aid is to find a voice of value.

There is, however, a “right way and a wrong way to use a commentary.

Actually, there are two wrong ways. The first is to ignore completely the use of commentaries. Some people do not consult commentaries because they believe that, since all Christians are equal as they approach the Scriptures, scholars have no privileged insight into the biblical text. The second error is to become overly dependent on commentaries. ’These people have devoted their whole lives to the study of the Bible. How can my opinion measure up to theirs?’

Those holding the first position are wrong because they forget that God gives different gifts to different people in the church. Not all people are equally adept at understanding the Bible and teaching it to others (1 Co 12:12-31).

Those holding the second position err in the opposite direction. They forget that God has given believers the Spirit by which they can discern spiritual things (1 Co 2:14-16).

The right way to use a commentary is as a help. Only after coming to an initial understanding of the passage should we consult commentaries. Neither should we let commentaries bully us. Many times they will be of great help, but sometimes the reader will be right and the commentaries will be wrong.”12 In conclusion, let it be known that in spite of the many challenges that accompany it, the personal rewards of deepening your biblical study are so great that it is worth the effort. Just

remember the importance of humility (Ph 2:1-13) and meekness (Mt 5:5), and that while knowledge puffs up, love builds up (1 Co 8:1).13

Dustin Burlet Faculty Dustin is a graduate of PRBI (‘07) and after earning his Master of Divinity from Providence Theological Seminary became a member of the PRBI Team in 2011. He is married to Rebecca and they have two children, Malachi and Ezra.

[1] This opening paragraph comes from Duvall and Hays, Grasping God’s Word, 11.

[2] Some of the wording and structure of this paragraph comes from Duvall and Hays, Grasping God’s Word, 39.

[3] Some of the questions and certain elements of the structure of this paragraph come from http://www.gotquestions.org/why-read-Bible. html#ixzz3K7Wta8r8 accessed November 25, 2014.

[4] McDougall, “Chapter 1: Model A: Authority, A-I:1,” 1992.

[5] Fee and Stuart, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth, 12.

[6] Black, Using New Testament Greek in Ministry, 9.

[7] This quote is attributed to L. P. Hartley, a British novelist and short story writer.

[8] This quote comes from Robert L. Hubbard Jr., general editor of The New International Commentary on the Old Testament.

[9] Duvall and Hays, Grasping God’s Word, 137.

[10] Both John F. Evan’s A Guide to Biblical Commentaries and Reference Works 9th edition and www.bestcommentaries.com are reliable aids to know what the better resources are.

[11] Carson, New Testament Commentary Survey 7th edition, 1.

[12] Longman, Old Testament Commentary Survey 5th edition, 3.

[13] Elements of this last paragraph, including wording, are derived from Mounce, Greek for the Rest of Us 1st edition, xx.

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Tough Questions Which Translation of the Bible Should I Use? I recently received a Facebook message from a PRBI alumni asking me if I could please explain to her the differences between various Bible translations. Were this an isolated incident I might not have thought much of it, but this was, in fact, the third enquiry that I had received on the subject of Bible translations in the past month.

Answering questions such as these requires great sensitivity and discernment, as well as no small amount of “know how” in the Bible’s original languages—Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic, among other matters.

Translation is a tricky process.

An old Italian proverb says, Traduttore traditore, meaning “The Translator is traitor!” As Fee and Strauss note, “. . . although this play on words is certainly an exaggeration it contains a measure 9

PRBI Faculty

of truth. Every translation “betrays” the original text because it is impossible to communicate all of the meaning with perfect clarity.”1 Languages are not codes. “No two languages are the same in terms of word meanings, grammatical constructions, or idioms.” 2 In short, the key is to recognise that no translation of the Bible is perfect and that each translation is able to provide some helpful insights into the meaning of the text. I encourage the use of multiple translations.3

Dustin Burlet Faculty

How Can I Tell the Difference Between the Voice of God and My Own Thoughts?

What is the Value in Being Silent Before God?

The phone rings and before the person says their name you recognise them by their voice. Interestingly, Jesus once said, “My sheep hear My voice…” So how do I know it is God’s voice or my own thoughts?

