From Robert Sityo, Founder and Teacher at Bukeeka Evangelical School of Theology
Because of its detachment from theology, the church has grown spiritually weak, socially compromised, and susceptible to hazardous doctrinal trends. Likewise, due to a decreased interest in and connection with the genuine needs of Christ’s church, the Christian scholar is in danger of producing material of little spiritual and theological benefit for the most important institution in the world, the body of Christ. And what is most concerning about the present situation is that this cycle is self-perpetuating: unless something foundational changes in the culture of the church, the rupture between the pastor and theologian can only worsen as time goes on.
But for the sake of Christ’s bride, we cannot throw up our hands in resignation. We can, one church at a time, one pastor at a time, recapture the glorious office of the pastor-theologian for the glory of God and the eternal good of his people. We will be aided in this endeavor by first reminding ourselves that the model of pastor-theologian is biblical. It’s not enough to point to historical precedent and start framing our vision around early church or 17th century ideals. We have to first be convinced that God calls the pastor to be first and foremost a theologian. Thank you so much our students for making this sacrifice! Week 2 of our Pastoral training is done! More 2 weeks to go!! Please continue sending those prayers.