Columbia International University has long been a place where students not only receive a Christ-centered education but also build lifelong relationships that shape their future. For Dr. Andreas J. Köstenberger and his wife, Marny, CIU was not just an academic training ground — it was where their journey together began.
A Divine Connection at CIU
Andreas first encountered Marny in an unexpected way — while working at the CIU switchboard. As an international student from Austria, he had secured a campus job, earning $3.35 per hour. One day, Marny called from Canada as a prospective student seeking more information about CIU. Their conversation was brief but memorable, and Andreas encouraged her to look him up when she arrived on campus.
That fall, Marny came to CIU, and the two met in person at an Open House in Walker dorm. Their friendship grew through campus events, including a hall date at House 14, where they played board games and went tubing in a rare Columbia snowfall. A pivotal moment in their relationship came when Andreas invited Marny to the annual Valentine’s banquet in February 1988. Their connection deepened through long walks to The Point, where meaningful conversations laid the foundation for a lasting relationship.
Building a Life Together
In December 1989, Andreas and Marny were married in Toronto, Canada. While Andreas continued working as a faculty assistant at the seminary, grading papers and occasionally substitute-teaching in Greek and Hebrew, Marny pursued and completed her Master’s degree in Intercultural Studies.
Following Marny’s graduation in May 1990, the couple moved to Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, where Andreas pursued a Ph.D. in New Testament, building upon the biblical foundation he had received at CIU. As their family grew to six, Marny also earned a Doctor of Theology degree, marking the culmination of their academic preparation for a lifetime of ministry.
A Legacy of Teaching and Scholarship
Today, Andreas J. Köstenberger is a world-renowned biblical scholar, professor, and author. He has written extensively on biblical interpretation, theology, and New Testament studies. Through his work, he has contributed significantly to the academic and theological community, equipping believers with a deeper understanding of Scripture.
Marny has also dedicated her life to Christian scholarship and ministry. Together, the Köstenbergers have impacted countless students, pastors, and leaders worldwide. Their ministry is an extension of the training they received at CIU, where they not only gained academic knowledge but also deepened their commitment to discipleship and biblical faithfulness.
Grateful for CIU’s Influence
Reflecting on their journey, Andreas and Marny acknowledge the profound impact CIU had on their lives. The university provided not only rigorous academic preparation but also a Christ-centered environment where they grew spiritually and relationally.
“We’re deeply grateful for the contribution that the total life training at CIU has made to our discipleship journey and for our 30+ years of marriage and family,” Andreas said. “Not only did CIU lay a solid foundation for Christian ministry, CIU is where we met the love of our lives.”
The story of Andreas and Marny Köstenberger is a testament to the lifelong impact of a CIU education — academically, spiritually, and relationally. Their journey continues to inspire future generations of CIU students who seek to make a difference in the world through faithful scholarship and ministry.
For more about Dr. Andreas Köstenberger and his work, visit the Biblical Foundations website.
Join the CIU Legacy
Are you ready to pursue a Christ-centered education that will shape your future? At CIU, you’ll find rigorous academics, a strong spiritual foundation, and a community that will encourage you in your calling. Learn more about our programs and how CIU can equip you for a lifetime of ministry and impact.
Higher learning. Deeper faith. A Christ-centered community on campus and online. Apply now or request information on enrollment at CIU by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.
