Henry - A History of Biola University Since 1908

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l where Mr. Stewart was an Elder. From the outset, when God in His providence brought these two men together, their mutual interest in Christian activi- ties blended perfectly; complementing each other in their ministry, both were completely dedicated to the propagation of the Gospel and to sound Bible teaching. Together they made the perfect team needed to accomplish the God given task of establishing a Bible training school. ImTiediately they began sharing their ideas concerning the need for such a school. It was therefore, only a matter of time until their vision became a venture that brought the Bible Institute of Los Angeles into existence. In early 1907, plans were being discussed concerning the possibility of opening a Bible School somewhere in the Los Angeles area and seeking a qualified man to head the program. Already Dr. R. A. Torrey's advice had been sought in connection with the program and curriculum of the school, so he was the first choice of those interested in the project to become the Dean. However, he turned down the offer because he felt at that time he should not leave the Moody Bible Institute, of which he was Dean. Indicating that he might consider a position with the school at a later date if con- ditions should be favorable, he recommended Dr. Day with the San Francisco Seminary as "being the most desirable man, obtainable for such a school." This was only one of a number of small streams of interest converging in 1907 to form the main stream out of which Biola was to come. Another was a series of evangelistic meetings held in two tents in the southern and eastern sections of Los Angeles, under the supervision of Rev. Horton and financed by Mr. Stewart. The local pastors were cooperative, and the tents were usually filled to capacity. One estimate was that at least 800 were present for the Sunday services. In these tent meetings Christians were aroused, prayer meetings were held in different sections of the City, and house-to-house visitation was done. One tent was closed in late August, and the other was relocated at Eleventh and Flower Streets where Rev. Horton,

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