Bringing Academia to the Local Church: the Compass Cohort
Nov 8, 2024
The task of considering whether or not to pursue a seminary education requires being deliberate to discern if that is what the Lord is calling you to do. You must carefully consider your steps when answering the call.
When thinking about seminary, you will need to consider if you should go all-in, finishing the degree as quickly as possible, or if you should take it at a slower, steadier pace. Your approach to seminary education will surely impact your (and your family’s) goals, time, finances, and lifestyle, but there is no need to feel intimidated. Many have gone before you in this task. You are not alone in your deliberations.
More importantly, the Lord has promised to go before you and to be with you. He cares about your concerns, no matter how big or small. There is no need to fear this endeavor, but there is a need for prayerful and careful consideration.
If you are considering whether to pursue seminary full-time or part-time, that means that you have also considered whether to pursue seminary at all. In all likelihood, this decision has been one spent in prayer. However, reaching that decision does not mean it is time to stop praying. Figuring out the logistics of your seminary education should be prayerfully considered just as much as your decision to attend seminary.
The Lord promises to hear those who draw near to him in prayer (James 4:8) and is near to you when you call on Him (Lam. 3:57). He promises to give wisdom to those who ask (James 1:5). Pray in confidence that God hears you and will direct you as you make your decision.
It is also important to seek the counsel of those whom the Lord has placed in our lives. Our family and friends are often how God gives us his counsel or confirms our decisions. Ask trusted family, friends, and, especially, your spouse to consider your decision with you.
Balancing your current commitments is crucial to determining how to approach your seminary education. First, make a list of everything that informs your weekly agenda. These are your current commitments to your church, spouse, family, friends, and employer.
Next, quantify the amount of time required for each commitment. Having the information in front of you will help you better understand the scope of your commitments. It will also help you discern where you can adjust to fit your education. Finally, consider your own or your family’s mission. How will your education commitments serve—or do a disservice to—your goals?
When considering the decision between full-time vs. part-time seminary, it is important to envision how many total years you would like to spend pursuing your education. For instance, going to seminary part-time will be less of a burden month-to-month, but also means you could be in school for several more years than if you attended school full-time.
In addition to taxing your time and current commitments, education can also put a strain on your bank account. One of the biggest factors is tuition, which can vary widely. Beyond tuition, though, there are other unseen costs.
Among the first of these to consider are your living costs: Will you need to move to attend seminary? If so, how does your new city’s cost of living compare to your current city? Consider your earning potential. How will attending seminary affect your ability to work while enrolled? Have you been offered scholarships or financial aid which require a certain level of commitment?
Thankfully, financial aid is usually available for students who need it. Be open with your admissions team about your needs and concerns. Their job is to help make this work for you. Rest assured that if God has called you to study Himself and His word in seminary, He will make a way for you.
Here is everything you need to know to get started on your application. First create an account to start and complete your free application online. Once you have applied, you will be assigned to a personal enrollment counselor. They will assist you in requesting transcripts, explaining your financial aid package and with any other questions you may have throughout the admissions process.
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