TBC Hosts Annual Missions Emphasis

Trinity Baptist College wrapped up its annual Mission Emphasis in early February.

Students, faculty, and staff heard from guests and alumni who are actively serving in the areas of church planting, evangelism, and missions.  The theme was The Love Affect, using Romans 5:8 as the scripture focus: “… but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

It all kicked off in Friday chapel on January 31.  TBC alumnus and local church planter David Uribe spoke in chapel.  His heartfelt message centered on the Love of Christ demonstrated to us through His sacrifice on the cross, a free gift of grace to all who believe. 

Monday’s chapel was a guest panel featuring alumnus Paul Scott, guest Stephanie Nicholson, and retired missionary Ed Gibson, who has been a beloved friend of TBC for many years.  Each individual in the panel shared personal stories of how God’s love has changed them and how it compels them to serve Him.

Paul Scott returned to speak in chapel on Tuesday, challenging students with a provoking question: “Have you ever felt the burden of loving others?”  Starting in Romans 13, he reminded the student body that believers are to “owe no man anything except to love one another… love your neighbor as yourself”.   He further challenged students to consider what deliberate obedience to this command may look like in their individual lives, and to seek out specific ways to demonstrate that love through ministry and service. 

On Wednesday, students heard from Steve Valentine, a missionary to Poland who recently returned to the US.  Steve urged students to examine if their lives demonstrate love for God, and if so, what is their motivation?  And finally, what are they doing about it?  He pointed out that following Jesus and living on mission will continually refine the answers to the last two questions.  Finally, he left them with the challenge to anchor themselves to the Word of God, seek community with others who are doing the same, and commit to live on-mission in response to the Love of God they have experienced. 

We praise God that several students have indicated that this week was used by the Lord to work in their hearts.  Believing that He uses each willing individual to further his Kingdom, we look ahead with anticipation to what He will accomplish through them!

Mission Emphasis also included a student-led worship and prayer night on Sunday evening, a bonfire night on Monday, and a game night on Tuesday evening. 

The purpose of TBC’s annual Missions Emphasis is to create dedicated time in which students can learn more about what it means to live life on-mission for the sake of the gospel.  It also serves as a way for students to make connections with individuals who are already living on-mission.  Many thanks to Tania Martin, our Converge liaison, who organized the week and hosted Monday’s panel.