Many schools are named for a founder, a location, or a denominational heritage. In our case, every part of our name—Calvary Chapel, Bible, and College—was chosen to communicate something about our identity and purpose.
At Calvary Chapel Bible College, we’re not just offering education—we’re expressing a calling. Each word in our name carries weight because it reflects who we are, what we believe, and what we’re training students to do.
We’re a Spirit-led community, rooted in a movement, grounded in Scripture, and committed to rigorous, life-shaping education for every believer called to serve Jesus Christ.
Here’s what each part of our name means.
Calvary Chapel: Our Movement and Mission
Calvary Chapel Bible College was born out of the Calvary Chapel movement—a work of the Holy Spirit that began during the Jesus Movement of the late 1960s. From a small congregation in Costa Mesa, California, God raised up a worldwide network of churches known for their love for God’s Word, reliance on the Spirit, and relational approach to ministry.
We’re proud to carry that legacy forward. These are the values that shape our school:
- Embrace the Exposition of the Whole Bible
We believe in teaching the whole counsel of God’s Word—verse by verse, chapter by chapter—because we are convinced that the Spirit works through Scripture to transform lives. Expository preaching is not just a method; it’s a commitment to let God speak and to root His people deeply in the truth. - Rely on the Leading of the Holy Spirit
We serve a supernatural God who still speaks, leads, empowers, and sends. Calvary Chapel churches cultivate a posture of prayerful dependence, expecting the Holy Spirit to guide both ordinary decisions and extraordinary moments of ministry. - Cultivate a Culture of Grace
We’ve been saved by grace, and we want every aspect of our church culture to reflect that grace—in our tone, posture, and practice. Grace is more than our message; it’s the atmosphere we breathe and the foundation of gospel-shaped leadership. - Actively Engage with Every Generation
We believe the gospel is for everyone, and we intentionally invest in young people to reach their generation and the next. Every generation matters in God’s mission, and we want our churches to be places of belonging, purpose, and preparation. - Live in Anticipation of Christ’s Return
We live and lead with our eyes on the horizon, knowing that Jesus is coming again. His return gives urgency to our mission, clarity to our priorities, and endurance in the face of hardship. - Promote Servant Leadership
We follow the example of Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve. In Calvary Chapel, leadership is not about power or position but about humble faithfulness, open Bibles, and sacrificial love for the church.
These aren’t just ideals. They shape our curriculum, our community life, our chapel services, and our vision for the future.
Bible: Our Curriculum and Conviction
The Bible isn’t just part of our name—it’s the heart of everything we do.
At Calvary Chapel Bible College, we major in the Scriptures. More than 50% of the courses in both our Associate and Bachelor programs are dedicated to the direct study of the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, students engage deeply with God’s Word in order to know Him better and follow Him more faithfully.
We don’t just teach about the Bible—we teach the Bible itself. And we believe that every Christian, no matter their future calling, benefits from a solid foundation in God’s Word. Whether you’re preparing to be a pastor, a parent, a missionary, a worship leader, or an entrepreneur, the Bible is your starting point.
College: Our Standard and Structure
We take the word “college” seriously.
This isn’t just a Bible study group or a ministry internship program. It’s a fully developed academic environment where students learn to think deeply, study faithfully, and grow in wisdom and understanding.
We believe in rigorous, Spirit-filled education—because God calls His servants to be both faithful and prepared. As Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 2:15, “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
But we also believe academics are more than lectures and grades. College is about discipline, curiosity, and the skills that shape a lifetime of ministry. Learning how to read carefully, think critically, write clearly, and lead effectively are not just academic goals—they’re tools for fruitful service in the church and the world.
Our Name Is Our Purpose
We are Calvary Chapel: rooted in a movement that values grace, Scripture, the Spirit, and servant-hearted ministry.
We are Bible: committed to making God’s Word central in every course, every conversation, and every calling.
We are College: dedicated to rigorous, life-shaping education that prepares students for whatever God has planned.
Every word in our name tells a story. Together, they tell the story of who we are—and who we’re helping students become.
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