It is with profound sadness that the College of Biblical Studies shares the unexpected passing of our beloved professor, colleague, and friend, Dr. Israel Loken.

For nearly twenty-six years, Dr. Loken stood at the very heart of CBS. He came to Houston in 2000 to help launch our bachelor’s degree program, and he never left, serving faithfully as Senior Professor and Chair of the Bible and Theology Departments. A scholar of the first order, he held his Th.M. and Ph.D. in Bible Exposition from Dallas Theological Seminary and taught as a DTS adjunct for more than two decades. Through the Loken Expositional Commentary series, his introductions to the Old Testament, and his contributions to the Faithlife Study Bible and the Lexham English Septuagint, he opened the Scriptures for students and scholars far beyond our walls.

Yet, Dr. Loken’s deepest legacy was never measured in titles or publications. He faithfully served the CBS community with a profound love for Christ, an unwavering commitment to the authority of God’s Word, and a genuine passion for equipping men and women for Christian service. His influence extended far beyond the classroom as he invested in the spiritual and academic growth of countless students, encouraged fellow faculty members, and faithfully advanced the mission of the College. His only stated ambition in life was to teach God’s Word and to help others learn the Bible, and he lived that dream every single day.

While our hearts grieve this tremendous loss, we are comforted by the assurance of God’s promises. Dr. Loken lived to proclaim the hope of the gospel, and we rejoice in the confidence that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8).

We ask the entire CBS family, our students, alumni, faculty, staff, Board of Directors, ministry partners, and friends, to join us in praying for Kimberly Loken and the entire Loken family during this difficult season. Please also pray for all who had the privilege of serving alongside Dr. Loken and learning under his faithful teaching.

Information regarding memorial services will be shared as it becomes available.

On behalf of the College of Biblical Studies, we express our deepest sympathy to the Loken family and our heartfelt gratitude for Dr. Loken’s faithful life, ministry, and enduring legacy. His love for Christ and His Kingdom will continue to bear fruit through the many lives he impacted.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your master.” — Matthew 25:23

Please keep the Loken family in your prayers.

Dr. Bill Blocker

President

College of Biblical Studies

One ”Acceptional” Family

7000 Regency Square Blvd.

Houston, TX 77036