The Institute Blog
Thoughts on Jesus, Education, and Life from Faculty, Students & Grads
The Value of Morning Prayer for College Students
Professor Jeffrey Sherrod explains the value of morning prayer, a practice here at the institute, through scriptural references and advice on how to implement.
Why College is MORE Affordable than the Alternatives
This blogs highlights the affordability of college with a list of considerations to make. Understanding your options and the reality of them is so important in a big decision like this.
Comparing Bible Programs in Tennessee Colleges
This blog compares Bible programs at several Tennessee colleges, focusing on the depth of biblical education offered. Highlighting how the Institute for G.O.D.'s program stands apart, providing an unmatched level of direct engagement with scripture, practical ministry experience, and a strong emphasis on learning the Bible itself, rather than just about it.
WECare: Reconnecting Generations through Service
This blog highlights the relaunch of the WECare Program, which connects college students with the elderly and widowed in the community to provide essential support and companionship. Rooted in faith and service, the initiative fosters meaningful connections across generations while addressing the practical and emotional needs of seniors.
Why Summer Internship Completely Changed My Bible School Experience
Gabriella shares about her experience as a participant in the Summer Internship program this year and how this experience changed her experience in school.
Institute Launches Second Year of ProDev: Work-and-Learning for Students
The Institute for GOD is proud to announce its second formal year of the Professional Development program, connecting undergraduate students with workplace opportunities for a debt-free future.
Welcome Week Reflection
Welcome Week 2024 was a special and noteworthy occurrence as it introduced us to and allowed us to become familiar with those who have chosen to attend The Institute for GOD and pursue a Biblical education! Welcome weeks are important to returning students as they allow us to come alongside and get to know those who are new, as well as show our support. These weeks are packed with fun activities, challenges, special times of fellowship, worship, prayer, and so much more! Welcome Week is important to both the foundation of friendships, and the introduction to college life at The Institute.
Student House Videos 2024/25
Watch and hear a little about this years' student house videos!
The Seriousness of Discipleship
To top off our Welcome Week events, President Gregg Garner spoke at the first chapel of the term, urging students towards the seriousness of discipleship, out of 2 Timothy 2. Here’s a summary of the discussion. In today’s fast-paced world, where media often shapes our perception of reality, it's crucial to revisit the foundations of our beliefs and the essence of education, particularly related to discipleship.
5 Things to Look for in a Bible School
Choosing a Bible college is a bold and often misunderstood decision, but it's important to find one that challenges and equips you for both ministry and personal spiritual growth. This blog highlights key aspects to look for in a Bible school, from rigorous academics and a healthy community to meaningful ministry opportunities and inspiring professors, ensuring your education aligns with your faith and future.
S2E28: There's Hope for Higher Ed in the midst of College Shutdowns
Jeff Sherrod and Laurie Kagay host Dave Meaders, Executive Vice President for The Association for Biblical Higher Education, discusses the role of Christian higher ed in shaping future leaders through discipleship. A timely podcast as much of the news has covered the failure of higher ed, specifically, many Christian colleges shutting down. Amid that, Medders stresses the need for flexibility, spiritual leadership, and listening to God's voice in shaping the future of education.
The Institute's ProDev Program vs. Federal Work Study
In this blog Katie Dunning explores the advantages of The Institute’s ProDev program compared to the Federal Work Study (FWS) program, highlighting how ProDev offers more comprehensive career development opportunities and financial support. Discover how ProDev equips students for success with hands-on experience, scholarships, and a biblical foundation that goes beyond traditional work-study programs.
From the Field Uganda: Immersion Testimony from Lydia
Lydia Winter shares a testimony about her immersion trip, the Word of God not returning void, and the growth in her and our community in East Africa.
From the Field Uganda: Immersion Testimony from Jesse
GOD International Immersion Particant Jesse Grooms testifies about how the Lord has led him, his immersion project, but moreover, the overarching project God has been doing in him.
S2E27: Why a Biblical Education Matters in the Construction Field
This podcast features two Institute alum, Matthew Parker and Stephen Carver, who are both employed in the construction industry while also working as pastors and development workers. Joined by hosts Gregg Garner and Jeff Sherrod, the four discuss changing job opportunities for graduates of Christian colleges, focusing on non-traditional ministry roles.
From the Field Uganda: Community Restoration
Olivia Beaverson writes about a standout moment in Eastern Uganda, asking herself, “Is what we’re doing enough?” only to be assured that God is working beyond what she can see.
S2E26: College Conversations Podcast - “Will College Cure My Loneliness?” (Transcript)
Join Institute for God professors Jeff Sherrod, Laurie Kagay and headmaster Gregg Garner as they explore the issue of loneliness among college students, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. They emphasize the importance of feeling seen and heard, integrating into community, and recognizing cultural values to combat isolation.
From the Field Uganda: WorkWell Program Begins in Uganda!
The launch of the program: WorkWell, in East Africa this summer has employed 6 teenage workers with one of the most important jobs there is - cooking! This team of Ugandan WorkWell employees has had the opportunity to cook meals for the team of summer interns as well as ministerial leaders from Kenya and Uganda who have been traveling and ministering with the summer interns.
From The Field Uganda: Students Living A Mission
This East Africa Immersion trip, Erin Gammill shares how she’s been blessed with the opportunity to help implement the first SLAM program in Uganda. She loved being behind the scenes and doing tasks to bring organization to the event, as well as getting to help with healthcare needs there.
S2E25: What Can a Small School Do that a Large School Can't?
This podcast focuses on the differences between small and large colleges, particularly in the context of Bible colleges and Christian higher education. President Gregg Garner, Laurie Kagay, and Jeff Sherrod, explore how school size impacts factors such as facilities, faculty, student-faculty relationships, and the overall college experience.