Inahoto Chophy, Youth Pastor
Ikishe Village Baptist Church, Chümoukedima
Some years back, many people were encouraged and inspired by the news of a young lady who topped in HSLC board exam (Nagaland) who committed herself to pursue theology.
Is studying theology a first or the last option? This question struck my mind when I was still in seminary. Life is full of choices and options, be it in career or in education, there is always a first or the last option. However, I want to bring to light a popular case scenario that many (after attempting scores of options) often opt for. Which also often comes as a very last resort and this notion is applied when many choose to pursue theological studies.
In the context of Nagaland, many people possess a belief that if a person cannot excel in his/her studies, their last resort is to study theology. Several guardians even arrange the prospect that if their ward fails in HSLC or HSSLC, there still exists their last choice in sending them to theological institutions. Hence, in general, this is a prevalent mindset toward those who pursue theological studies. Inadvertently, this causes a tendency towards the public to look down on those who study theology. It is factual, that many who study theology had taken it as their last option but there are also many who choose the study as their first option.
There is also a tendency to believe that theology is simple and easy. But practically, it would be a fallacy to believe that, for in sheer reality, it takes abounding time, money, energy, intellect, hard work and dedication in pursuing theology. Let me cite an example of Scholars of Theology under Senate of Serampore University, India. After completion of secular studies (B.A, B.Sc., B.com, M.A, M.Sc., M.com etc). Bachelor of Divinity (B.D) begins for four years with maximum number of papers comparing to that of secular studies. The subjects apart from Scriptural Knowledge and Spiritual Formation also covers History, Science and Social analysis (socio-economic and political realities). Then, Master in theology (MTh) program ensues for two years followed by Doctorate in Theology (DTh) minimum three years and can extend to five to seven years depending on the candidate. It also probably applies the same to those studying in Theological Seminaries accredited to Asian Theological Association (ATA). Therefore, it would be wrong to assume that studying theology is easy as what the general population thinks. It is a serious and a long arduous journey to pursue theological studies.
In my opinion, those who excel in their studies should opt to study theology. Of course, one’s commitment to serve God should be a driving force to pursue it. Sending a child to pursue theology equates with giving an offering to God and guardians should be mindful to send their best ward to study theology. We usually offer the best things to God to please Him. However, ironically, some parents (in an extreme sense) often send the ward who are considered to be ‘the black sheep in the family’ to seminaries with an optimistic expectation that attending and entering theological institutions would rehabilitate them and have a positive impact in their lives without realizing the damage they might cause. Even tarnish the impeccable image of theological seminaries. It would be improper to generalise but imagine the same people leading our churches. It would bring more chaos to the church and society rather than people being lead in the Lord's ways.
Prof Rev Dr Akheto Sema, General Secretary CBCNEI and the then Principal of Eastern Theological College, Jorhat once said, ‘theological institution or seminary is not a rehabilitation centre.’ This statement is crystal clear that theological seminary is not a place to rehabilitate people but it is a place to equip God’s people with His word, for His Kingdom. Hence, such misconception and notion should be eliminated.
It is evident from the bible in Exodus 23:19a which says that ‘The best of the first-fruits of your ground you shall bring into the house of the Lord your God.’ When we offer to God something, we should give the very best, for God deserves our best offering. In the same way, the best committed person should be in theological Seminary, to be equipped for the Lord’s ministry. Hence, studying theology should be the ‘first and the foremost priority/option and not the last or the final option.’
