History & Values

Forty years of training church leaders in Southeast Asia in a challenging and interactive class atmosphere that combines the best of contemporary scholarship with a heart for God’s mission. 

Overview of ABTS

Asia Biblical Theological Seminary of Cornerstone University, in cooperation with multiple mission organizations, makes available graduate level theological education to eligible Christian leaders serving in Asia. Since 1983, this program has provided the opportunity to earn master’s degrees from Cornerstone University while remaining in Asia.

ABTS, an associate member of the Asia Theological Association (ATA), aims to accomplish its mission through an integrated program of biblical, theological, and professional studies delivered through a combination of distance education courses and residence seminars offered in selected cities in Asia. Educational activities endeavor to provide training within the context of students’ life, work, and ministry.

Our Educational Values

Centrality of the text
The Bible as our final authority for all we do, functioning as the foundation of our curriculum.
Importance of theology
Theology as the proper articulation of Scripture for faith and practice, and the guide for each educational discipline.
Critical thinking
Careful analysis and evaluation of data, evidence, observations, and experiences to develop thoughtful beliefs and actions.
Lifelong learning
Modeling and promoting a humble pursuit to always learn more and cultivate skills.
Praxis
Learning through and for reflective application.
Cultural sensitivity
Recognizing that the Gospel is always made visible in particular people and cultures.

Our History

1982

Filipino missionaries to Thailand recognize the need to establish a Bible school to train pastors for local churches

1983

Dr. John Lillis, working with Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, founds ABTS and offers an accredited In-Ministry Master of Religious Education degree.

1992

The Regional Office begins operating from Singapore after operating out of first Thailand, and then the Phillippines.

2008

The ABTS Regional Office has returns “home” to Thailand, this time to Chiang Mai.