The first time someone said this to me, I was both excited and dismayed: “God’s calling me to full-time ministry—so I’m going to seminary.” Though I’ve now heard it many times since, my reaction is the same to the thought of seminary training.
I’m thrilled whenever anyone desires to work full time to support God’s causes. I’m equally distraught when they assume more education is a prerequisite.
In fact, there’s often a requirement to first spend three years of intense theoretical study prior to action. That’s quite a detour!
Seek Relevant Preparation Instead of Seminary Training
I’m not against preparation. In fact, I insist on it, but unless the goal is to teach at the graduate level, I don’t see seminary as the best means to prepare.
I say this, knowing that many friends have been to seminary and more are presently attending. I do my best to support them, but my insides scream, “You’re wasting your time!”
Most people don’t need more esoteric education, they need an application in action.
One minister said, “Our level of knowledge is about two years ahead of our obedience.” Others are direct: “Stop learning more about the Bible and start applying what you already know.”
Consider How Jesus Taught His Disciples
Look at the disciples. How many of them had anything resembling today’s seminary training? None. Their preparation was following Jesus around, of seeing him in action, learning by doing, and applying faith to life.
The closest they came to a theology class was the Sermon on the Mount, but that was practical, life-changing, perception-altering teaching, not abstruse rhetoric.
Then, after three years of on-the-job training, they went out and changed the world—with God’s help, of course, but that’s the point.
Consider Paul
Paul was likely the most educated of Jesus’ followers, but let’s be honest. How often do the things Paul wrote perplex us? I know it’s not just me.
In Acts 26:24, Festus became so bewildered with Paul’s discourse that he shouted, “Your great learning is driving you insane.”
I’ve heard that ministers who don’t go to seminary are happier with their work and enjoy greater success. That’s telling. Knowing that, why would anyone want to attend seminary?
Most of us don’t need more education to serve God. We just need to do what he’s telling us to do. Now go do it!
Read more about this in Peter’s thought-provoking book, Jesus’s Broken Church, available in e-book, audiobook, paperback, and hardcover.
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.
4 replies on “Why I’m Against Seminary Training”
Joyce Meyer always says she went to the school of The Holy Ghost. She also says we need less education and more revelation and obedience. She’s never been to seminary but wow, does God ever use her to bless my socks off!
That is a great example. Let’s all go to Holy Ghost University!
Great post, Peter! I love (and agree) with your perspective on this!
I appreciate knowing that. Thank you for your encouragement!