Rationale and beginnings

The Hispanic population in the United States is exploding. In 1990, the Hispanic population numbered 22.4 million—9% of the U.S. population.  In 2003, that jumped to 39.9 million—13.7%.  And by the year 2050, some projections state those numbers will rise to 102.6 million and 24.4%.  The Hispanic population has spread more rapidly throughout the country than any immigrant group in history, to all the expected places like Los Angeles, Miami, Houston, and New York, as well as other centers such as Phoenix, Riverside, Austin, and Dallas. 

In the world, there are 22 countries whose primary language is Spanish, including Equatorial Guinea in Africa.  These countries represent a population of more than 650 million people.  The challenge of taking the gospel to them is immense.

This rapid growth presents us with an unparalleled opportunity for evangelism.  The church desperately needs many more qualified Spanish-speaking leaders to be able to respond to this challenge.

After much prayer, investigation, and research by a number of Christians in the Houston area, the Texas International Bible Institute (TIBI) was begun. A board of directors was selected in November 2003, and the school began night classes in fall 2004. 

The school is incorporated in the state of Texas and has received 501c (3) status as a tax-exempt organization.  The school is supported by a growing number of Houston-area churches and individuals, and also receives help from individuals and churches in other cities and states.

Our mission

At TIBI–Texas International Bible Institute, or IBIT in Spanish–our mission is to make disciples who will make other disciples, planting and nurturing churches that are biblical, evangelistic, mature, and relevant.

The textual or ministerial information which our students learn at TIBI is only a part of what we teach.  We are convinced that we must also help students think clearly, in a creative, logical, and profound fashion.   Since it’s impossible to teach all Bible text and ministry skills in just two years, we emphasis the process of how to think, organize, and share what they learn here.

In addition, the atmosphere which we create for students is critically important.  We know that, along with all the good which students possess, there will also be differences of opinion, difficulties, and misunderstandings that emerge due to different backgrounds and distinct personalities which the students bring to TIBI.

We strongly believe that TIBI should be a safe, receptive place, where students can seek answers to difficult questions, make mistakes, and disagree with others–but do so with respect and love for all.  We want to set the example for how to maintain and open dialogue, seeking the truth passionately, even if at the end of the discussion we may not all be in agreement in every detail.

But we can be united in the core gospel–the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Christ, and how one is saved through Him.  This gospel we read in places such as 1 Corinthians  15:1-4,  Matthew 22:37-40, Matthew 23:23, and Ephesians 4:4-6.

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