New Patterns in Ministry Training

Episode #537
May 17, 2019
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How ministers are trained has radically changed over the past few decades thanks mainly to the rise of digital training. Today, we discuss these changes and where they might be headed.

Some highlights from today’s episode include:

  • The pace of change in the church is faster than it’s ever been.
  • Online degrees are great for convenience, but you typically don’t build the relationships with students or professors like you would an on-campus degree.
  • Co-vocational ministry jobs are increasing as ministers want to keep their presence in the business world because of the ministry opportunities it presents.
  • Music ministry, student ministry, and children’s ministry have radically changed in the past two decades.

The seven patterns we discuss are:

  1. The digital trend is not slowing
  2. Degrees are becoming shorter
  3. Positive reports on the blended approach
  4. Full-time on campus has advantages
  5. Certification as an alternative to degrees
  6. Training must meet the needs of the growing co-vocational numbers
  7. Shortages in key positions due to lack of ministry training in those areas

Resources mentioned in today’s podcast

Rainer on Leadership is a member of the LifeWay Leadership Podcast Network


Episode Sponsors

Today’s episode is sponsored by Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Midwestern offers more than 25 degrees at both undergraduate and masters level that are fully attainable online. From Business to Bible, Counseling to Christian education, prepare for your future at your own pace and in your own location.

Find out more at mbts.edu/online.


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