Here are a few ways I use to distinguish between the two. 1) God speaks through His Word, the truth, and will not lead us astray or contradict Himself. Regular Bible reading and study are sure ways to hear God’s voice. 2) God speaks through His Holy Spirit. We have the Spirit living in us, prompting and leading. If the “voice” we hear is confusing or vague, then it is not of God. 3) God speaks through His people. The counsel of a trusted friend can be God’s voice to us. 4) God speaks through prayer. James reminds us that if we lack wisdom we can ask. As we seek God in prayer he will respond. 5) God speaks through His peace. This is how I truly know it is His voice and not my own selfish one. As I am settled in my spirit I can move forward in confidence.4

In our noisy and busy world being inwardly silent in God’s presence is very difficult, but also very rewarding. Inward silence allows us to listen to what our Lord has to say about a passage of scripture we are studying, or to gain wisdom or peace at the moment before an upcoming meeting, or just to enjoy being with Him. With minds full of Him, we still our own thoughts and think a phrase pertinent to the moment—like “God of peace” or “God of wisdom”—and wait with Him in silence.

When busy thoughts start to crowd back into our mind—and they will—we can repeat the original phrase and continue with our thoughts stilled in His presence.

At first, we might be able to go only a few seconds before our own thoughts interrupt. Then we need to repeat the original phrase and continue in inward stillness. Thankfully practice brings longer periods of wonderful stillness in God’s presence. What a great way to spend time just being with our Lord.

Darrel Schmidt Dean of Students

John Bell Faculty

Email: prbi@prbi.edu to submit your questions.

[1] Fee and Strauss, How to Choose a Translation for All Its Worth, pp.31.

[2] Ibid., 25.

[3] “Translations: why are they different“ by Bill Mounce available at http://biblicaltraining.org/ under “seminars” and the book “How to Choose a Translation for All Its Worth” by Gordon D. Fee and Mark L. Strauss.

[4] For further study, check out: Hearing God’s Voice

by Henry T. Blackaby, Richard Blackaby.

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Reconnect What was your first job?

Being an Alberta girl, my first job was working in the oilfield where I met people from many backgrounds. That experience taught me that each person has a distinct way of viewing and interacting with the world. This still holds true amongst people who have common ground, like those at PRBI.

How do you handle different personalities in discipleship?

PRBI Team Members

What is the first thing you talk about in discipleship?

Every choice we make is influenced by how we view authority, which is why the concept of authority can quickly surface in discipleship. Just ask about “the rules” (the annoying ones) and most people, no matter where they are at in life, will likely reveal their distorted view of authority.

What makes you laugh the most?

While we share a common faith, conflicting personalities create tension as we grow in community. Without Christ, I can see others as annoying or grating. But when I love others with God’s love and focus on the growth and victory experienced through Him, personalities become less of a stumbling block.

Anyone who knows me would say that I have a rather specific sense of humour, though my son Jasper would never know it. He can have me in stitches in a second flat, and I love it. These days, he thinks playing hide and seek all the time is hilarious, and it kind of is. Amazing how God uses comedians, I mean kids, to put smiles on us.

- Kate Potter Registrar

- Jeremy Johnston Director of Development

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What is a conversation that can lead to discipling your kids?

What was your favourite subject in high school?

“How did Adam and Eve sew leaves together when they had no needles?” started a conversation which led to “Did Adam and Eve have the same DNA?” Discipling our kids can be challenging but rewarding when their imaginations are allowed to lead.

My favourite subject in school was drama. I loved to get on stage and bring a character to life, someone different from who I really was. Growing up I was a shy child so this gave me the freedom to step out of that box and be a little more outgoing.

What is your favourite book?

Do you prefer formal or informal discipleship?

Randy Alcorn’s book If God is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil is a helpful book in answering difficult questions such as “How can evil exist if everything God created is good?” Alcorn provides logical, biblical responses to difficult questions.

- Janet Gibbs Business Office Manager

Due to the nature of my job I do both formal and informal discipleship.

Personally I am much more comfortable with the informal discipleship that comes from just hanging out with the students.

- Shelley Martindale Dean of Women

Are you an introvert or extrovert?

What was your first job?

Perhaps the most surprising thing about me, is that I am an introvert! Most people only see the intensity and passion I have. But I love my time alone, reading, thinking, and chilling out while drinking coffee or tea as I refresh and reflect on life.

My first job was picking rocks for one of our neighbours who was developing his “lawn”. However his “lawn” resembled more of a gravel pit than anything else. Few jobs are better for teaching perseverance than picking rocks. It is an experience I am now thankful for.

How do you handle the unwilling participant in discipleship?

What gives life to your discipleship times?

If someone is reluctant to participate my approach is to share a truth that I have learned and the impact it had on my life. This will often begin to open people’s hearts and nudge them towards participating thereby experiencing accountability and encouragement in their walk with Christ.

