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2017-2018 CIU Student Handbook
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to its teachings, and trust the Holy Spirit to transform us through it. As students,
faculty, and staff progress in their maturity in these five areas, our transformation
will make a powerful difference in the world, whatever our individual vocation or
calling. A summary of our goals for spiritual formation follows.
These goals are at the heart of why we do what we do...
…even the standards.
Relationship with God
– Believers should demonstrate a growing intimacy in their
relationship with God, as evidenced in these areas:
Worship:
An understanding of, and commitment to, worship as the believer’s
expression of knowing God as Father, yielding to Christ as unconditional Lord,
and trusting the Holy Spirit for His transforming work.
Prayerfulness:
A pattern of life that reflects the conviction that both individual
and corporate prayer is essential in pursuit of God’s purposes for holy living
and productive ministry.
Faith:
Trust in, and joyful reliance upon, God and His Word for growth in
Christlikeness, increasing victory over sin, effectiveness in ministry, and
material provision.
Biblical Self-Image
– Believers should demonstrate a biblical understanding of
themselves rooted in Christ, as evidenced in these areas:
Confidence:
An understanding of, and commitment to, God’s sovereign
purpose over all areas of life — past, present, and future. Knowing our
heavenly Father has a purpose for the process gives comfort for the present
and hope for the future.
Self-discipline:
A life that reflects self-control, saying no to whatever might
harm or distract us and yes to whatever benefits and focuses our growth in
Christ.
Stability:
Growing freedom to live as new creatures in Christ, free from
deception and experiencing victory over one’s past.
Relationship with the Body of Christ
– Believers should demonstrate a growing
relationship with the body of Christ as evidenced in these areas:
Community:
An understanding of, and commitment to, the local and universal
Church as a multicultural and multiethnic body for the achievement of Christ’s
purposes within the context of stable and meaningful relationships with fellow
believers.
Unity:
Ability to love and work harmoniously with peers, leaders, and those
served.
Submission:
Surrender to the Word of God and the Lordship of Christ in
relating to those in authority.