Why We Chose RBC: Grant and Madison Payne
Posted On December 04, 2024
Grant and Madison Payne grew up just outside Tallahassee, Florida, in a family with five children. From a young age, both Madison, the middle child and only daughter, and her older brother Grant fondly remember their homeschool education, where they developed a love for classical learning.
Madison in particular recalls learning Latin and Greek with her mother from an early age. This experience sparked an interest in the biblical languages and their role on the mission field. However, as she searched for college degree programs that could help her pursue this linguistic passion, Madison encountered a challenge.
“Multiple programs offered a variety of ancient languages under some of the best professors and scholars in the field. However, it came at the cost of good theology. Many programs were often biblically immature or starting on the path to liberal theology.”
While his sister’s interests centered around languages, Grant’s passion was for theology and philosophy. He especially enjoyed learning from Dr. R.C. Sproul.
“R.C. Sproul had the ability to explain the most complicated theological concepts in a simple way that makes sense.”
This appreciation for Dr. Sproul’s teaching eventually led Grant to RBC, where he discovered like-minded students who shared his passion for learning and sound doctrine.
“I have had the joy of growing relationships with people here, some of which will continue for the rest of my life. The community of godly men and women at RBC really shows off the best theological thinkers of our generation.”
Meanwhile, Madison was still struggling to find a degree program that would allow her to study biblical languages while also offering sound theological training. One day, she heard her brother talk about what he was experiencing at school.
“Grant was a current student at RBC, and I heard about the emphasis the college placed on a God-centered theology but also with a biblically derived importance on the ancient languages.”
Feeling that she had finally found the degree program she’d been searching for, Madison decided to pursue a B.A. in Theology with a concentration in Biblical Studies at RBC.
Since enrolling, Madison says she has enjoyed the same rich learning community as her brother. Her favorite part about RBC though, has been the professors.
“Each one of them has a unique style of teaching yet a unity in what they teach, which is rare for any college. They are always energetic in their field of study, but are also constantly engaging with the students and willing to answer questions in and outside of class.”
Grant and Madison have both expressed gratitude for the opportunity to attend school together and to witness how God is working in each other’s lives. Reflecting on how he has seen his sister grow since enrolling, Grant commented:
“I get to see her develop into a godly woman as she studies here. I have enjoyed getting to study with her and seeing her develop her theological abilities as well as her dedication to God’s truth.”
After he graduates, Grant hopes to start a family and eventually pursue pastoral ministry. He says he’s grateful for his time at RBC and looks forward to continuing many of the relationships he’s found at school.
Madison plans to finish her current degree program and then pursue a Master’s in Linguistics so she can assist with overseas Bible translation. She’s excited about the prospect of pursuing biblical languages. Mostly, though, she’s looking forward to growing in her passion for and service to the Lord.
“I hope my experience at RBC will allow me to pursue linguistics but more importantly to grow in Christ and the wisdom of the theology of the faithful men and women who have gone before.”
Are you interested in pursuing your calling at RBC? Join us for an upcoming online or on-campus Preview Day, or start your application today.