At the Core: CIU and The Authority of Scripture

Providentially, the Prayer Day scheduled during CIU’s annual Authority of Scripture Week in February was the day after Russia invaded Ukraine.

The Authority of Scripture is one of CIU’s core values, but so is Prayer & Faith. So a moment of personal prayer for Ukraine began the day, followed by Bible Studies Chair Dr. Mike Naylor praying, “We are grieved by seeing acts of aggression and hostilities and warfare.”

“Father we pray for peace and the preservation of life,” Naylor continued, “We pray for your people in Ukraine and in Russia and in surrounding countries.”

He also prayed that believers in the region would have clear resolve to trust in God.

“We thank you that you are the Sovereign One — One that is in control of all things,” he added.

As Naylor prayed on the stage of the Shortess Chapel, with CIU’s motto “To Know Him and to Make Him Known,” prominently displayed, Naylor added: “May your Name be known.”

The week included Naylor, who is also a professor of New Testament, discussing the superiority of Christ and His Word. He especially emphasized the importance of the first chapter of John, where the first few verses reveal to the reader the everlasting nature of God.  

Associate Professor of History Dr. T. K. Dunn discussed how the typical Western concept of living a good life involves being athletic, academically talented, and becoming rich. But a lifestyle like this, he said, can lead to adopting immoral habits and forgetting about the better things God has in store for us. 

Dunn presented the student body with several examples from church history of men who were slaves to their sinful lifestyles until they became aware of what God actually wanted for them. The good news, he said, is that even our failures can be used for God’s glory because He has a plan for each one of us.  

Meanwhile, Intercultural Studies Dean Dr. Ed Smither discussed the authority of God in our conversations with others. He presented examples of his interactions with Muslims, and how he would initiate God into simple conversations with them. He said that we should never miss opportunities to share the gospel. 

Hear each of the Authority of Scripture messages at CIU’s podcast page.

Discover the importance of CIU’s core values to a biblical education. Want to join us? Apply now or request information on enrollment by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.