George Ogalo, 3rd year MDiv in biblical studies reflects on Dr. Mercer’s Cultural World of the Bible course, “The political and cultural circumstances under which the Jews lived at the time of Jesus were strikingly international. It’s amazing the way Christianity developed from that context.”

“I have learnt that there is nothing new in the Bible, that all I discover in it was discovered long ago by someone else. That I should be keener in interpreting it, from other perspectives rather than only in my own personal convictions.” Damaris Wambui Matindi, first year student,learned in Dr. Peter Nyende’s hermeneutics class.

Andy Alo, ABD PhD, said, “Bible translators use different words for light in Lugbarati (a language used in Democratic Republic of Congo), which can cause confusion. As I write my dissertation, I am searching for the word that best fits the biblical metaphor of light.”

“Dr. John Jusu’s Curriculum Studies course opened my world view. I have learnt that, as an learning facilitator, I go to the people to discover what their needs are. As I develop the curriculum, I do so to meet those needs.” Lucy Mukula, 2nd year, MDiv in Christian Education

“I have learnt that we shouldn’t judge others who do not do the same things we do in their respective churches. We need to partner with them to build God’s kingdom–but not to build names and titles for ourselves. If we are faithful with little, much more will be entrusted to us.” Hellen Muuo, 2nd year, MDiv in theological studies. Learned in Church Ministry and Mission, taught by Dr. Bill Black.

“In Dr. Morad’s Early African Christian History class, I realized we need to teach our churches about rediscovering our place in the African Christian history, and our role as a key stakeholder in formulating Christianity, to avoid the misconception that Christianity is a Western ideology given to Africans.” Edwin Savala

“Education Ministries of the Church, taught by Dr Victor Cole, showed me how important it is to focus church ministries for men, women, youth, children to more effectively teach the word of God.” Bernard Kimani, 3rd year MDiv in Christian Education

“Understanding that language in no way should be a limiting factor in my life, has shaped me greatly. When I arrived at NEGST in 2006, I could only speak French. In most gatherings, my husband translated what I was saying. Today, I speak fluent English, which will go a long way in helping me win souls for Christ.” Catherine Nongnide, graduating student, diploma in Christian ministries.

“Understanding the traditional African concept of ‘ancestors’ and the ‘living dead’ allows me to see Christ as the ‘Ideal Ancestor’. This understanding opens me to possibilities of sharing the gospel in a way that a traditional African can relate with.” Simon Khaemba, learned in African Theology, taught by Dr. Nkansah

“As a missionary doctor in the Gambia, I realised that a purely scientific approach to diseases and their treatment did not address all my patients’ needs. The Power Encounter and African Traditional Religion courses helped me think about how I might respond to their spiritual needs when I return.”

Dr. Karen Forrest, 1st year, MA in missions learnt from Dr. Kim and Dr. Rasmussen.