Page 135 - Bulletin 20 2016

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As this interpretation of the Bible and the rejection of the church’s sacraments became more

evident, their concern was shared by other denominations. The need for an
interdenominational approach to this problem was evident. With this in mind the three

ministers approached the Council of the S. A. College in an effort to endow a theological
chair but their wish was refused because of the current liberalistic influence. Undaunted they

determined to establish a college where the evangelical doctrines of the Word of God would
be taught and which would equip men and women to meet the challenges of the time. This

doctrine would entail the highest quality of training at degree level and would also overcome

the limitations of access to theological education in South Africa, which was only available at
universities.

With the knowledge of what had been done in such training institutions as the Moody Bible

College in Chicago and the Bible Training Institute in Glasgow, they soon found others in
several denominations who were interested. For instance, Rev. Ernest Baker of Wale Street

Baptist Church was already running classes at which many men, who later became Baptist
Ministers, were trained. They also found Anglicans, Presbyterians and ministers of the Dutch

Reformed Church who were interested and became involved.

The problem was now to find a suitable professor to lead the college. To find such a person
Rev. J. R. Kingon went to the United Kingdom in 1920 to consult with evangelical leaders.

Such leaders were sympathetic to what was planned. However, while there were many of
sound evangelical views, he found but few having the required academic standards, and none

who were able to come.

The following Message of Intent was circulated to various Protestant denominations:

It is our intention to create an institute which is committed to several basic distinctives which

will distinguish it as a unique training ground. This institution will ensure a firm commitment

to evangelic theology, the authority of Scripture, and the Christian mission. Academic
excellence, practical application of lecture room teachings and the embrace of South Africa’s

diverse multi-cultural and ethnic nature are core elements.

With this in mind we had tried to endow a theological professorship at the South African
College. However, because of the prevailing liberal theological influence, our wish was