Theological Education Conversation Panel
Around the world, the Church is growing by leap and bounds. While we praise God for the expansion of His kingdom and changed lives, this growth does present a challenge to the Church. How do we provide trained, mature leaders to nurture and disciple the ever increasing numbers of new born Christians?
This was the topic of the Theological Education Dialog that was held on July, 2009 at Park Place Church of God in Anderson, IN. Taking advantage of the presence of many international leaders present for the Global Missions Centennial Celebration, a panel discussion was conducted focusing on leadership development. Panel participants included representatives from Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and North America. The discussion was divided into two sections: 1) the state and needs of theological education in each region, 2) an interactive discussion with the audience.
Several key issues surfaced. First, there is no one solution that works best everywhere. Restricted countries make traditional theological education impossible. In other cases, cultural and economic realities pose similar challenges. Yet traditional models are required for those serving in more Western settings. In short, flexibility to meet the needs of the local churches is essential. Second, there needs to be mutual respect and true partnership between all the parties. Everyone has something to contribute to the process. Finally, there was mutual agreement that all theological education must center on character development. To often theological education has focused solely on knowledge and skills, assuming that spiritual maturity would naturally follow. Instead, a more intentional focus on personal spiritual development is required.
Overall, the Theological Education Dialog was well received and has demonstrated the need for further discussion. In addition to serving as a spring board for future face-to-face discussions, a fervent desire was expressed for the use of the internet to facilitate further interaction and partnerships. Opportunities to provide such a forum are currently under investigation and should be available in the next few weeks.
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