Seeing the visible work of the Holy Spirit in someone’s life as they wrestle with the truth is what gives life to my discipleship times. Few things are as exciting to see, or experience, as the working of the Holy Spirit in administering grace and truth that impacts a person at the very centre of their being.

- Nolan Dyck Admissions Counselor

- Caleb Semenyna Presidential Administrative Assistant 12

Development Message In the last Trumpet I wrote about the foundational principal of biblical stewardship; that God is the owner of all things because all things were created by Him and for Him (Ps 24:1). I concluded that in light of this, we cannot claim true ownership of anything because we are meant to be stewards (Ge. 2:15).

Biblical stewardship can be defined as “utilizing and managing all resources God provides for the glory of God and the betterment of His creation.”1 As disciples every kingdom resource decision is a spiritual one, so we must decide how God wants us to manage and use what He has given us in a way that honours Him and impacts our world for Jesus Christ (1 Pe 4:10-11). But what are these kingdom resources? In Colin McDougall’s book, Models for Disciplemakers he lists 16 kingdom resources, but for the purpose of this article, I am going to condense Colin’s list2 and expand on 7 resources we simply must manage.

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Jeremy Johnston

1. Our body (1 Co 6:19) Appropriately managing our bodies is an act of worship (Rom 12:1). This means that we must ensure that what we eat and drink is done to the glory of God (1 Co 10:31-33).

As disciples of Jesus, questions like, how am I doing with exercise and am I eating nutritionally are not just health questions, they are spiritual ones. This kingdom resource may need a trainer.

2. Our mind (Ro 12:2) As disciples there is a battle going on for our minds (Ep 4:20-24). We are called to lay aside our old self and renew our minds.

Talk about a kingdom resource we must manage! How are our minds doing? What are we thinking about most? Are we taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Co 10:5)? Perhaps we need to be honest with someone and let them know how our mind is really doing. This will be a good first step in being a good steward of this kingdom resource.

7 Resources We Simply Must Manage 3. Our tongue (Ja 1:26, 3:1-10) This is not just about managing curse words, this is about managing everything we say. Nit-picking, nagging, complaining, manipulating, lying, gossipping, insulting, etc. are all things that apply here. For myself, I have recently realized how much my nit-picking tongue hurts the people I care most about in my life and how hard it is to bridle it. As disciples of Jesus we must continually manage and evaluate our tongues for the glory of God. Our tongues can be a powerful kingdom resource or quite the opposite rather quickly.

4. Our emotions (Ep 4:26-32) Be angry, and yet do not sin (Ep 4:26). You see it is not that our emotions, one being anger, are the problem: it is about how we manage these emotions (i.e. do not sin).

This truly is a challenge, but as disciples we must learn to manage our emotions in such a way that it does not give the

devil an opportunity. This kingdom resource will rely heavily on walking by the Spirit (Ga 5:16) and putting off our old self (Ep 4:22-24).

5. Our time (Ep 5:15-17) Making the most of our time is perhaps one of the harder things to manage because there are so many options these days for how to spend it. Just one aspect of this, is that while we do have time on the earth that we are to do good to all people (Ga 6:10) and wisely interact with non-Christians, making the most of our opportunities (Cl 4:5). This then begs many questions, one being, when I go out in public, even to the grocery store, am I looking for and taking the opportunities I have to make disciples?

Another would be, am I investing my time in eternal or temporal things? Getting in front of this kingdom resource will yield much productivity. We have more time to manage then we think.

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6. Our spiritual gifts (1 Co 12:4-6) What are our spiritual gifts? Are we using them? These are two questions that work well in talking to those we disciple about their spiritual gifts. Often our conversation about stewardship is linked to money (which we will get to), but do not talk much about stewarding our spiritual gifts with those we disciple.

This is an important kingdom resource discussion to have.

7. Our finances (1 Tm 6:17-19) What better way to talk about this kingdom resource than to give an example. This fall at PRBI we received two donations from brothers who are learning about financial stewardship. One brother gave $9.25 and the other $10. These two pre-teen boys were challenged by their dad to farm some land to earn money but more importantly to learn to be generous stewards. Both boys, after harvest, decided they wanted to give part of their tithe to PRBI. You can imagine the surprise when we figured out who was donating! In talking with their father, Waldie asked what he wanted us to do with the tax receipts. The father said, “Send them. I want them to experience

all of what is involved in giving.” There is no better way to raise our children to be like Jesus, than to teach and model faithful stewardship of finances.

