Philipose Vaidyar
Wrap-Up
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Pat, a gifted and faith-driven young man, pursued theological studies with a clear calling to serve as a pastor, while Ann, from a different cultural background, arrived at the seminary with her own strong foundation. Their friendship blossomed through shared academic and social experiences, deepening into a vision of a shared future in ministry and marriage. Over three years, they navigated rigorous studies, chapel services, ministry trips, and music performances, becoming a recognized couple within their seminary community. As graduation approached, their plans seemed certain, with even their belongings sent ahead to Pat’s hometown. However, despite their shared dreams, the future took an unexpected turn, leaving their journey in uncertainty.
Questions raised:
Did Pat need a special calling to enter the seminary, or was his path simply unfolding before him? Does being in Bible college guarantee that every decision aligns with God’s perfect will—including finding a life partner for a future pastor? Is seminary truly the best place for such a decision, or does it bring its own set of challenges?
Reflections from the Word
In a world of fleeting trends and material
allure, the eternal Word of God stands as a steadfast beacon of truth. These
reflections explore the tension between worldly pursuits and divine
revelation—a dynamic clash where the transient values of society are measured
against the enduring principles of Scripture. As we journey through this
episode, may the light of God's promise guide us beyond the distractions of the
present and lead us into the profound depths of His eternal truth.
1. Special
Calling vs. Natural Unfolding:
A special calling, as seen in Isaiah 6:8 ("Here I am, send me!") and
Jeremiah 1:5 ("Before I formed you in the womb I knew you"), is
indeed significant. Yet, God also composes life through desires, circumstances,
and divine wisdom (Proverbs 16:9; Psalm 37:23). Thus, entering seminary can result from an unmistakable call or a natural progression as one faithfully
follows God's Word and plan.
2. Bible College and
Aligning with God’s Will:
Attending Bible college does not guarantee that every decision—such as
selecting a life partner—will perfectly align with God's will. Proverbs 3:5-6
exhorts believers to trust in the Lord and seek His guidance, and through
prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel (James 1:5; Proverbs 15:22), His will is
discerned. A godly marriage requires spiritual compatibility and ongoing
reliance on God's direction (2 Corinthians 6:14) beyond merely sharing an
academic setting.
3. Seminary as an
Environment of Growth and Challenge:
While seminary offers a godly setting similar to the blessed state described in
Psalm 1:1-2, it also presents challenges such as academic pressure, spiritual
testing, and external expectations (James 1:2-4). As Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds
us, there is a season for every purpose under heaven, so discernment is
essential when making major life decisions.
Beyond
your school…
It is
important to recognize that individuals choose ministry for
diverse reasons. Some are driven to build God’s kingdom in their unique way, while
others follow His divine design. Consider the apostles: Paul received formal
theological training, yet Peter and John—though unschooled—were powerfully used
by God simply because they had been with Jesus. As Acts 4:13 (NIV) records,
"When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were
unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and took note that these men had
been with Jesus." Ultimately, the true measure is not the institution or
the degree, but a deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, as affirmed in
John 15:5, "I am the vine; you are the branches."
Yet many
who set out on God's path are tempted by the allure of material wealth and
worldly status. As 1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV) warns, "For the love of money is a
root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the
faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." Such pursuits can lead not
only to a deviation from God’s plan but also to a spiritual shipwreck, leaving
the believer adrift. Constant vigilance, prayer, and reliance on God's guidance
are essential to remain steadfast amid life's challenges.
Some say
that first impressions are the best, while others claim that a good beginning
is half the battle. Yet, a journey well begun is meaningless unless the
destination is reached. A ship is safe in harbor, but that is not what it was
built for; it is meant to brave the open sea and be tested by its storms. Paul
echoes this truth in 1 Timothy 1:19: "Holding faith and a good conscience,
which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck regarding their faith."
(NASB). This vivid metaphor reminds us that straying from sound doctrine and
godly living can irreparably damage one's faith.
In the
end, the journey toward God's purpose is not defined by the institution
attended or the initial steps taken, but by an unwavering commitment to His
Word and the courage to weather life's storms. When the destination remains
uncertain, the surest compass is a life anchored in Christ.
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