Why Settle for Less?

This past week, I have had a number of interesting thoughts concerning the issue of theological study. I have been warned to maintain a separation between Scripture and the Academe. I have also been questioned concerning the fate of my salvation as I study God’s Word in the midst of an advanced degree program. What I find shocking is the approach many Christians have to advanced theological study. This is an approach I would dare say they would never want in any other area of their lives.

Would you go to a doctor who has not remained up to date on the medical practices of the time?
Would you go to a dentist who has not kept up with his or her field?
Would you hire a lawyer who doesn’t know anything about cases that have happened in the past ten years?

I would dare say the answer to all these questions is a resounding “NO!” So why do we criticize, question, and challenge those who seek to continue their education in this one area? Why is it that the pulpit is the one place we seem willing to settle for ignorance? Please do not misunderstand me, I am NOT saying that those who do not continue their formal education are ignorant. What I am saying is that it seems extremely shocking that we would expect for people in other fields to continue their education, yet when it comes to what many would consider the most important issue in their lives, their faith, they discourage such education.

If we are truly one body and able to function for the edification of the Church, we should be able to accept the diversity of gifts God has placed within the Church and embrace the role of each. As I have thought about this topic, I remember my own commencement response from when I graduated from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. Having had classes with people training for different types of ministry (I believe in the priesthood of all believers), I believe that a false bifurcation between biblical scholastic study and ministry MUST be obliterated if we are to reach a lost and dying world.

For those who may be interested I have included my 2010 Commencement Response. It is approximately 5 minutes. If you have a moment, please take time and listen to it, as it will serve as the launching pad for my next post.

Grace and Peace,

Dan

Philip Lee says:

October 21, 2011 at 4:03 PM

It’s interesting that in the Baptist tradition there’s almost a belief that you have to go to seminary in order to do ministry. Growing up I heard ministers give lip-service to priesthood of the believer, but never remember a minister challenging church members to do more than come to church on Sundays and not drink alcohol until my youth minister called me to a passionate faith.

The church needs ministers who have studied not only the Bible itself but the historical-cultural background, church history, apologetics, etc. in order to answer the questions that critics of the Bible or honest seekers will raise. Furthermore, most seminary students are involved in ministry while studying so I don’t see any division between the two.

Richard says:

October 21, 2011 at 4:04 PM

Dan, I agree with your comments. While not all ministers can go on for higher education, there are ways for them to continue to grow in their ministry skills and biblical interpretation skills. Many professions require continuing education for maintaining certification in their area of expertise. There are so many books, seminars (even online), etc. that ministers can use to grow in their ministry. 2 Timothy 2:15 is still true.

William Molenaar says:

January 30, 2013 at 3:26 PM

Amen!

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