Many young Christian adults will encounter the challenge of navigating their faith while pursuing academic excellence. Oftentimes one is seen as a sacred pursuit and the other as a secular one. At Impact 360, as at many Christian universities and colleges, these two pursuits are not seen as contradictory. In fact, they would be seen as complimentary and a necessary part of a holistic discipleship approach. The integration of faith and learning is not simply an ideal but a necessity in Christian higher education.
At Impact 360 Institute, we believe that this integration is essential for developing well-rounded and informed leaders who will influence the world for Christ.
Impact 360’s Mission within Christian Higher Education
Impact 360 Institute’s mission is to inspire and equip the next generation of disciples to know Jesus more deeply, be transformed in their character, and live with Spirit-empowered influence. Jesus shares as the first and greatest commandment to “love the Lord with all your heart, soul, and mind” (Matthew 22:37). This challenges a follower to a holistic and “all in” dedication in all areas of their lives, including their mind. Responding to this commandment, Impact 360’s mission is not merely a statement but a living commitment that guides every aspect of our educational approach. Our “Know, Be, Live” discipleship strategy involves curriculum that robustly challenges the mind in the classroom, intentionally develops the character of a leader, and forms a community in which a follower of Jesus may both minister to others and be ministered to when in need.
By embedding these principles into our educational framework, we ensure that students are not only academically prepared to be continuous learners but also spiritually grounded in their ability to influence others and flourish within community.
The Role of Christian Higher Learning
Christian higher learning is a pivotal aspect in integrating faith and learning. World history has been shaped by numerous great Christian thinkers. After the fall of the Roman Empire the Church became the essential agent in both advancing and preserving knowledge. Origen, Augustine, Aquinas, among others laid pivotal foundations for philosophy while Boyle (seen as the father of chemistry), Newton (inventor of calculus, developed understanding of laws of motion), and Mendel (seen as the father of genetic studies) are among many others who contributed deeply to our modern understanding of the sciences as a part of how they desired to bring glory to God. These examples provide the essence of the importance of Christian higher education. It provides an environment where students can explore their faith deeply while engaging with rigorous academic content.
At Impact 360 Institute our programs, such as Propel, Immersion, Fellows, and Residency, are tailored to challenge teens and young adults, helping them to think biblically and critically while leading fearlessly and serving generously. This integrated approach ensures that students are not only knowledgeable but also wise, able to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
At Impact 360 Institute one will find integrating faith and learning through Christian higher learning is fundamental to our understanding of the Great Commission.
Our charge is to strengthen and equip the next generation of disciples so they may make more disciples. By embracing our mission, purpose, and values, we are preparing the next generation of disciples to navigate the complexities of the modern world with strong minds, faithful hearts, and bold courage.