The idea of Chafer Theological Seminary was born in the minds of several seminary students between 1965 and 1968 as they were finishing their academic requirements and preparing for ordination. They noticed that at the majority of schools, only the most gifted were able to master the languages to the extent that they were able to use them as effective tools for ministry. Yet, they believed it was important for the seminary to prepare all students to exposit God's Word.

In 1992, several meetings took place during the National Teaching Pastors' Conference in Huntington Beach, CA. These former students and other like-minded pastors, after considerable discussion and prayer, determined that the time was ripe to start a full-fledged seminary. The Lord's blessing was evident in that gifted teachers, administrative support, access to superb libraries, and an excellent location were immediately available.

Chafer Distinctives

Literal Hermeneutics. We adopt a consistent, literal (historical, grammatical, and rhetorical) hermeneutic in every portion of Scripture.

Emphasis on Greek and Hebrew Exegesis. We share the deep conviction that teaching the Word of God itself builds believers in the faith for fruitful service. Therefore, Greek and Hebrew exegesis is foundational to our school's educational program.

Dispensational Theology. As a result of our literal hermeneutic, we are dispensational; i.e., we believe that Israel and the Church are distinct entities and that God's purpose in history is doxological.

Full counsel of God's Word. Chafer Theological Seminary believes that God inspired each and every word of the Old and New Testament Scriptures in their original languages – including the doctrinal, historical, poetical, and prophetical portions of Scripture. Therefore, all Scripture is designed for practical instruction and is sufficient to equip and mature believers. Thus, we train students in both the Old and New Testament Scriptures.

The Sufficiency of Scriptures. We believe in the complete adequacy of Scripture, for in it God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness. We hold, therefore, that the Word of God by itself is sufficient to prepare a person for a lifetime of effective ministry.

Comprehensive worldview based on the Bible. The Bible is structured in such a way that once you absorb the Word of God, you then have the skill to apply it to every area of life—finances, art, music, economy, literature, politics, family, work, social life, nations, government, law and order, health, science.

The Freeness of God's Grace. We hold fast to free grace—the view that God saves mankind by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone. No works before, during, or after the moment of initial faith in Christ contribute anything to the free gift of forgiveness and eternal life that one receives through faith in Jesus Christ. The absence of good works during or after the moment of faith subtracts nothing from one's eternal position in Christ. However, good works determine whether one will receive eternal rewards.

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How Can I Support Chafer?

Chafer Theological Seminary could not operate without faithful prayer and financial support from our friends and partners. If the Lord lays it on your heart to participate in our training ministry, please visit Support Us! for information on contributing to our ministry.