Philosophy

The educational philosophy of Shasta Bible College is founded on Biblical truth as the basis for evaluating all knowledge (Proverbs 1:7, 2:6, 9:10; Col. 2:3). Thus, in the process of equipping students with a working knowledge of God’s Word, we also seek to bring a Scriptural dimension to the study of the humanities, fine arts, social sciences, and science, based upon the conviction that foundational principles for every area of learning are found in Holy Scripture.

While Shasta Bible College is committed to the pursuit of academic excellence, an effort is made to identify and develop hidden potential in students and to cultivate their creative abilities to the limits set by God for each individual. Many, because of Christian conversion, have a fresh motivation to succeed. The study of God’s truth as revealed in Scripture and the search for academic truth is to be guided by experienced, spiritually and academically qualified faculty members who themselves are open to learning as they teach and interact with students. It is our conviction that the optimum learning experiences are those in which the student is encouraged to apply principles learned in the classroom to practical problem solving situations.

At Shasta Bible College we contend that what an individual is as a person directly impacts his or her effectiveness as a teacher or administrator. For this reason a priority is placed on personnel who can serve as models as well as mentors. A priority is also placed on securing faculty who are growing and alive in knowledge and quality of being. Realizing that a significant portion of formal learning comes from vicarious experience and cannot always be immediately related to life, we encourage the use of creative illustrations which present subject matter in a fresh perspective, making it more relevant to the student. We also believe that certain personality characteristics are conducive to excellence in teaching including: authenticity, enthusiasm, freshness, balance, creative freedom, breath of interest, and an enduring concern for the individual student.

Although it is impossible to dictate God’s leading in a graduate’s life, we at SBC hope to see (1) a significant number (if not the majority) enter vocational Christian service, (2) the maintenance of a vital Christian testimony in the community and the work place, (3) involvement in a Bible-believing local church, (4) a lifelong practice of integrating sacred and secular truth by critically evaluating the issues and problems of life against the standard of God’s inspired Word.