I was born in Syracuse, New York to Rudolph and Barbara Kobelia. Through most of my growing up years in New York we lived in a little town called Preble. My family was a little better than nominally Catholic. We attended services semi-regularly and I was sent to some instructional classes. In about third grade, a friend from school, who lived on the same road as we did, invited me to a children’s program (Junior Astronauts), and soon I was attending services regularly with his family. It was through the ministry of Otisco Valley Baptist Church (later to move and to be renamed Calvary Baptist Church in Preble) that I first heard the gospel. I was a good and compliant boy but still a sinner in need of Jesus as my Savior. I do not know the exact date, but I was nine years old when a teacher of the children’s group asked if anyone wanted to be saved. I responded favorably and have had full assurance of my eternal salvation since that time. I was baptized with my parents shortly after my tenth birthday.
While in college at Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny, Iowa, I met my future wife, Elizabeth (Kusmaul). Elizabeth grew up in a pastor’s home and was saved and baptized at a young age. Elizabeth and I were married when I was in seminary. We have six children.
From an early age I felt a desire to be involved in vocational Christian ministry. Through the godly example of my first pastor, I felt burdened for pastoral ministry. After graduating from a Christian high school, I attended a Bible institute, and then I pursued undergraduate and seminary courses in anticipation of pastoral ministry at Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary. While in seminary at Faith, I was encouraged by some of my professors to consider a teaching ministry. In light of further counsel and the positive feedback from teaching opportunities, I pursued more education (at Central Baptist Theological Seminary and Dallas Theological Seminary) in order to prepare for a teaching ministry. To this end, I earned a Ph.D. in Bible Exposition from Dallas Theological Seminary in January of 2014.
The Lord then opened the door to teach at Faith Baptist Bible College in the summer of 2014. I currently serve as Assistant Professor of Bible and Theology at Faith Baptist Bible College and as an adjunct at Faith Baptist Theological Seminary. This ministry involves teaching core Bible survey classes, Bible electives, theology classes, and some history classes. I am also busy with various administrative tasks, including serving as the chair of the Biblical Studies program, as the director of strategic planning, as well as helping with accreditation documents and serving on various committees.
Since we returned to Iowa, our family has been active at Faith Baptist Church in Cambridge, Iowa. I have been involved in several teaching and leadership positions. I have occasionally filled pulpit in various churches as opportunities have arisen. I have also enjoyed some opportunities for international ministry and speaking at camp.