GFI Bible Institute
We have partnered with Shepherd’s Academy to deliver quality and affordable ministerial training programs, at bachelors level. It is designed for transformation-minded Zambians to be equipped to change the world with sound biblical training, leadership and ministry development mastery.
The concept of The Shepherd’s Academy is based on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ as presented in the Gospels. Jesus calls himself the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-18) who leads, provides, cares, protects, multiplies, trains, and understands His sheep.
Our programme, content, and learning outcomes are modelled after these seven characteristics of the Good Shepherd.
As church leaders and disciples of Jesus, we are called to follow in his example and become ‘shepherds of the flock’ or church (1 Peter 5:2-4). In order to be faithful and qualified shepherds, we must lead our churches in the same way Jesus leads us.
We want to journey along with you, as the learner, and broaden your existing understanding of Biblical knowledge and relate this to social, spiritual, emotional, financial, managerial, national and global issues.
In other words, the programme enables you to do ministry in, for and through your context.
The Shepherd's Academy is a part of the Oxford Centre for Religion and Public Life (OCRPL).*
The Shepherd's Academy seeks to work with existing institutions, networks, and churches to deliver training programmes that address the gaps in theological training for grassroots Christian leaders.
Recent statistics show that there are over two million untrained church leaders in the Global South. In light of increasing persecution and marginalisation, equipping the Church and her leadership becomes crucial. Furthermore, Covid-19 has had devastating effects on the state of theological education across the world. Within such a context, it is essential that we ask ourselves how we can best support and train those who are most in need.
Our goal and vision is to see grass-roots church leaders equipped with the necessary tools they need to faithfully and effectively lead in their churches and communities.
Who is this for?
Typically, our learners will fit into one or more of these categories:
Full-time church leaders who are unable to train in a residential set- up.
Lay leaders and elders who cannot afford traditional theological training, both in terms of finance and time.
Missionaries and Evangelists who would like to enhance their understanding while in ministry.
New converts who have had to ‘step-up’ into church leadership and have limited access to theological education.
If you are an existing or aspiring grassroots church leader with no formal theological training, then this programme has been designed for you.