Through the last 80 years, PRBI has been blessed by many stewards, both young and old, of their kingdom resources. I would like to both thank you for your partnership with us and invite you to continue investing in the lives of young people at PRBI by giving of your kingdom resources. Your investment in their lives is yielding growth for God’s kingdom!

Jeremy Johnston Director of Development Jeremy (g ‘09) has been on staff at PRBI since 2009. He and his wife Leah have a one-year old son, Jasper.

[1] Bugg, “Stewardship“ in Holman Bible Dictionary (Holman: Tennessee, 1991), 1303-1304.

[2] McDougall, “Chapter 12: Model K: Kingdom Resource Management, K:1,“ 1992.

Fill out the survey on the envelope to help us make the Trumpet even better!

2014-2015 Upperclassmen

Please pray for the Upperclassmen of 2014-2015.

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Financial Update Peace River Bible Institute Statement of Operations and Budget July 2014 - November 2014 Revenue Student Fees & Other Programs

Annual Budget

% of Budget To Date

416,165

1,084,300

Sales & Non-Program Fees & Services

19,149

35,650

Rental Income

89,133

241,224

37%

189,038 33,864 222,902

712,800

31%

Donations - Undesignated Donations - Designated Total Donations

38%

Special Projects

17,100

Interest Income

11,096

13,000

85%

Total Revenue

775,545

2,086,974

37%

Expenses

Expenses To Date

Annual Budget

% of Budget To Date

Academics

175,923

416,999

42%

Student Life

107,500

271,917

40%

Food Services

113,956

272,727

42%

Promotion & Development

123,460

296,162

42%

74,049

157,842

47%

217,917

527,466

41%

Facilities & Maintenance

51,348

141,232

36%

Special Projects

17,100

Total Expenses

881,253

2,084,345

42%

Admissions Administration

Net Income (Loss) Excludes Amortization Expense 17

Income To Date

(105,708)

2,629

Admissions The first phone call was painful. I would ask a question and the response was hesitant, cryptic and nervous. She had applied to attend PRBI and it was my job to help her finish up the process. I love my job, but some encounters prove to be a little more challenging than others!

As the weeks went on and the Facebook messages and phone calls rolled back and forth between us there were glimpses of vulnerability. After a little while I began to recognise that I was staring into a decade younger me. I could sense her fear, her hesitation, and her questions. ”Can I make it?” ”Will I be wanted?” I got it. God had used various facets of PRBI to answer those questions in my heart, and I knew He wanted the same for her.

Long story short, she came!

And three years later, is still here. From a young girl with eyes to the floor to a woman whose eyes now more easily look up to the only one who defines her. One interaction at a time, and affirmations that she was valued by others, led to the greater discovery that she was also loved and valued ultimately by God. What a beautiful truth!

At the end of her first year she was uncertain of a second, but God led and she came. At the end of her second year, there was no thought of a third. God again cleared the way and she came back and began leading a Care Group. This position that she had refused to believe she could fill she is now leading, growing, struggling, belonging, and learning what it is to live in community and disciple others.

It is like the crocus in spring that slowly starts to push its way through the

weight, darkness and coolness of the snow. At first there is just a subtle hint of life emerging, and suddenly the vast whiteness is scattered with a beauty that it could not have created on its own. A breathtaking surprise.

Reflecting over God’s work in Rosemarie’s life is a reminder that we are each a masterpiece He wants to unveil. This is such a wonderful reminder as we continue to interact with youth considering Bible college that God has a much bigger plan than what we initially see. There are numerous other encounters that I could share, but I really need to go make another phone call.

Sandra Ford Admissions Manager

Coming to a Town Near You!

Our Admissions Team would love an opportunity to share about PRBI with your group or individual(s).

Contact admissions@prbi.edu or 1-800-959-PRBI (7724).

January 8 – 18

Lethbridge, southern Alberta, and southern Saskatchewan

January 30 – February 1 Missions Fest Vancouver

February 6 – 15

Missions Fest Manitoba, Winnipeg, and southern Manitoba

February 20 – 22

Mission Fest Alberta 18

PRBI presents a day of

Marriage Enrichment with Waldie and Sharon Neufeld February 14, 2015

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Register online at www.prbi.edu by Friday, February 6.

