From Bible college student to Bible college Director

There are now more than 20 students in a three-year programme, supported by 13 teachers. The curriculum covers all aspects of theology, including a detailed Bible overview, hermeneutics and homiletics.

The college is open equally to men and women. On the day I visited, one of the female students gave an impassioned sermon on Exodus 3, which drew praise from Joseph and others.

Many of the students rely on scholarships for funding and Pastor Joseph would love to see local churches offer more financial help. He is working hard to help the church see the true value of what the college provides. He has also established a coalition of Bible schools in his part of West Africa, including those teaching in Hausa and Fulfulde, in the hope they can collaborate more effectively.

Joseph’s own faith journey is a testament to the power of God, working through those who have been theologically trained.

He was raised as a Muslim but his older brother, who had become a Christian through the work of SIM mission workers, challenged him on his faith. As soon as that process began, when he was 18, he very swiftly committed his life to Christ.

He said: “Almost as soon as my journey started, I read the whole Bible and then began teaching people in my class, even though they were already Christians! My classmates called me ‘Pastor’ even then.”

His wife, Annah*, comes from a family who became Christians through the work of SIM mission workers.

The challenges for the college are many and varied. There is the obvious financial challenge. In a low-resource environment, making ends meet is never easy and the college relies on significant financial aid from overseas. Very few of their students are able to pay what their tuition costs.

In such an environment, it is hard for the church to prioritise theological education, while there are also political and geographic challenges.

Despite the challenges, Mary and Dietrich are encouraged to see the college producing well-trained graduates.

Mary said, “We are thankful that the college is in good hands and that, despite the problems affecting this region, they are looking to the future with hope. It is a joy to see leaders being trained well and equipped for service.”

*Names changed