What a great reminder for us seminarians to remember that the average lay person will never find the time (which is debatable, but anyway...) to study theology in-depth. However, in this article, Collin Hansen speaks to this issue.I think this is a very helpful read and one that everyone ought to read. I must put in my two-cents here. I am a firm believer that everyone ought - that's right, "ought" - to be studying theology - from the pastor/shepherd, to the average churchgoer. We must train our people to be students of Scripture. Everyone must be a Berean and test various teachings to see if they align with the Word of God (Acts 17:11). In order to do this, however, one must be very familiar with the Word of God. We can begin with the basic question, "Have you even read the whole Bible?" If not, then start today. Read a few chapters in the OT, and then a few in the NT, and you'll get through the whole Bible in one year. It's that simple. You must be disciplined and stay up-to-date on your reading, though.
In any case, let us read this article and take it to heart. Let us be students of the Word.
2 Timothy 2:15 15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth.I don't believe this command is only for pastors and shepherds. I think they are *especially* to be characterized by diligent and laborious study, but that doesn't exclude everyone else in the church.
Read the article here and then go study!
