Back in 1994, Loré and I were coming off of an incredibley tense and productive time of ministry in post-communist Romania. Four years of non-stop work resulted in seven church plants, Romanian leadership of the churches, and sustained evangelism and disciple-making leading to the multiplication of small groups. It truly felt like we were living in the book of Acts.
Along side of the productive time came the tense time as our missionary team grew unexpectantly. From me as the sole church planter in 1990 to a young team of 20 somethings in 1992 to a massive team of more than 30 missionaries, our field became the largest missionary field in the Evangelical Free Church. The growth was exciting, but it was also draining as it raised all sorts of tense team relational challenges and opportunties.
That was when we realized it was time for a break. For the most part, Romanians were effectively leading ministries in the seven church plants so we felt we could take our first sabbatical. Oddly enough, we found rest in seminary where we met with like-minded missionaries and began cultivating life-long relationships. It was a beautiful, enriching time of learning, being heard and seen, and growing in our own self-understanding.
Reflecting on our experience this morning, I asked myself, “How did we know it was time to go to seminary?” Here are ten indicators that led us on the next stage in ministry:
We Knew It Was Time for More Theological Education When We Realized…
- We Needed a Break from Ministry Theological education, by its nature, is devotional. Taking time away from ministry when you are tired provides a great opportunity to seek the Lord in further study of Him. It allows for spiritual renewal and deeper theological reflection that can reinvigorate God’s leading on your life.
- We Had More Questions Than Answers Participating in a learning community where you can openly and freely explore your questions with others facilitates a discovery process that could bring needed innovation to your work. Theological education creates a space where inquiry is welcomed, and meaningful dialogue refines understanding.
- We Had an Insatiable Curiosity You not only want to know, but you want to understand how what you know can be a transformative experience. This journey of theological study shapes both you and your work while also benefiting those with whom you minister.
- We Had a Burning Passion for the Practical Application of Theology I like to call this missiological theology, where you explore ways in which you can meaningfully relate Jesus Christ to the culture around you. It moves beyond academic exercise to practical engagement, helping you contextualize theological truths in real-world settings.
- That We Really Do Not Know It All Theological education affords the opportunity to cultivate a posture of lifelong learning. The more you learn, the more you realize how much remains to be discovered, leading to humility and growth in your faith and ministry.
- That We’d Been in an Echo Chamber Theological education draws together people from different denominational and theological backgrounds who graciously practice theological hospitality. Engaging with diverse perspectives challenges assumptions, fosters critical thinking, and helps you break free from theological silos.
- That God was Leading Us to Something More Sometimes the prompting for further theological education is a divine nudge. Whether it’s preparation for a new ministry role, a deepening of personal faith, or a broader vision for kingdom work, this nudge can be the catalyst for taking the next step in theological training.
- We Wanted to Equip Others More Effectively Theological education enhances your ability to teach, disciple, and mentor others. By sharpening your knowledge and refining your approach, you become a more effective leader who can guide others in their faith journey with depth and wisdom.
- We Desired to Engage Thoughtfully with Others on Contemporary Missions Issues Theology is not just about understanding ancient texts; it’s about applying biblical truth to modern challenges. Theological education helps you think critically and biblically about cultural, ethical, and social issues, enabling you to respond with wisdom and grace.
- We Needed to Deepen Our Love for God Ultimately, theological education is not just about gaining knowledge—it is about knowing God more deeply. It fosters a love for Scripture, a heart for worship, and a passion for seeing Jesus Christ glorified in all aspects of life.
If any of these resonate with you, it might be time to pursue further theological education. Whether through formal study or personal development, deepening your theological understanding can bring renewal, insight, and fresh vision to your ministry and life.
Innovative Disruption
Innovative Disruption is an engaging learning experience that connects Christology, missiology, and ecclesiology to the challenges of engaging contemporary cultures. Participants will explore the person and work of Christ as the foundation for understanding the Church’s mission and purpose, gaining insights into how core Christian beliefs shape practices that transform society. Discussions examine how the Church’s mission, rooted in missio Dei and motus Dei, can authentically incarnate in diverse cultural contexts. Additionally, it investigates the Church’s adaptive role as the body of Christ, offering innovative approaches for meaningful engagement with modern society while staying true to its evangelical heritage through collaborative discussions, case studies, and hands-on projects.