Ouachita Baptist University is committed to a distinctive Christian identity, rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. As an institution, it centers its mission on evangelical Christianity within a Southern Baptist context, while also fostering an environment of critical thought and intellectual exploration regarding diverse theological and philosophical perspectives.
At its core, Ouachita's beliefs shape its educational philosophy, student life, and community engagement.
Core Tenets of Belief
The university's foundational beliefs are integral to its mission and permeate every aspect of campus life. They can be broken down into several key areas:
- Followers of Jesus Christ: Ouachita identifies itself fundamentally as an institution comprised of followers of Jesus Christ. This commitment influences its values, curriculum, and the spiritual development opportunities offered to students.
- Evangelical Christianity within a Southern Baptist Context: The university educates students within the framework of evangelical Christianity, specifically aligning with Southern Baptist traditions. This means affirming core tenets such as the authority of scripture, the divinity of Christ, and the importance of personal conversion and evangelism.
- Critical Engagement with Diverse Thought: While firmly rooted in its Christian convictions, Ouachita actively encourages students to think critically about a wide range of theological and philosophical positions. This approach aims to equip students with the skills to analyze, understand, and engage respectfully with viewpoints different from their own, fostering intellectual rigor and discernment.
- Servant-Leader Model: A significant emphasis is placed on advocating and modeling a servant-leader model for Christian life and ministry. This perspective encourages students to develop leadership qualities characterized by humility, service to others, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world, reflecting Christ's example of servant leadership.
These beliefs guide Ouachita Baptist University in its pursuit of academic excellence, spiritual formation, and the development of students prepared to live lives of purpose and service.
