Theology is a wonderful thing to sit back and consider. Thinking about theology enlightens our hearts, sharpens our minds, and (when done properly) draws us closer to our God and Saviour. Some people will inevitably agree wholeheartedly, others not so much. Can dusty old books and the words of ‘experts’ really help me?
Again, when done rightly the answer is absolutely. Regardless, I think that the abuse of theology throughout church history has led many people to look at the subject with a certain bitterness in their hearts. Theology, however, should light our hearts with sparks that fan into great glory-yearning conflagrations over time. When theologians and Christian authors understand this by leading us in Christocentric and practical studies, then the results are glorious.
In order to light people’s hearts aflame for truth, it is often important to study in depth. The men and women who have influenced us believers the most have often been very well studied. In the popular sphere I think of men like John MacArthur, whose work of Bible exposition has helped deepen my own appreciation for truth. On a closer level, I think of men like Ken Luce who have had a lasting impact on me over the last decade of my life. Men like these are hard to find, but they know the truth, have studied it, and fall back on those studies when they provide practical and applicational advice.
Studying indeed plays an important part in the Christian life. We cannot understand how to help ourselves and others in practical areas without first studying the technicalities. To try to do so would be like trying to play chords on a guitar without first having learned where to place our fingers. It is simply impossible. This means that, ultimately, we are all theologians and all study to a certain extent. This being true, we must then ask ourselves about the academic world. Do we all need to go off and study theological degrees in order to better live out our faith? I will seek to answer that very question below.
Benefits
One of the saddest things in the theological world is seeing waves of students who are simply trying to earn their degrees. Rather than basking in the joys of learning, theology becomes a merely academic exercise that leads to gruelling and unenjoyable work as the essays pile up and the exam dates loom nearer. I confess that I have also been this kind of student: working for the sake of the degree, rather than for the joy of learning.
This is a real problem and, sadly, not helped by many institutions prioritising the academic side over the spiritual. Having said that, there are some great benefits to studying a theological degree. Studying a degree systemises everything for you in a beneficial way. You study Systematic Theology from the Doctrine of God to Eschatology, learn about Hermeneutics, and discover Church History, among many other highlights. It is an immensely beneficial thing which is worth the time, effort, and money, certainly for those thinking seriously about pastoral ministry.
It is tempting to say ‘the Bible is all I need’, but more intelligent people than you and I have said that while falling into gross error. Studying at a good institution will enable you to learn faithful theology in a good framework while also remaining hedged in by people who know what they are talking about.
A final benefit to having a theology degree is in the academic sphere. If you are somebody who aspires to write journals and books one day, then taking a theology degree is definitely favourable and will improve your prospects. Be careful, though. It is easy to study ‘just for the piece of paper’ if this becomes the main motivation behind a theology degree.
There are, therefore, various benefits to studying a theology degree. As long as our end goal is Christ (Hebrews 12:2) and we want to glorify God in our studies, then getting a theological degree is definitely a worthwhile and beneficial thing to do.
Is it necessary?
Simply put, no, a theology degree is certainly not a necessity. Even for pastors and academics themselves, a degree is not necessary to serve the Lord. It has been well said that the apostles did not have any theological degrees. While it is a bit simplistic to state things that way, it is certainly true.
The apostles were able to perform their ministries because they learned directly from Jesus and were specifically prepared for ministry and because they studied his Word. They knew what they were talking about, even without books written by countless authors and lessons taught by decorated professors.
Hard study under solid direction is certainly a good way to learn. Due to this, a degree is not necessarily the best thing. Unless you are required to have a degree for ministry, then I would not say it is necessary. Some of the wisest men I have met have few if any academic credentials to their names. I am sure you can think of a few people like that too.
What is the end verdict? Should people study theology degrees or not? The answer for each person is a personal matter. Your decision will be aided by close friends and church leaders speaking into your life in a way which an article like this cannot. Do you think studying for a degree is the right thing for you? Meditate on what is written in this article and speak to wise people around you. The Lord will surely light your path as you sincerely seek his will on this matter.
