Having served the purposes of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in his generation, James Bjornstad met his Lord face to face on October 12, 2024 at the age of 83.

James "Jim" Bjornstad, was born on December 23, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York, to Norwegian immigrants Thorvald Mikel Bjornstad and Gertrude Amelia (Anderson) Bjornstad. Jim's life was a testament to his deep faith, academic dedication, and devotion to spreading the gospel.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rebecca "Becky" Bjornstad, to whom he was married until her passing in 2010. Jim is survived by his twin daughters, Christine Henderson, married to Charles Henderson, and Karen Peterson, married to Mark Peterson. He was a loving grandfather to nine grandchildren: Anna Rose Moldenhauer, married to Michael Moldenhauer, Benjamin Henderson, Charlotte Henderson, William Henderson, Caroline Henderson, Ryan Peterson, Joshua Peterson, Katherine Peterson, and Josiah Peterson.

Jim's lifelong journey of faith and service began with his education at Northeastern Bible College, where he earned his BA in Biblical Studies in 1967. He later obtained his Master's in Religious Education from New York Theological Seminary and a PhD in Philosophy of Religion from New York University in 1972. His commitment to education and ministry took him across the globe, where he taught and lectured on topics related to religion, cults, and new religious movements.

He served as a professor at several institutions, including Northeastern Bible College, where he also held the roles of Dean, Vice President, and President, The King's College, and Cedarville University, where he spent the last and most fulfilling years of his academic career. In addition to his teaching, Jim authored six books and numerous articles, and he remained a sought-after speaker at churches, conferences, and universities.

Throughout his life, Jim was deeply committed to serving his community and the church, including his faithful service as an interim pastor for several congregations, including Faith Bible Church in Cincinnati, Shawnee Hills Baptist Church in Jamestown, and University Baptist Church in Beavercreek.  After his retirement, Jim devoted his time to serving his local church, Grace Baptist Church of Cedarville, by serving as an elder, Sunday School teacher, and advocate for missions.  His love for Christ was evident in all aspects of his life, and he leaves behind a legacy of faith, scholarship, and service that will continue to inspire many.

Upon his entrance to heaven, he was greeted by his wife Becky, his parents, and many friends who have gone before.  He was also greeted by many people that he led to Christ throughout his years of service.  He is now rejoicing in the presence of his Savior for all eternity.

Services will be held on Saturday, October 19th at 3:00pm at Grace Baptist Church, 109 N. Main Street., Cedarville, Ohio.  A gathering for friends and family will begin at 1:30pm until the Service begins at the church.  There will be a private burial.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Missions Fund at Grace Baptist Church in Cedarville, Ohio or to The Dr. James Bjornstad Life and Ministry Scholarship Fund at Dallas Theological Seminary.