Jesus said, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:4–5). Talbot School of Theology nurtures seminarians to abide in Christ and be rooted in his Word in order to be fruitful in their lives and ministry. Over the decades, our community has modeled this gospel truth and has left a rich legacy of engaging the church, while advancing God’s mission in the world.

We have a new dean with a deep appreciation for Talbot and its heritage. I’m delighted to welcome Dr. Ed Stetzer to Talbot Magazine’s editorial team. Over the course of his professional career, he has planted churches, trained pastors, and has authored a dozen books.

The first feature in this issue of Talbot Magazine captures an insightful conversation between Biola President Barry H. Corey and dean Stetzer. Dr. Stetzer recounts his journey from being a church planter to his present role as dean and stresses the importance of theological education for ministry in a shifting culture. He also discusses the opportunities available at Talbot through its residential and online programs and the vital need for biblically centered institutions like Biola.

The second feature by Dr. Ben Shin addresses the crucial question of why the church needs the seminary. Shin reflects on how his training at Talbot helped him continue for 35 years as a pastor and gave him the resources for persevering in ministry by the grace of God. There is a great need for biblically faithful and doctrinally sound leaders in the church today and seminary training can provide the foundation for fruitful ministry.

Many thanks for your continued prayers and support. May the radiant light of our life-giving Savior abide with you this Advent and Christmas season (John 1:4).