The History and Vision of Gilbert Bible School

And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.  Fro the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.  (Habakkuk 2:2-3, King James Version)

Alonzo Gilbert was an educator and evangelist.  As the president and founder of Gilbert Bible College, his vision was to combine these calls on his life and provide training to equip men and women to enter into their chosen field of ministry.

In order to provide this training, Mr. Gilbert adopted the curriculum of Indiana Christian University and made the classes available to South Florida students.  The course delivery format was provided via video taped sessions of ICU classes, which were augmented by on-site GBC instructors.  Because of his desire to make the classes available to those seeking to minister the Word of God, the classes were provided at a very low cost.  Mr. Gilbert was known to offer many scholarships to dedicated students by absorbing the cost for tuition and books, himself.

Mr. Gilbert’s dedication and passion for teaching and sowing into the lives of those chosen for full-time ministry is evident in that he sought to provide quality course work to his students.  By aligning himself with ICU, Mr. Gilbert simultaneously display his recognition that his vision was larger than could be accomplished on his own, as well as his wisdom to see counsel and direction from an already successful training center.

Since the time of his passing in 2003, Destined to Win Family Worship Center has been named steward over the school.  In an attempt to remain true to Mr. Gilbert’s vision, we have made arrangements to make the courses available at no cost to those currently serving in ministerial or lay leadership positions in the area.  This will allow us to provide a solid spiritual education for those currently serving in church leadership roles, but without the benefit of formal training.

At Gilbert Bible School, our vision is to continue in the spirit of Mr. Gilbert by sowing into the lives of those committed to serving God.  We see this as an opportunity to give what we have freely received to others within the body of Christ, equipping them to follow this example and freely sow into the lives of others.  Our goal is to build relationships across denominational lines by following the blueprint outlined in Ephesians 4:12-13.  We therefore envision this Bible school as a vehicle by which we may train tomorrow’s leaders to impart growth, maturity, and unity within the body of Christ.

We pray that you will catch our vision and feel our hearts behind the offering of these classes.  It is our hope that these classes will unite the family of God.