Seminary student discovers importance of theological training

Igor
Pastoral Student at Novosibirsk Biblical-Theological Seminary

I am currently a pastor and undergraduate student at the SGA-supported Novosibirsk Biblical-Theological Seminary (NBTS) satellite campus in St. Petersburg, Russia. My fourth year of study is coming to an end, and I would like to share my observations, joys, and challenges. 

For quite some time, I had been looking for different options to pursue a Bachelor’s level degree in theology. I realized that I had a lot of experience, but I felt a lack of academic knowledge. I wanted a better theological foundation as well as to improve my preaching skills. Just at that time, the remote learning enrollment at Novosibirsk was opening, and I was able to join it. It is still difficult to combine this with my current job. I had to ask my bosses to reduce my working hours, and they miraculously agreed. I could see the hand of God in this. 

As a student group, we have become close during our studies. Brothers from different churches know about each other’s lives and help each other. Inter-church connections are getting stronger.

I have come a long way, and I am very satisfied with my studies. One of the most important factors is that almost all the teachers are active ministers, mostly elders. I believe there is always a danger that academic knowledge can be at odds with ministry in the church. That’s why practical theology matters in the local church. Academics and ministry go hand-in-hand.

I discovered that when you receive a systematic education, many views change. Looking back, I wish I had not started a local church without a basic theological education.

So, my counsel for those who start new churches is that they should prepare themselves and their teams to be greatly balanced with those who know systematic and practical theology. Modern churches need continuity, and I would like all church members to know about it. When you are involved in teaching the church through preaching or in a small group, you need a good theological background because it is a very demanding and responsible task. It is also important to understand the original texts of the Holy Scripture.

Please pray that graduates can serve blessedly in churches and be useful for the kingdom of God. Also, please pray for teaching staff at NBTS to grow.