Our thoughts,...
It is commendable to seek more excellent education in the Bible and for those who facilitate the opportunity for brethren to become scholarly in their Scriptural growth and academic pursuits. And when the heart remains poor in spirit, such brethren significantly contribute to the kingdom, therein the purpose of being fruitful. We thank God for them, do we not? And we should, not for any other reason than that of a servant (Lk. 17:10).
However, unfortunately, what we witness more often than not are "gospel preachers" who love their education and the preeminence it brings more than Jesus and His church. They mistake their insecurities for conviction, division for righteousness, and knowledge for love. They think highly of themselves, driven by selfish ambition. They work for a worldly citizenry instead of a heavenly one.
Paul had the credibility to boast of his education (Phil. 3:4), much rather live as one learned by His Master, our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 11:1).
"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death on the cross." - Phil. 2:5-8.
Christians, we are not animals to be trained by tyrants. We are human beings created in the image of God, His breath within our existence. His Son among us teaches life and freedom. Being humble does not make us cowards or "liberals." It makes us useful for the gospel cause, to His glory.
What could we do this day to reach the faithless, renew the fallen, and reinforce the faithful?
May we remain kind, learning to discern.
Your servant,
SM