Reflections on 20 Years Since Moving to SWBTS
Twenty years ago last Friday, my wife and I, along with our two young children (we would eventually add two more while in seminary), embarked on a journey that would forever change the trajectory of our lives and ministry. Moving to Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (SWBTS) to pursue a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree and eventually a Ph.D. was a decision we made grounded in faith and motivated by a desire to serve God and His Church as effectively as we could.
Reflecting on this milestone, I am reminded of some of the invaluable lessons learned and the transformative experiences that have enriched my ministry and family’s life. I wanted to share some of these lessons with you today, with the prayer that my experience might inspire other men who God is calling into the ministry to consider pursuing a seminary education.
Spiritual Formation of My Family for Ministry
The seminary experience was not just an academic pursuit; it was a time of deep spiritual formation for both me and my family. Living on campus for many of our eight years provided us with an opportunity to be surrounded by many other godly families, all of whom were at the seminary for the stated purpose of serving the Lord. My family and I grew together in faith, learning to trust God more deeply and to support each other as all six of us eventually lived in a 950-square-foot seminary condo. The spiritual disciplines and theological insights we cultivated during those years laid a strong foundation for our ongoing service in God’s kingdom.
Enduring Friendships
One of the greatest treasures from my seminary years is the friendships that were formed. These bonds have endured the test of time, lasting two decades and continuing to be a source of strength and encouragement. The camaraderie we shared in the classrooms, study groups, and other seminary gatherings created a community of believers committed to supporting one another. These friendships have provided prayer support, ministry collaboration, and personal encouragement through the various seasons of life and ministry.
Wisdom Gained from Professors
The wisdom imparted by the professors at SWBTS remains a cornerstone of my theological understanding and ministry practice. These dedicated scholars poured into us not only within the confines of the classroom but also through personal mentorship and informal discussions. Their commitment to our spiritual and academic growth was evident in their willingness to engage with us beyond the lectures, offering guidance and insight that has proven invaluable over the years. I will forever be grateful to God for the opportunity I had to engage with these brothers on international trips, in their homes, in the cafeteria, or on book-buying trips to the various Half-Price Bookstores around the DFW metroplex.
Ministry Preparation
Seminary gave me a solid theological foundation that equipped me to be a better servant to God’s people. It also placed God’s passion for the world in my heart, enabling me to be a better pastor in leading my church to be on a mission with God. The rigorous academic training and practical ministry experiences provided me with the necessary tools to face the difficulties of serving a church. From understanding complex theological concepts to applying them in real-world pastoral situations, my seminary education has been instrumental in preparing me for the multifaceted challenges of ministry.
A Word of Warning
While seminary can be a time of profound growth, it also brings challenges. The pressure it puts on your family can be significant, and it’s crucial to guard against the strain it may cause. Remember, not everyone at seminary is a believer; discernment is essential in choosing your influences and companions. Don’t lose your faith for the sake of an academic pursuit—your relationship with God must always come first. Finally, resist the temptation to think more highly of yourself than you ought. Humility is key in ministry, and it’s easy to become prideful amidst the rigorous academic environment. Stay grounded in God’s Word and His purpose for your life.
An Appeal to Prospective Seminary Students
As I reflect on these past 20 years, I am convinced of the unparalleled value of studying on campus. While online education offers convenience, it cannot replicate the immersive, transformative experience of living and learning within a community of believers. The relationships formed, the personal mentorship received, and the spiritual formation experienced in a campus setting are irreplaceable. I urge prospective seminary students to consider the profound impact that an on-campus education can have on their spiritual growth, ministry preparation, and lifelong friendships.
In conclusion, my time at SWBTS was a period of immense growth and blessing. It shaped my family, forged lasting friendships, and imparted wisdom that continues to guide my ministry. As we celebrate this 20-year milestone, I am grateful for the journey and excited for what God has in store for the future.
