PetittBy Charles Petitt

They grew up fast in places like Normandy and Iwo Jima and saw firsthand the very best and worst of human nature. They had been willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for others, wanted to use their lives to make a difference, and would become known as the Greatest Generation. Numbers of these soldiers returning home from World War II sensed the call of God for ministry, desired to deeply know God’s Word, and surrendered their lives to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world they had seen almost destroyed. They enrolled in Bible colleges by the hundreds.

They were a little older than typical college students, and most were involved in preaching, evangelizing, and pastoring while going to school. Transitioning to “full-time service” upon graduation was relatively smooth, and the majority gave their entire lives in vocational Christian ministry at home or on the mission field.

In time a number of Bible colleges acquired accreditation, expanded academic offerings, and provided an attractive option for Christian parents looking for an environment where a student could develop strong character; seek a life mate; acquire an accredited, Bible-centered education; and find direction for a meaningful life and career—all without breaking the bank. To this day accredited Bible colleges continue to be an attractive alternative to some of the worst trends plaguing much of higher education.