BLOG

1. Become Equipped

For The Workplace

        You might be thinking, “Why do I need a bible college education if I’m heading into the workplace?” Good question! While the workplace is not vocational ministry, it is ministry nonetheless. God has called each of His followers to be salt and light right where they are (Matthew 5:13-16). So, if you’re wanting to become an accountant, a tradesperson, a nurse, an artist, an engineer, or anything else, you can be engaged in ministry, and you can make a difference for the Kingdom. Beyond just being skilled at what you do, you can make an eternal impact in people’s lives. And it is in these fields that you can impact people that pastors and ministry leaders often cannot.

        While the possibility is exciting, you can also expect opposition as a follower of Jesus. That is why having a solid, biblical foundation is so important. In the secular workplace, you’ll encounter people who live and believe differently than you. You’ll encounter ethical issues where you’ll need to choose between the values of the world and the values of Jesus. SBC equips its students with biblical knowledge and discernment skills to live for Christ in the workplace – a place where resistance to Christ and His Kingdom might be more experienced.

        In addition to the spiritual benefits, SBC has many practical benefits if you want to pursue a career. Through my time here, I have developed many transferrable skills such as effective teamwork, communication (written and verbal), time-management, problem-solving, and flexibility. On top of that, I have grown in integrity, resiliency, courage, and willingness to serve. These are all skills and character traits that employers long for in an employee.

For Ministry

        Now, if you’re planning on entering vocational ministry or missions and are eager to get going, SBC might seem like a bit of a detour. You might be thinking, “Wouldn’t it be easier to learn on the job? Why waste time in school when I know God is calling me to this ministry? I could make a difference now!” Again, all valid thoughts, but let’s explore that a bit.

        Times of equipping for ministry are nothing new. When God called the apostle Paul to a life of ministry, he prepared and studied for 14 years! And Jesus himself lived 30 years before starting his 3-year ministry. That ratio itself speaks volumes to the importance of preparing before you enter ministry.

         I was talking to a recent graduate from our 3-year BA program who is just about to begin long-term overseas missions. Here is what she had to say about her time of equipping:

        “There were times at SBC when I got impatient with the “Christian bubble”; I just wanted to get out into the world already and actually live the things I was learning. However, looking back I can see that each of my three years at SBC were crucial to forming the person I am today. Because the “bubble” is actually more like a greenhouse; where your character, knowledge, and faith are nurtured and strengthened in community, rooted in Christ. Spending time in preparation for ministry is such an important investment, you will definitely not regret it!”

         The desire to jump right into ministry or missions is admirable. However, there is incredible value in taking the time to be equipped for the role. Ministry is hard work after all! Time spent investing in a biblical foundation, growing in your skills and gifts, and deepening your relationship with God will be such a blessing as you enter vocational ministry or missions.