New Students Welcomed to Southeastern

New students, enrolled at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS) and the College at Southeastern for the Spring 2014 semester, were eager to become acquainted with their new place of study.

Students had the opportunity to hear from several members of the SEBTS faculty. Danny Akin, president of SEBTS, challenged the students by stating, “It is one thing to begin well, it is another thing to end well.”

Akin also encouraged students to be passionate about the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 and pray about going to places where the fields are wide open.

The leadership at SEBTS consistently models serving others like Christ. “When you serve people they will know that you love them,” Akin said. “I am thrilled and honored God has brought you to be a part of this family.”

He spoke about the sufficiency of God to sustain and equip students to earn an “A” at home and be successful in class by making sacrifices and adjustments to their schedules.

Akin called students to allow God to use them for the good of the nations, “God honors our integrity and honesty.”

Provost Bruce Ashford spoke about his experiences at SEBTS. “Eighteen years ago I sat where you are and was in for the ride of my life,” he said. “God put your feet on this path for a reason, walk in it in a sure and steady manor.”

Ashford shared the geographic, cultural and spiritual obstacles he faced taking the Gospel to the nations to warn students of the challenges of discipleship.

He shared the aim of every aspect of life is to “lay out the case for why Jesus is Lord.” Ashford said, “View callings as being callings from God and do them faithfully. You are brought to Southeastern to inflame the fires of your heart for Christ and His Kingdom, not to kill them.”

Ashford and Larry Purcell, associate professor of leadership and discipleship and associate dean of ministry studies, reviewed the seminary distinctives of spiritual formation, biblical exposition, theological integration, ministry preparation as well as critical thinking and communication. 

Purcell focused on Ephesians 4:1, “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.”

Southeastern views new student orientation as a critical aspect of student success and a way to help students see themselves in the mission and purpose of SEBTS. Seth Bible, director of student life, said, “We want to see you thrive, not just survive.”

Students also enjoyed times of fellowship with their classmates and the SEBTS family through meals and orientation workshops. These activities provide a critical foundation for new students to flourish in their seminary endeavors.

To view additional photos from new student orientation please click here.