Harvesters Educational Philosophy

Harvesters International Theological Seminary endeavors to prepare individuals on the graduate and post graduate level both spiritually, academically and professionally for the tasks of evangelism, Christian education, and leadership training in evangelical/Pentecostal churches, schools, missions, and other Christian agencies.

Underlying the educational philosophy of the Institute is the conviction that the Bible in its original manuscripts is the verbally inspired, inerrant, and authoritative Word of God. Consequently, a study of the Bible constitutes the most significant discipline for any person. This concept is reflected in the Institute's watch word: "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV).

The Bible, therefore, is the central integrating factor of the total curriculum. All truth ultimately is related to and unified by the revealed Word of God. The Bible reveals a triune God who is the Creator, Redeemer, and Source of all truth. He desires to communicate Himself to mankind and has done so throughout human history. The Bible reveals that humans, created by God in His own image, were alienated from God by sin. Yet as beings of infinite worth, when regenerated, they are able to discover God's plan for their individual fulfillment. The Bible also reveals that education is a process in which a student, guided by a professor and in his or her own studies, receives knowledge by which he or she modifies his or her attitudes and behavior to conform more and more to God's purpose and to the character of Jesus Christ. Christian education at Harvesters International Theological Seminary is founded upon five basic principles.

First, it is Spirit-directed. Education is the sum total of the experiences that shape a person's mind and life. Distinctively Christian education is a process the Holy Spirit directs in a student's life.

Second, Christian education is student-related. The students' ultimate motive is to glorify God by fulfilling his or her place in God's plan. Christian education, therefore, is consistent with instruction in God's Word and other areas of knowledge that prepare a person for all aspects of life and direct him or her toward the realization of his or her God-given potential. In areas not specified by the doctrinal statement, the student is free to hold and express individual convictions. While guidelines are provided through this philosophy students are encouraged to think for themselves and to make intelligent decisions based on principles in God's Word.

Third, Christian education is faculty-guided. Students may receive guidance through classroom instruction, independent and self-directed study, counseling, and informal activities. Every area of instruction is a calling of God necessitating the best in academic and spiritual preparation. Faculty members provide a model of Christian living while engaging in a discipling ministry with the students. Since the Bible is the underlying source of truth, faculty members are expected to meet the life standards that flow from the teaching of the Scriptures.

Fourth, Christian education is educationally balanced. The Institute strives to maintain a balance between theoretical subject matter and application. Students are expected to acquire knowledge and master skills. They learn to make value judgments, develop a sense of responsibility, and mature in every area of their personalities.

Fifth, Christian education is practically oriented. The primary focus of the curriculum is to strengthen and advance the local and universal church through an emphasis on worldwide evangelization and the edification of believers. Opportunities to apply facts and concepts learned in the classroom are provided through a variety of field education experiences. Truths are taught through methods and resources that affect student attitudes and behavior and emphasize usefulness in Christian ministry.