I think it is wonderful that you are almost done with your degree program. It is
good to see all that hard work does pays off. I hope one day soon I can say the
same thing about myself. As far as ministry, I believe it is exceptionally important
to hone your teaching skills. As ministry leaders, we are called to shepherd God’s
people. One area they tend to need us in is spiritual development. Therefore, the
Bible repeatedly tells us to study God’s word and build a relationship with him. I
believe, our calling to shepherd elucidates the importance of studying and being
able to teach.
As the world continues to change, our teaching ability needs grow and adapt as
well[1]. We cannot do or say what ministers used to just a few years ago. The
world seems to be shifting into a hypersensitive world which means, we need to
change if we truly wish to lead people to Christ. Your last statement is a powerful
one. In the past, some spiritual leaders have gotten a bad reputation of being
“holier than thou”. I believe it is a good trait to understand your personal flaws.
Understanding and acknowledging the fact that you too have issues like the same
people you are trying to shepherd prevents you from believing that you are better
than them. It would be rather difficult to lead God's people with humility and grace
without first understanding that you are a sinner, just like them.
[1] Jason K Allen and R A Mohler, Discerning Your Call to Ministry (Chicago:
Moody Publishers, 2016, 2016), 61.
