Re: judge NOT........

So I am not going to comment on what training I have/have not had. Lets just say it has been much more than just global religious studies (we called it comparative theological studies back then). I am curious as to what areas are outside of the teaching of scripture you are referencing. As for playing this get out of jail free card that you do not feel you are qualified is crazy. Many of the most prominent theologians did not attend seminary, nor did they undergo specific training. Martin Luther is a great example. A man who was studying to be an attorney at the University of Erfurt, became a monk, then was offered to be a professor of theology at the University of Wittenberg. Not because he had training, he was just a priest. At that time priests were only allowed to have portions of scripture. When he became a professor, and eventually gaining the title of "Doctor in Bible" (after receiving multiple bachelors degrees) it was because he was supplanting every bit of instruction they had there. Not because he was being taught. He was teaching them. They could not keep up with him. Or the other side of the theological coin Dutch theologian Jakob Hermanszoon only took what theology that was available during his liberal arts degree.

In both cases these men were more knowledgeable than their instructors because they were studying themselves. A degree, nor seminary is not required. To be honest it seems most of what is done in seminary training is playing devils advocate to doctrine. As well as being told what not to say to your congregation so you can stay out of hot water.

Also we have the entire Bible at our fingertips. All of it pointing to Christ. I do not buy red letter bibles for this reason. All words of scripture are to be taken equally. The red letters are no more holy than those written by Paul, John, or recorded by Moses.


Anyway I just found this line of thought as to required training intriguing.

I do not know if I will have time to respond, but I am interested in your expounding further on this.

remember iron sharpens iron, I do not remember specific education being a requirement in that passage ;)