Athletics Department A few years ago I watched an interview with Cal Ripken Jr. as he was being inducted into Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame. Ripken, the one with the “Iron Man” moniker attached to him for having played 2,632 consecutive games, was asked, “What do you owe the success of your career to?” His response, “Practice.”

One would think that the games in themselves would be more than enough “practice,” but Ripken did not.

Every second Wednesday morning my alarm rudely awakens me at 5:40 a.m. I get out of bed, hop into my frozen vehicle, and drive to the hockey arena, always arriving just a few minutes before the rest of the PRBI hockey team.

The dressing room soon fills up with young men, still wearing the crease of their pillow on the sides of their faces, ready to practice. Do I hear grumbling?

Most definitely. Do I hear students talking about their lack of sleep? Yes, I do. But once we get onto that clean sheet of ice, all the bellyaching disappears. We work on our skating, passing, defensive zone breakouts, and forechecking. After practice there is always a notable spirit of accomplishment. We had worked on things as a team. Together, we got just a little bit better. Is that not what the spirit of practice is all about? We practice our trade to improve our trade, just like Ripken did.

The Apostle Paul does not use hockey or baseball analogies in his writings, but he does talk about practice.

“I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”

(Ph 3:13-14). Paul was well aware that he had not arrived—he was not the perfect hockey or baseball player so to speak. But, Paul did not sit around dwelling on this, instead he practiced living out his faith.

He pressed on. He realised areas where he needed to improve, and dedicated himself to the goal of becoming like Jesus. Paul practiced being like Jesus. And so should we.

There is no better way in my mind to teach this discipleship lesson than to get out of bed early and practice something, in our case hockey, but it could really be anything. In my case, as the team practices and improves, I get to illuminate for them that this same level of practice in our journey with God will lead to improved spiritual growth and freedom. I let them know that just as we can practice hockey, we can practice becoming more like Christ and in so doing improve as disciples of Him in the process.

I think Cal Rikpen Jr. is on to something here. Practice is important, not just in an athletic sense. We all can improve in one area or another. None of us have arrived yet. So let’s get on the field, so to speak, and practice the trade of making disciples and becoming more like Christ.

Shane Dell Dean of Men Shane (g ‘08) has served as Dean of Men since 2012. Married to Danni (ug ‘08), they have an 11 month old son, Jack.

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PRBI Student Spotlight I never imagined I would come to PRBI. I was fiercely independent, convinced I could make it on my own, satisfied in life, and was figuring things out without God. Despite being a Christian my whole life, I never had a deep, personal relationship with Him. After some hard life experiences I hit a wall and told God this was it. If He didn’t show Himself to me, I was done.

The funny thing about these situations is when you ask God to show up, He will. Being at PRBI I have learned so much. Most importantly, I’ve learned to listen to God’s heartbeat. Surrounded by a community of friends who encourage me in my faith, hold me up when I am weak, and let me ask the hard questions, I am learning to love others, forgive myself, and run into the arms of a loving God who wants to call me His own.

Before coming to PRBI, my mentality was that people, and God, were not safe. And I was right. God isn’t safe. Relationships aren’t safe. But I was missing a vital piece of the puzzle. God isn’t safe, but He is good. He is love, and His heart beats love for me.

Alisha Hiebert 1st Year The environment here at PRBI serves as a fertilizer for us as Christians to learn and be immersed in God’s Word. Being able to talk with other students honestly and openly in our care groups, has allowed me to dig deeper into the problems that hinder my spiritual growth. I have learned to be defined by what God thinks of me: “You are my child and I love you dearly.”

During my time here at PRBI I have come to appreciate the ways in which God pushes me out of my comfort zone. It is challenging to get to know someone for the first time and even more challenging to be open and honest about the reality of my walk with Jesus. Discipleship relationships are foundational to my health as a Christian. They allow me to share what is really going on in my life, both struggles and victories, with someone who wants to help and encourage me.

PRBI is a school that has drawn me to God in the most unexpected ways. It is not so much in the classes but rather through the people here that have encouraged me in my Christian faith. These people express their care and passion to help students grow in their love for God and for others.

Lorne Schmidt 2nd Year 21

What has God done in your life?

What is the meaning of life? This question connotes many an utterance, nary an answer. I found this to be true as I slid into my third year at PRBI – the home stretch. But should not a third year Bible college student already be certain of what she believes?

