Our Vision for New Staff Training

We use the Scriptures every day in ministry. Whether we are proclaiming the life-changing message of the gospel or helping ground students in the truth of God’s Word, the Scriptures inform all we do. Have you ever finished leading a small group Bible study and thought, “I wish I knew the Scriptures better?” Have you ever found yourself in an evangelistic conversation in which you thought, “I wish I knew how to respond more effectively to this person’s questions?” Have you ever been in a conversation with someone who is deeply struggling and thought, “I wish I was better able to relate the truths of Scripture to my friend’s problems?”

We are all aware of our need to grow deeper.

In his final letter to Timothy, Paul reminds this young leader, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15, NIV). Paul is reminding Timothy that to be an effective minister of the gospel he must be a person with growing biblical and theological depth.

The same is true for you and me.

I am convinced that to carry out our mission in the fullness of its scope requires kingdom-workers with a passion for God who are growing ever deeper in their ability to understand and apply His Word to their own lives and the lives of those to whom they minister. We need to be women and men who treasure Christ, being captured by a vision of His greatness; people who are able to apply the resources of the gospel to the lives of broken people; and women and men who possess great confidence in the promises of God.

It is for this reason that about one half of your time at the New Staff Training Conference will be devoted to your biblical and theological development. You will have the opportunity to experience three foundation courses: Bible Study Methods, Intro to Christian Doctrine and New Testament Survey.

These courses do not represent “hoops” to jump through. They play an integral role in preparing you for the ministry to which God has called you. Through these courses you will have the opportunity to be refreshed in your spirit, revitalized in your vision and renewed in your thinking.

We look forward to meeting you.

Warmly,

Keith E. Johnson, Ph.D.
Director of Theological Education and Development