A Bible Institute is...

• like the Pastor's Sunday School Class.
• the first step to becoming a Bible College.
• a second rate excuse for a Bible education.
• none of the above.

The multiple-choice statement above describes some of the confusion that surrounds the Bible Institute movement today. From a rather obscure beginning to a rather insecure present, the Bible Institute's primary purpose has always been "to prepare students for Christian ministries through a program of Biblical and practical training." We at Southland are sold on the basic need and the philosophy of the Bible Institute.

In over sixty years of ministry, the purpose of Southland Bible Institute has not changed. Our school was founded in 1942 to help supply this area of Appalachia with trained "native" leadership. We have been actively engaged in doing just that. In the next few paragraphs, we would like to share with you some accurate descriptions of a school which holds to the original purpose of the Bible Institute movement.

First, Southland is somewhat like an undergraduate seminary. That is, we specialize in the academic subjects which center on the Word of God. Our courses are designed to give each student proficiency in the study of the Bible by actual study of the Bible. Constant contact with the Word of God gives the student a working knowledge of God's truth.

The wisdom of this approach is recognized by many missions, schools, and churches which seek out Bible Institute graduates because of the servant's heart that is developed. As one pastor wrote, "You are meeting a need."

Second, Southland is a practical training school. We recognize that most people do not automatically listen just because truth is being proclaimed. So in conjunction with the Bible courses, students study and practice the skills necessary to effectively communicate the truth of God's Word. In this practical training, we are preparing students for Christian ministries in various settings and locations. Our alumni are found in numerous foreign countries and across our own nation, including the hills of Appalachia.

Third, Southland is a proving ground. Our students have ample time and opportunity to practice the principles they learn in the classroom as they participate in "real life" situations. This immediate carry over is extremely important if effective training is to take place.

This training develops leadership abilities in many of the students and prepares them for such ministries as planting and pastoring churches, directing mission organizations and camps, and working in local churches and missions. Other students go on to further their education, honing the basic skills learned at Southland. Most deeply appreciate the stability learned in the Bible Institute.

Southland Bible Institute is...

• like an undergraduate seminary.
• a practical training school.
• a proving ground.
• all of the above.