Perhaps not - what I have found is that this period of doubt has been an entirely necessary leap; I am simply discovering reality and learning to live according to that. At PRBI, the classes, the community, and the opportunities have challenged my worldview; oddly enough, being at Bible college has caused me to question and scrutinize my faith like never before. This is what I have learned in my years here: Christianity is the only ideology that explains the universe, with its splendid colours and intricate detail, and humanity, with its tainted nature and fierce spirit. As extraordinary as it is, the Bible explains everything. God is the only hope for humanity and for me, and the only reasonable explanation for the things that are. I have to choose to believe this and live according to this truth. Only in this have I been able to begin to trust God and to truly live life.

Hannah Senft 3rd Year Four years. Four years of my life. Countless hours spent in study, in community, in class, and in training. To summarize the past four years is to open the story of my journey with Christ. Who would volunteer, and even pay money, to be shown in great detail their failings? I came to Bible school to learn and build my resume. I thought I had my life all together. I thought I was an exemplar of faith. Instead, I was a boy trampling around in man-sized shoes.

My life was characterized by pride.

Throughout the years God began a good work in me. He got my attention when He chastised, removed His blessings, and seemed distant. Sometimes, the only way for a forest to grow is for a fire to burn it to the ground. My time at PRBI has been like that cleansing forest fire. My failings and shortcomings have been revealed to those closest to me. Over the past four years God has stripped away the dirt and the grime from my life. He has left me vulnerable and bare. But He has never failed to build me back up again. Our greatest weaknesses and our greatest strengths God will tear down, polish, and recast. What emerges is in the image of our Creator, which I am so thankful for.

Andrew Giesbrecht 4th Year 22

College News GLOBAL MINISTRIES CONFERENCE

As you can see from the pictures, the Conference was a great weekend! If you were to ask our students what their favourite part of the weekend was, they would likely say Friday afternoon, when together with some of the visiting mission reps we got to go on a Micro Mission Trips. We had groups serving at the Salvation Army, Bear Lake Bible Camp, HIV North, Care Homes, as well as some groups doing service project right here in Sexsmith. Many stories could be shared but a note-worthy one is how the Lord used one group that decided to do a “Rake-and-Run” in Sexsmith. This group came across a park that had not been raked in what seemed like years, so they began raking and filling countless bags with leaves and garbage. A lady who lived by the park noticed what they were doing and decided to bake them cookies. When she brought them out, she began talking with one of the group members, and at the end of the conversation the group member was able to pray with her. Amazing what willing disciples can do with a few rakes!

DECADE REUNIONS

The Decade Reunions that ran in conjunction with the Global Ministries Conference was a great success. We had approximately 250 alumni here for the Reunions and many more who attended our conference. It was fun to see alumni connect with their classmates that they don’t see very often. Thanks to all who came out to make it a very special day!

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TOUR TEAM

We have one tour team traveling for us this year that focuses on music and drama performance. We have named them Personify, taken loosely from Colossians 3:17. The team has already been out to three churches and will travel even more extensively next semester. Interestingly enough, 6 of the 8 team members are from the Peace Country.

This tour team primarily ministers to youth groups but are open to other venues as well. If you are interested in hosting our team, please email jjohnston@prbi.edu or call the college (780-569-3962) and ask for Jeremy.

GYM PROJECT UPDATE

Currently we are in conversation with one contractor about building the Gymnasium and Community Fitness Centre. We will begin construction as soon as possible, likely this spring.

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A TRIBUTE TO ROBERT PETERS

PRBI’s history is full of men and women who have served the College well and for many years. We are very thankful for those who have given of their time to direct the College at the Board level. The Board of Directors, which gives direct oversight to the College, is annually chosen from within the larger Corporate Board. One who has sat on both Boards and served with distinction is Bob Peters. He came on the Corporate Board in 1973 and has stepped off the Corporate Board this year. That’s a long road of service. He also served on the Board of Directors from 1987-2009.

Bob will be long remembered for his diligence in all things written, researched, and recorded. We also remember his encouragement to keep PRBI’s vision moving forward and his encouragement to many of the staff. We have so appreciated his quiet reassurance even in the midst of the challenges that a Bible college faces. He of course has served well because of his wife, Shirley, so we thank her too for making this all possible. ”What a pleasure it has been, Bob, to serve with you. Thank you for your years of service to PRBI. We know that you have just stepped off our Corporate Board, but we know that you are still with us in so many ways.”

SPONSOR ENERGY

This fall PRBI became a community partner with Sponsor Energy to save on our electricity rates. As electricity costumers (both residential or small business), you have the opportunity to give to Peace River Bible Institute by switching from your current power company to Sponsor Energy for electricity. Designate PRBI as a recipient and Sponsor Energy will make a donation of 50% of their profits on your electricity usage to Peace River Bible Institute each month. Visit http://www.sponsorenergy. com/charity/peace-river-bible-institute to learn more.

