Serving as one of many Christian higher education leaders is both a privilege and a responsibility. The sum of all my experiences and reflection leads me to two important conclusions.
The first conclusion is for anyone evaluating the historical and spiritual foundations of faith-based education. Christian higher education is built upon the authority of Scripture. One can accept the historical accuracy of Scripture yet still question its divine inspiration. Belief in the Word of God is ultimately a matter of faith, and no one should be coerced in this conviction, understanding and acceptance must come from the heart.
The second conclusion is for those of us called to faith-based leadership. Scripture is, in fact, the Word of God, and this reality informs every aspect of Christian university administration and academic leadership. For too long, faith-based institutions have treated Scripture merely as a moral yardstick. While it does instruct us on ethical behavior, the Word of God is also about understanding the nature, will, and character of God. As Christian higher education leaders, our mission extends beyond compliance; it is about cultivating a campus culture that reflects God’s wisdom and truth.
The principle of Sola Scriptura, Scripture Alone, guides this mission. Scripture serves as the supreme authority in the church and in Christian academic life. No human authority, program, or institution can supersede the truth of God’s Word. In Christian university administration, this principle ensures that faith-based leadership remains grounded in Scripture rather than cultural trends or secular pressures.
Christian higher education leaders face a serious call: to uphold the authority of Scripture in a postmodern world that challenges truth. Whether evaluating curriculum, shaping policy, or mentoring students, the Word of God must remain central.
Three commitments guide my service:
- Believe it. Scripture is essential, not optional. Christian higher education leaders must operate from the understanding that God’s Word is life-giving, shaping both personal and institutional vision.
- Know it. Beyond reading, leaders must immerse themselves in Scripture to equip students and staff for faithful, academic, and spiritual growth.
- Live it. Scripture should be experienced relationally, every decision, every program, and every classroom should reflect the authority of God’s Word.
In Christian higher education, the challenge is clear: faith-based leadership demands that Scripture shape every facet of our work, not only as a guide to morality but as the foundation of academic and spiritual formation. As Paul wrote, “You accepted it not as the word of menbut as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers” (1 Thess. 2:13).
To stand on Scripture alone, to guide others with God’s truth, and to prepare the next generation for faithful service is the essence of why I serve in Christian higher education.
Joshua Thomas, DMIN, Ministry Studies Chair