#20 Theologically Trained Missionaries

Missionary trips can be a very spiritually strenuous undertaking. Because of this, missionaries should arrive at their destination after they have been theologically trained to carry the Gospel to the nations of the world or various communities in their nation. This theological training prepares them for their mission and helps them display and tell God’s Gospel to the lost.

The first reason theological training is necessary is that it is absolutely essential for the missionaries to know and understand their religion. This understanding in their own context will help them carry over the truths of God to an unfamiliar context. Moreover, Christian missionaries do not wish to share any other religion except Christianity with the lost. In order to do this, they must know their religion. If they go to the nations without the necessary theological training, they may share man-made ideas rather than true, historic Christianity. 

Furthermore, theological training is essential in overseas missions because the missionary may serve as a pastor-like figure. Of course, missionaries primarily serve through evangelism and set up communities of churches where a qualified pastor is elected, but that does not keep the people of the culture from coming to the missionary for spiritual guidance. In order to best serve the people, the missionary must know the truths of Scripture and how to apply them to the cultural context in which he is ministering. With theological training, this task is easier to do. 

In conclusion, missions are possible without theological training, as the power of the Holy Spirit carries about ministry. However, they become more accessible and effective when training is done first. Theological training equips the missionary to teach true Christianity and serve in any capacity.