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Alumni Corner As my time at PRBI progressed, I had a to even attend university, and probably rough time as I began to start thinking would have eventually ended up in prison about the big questions or worse. PRBI was a in life such as: Do I have “Had I not attended major stepping-stone, a soul? Does God exist? among many steppingPRBI, I never would Is justice real? What is stones, that helped beauty? Can science have discovered my true bring me to where I explain everything? passion for education” am currently, in the MA Until that point, I realised program in philosophy my beliefs about questions of that nature at Loyola Marymount University in Los depended heavily upon, as for most Angeles, California. people, religious experiences. For me, at I want to share two important the time, my religious experiences proved points with you. First, there is no the existence of God, confirmed I had a genuine conflict between faith and soul, understood God as the ultimate reason. Generally speaking, Christianity, source of justice and creator of beauty, philosophy, and science all have the revealed the poverty of science, and so on. same goals: seeking the ultimate causes While I think that religious experiences of things and living in light of them. are very important and can be authentic, Secondly, the transfer of values from when it came to demonstrating my one person to another takes place not religious experiences to others, they merely through rational discussion, but were usually toothless, aside from those ultimately through friendship. who already believed. I was unable to demonstrate my religious beliefs to my current girlfriend, my band, or any of my nonreligious friends.

After I had graduated from PRBI, the answers for the “big questions” I Jaron Neufeld was looking for fell under the academic PRBI Alumni discipline of philosophy (the love of wisdom). To the terror of my parents, See Jaron’s wedding I went off to university to study the announcement on page 28. faith-destroying discipline of the pagans. However, such views were quite misguided. Overall, my education refined me in every way, justified answers to my most profound questions, and allowed me to maintain and explore my religious convictions.

Had I not attended PRBI, I never would have discovered my true passion for education, or become literate enough

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Alumni & Staff News BIRTHS

BROCHU, Brendan (g ‘06) & Haley (nee: Campbell, g ‘09) welcomed their daughter, Mackenzie Grace Brochu, into the world on December 24, 2013.

Weighing in at 6 lb. 12 oz. and 18.5 in. long with a full head of hair she was a perfect Christmas gift! Brendan is currently working at Huntwood Cabinet in Red Deer, Alberta, while Haley enjoys the last few months of maternity leave before returning to work with Central Alberta Youth Unlimited in January. We live in Ponoka, Alberta, and would love the chance to catch up if you’re in the area!

DELL, Shane (g ‘08, Staff, ‘11-present) & Danni (nee: Bell, ug ‘08) are pleased to announce the birth of their first child, Jack Benett Dell, born February 18, 2014. Jack weighed 7 lb. 8 oz.

NOBLE, David & Rosie (nee: Friesen, ug ‘06) were blessed with a beautiful baby boy, LeRoy David Noble, on March 31, 2014, at 12:41 p.m., weighing 7 lb. 6 oz. and 19.6 in. long. We are so happy to be starting on this journey of parenthood. We pray God will give us the grace and wisdom we need. In these few short months since God blessed us with this bundle of joy, we have already learned that it will not always be fun or easy, but that He will equip us as we need. God is Good.

REDDEMANN, Kyle (g ‘08, Staff, ‘08-’11) & Vanessa (nee: Vike, ug ‘09) are excited to announce the birth of their son, Hudson Chase Reddemann. Our handsome young man was born December 23, 2013, and came in at 8 lb. 13 oz. and 21.5 in. long.

UPDATES

JOOS, Michael & Michelle (nee: Hall, g ‘04) The nearly 11 years since I graduated from PRBI have been very full. In 2005, I served for 3 years with Christar in Northern India.

After returning from India, I married Michael and we served 2 years with Venture Teams International. In 2011 we moved to Ontario and served in Christar’s Canadian home office. We plan to move to Edmonton in spring 2015, and once again join Christar in church planting among South Asian immigrants.

We have two precious boys (Isaac 3 1/2, and Elias 1). We would love to hear from past PRBI and VTI friends. (mike.michelle.2009@gmail.com)

This update removed from the online version.

