Take the time to consider who you are as a person: the natural and spiritual gifts God has given you, the plans the Lord has for your life and whether going to seminary will prepare you to minister to others in the unique ways you are called to serve.
Students who are weighing whether to go to seminary often know they want to be involved in their church community, but they may be unsure of the extent of their involvement. All Christians are called to actively engage in the life of their church community; there certainly aren’t any seminary school requirements for that. However, going to seminary may empower you to pursue a position in leadership or a specialized ministerial role within your community.
In addition to reflecting upon your answers to the questions that follow, spend some time thinking about the level of involvement you desire within your church. Do you need training in order to step into a leadership role? Would you benefit from the seminary experience as you engage in other types of ministry, whether as a member of the staff or a volunteer?
Before making a decision, you may wish to approach your church community’s leadership team to discuss your plans. Ask them for guidance as you plan your future and strive to learn more about what you might expect from the day-to-day life of a ministerial leader.
Am I passionate?
Do you have a desire in your heart to serve others? Do you want to grow closer to God while exploring biblical content and values? Would you like to potentially join church leadership?
If so, going to seminary may be a great choice. In your program, you will be taught the biblical foundations that may prove helpful for pursuing vocation in church leadership. Seminary school can be a good choice for those who wish to make an impact on the world for Christ.
Am I ready to invest in a local church?
No other environment offers the same opportunity to be in a community with fellow believers like the local church. Theological seminary encourages students to get involved with a local church and engage in mentoring relationships, supervised ministry requirements and internship experiences. These opportunities offer students the chance to grow both spiritually and professionally.
You might also consider taking part in local outreach activities. Outreach activities help show God’s love in your local community. Additionally, you can be an example for others in showing how Jesus changes a Christian’s life. All in all, seminary is a great place to get connected with a Christian community and learn what it means to make an impact for Christ in today’s world.
What do I want to do after seminary?
Before going to seminary, it can be helpful to know what you want to do after you earn your degree. For example, do you want to do nonprofit work, international missions or pastoral ministry?
Having an idea of the specific vocation you want to pursue after you graduate can help you to make the most of your education and tailor it to your interests. If you are still unsure about where God is leading you, pray about it and ask Him to provide guidance. Ideally, it is always wise to seek counsel from others in your local church or ministry context who are willing to join you in seeking God’s will for your life and ministry.
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will reminder you of everything I have said to you.
John 14:26NIV
Has God called me?
Before exploring how to get into seminary school further, one of the most important factors to consider is if God has called on you. Ministry vocations require selfless sacrifice and dedication as you allow God to work through your life.
Pray and ask God for guidance if it is His will. If God has placed the passion in your heart, trust Him as you take the next step of faith and earn your degree at seminary school.
I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.
1 Corinthians 1:10NIV
What is seminary school like?
There is a common misconception that seminary resembles a monastic retreat, where individuals of faith spend all day praying and reflecting upon God’s teachings. In fact, seminary is a flurry of activity. Yes, there is a need for continual prayer and quiet reflection, but you’ll also be immersed in a learning-centered environment designed to prepare you to share biblical truth with others and to engage the world with the love of Christ.
