About Harris Institute
Our mission is to explore innovative ways to enhance the role of faith in public life, to develop forward-thinking paths for the art of ministry, and to support personal and spiritual growth. We aim to create lifelong learning experiences that help individuals grow in their faith and thrive in all aspects of life.
Human flourishing is not just a philosophical ideal or a theological concept; it reflects a fundamental human desire to live well. At Harris Institute, we believe that this enduring desire is holistic. It begins with deep reflection on the human experience, encompassing community, culture, context, personal needs, desires, spiritual connections, and virtue-driven learning. The pursuit of “the good life” is a lifelong journey, deeply rooted in faith and community. It recognizes that all of life and the world is a classroom for discovering God, oneself, and our connection with all of humanity.
Antipas, a young boy from Manchester, Georgia, faced learning challenges and a speech impediment but had big dreams of attending Ivy League schools, earning a PhD, and ultimately changing the world through education. He learned to read by reading missionary stories. As a boy, Antipas aspired to build schools and community centers to train future pastors. His dreams began to take shape when he graduated from Christian Way Academy, a small school associated with a rural church. He went on to enroll in LaGrange College, Emory University, Yale University, Boston University, and St. Thomas University. As a lifelong learner, Antipas discovered that education occurs both in the classroom and through exposure to the world and its diverse people. This realization led to his philosophy of education. In response to the Rev. John Wesley’s famous words, “The world is my parish,” Antipas responds, “Yes, indeed.” He adds, “Also, the world is my classroom.”
Harris Institute embraces the philosophy that “The world is my classroom.” We cultivate innovative leaders who will transform the church and the world through mentoring, travel seminars, global think tanks, and educational missions. By leveraging modern technology and our global network, we empower our participants for impactful leadership.
Harris Teen Forge is a mentoring group tailored for teenage boys. Meanwhile, the Oxford and Cambridge Colloquies bring together high-level leaders for important discussions, networking, workshops, seminars, and forums. Our virtual courses provide lifelong learning opportunities that enhance spiritual and theological growth, while our collaborative educational programs equip leaders for a global impact.
Through local events, global outreach, and virtual programs, we aim to inspire our mentees, resident delegates, and students to reach their full potential. Together, we engage in transformative service, critical learning, and visionary leadership, all driven by a commitment to Jesus and education as we work toward changing the world!
SERVICE - EDUCATION - LEADERSHIP - SERVICE - EDUCATION - LEADERSHIP
Introduction to Biblical Languages
This course provides a foundational introduction to the biblical languages of Hebrew and Greek, equipping students with essential tools for engaging with the Scriptures in their original languages. Designed for beginners, the course focuses on helping students become familiar with the languages and learn to use the dictionary to discover deeper meaning of the words. Students develop a basic understanding of key vocabulary and grammar to enhance biblical interpretation and deepen theological study.
Key Outcomes
- Acquire basic proficiency in biblical Hebrew and Greek vocabulary and grammar
- Gain confidence in using language resources for preaching, teaching, and personal study.
This course is ideal for seminarians, pastors, and anyone seeking to enrich their understanding of the Bible by exploring its original languages. No prior knowledge of Hebrew or Greek is required.
Learning to Study the Bible
This course introduces students to the Inductive Bible Study method, an approach to Scripture that emphasizes observation, interpretation, and application. Designed to equip participants with the tools to engage deeply with the biblical text, this method fosters a direct, personal encounter with God’s Word while ensuring a contextually sound understanding.
Students learn to observe textual details, ask critical questions, interpret Scripture in its historical and literary context, and apply its timeless truths to contemporary life. The course integrates hands-on practice with guided instruction, enabling participants to develop confidence in studying the Bible independently and sharing insights with others.
Key Outcomes:
- Master the three steps of Inductive Bible Study: observation, interpretation, and application.
- Develop skills to identify key themes, literary structures, and cultural contexts.
- Cultivate a disciplined and prayerful approach to personal Bible study.
- Apply biblical insights to real-life situations.
This course is ideal for laypersons, ministry leaders, and anyone seeking a structured and transformative way to study the Bible. No prior experience with biblical study methods is required.
The Bible and Social Justice
This course explores the Bible as a foundational text for understanding and pursuing social justice. Through an interdisciplinary approach that incorporates theology, ethics, and history, students will examine biblical narratives, laws, and prophetic traditions that call for equity, liberation, and the flourishing of all people.
Key themes include justice in the Old Testament law and prophets, Jesus’ teachings on the Kingdom of God, and the early church’s practices of community care and advocacy. The course will also consider how the Bible has been both a source of inspiration and contention in historical and contemporary justice movements.
Students engage in critical discussions, explore case studies, and develop strategies for applying biblical principles of justice to personal, communal, and societal contexts.
Key Outcomes:
Key Outcomes:
- Gain a biblical understanding of justice, mercy, and righteousness.
- Analyze how biblical texts have been used to address systemic injustices such as poverty, racism, and oppression.
- Reflect on the intersection of faith, activism, and social transformation.
- Develop practical ways to integrate biblical justice principles into ministry and advocacy.
This course is ideal for faith leaders, community advocates, students of theology, and anyone committed to living out their faith through the pursuit of justice and equity.