REMEMBERING
DR. PAUL HIEBERT
Greg Waybright
President,
Dr. Paul Hiebert
was one of the leading global Christians of the past century: missiologist,
anthropologist, teacher of those who will "teach the nations"
(Matthew 28:20), mentor to countless leaders in Christ-centered higher
education throughout the world, thinker, encourager, husband, father, friend,
follower of Jesus. He was one of those all-too-rare people who continued to
learn and grow throughout his life. Thus, although he grew older physically, he
always seemed young in his vitality, energy, and passion for God. In these past
few years, to be in Paul's presence was to have the experience of being with
one who was close to God.
Personally, few have encouraged me as much as Dr. Paul Hiebert.
He would hear me talk about the establishing of Revelation 7:9 communities on
this side of heaven that reflect the breadth and diversity of our Father's
family and demonstrate to one another the justice, mercy, and humility of
Christ. He would say to me, "Greg, this is not just your own idea born out
of political correctness or marketing savvy. Remember that the theological
motif behind this vision is the
I had asked him to be the commencement speaker for the TEDS/TGS graduation
exercises in May. Graciously, although he cannot be with us "in
flesh," he has written his message to our upcoming graduates—and it will
be read at the ceremonies. I'm sure it will be moving and will be characterized
by the biblical wisdom that has been the mark of Dr. Hiebert's
life and thought.
Originally published at http://www.tiu.edu/tiu/newshiebert2
Posted at www.globalmissiology.org in the
special edition of April 2007 with permission from the Office of the Academic
Dean,