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PATTIMORE, Steve (g ‘97) & Elaine We have been living in Coaldale, Alberta, for the past 15 years. I have worked for the Lethbridge Fire Department as a firefighter/ paramedic for the past seven years. Previously, I was with the Coaldale Fire Department. Elaine is a stay-at-home mom and has been homeschooling now for 4 years. We are both actively involved in the Coaldale Mennonite Brethren Church. We have three children: Danae, Damien, and Dezrae. This past May we had the joy of celebrating the wedding of Danae to Bradyn.

WIEBE, Daniel (g ‘54) & Doris We were married in 1956. I studied at University of Alberta, LeTourneau Technical Institute, Seattle Pacific College, and Northern Alberta Institute of Technology. Through the years we were involved in the following ministries: Canadian Sunday School Mission, World Team (Dominican Republic and North America), PRBI as Business Manager, Canadian Baptist Overseas Mission Board (Kenya and East Africa), Business Manager at Prairie Bible Institute, South America Mission (Peru and Canada), and Canadian Gideons. We have 3 children: Daniel (Missouri), Jerry (Washington), and Bonnie (Alberta). We are currently living in Three Hills, Alberta.

GERBER, Darrell (Staff, `95-present, Medical Leave) Since the writing of the article Time Flies in the last Trumpet there are some prayer requests to share with you. Pray that I will continue to adjust to and accept the ongoing side effects of the medication I am on, as well as safety as I travel to Edmonton through the winter. During the second week of February I will have a follow-up with the neurologist about the deterioration of my hands. Pray for understanding of how to deal with this.

WEDDINGS

DRIEDGER, Dustin (g ‘11) & Nacia (nee: Looy, g ‘14) were happily married on July 12, 2014. We are currently living in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, and enjoying this new season of life together. Currently, Nacia is working at a senior’s lodge, and Dustin is working for Wood’s Livestock Equipment. Together we are seeking the Lord’s direction. As far as our ambitions and burden for overseas ministry we look forward to where the Lord may lead.

NEUFELD, Jaron (g ‘09) & Noelle We were married May 17, 2014, in Canby, Oregon. I met Noelle while we were both attending Trinity Western University in Langley, British Columbia. We currently reside in Los Angeles, California, where I am attending Loyola Marymount University. We will continue to work in Grande Prairie, Alberta, during the summers.

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WITH THE LORD

EDEY, Lillian Alice (Staff ‘99-’03) of Lethbridge, Alberta, beloved wife of Gordon Edey, passed away on September 17, 2014, at the age of 68 years. Lillian and her husband Gordon were on PBRI staff (Bookstore and maintenance respectively) from 1999 –2003. Before that they worked on staff at Prairie Bible Institute from 1983 – 1996.

They spent several years in Papua New Guinea building missionary homes. They also went on a mission trip to Kenya in January 2014.

Here they were co-laborers with Christian Mission Aid (CMA) in the Kenyan countryside.

Lillian died after a three-week battle with leukemia.

CUMMINGS, Forrest Floyd was born in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, on February 17, 1924. After serving in World War II he served in various ministries including Prairie Bible Institute where he worked on some of their large construction projects. After that he served with Northern Canada Evangelical Mission. While attending a language learning class hosted at Peace River Bible Institute he met Minnie Bartsch who was serving in the campus kitchen. In 1963 they were married and returned to service in the North. Two children were born to them during that time.

In 1972, the family moved to Prairie Bible Institute where Forrest again worked on campus serving those in ministry. Forrest lived life simply to serve God and others with the skills and energy God provided.

COMING EVENTS January 30

Circle of Friends

February 14

Marriage Enrichment Seminar Part 1

March 5–7 eView

April 18

Grad Ceremony

About PRBI About PRBI: PRBI is a Canadian Degree Granting Bible College in Sexsmith, Alberta, founded in 1933. PRBI is known for quality academics and its highly relational culture that purposefully fosters an atmosphere of spiritual growth. PRBI has a distinct commitment to train students in a thorough knowledge of the Word of God and to train students to become disciple-makers whether at home or abroad. PRBI’s educational model purposefully integrates the academic learning experience with an experiential learning component making us a Bible College for life.

Vision Statement: To train believers to become disciple-makers who know God, model His character, and are able to build into others the life-changing principles of God’s Word.

CONTACT US www.prbi.edu prbi@prbi.edu 780-568-3962

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The TRUMPET is the magazine of Peace River Bible Institute that is comprised of contributions from faculty, staff, alumni, and students who are passionate about making disciples in their churches and communities. Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are from the Holy Bible, New American Standard Bible (Copyright 1995 by The Lockman Foundation).

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