Vision:
We envision a future where Smith Christian University is recognized within conservative theological circles as a premier institution for producing highly effective students who desire a Christian education leading to or enhancing their role as a leader in ministry.
Our graduates will increasingly be in great demand in a variety of ministries and roles as we focus on excellence. Their education will have prepared them to lead effectively in a variety of organizations anywhere in the world and within a multi-cultural context. Churches and para-churches will seek them out for their godly leadership ability and impact on eternity in ever-increasing ways.
Mission:
To train Christian leaders to reach a multiethnic world for Christ.
Guiding Principles:
- Scriptural in our approach to life
- Transformational in our philosophy of education
- Experiential in our practice of learning
- Missional in our accountability to God and each other
Institutional Goals:
The institutional goals of Smith Christian University are the direct educational outcomes of our calling to train Christian leaders to reach a multiethnic urban world for Christ. It is our desire to glorify God by developing leaders with servant hearts motivated by a passion for God and compassion for people. They are life-long learners and continue to demonstrate measurable growth in their knowledge, attitudes (dispositions) and skills in the following areas.
Biblical Literacy:
Biblical literacy is directly related to the biblical text, which is authoritative, inerrant and sufficient for faith and life. (2 Pet 1:2-21) The foundation for Christian leadership is the Bible. Propositional truth found in Scriptures (Acts 17:11; 2 Tim 2:15; 3:16-17) points us to the Person of Truth, Jesus Christ (John 5:39; 14:6). Biblically literate leaders grow and respond by faith in their understanding of the nature and character of God. (Psalm 1:1;19:7-11;Col 1:9-12)
Spiritual maturity:
Spiritual maturity is a life-long process of heart change that results in life change. Life transformation occurs as the Spirit of God takes the Word of God and transforms people into loving, passionate, and growing followers of Christ. (Gal 5:22-26) Spiritual Leadership, an extension of personal discipleship, is revealed when a person lives under the authority of God. (2 Thess 2:4-12) Spiritually mature leaders grow in their understanding and application of the will of God. (Rom 12:1-2)
Glocal (global-local connection) Sensitivity:
"Glocal" sensitivity is the manifestation of the heart of God in the life of a Christian leader who is outrageously serious about making disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20). Understanding ethnic and cultural differences and responding by bringing diverse people together with effective intercultural communication is the result of a leader's desire to be sensitive to how the global and local contexts are merging in our diverse world. (1 Cor 9:19-23; Ephesians)
Vocational Competency:
Vocational competency is dependent on a person's knowledge of the specific content material directly related to his/her vocational calling. God-glorifying leadership starts with hearts that are passionate about God and people, continues in lifestyles of personal integrity, and is expressed through a commitment to excellence in the leader's vocational calling. (Prov 27:3; 1 Pet 4:10-11)
Technological Creativity:
Technological creativity is based on the understanding that technology is a valid means for communicating the life changing truth of God in a media saturated world. The various creative applications of technology in different cultural and ethnic contexts of the world demonstrate the creative nature of leaders who are made in the image of God. New media can open communication channels between people who live in a multiethnic and multigenerational world. (Mark 1:16-18; Luke 4:16-17; 1 Cor 9:19-23)
