I just returned from a day in Columbia, South Carolina. I was there to lead a conference on Mike Dodson and my new book, ComeBack Churches. I met with a group of "Directors of Missions," which are local leaders (often a county or two) who both consult with churches and help them partner for mission.

While in town, I stopped by to meet and have breakfast with the leadership of Columbia International University. I have had the privilege to teach at C.I.U. twice and have been very impressed with the school. (I have taught in their A.I.M. program which I think is a model program for schools wanting to train in-service leaders.)

Wikipedia describes the history as follows:

CIU began from modest beginnings in 1923 when it was founded as Columbia Bible School. The original purpose was to provide a two year course of study in biblical studies for local mill workers. By 1927, the decision was made to convert the school into a college and begin offering bachelor's degrees in Bible. A location in downtown Columbia was established and the first dean (later president) of the college was chosen. The school continued to grow and eventually required a new campus. The college was relocated in 1960 to its present facility on Monticello Road. It was during the 1960's that the institution's longest serving president, Robertson McQuilkin, son of the first dean of Columbia Bible College, was inaugurated. During this period, the institution also changed its name to Columbia Bible College and Seminary. The name was changed yet again in 1994 to Columbia International University to highlight the growing educational mission as well as to demonstrate a commitment to preparing students from all parts of the world for global Christian service.

Catching up with Bill Jones (new C.I.U. President on left) and Junias Venegopal (seminary Dean on right) is always a great experience. These guys are passionate about the gospel and worldwide evangelization.

I spend a lot of time on seminary campuses, but Columbia is most impressive. It does not have fancy buildings (though they are nice), but it has one of the most multicultural contexts I have seen. Teaching there involves teaching people from many different continents.

Also, there is a unique spiritual environment at C.I.U. The school is deeply influenced by the Keswisk movement that started with a series of conventions focused on the Higher Life. The movement has not been without some controversy, but the focus on "dying to self" and "the saving life of Christ" has been a challenge to my own spiritual journey and have helped shape a discipleship focused campus.