Menjiwapong Jamir
Associate Prof, Allahabad Bible Seminary
Now that Class 10 and Class 12 results are out, many youngsters will be contemplating about their next steps. This is the crucial time when they should be deciding about their career.
Sadly, this is also the time when some parents force their children to opt for a career against their choice or interest. Some of these parents force their children to go for theological studies as they find no viable option for them. Similarly some youngsters too do this themselves.
But I want to tell you this.
1. Quality, I repeat quality, theological education demands rigorious studies and training. Don't take it lightly. Yes, there is cheap theological education too. But please don't fall for it.
2. Before you decide or tell your children, please remember that studying theology is not a professional studies, but it is a vocational training. So unless you have a clear idea of your call and your commitment to serve the Lord lifelong, please don't jump into it.
3. Theological/Bible colleges/seminaries aren't rehab centres. Yes, they look for overall/holistic development of a person. But simply because you want yourself or your child to be treated of a severe behavioural problem, don't go there.
4. Theological studies is meant for serving the Lord and the King. It is meant to extend God's Kingdom on earth. The Lord demands the best, the most committed and the most willing persons to be in his vineyard. So please don't send your poorer child to study theology or against his/her wishes. This trend must stop among Nagas.
5. However if anyone is aware of the clear call of the Lord and wants to respond to it, then my sincere prayers are with you. But before choosing a theological institution, please consult your pastors (It is my humble request to all pastors to give proper orientation/guidance to would-be students of theology).
If anybody is in need of guidance/counselling in this matter, they can freely contact me too: Email: menji42@gmail.com Ph: 9378134544
