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Sanford Today
By the People, for the People
Reformation Bible College Students Seek Answers on Firing of President
Students express concerns over leadership decisions at Ligonier Ministries and Reformation Bible College
Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:21pm
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The students' call for transparency and accountability at Reformation Bible College reflects the complex relationship between religious institutions and academic freedom.Sanford TodayA group of students at Reformation Bible College in Sanford, Florida have written a letter to the leadership of Ligonier Ministries, which is closely affiliated with the college, seeking answers about the recent firing of the college's president, Dr. Stephen Nichols. The students express fears of potential retaliation for speaking up and question whether decisions at the college are being unduly influenced by the leadership of St. Andrew's Chapel, where Ligonier's Burk Parsons is a teaching fellow.
Why it matters
The letter highlights growing tensions and a perceived lack of transparency between the students, Ligonier Ministries, and the leadership of St. Andrew's Chapel. It raises questions about the autonomy of Reformation Bible College and whether personnel decisions are being made for reasons beyond the college's best interests.
The details
In the letter, the students state they are not asking for details about any church discipline case involving Dr. Nichols, but simply want to know why he is no longer the college's president. They ask whether Nichols resigned voluntarily or was asked to resign, and if the decision was related to his reported excommunication from St. Andrew's Chapel. The students express concern that they or faculty could face repercussions for speaking up about issues they see at the college and Ligonier.
- On March 11, the students were notified that Dr. Stephen Nichols would be exiting his position as president of Reformation Bible College.
The players
Dr. Stephen Nichols
The former president of Reformation Bible College, who is no longer in that role.
Burk Parsons
A teaching fellow at Ligonier Ministries and editor of Tabletalk Magazine, who also serves as a leader at St. Andrew's Chapel.
Reformation Bible College
A college in Sanford, Florida that is closely affiliated with Ligonier Ministries.
Ligonier Ministries
A Christian media and education ministry that is connected to Reformation Bible College and St. Andrew's Chapel.
St. Andrew's Chapel
A church in Sanford, Florida where Burk Parsons is a leader, and which appears to have influence over Ligonier Ministries and Reformation Bible College.
What they’re saying
“Why is Dr. Nichols no longer our president?”
— Reformation Bible College Students
“We students fear that we or our faculty could be reprimanded, blacklisted, or even expelled if we speak up about what we see as issues. Please help us allay these fears.”
— Reformation Bible College Students
What’s next
The leadership of Ligonier Ministries and Reformation Bible College will need to provide a clear and transparent response to the students' questions and concerns in order to restore trust.
The takeaway
This situation highlights the potential for power imbalances and lack of accountability when Christian institutions and leaders are closely intertwined, raising questions about the autonomy of educational institutions and the need for greater oversight and transparency.
