Would it be a surprise to say that Bob Jones Academy is not for everyone? We hold tenaciously to the doctrines of the Bible, seek an intimate relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ, and strive to honor Him by living obedient, Christ-centered lives. We seek to join hands with parents who desire the same for their children.
The mission statement describes a vertical relationship with God and a horizontal relationship with others. Our relationship with Christ is the most valuable thing that we have and ought not be traded for anything else, not even life itself. Because of His love for us, we are compelled to love Him. Daily, we challenge students to love Christ—in chapel, in the classroom, in the hallways, and on the ball fields.
He has provided all that we need to live a life that honors Him. God is truth; His Word is truth. Therefore, because of our love and in order to grow in our love for Him, we must embrace His living Word. We preach and teach the Word of God directly; we teach every course from a biblical worldview, and we approach difficulties and blessings from God’s perspective. As the Bible says, “Do all to the glory of God.”
As we love God and learn His Word, we are challenged to become like Christ—to exercise integrity. The Bible says, “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” We challenge our students to obey the clear commands of Scripture and to establish standards that are based on the principles of the Bible. For example, we desire that our students honor Christ by being honest, kind, obedient, and respectful. Integrity reflects our love for Christ and consideration for others.
BJA is known for challenging students to pursue excellence. In order to achieve high goals, a person needs to be challenged. BJA’s motto bears testimony to this—dedicated, focused, proven. Do we challenge students to excellence so that they can become somebody? No. Our desire is to challenge them to become the best that they can be for the glory of the Lord and for their ministry to others.
And that leads us to the last statement of serving others. Life is not about me. It is first and foremost about God, and, secondly, about shining as lights and serving others in order that they, too, are drawn to Christ.
As we begin the year, let’s partner together to challenge our students to grow in these areas for the glory of God.