Sydney Missionary and Bible College

Sydney Missionary and Bible College (SMBC) is an independent, evangelical, interdenominational Bible college located in Sydney, Australia. Established in 1916 by Reverend C. Benson Barnett, a returned missionary from the China Inland Mission (now OMF), SMBC is the oldest interdenominational Bible college in Australia. The college's primary mission is to train individuals for Christian ministry and missionary service both within Australia and internationally[1][2].

History

SMBC was founded with the vision of equipping men and women for gospel ministry in various contexts, emphasizing the importance of prayer for labourers to be sent into the "harvest field," reflecting its missionary heart. Reverend C. Benson Barnett and his wife Elizabeth, both returned missionaries, dreamed of creating a college that combined biblical training with mission focus. This vision has shaped the college's identity for over a century[1][2][3].

In 2016, SMBC celebrated its centennial with a published history authored by the Rev Anthony Brammall, the college’s Academic Vice-Principal and New Testament lecturer, documenting its lasting influence on biblical education and missions[2].

Purpose and Academic Focus

SMBC’s curriculum is Bible-centred, making the study of the Scriptures the foundation of its academic programs. The college is committed to training students for gospel ministry and missionary work, with a strong emphasis on evangelical theology and practical ministry skills. SMBC offers various programs including diplomas and degrees in theology, missions, and pastoral ministry. Its Diploma of Theology, for example, provides solid biblical foundations covering both Old and New Testaments, along with studies in theology, church history, missions, preaching, and pastoral care. This diploma serves as a stepping stone toward further theological studies[5].

Campus and Facilities

SMBC has two campuses in Sydney: one in Croydon and another in Croydon Park, which opened in 2010. These campuses provide learning environments for both on-campus and online study modes, accommodating a diverse student body[2].

Leadership and Community Engagement

The college’s leadership reflects its evangelical and interdenominational stance. As of 2020, Dr. Derek Brotherson serves as principal, succeeding Stuart Coulton. The college board is chaired by James Lane. SMBC actively engages with contemporary issues, hosting public talks that address topics such as social media, disability, atheism, and miracles from a biblical perspective[2].

Publications

SMBC operates its own publishing arm, SMBC Press, which produces books and resources aligned with its evangelical mission and academic expertise[2].

Sydney Missionary and Bible College continues to be a vital institution in Australia for training Christian workers committed to serving both locally and globally, rooted in the conviction that "light shines in darkness" (its motto, Lux in tenebris lucet).

[1] https://www.smbc.edu.au/about/history [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sydney_Missionary_and_Bible_College [3] https://www.smbc.edu.au/about/welcome [4] https://scispace.com/institutions/sydney-missionary-and-bible-college-3o1r8dg8 [5] https://www.educations.com/institutions/sydney-missionary-and-bible-college/diploma-of-theology-dipth