I have encountered many times in my life in ministry those who are seemingly skeptical of education. I have had pastors tell me they had no interest in improving their exegetical skills, or taking the time to further their education in general, that they would rather leave the “hard stuff” up to others and then read what they say about scripture or life.
This attitude disgusts me, and I think really disappoints God. Jesus said these words to His disciples before he sent them out.
Matt 10:16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves.”
This is why education is important for pastors, because Jesus commands it. Sadly, many pastors choose to spend time playing golf rather than studying.
We are sheep in the midst of wolves. Sheep are by nature stupid creatures, that is why shepherds are needed. Sheep are vulnerable to wolves. Sheep believe whatever they are told, which is why shepherds must be trustworthy and knowledgeable.
Most pastor’s nail the “innocent as doves” part, they love people, they love God, they have good intentions.
Satan can take good intentions and misguide them just enough to make someone complacent, and make them sitting ducks for failure. If the shepherd is complacent, the sheep are dinner.
If you are in ministry or called to ministry, then you are called to be educated.
Paul says in 1 Corinthians 14 to not be children in your thinking, but to become mature in your thinking.
If you are a pastor, don’t be lazy and rely upon other people to tell you what to believe, because their words are not infallible or inspired, rather take the time to read the scriptures which are infallible and inspired so that you gain knowledge from the source of all knowledge.
Want to get your thinking started? Check out www.projectebenezer.com a new online project from an intelligent friend of mine.
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