Hot Topics: School Degrees

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.

Proverbs 9:10 (ESV)

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing, you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:2 (ESV)

Skilled tradesmen require specialized schooling in vocational schools with apprenticeships– to gain experience and licenses. Our daily lives depend on their good work. 

Many professional occupations require hard-earned and extensive schooling, as many as 15 years post-high school. Hard-earned diplomas hang proudly on walls.

Surely, training is required for ALL jobs, including the fields of entertainment. But degrees aren’t required. They’re optional.

What isn’t optional is artistry. Obviously, performers must have it. But so do all the players on the field: directors, producers, writers, stagehands– as well as pre- and post-production teams.

What about the pastors who shepherd us?

Recall Christianity’s Starting Team. Jesus put casting in His Father’s Hands:

‘In these days He went out to the mountain to pray, and all night He continued in prayer to God. And when day came, He called His disciples and chose from them twelve…’ (Luke 6:12-13).

Jesus, the Man, was their only Teacher. When He finished His earthly assignment, the Holy Spirit continued the job. Christ’s future pastors walked in God’s guidance.

But…

As centuries passed, some churches preferred impressive educations, diplomas, persuasive sermons, charisma, and looks… as qualities to seek in their pastors. (Prayer was a “rubber-stamp” afterthought.)

Actors, models, and talent for Christ:

Don't get proud or “hung-up” on school degrees: not in terms of Christian education or qualifications for good pastors. They meant (and still mean) nothing to God.

However,

If YOU’VE worked hard for school degrees, kudos! Certainly, they’re needed in many jobs. But it’s not how Christ chose future pastors.

What matters is your spiritual depth, achieved ONLY through connection with God and consistent immersion in The Word.

Hot Topics: School Degrees (Part 58)

NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God! We’re all called to be actors (action stars) for Jesus. We’re all called to be models of Jesus. We all have gifts, talents, and a commission to multiply them in the world for His glory.

P.S. NO DEVOTION, PREACHER, or SERMON… can begin to replace personal time in the Bible. I wholeheartedly and clear-headedly recommend DAILY BIBLE READING.

WARNING: Don’t focus on your favorite verses, because taken out of context, they’re often misinterpreted. I plead with you to READ AT LEAST 1 BIBLE CHAPTER DAILY. How long does it take? An average of 5 to 10 minutes!