Through accessible teaching and Christ-centered focus, CBI equips learners to grow in faith wherever they are.
The Concordia Bible Institute (CBI) was created to help people understand Scripture in ways that are both faithful and practical.
Founded in 2000, the institute grew from the vision of a generous benefactor who wanted to promote biblical literacy at Concordia and throughout the surrounding region. The Rev. Dr. John Saleska, a longtime college and seminary professor in The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, served as its first director.
Today, that work continues through teaching grounded in the Lutheran tradition and attentive to real questions. CBI serves students, church leaders and lifelong learners alike. Some are opening the Bible for the first time. Others return with years of experience. Wherever they begin, CBI offers both a starting point and a path forward.
“It’s been said that the Bible is shallow enough for an infant to wade and deep enough for an elephant to drown,” said Rev. Dr. Brian German, director of the CBI. “When it comes to your life in Christ, there’s always more to see, and CBI can show you how to see it.”
A resource for every Christian
CBI’s approach begins with accessibility. Its growing collection of resources allows individuals to engage Scripture on their own time and in their own context. Podcasts, study guides, video content and blog reflections are designed to support steady, thoughtful learning.
Each resource is developed with care. The goal is to offer clarity while honoring the depth of Scripture. In doing so, CBI helps learners connect biblical teaching to daily decisions, relationships and callings.
This flexibility also serves congregations. Churches can use CBI materials to supplement Bible studies, support small groups or encourage individual growth beyond Sunday mornings.
CBI enjoys a loyal base of supporters across southeastern Wisconsin and beyond. German said he is humbled by many who have attended in-person studies and seminars. Today, hundreds subscribe to its weekly podcast and monthly newsletter, while thousands engage its online resources.
Learning beyond the classroom
German became CBI’s second director in 2014 when he joined the CUW faculty. At the time, the institute offered on-campus Bible studies each semester along with a weekly podcast. Since then, its reach has expanded.
“When I started directing CBI, I continued to offer on-campus Bible studies and a weekly podcast, but soon added Saturday seminars and a second weekly podcast,” German said. “In recent years, I’ve taken our seminars ‘on the road’ to local congregations and expanded our online audience.”
At the center of CBI’s work is a guiding phrase: “Christ in Every Word.” That focus shapes both content and the learning experience.
“Martin Luther once said that ‘the whole Christ is in every word [of the Bible] and wholly in each individual word,’” German said. “Whenever I lead a Bible study or record a podcast, I ask: How is this text showing us the person and work of Christ, and our life in him?”
This emphasis connects study with daily life. It invites learners to see Scripture as active and present.
CBI also extends beyond digital resources through in-person and virtual events. These gatherings bring participants into direct conversation with faculty and one another. They create a shared experience that continues beyond a single session.
Engaging conversations, real impact
A defining feature of CBI is its commitment to conversation. Ask questions. Reflect openly. Engage with Scripture in community.
That approach shapes how learning unfolds. It moves beyond quick answers and invites steady, meaningful engagement over time. In that process, learning takes root. It leaves a lasting impression. It deepens understanding, strengthens faith and builds connections among those seeking to grow together.
All resources are free. This opens the door for individuals and congregations across the country — and beyond — making teaching more accessible.
Faith in action at Concordia
With academic study and spiritual formation closely connected, CBI reflects the broader mission of CUW.
The institute’s mission states: “The Concordia Bible Institute provides Christ-centered Bible instruction from distinguished experts who teach ‘Christ in Every Word’ of the Old and New Testaments, to strengthen faith and spread belief in the one true God.” Its vision is to inspire people around the world to confess the saving truth of Christ throughout the Bible.
“At the heart of CUW’s mission is helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world,” German said. “CBI strengthens that mission and extends it into the surrounding region and beyond.”
German said he hopes to see greater engagement from both students and the wider church. Recent efforts include hundreds of Bible study guides, one for each podcast episode. These resources may support pastors, lay leaders and student-led Bible studies across the synod.
Through CBI, Concordia’s mission extends beyond campus. It invites learners everywhere to engage Scripture with clarity and purpose while remaining rooted in the truth of the Gospel.
Check out CBI’s YouTube channel and subscribe!
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. Whether you are looking to deepen your faith, return to Scripture with fresh perspective or join a meaningful conversation, the CBI offers a place to begin.
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