As a pastor and full time Christian worker for over 13 years who attended school for almost 9 years I can understand the need to streamline research. Plus, after finally graduating seminary I can relate to all the pastors who now wish to "tap into" the wealth of knowledge that I was blessed to gain. Therefore, I can relate to needing the help of scholars and now being one.
Here are some reasons I feel you may need a scholar around as well:
1. Good Scholars Help Avoid Doctrinal Error
Paul, who was a scholar, actually had to correct Peter and write an entire book (Galatians) to correct wrong doctrines. Therefore, he was able to understand both the Jewish law and the new covenant.
2. Most Preachers and Teachers Do Not Have Time to Read Academic Books
Just like business men who do not have the chance to practice their golf swing like Tiger Woods- most Christian leaders are too busy in the ministry to check the more "dry and deeper" materials.
3. Giving a Leader More Knowledge is Like Pouring Gas on a Fire
Whenever scholars have the chance to talk to a leader and share a few books or help clarify a doctrinal issue the leaders are super charged to preach entire series and fresh messages!
4. Scholars Can Spend More Time Defending the Faith
Because scholars have the best resources in their libraries they can easily inform the Body of Christ on the latest attacks and the books that cover them. For example: Do you know a book to combat the New York Times Best Seller, "Misquoting Jesus?" We do!
5. Today the US Church is the Least Educated Church in History
George Barna has proven that today's Christians are the most uniformed Christians of history. Hardly any believer today can name a church father, quote a creed, or give a sound understanding of the nature of Christ. Godly scholars can bring the love of God's Word back to the church!
Here are some reasons I feel you may need a scholar around as well:
1. Good Scholars Help Avoid Doctrinal Error
Paul, who was a scholar, actually had to correct Peter and write an entire book (Galatians) to correct wrong doctrines. Therefore, he was able to understand both the Jewish law and the new covenant.
2. Most Preachers and Teachers Do Not Have Time to Read Academic Books
Just like business men who do not have the chance to practice their golf swing like Tiger Woods- most Christian leaders are too busy in the ministry to check the more "dry and deeper" materials.
3. Giving a Leader More Knowledge is Like Pouring Gas on a Fire
Whenever scholars have the chance to talk to a leader and share a few books or help clarify a doctrinal issue the leaders are super charged to preach entire series and fresh messages!
4. Scholars Can Spend More Time Defending the Faith
Because scholars have the best resources in their libraries they can easily inform the Body of Christ on the latest attacks and the books that cover them. For example: Do you know a book to combat the New York Times Best Seller, "Misquoting Jesus?" We do!
5. Today the US Church is the Least Educated Church in History
George Barna has proven that today's Christians are the most uniformed Christians of history. Hardly any believer today can name a church father, quote a creed, or give a sound understanding of the nature of Christ. Godly scholars can bring the love of God's Word back to the church!
Proverbs 17:1, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
