Graduate Profile: Joshua Barton

I was born and raised in Southern California. My wife, Sabrina, and I are blessed with five children, two daughters-in-law, and two grandchildren. I was raised in a Bible-believing Christian home and attended a private Christian school through eighth grade. From a young age, I loved the Lord, desired to live a life pleasing to Him, and was passionate about sharing the gospel with others (Acts 4:20).

As a teenager, I became increasingly aware of the depth of my sin and experienced spiritual challenges, including diminished assurance due to inconsistent church fellowship. During this time, I met my wife, Sabrina, who has been a tremendous source of encouragement in my faith. Following high school, the Lord graciously brought me back into fellowship with a local church, where my passion for Scripture was renewed, and I began serving His people.

Over the years, the Lord has refined my understanding of Scripture and theology. After attending a Brethren school and spending time in Baptist and non-denominational churches, I eventually discovered RBCR. Through consistent exposure to God’s Word and mentorship from faithful leaders, my faith deepened, and my theology became more robust. This growing understanding of Scripture has profoundly shaped my faith and obedience, for which I am deeply thankful.

The Lord has been incredibly merciful and gracious to me and my family. I am deeply thankful for the elders at RBCR, who labor on our behalf, and for Pastor Robert Elliott, whose mentorship has been an integral part of my spiritual growth, especially through RBS. I am also grateful for the staff and professors at RBS, whose teaching and guidance have equipped me to serve God's people more effectively. I had desired to attend seminary for many years, and I am grateful it is RBS. Seeing the seminary further its education programs to serve students better and prepare a new generation of Christ’s servants to proclaim the gospel and advance His kingdom is exciting.

My studies at Reformed Baptist Seminary have enriched my ability to co-lead the Young Adults ministry at RBCR. This role has been a tremendous blessing, allowing me to apply what I have learned to serve and guide others. As I continue to grow in my faith and knowledge, I pray that the Lord will use me as He sees fit for the edification of His church and the glory of His name. I eagerly look forward to continuing my studies at RBS.

Grounded in the words of the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:16, I embrace my call to preach the gospel, recognizing it as both a responsibility and a joy. “For if I preach the gospel, that gives me no ground for boasting. For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” May the Lord continue to guide and sustain me as I seek to follow Him faithfully.

Joshua Barton