Training for Service
In 2006 discussion was initiated about ‘how we as churches might be able to provide church based training programmes for people considering service in the church.’ The desire was for a flexible approach that would include both theological eduction and practical training to:
- prepare men for pastoral ministry or missionary service
- equip men for eldership responsibilities
- train men and women who have hearts for service
By mid-2008 a four level framework had emmerged which received further refinement and has settled into the following model:
Level 1: Reading
This level is intended to provide a basic and broad foundation that is achievable and productive for everyone. A list of twenty books has been compiled based on feedback received from member churches. It is anticipated that churches will use this resource in different ways: e.g. as an individual reading programme with some form of recognition if it is completed; or as the basis for a church reading and discussion group.
Level 2: Discipling
Under this level—which flows from Level 1—those individuals who have shown a keen interest for further study are encouraged to achieve a personalized ‘study goal’ under the supervision of their local eldership. Study may be of a formal nature through a theological institution or informally by way of a more advanced reading programme. There is a wealth of good material available that could be used selectively and tailored to the needs of a student: elders are encouraged to consult other churches about what they have found helpful.
Level 3: Roving Classroom
Sitting alongside Level 2—and complementing its mentoring/discipleship focus—the Roving Classroom is an annual series of one day seminars hosted quarterly by different churches in the Fellowship with the purpose of providing training from a Reformed Baptist perspective in exegetical, systematic, historical and practical theology. The intention is to give men with leadership potential the opportunity to attend in-person classes relating to Christan ministry. Churches who have identified such men in their congregations are encouraged to give them any neccessary assistance to attend all four annual sessions in their varied (and roving) geographical locations around New Zealand. While the Roving Classroom has the objective stated and described above, others who are interested may also attend.
Level 4: Theological Studies
This level focuses on formal graduate/post-graduate studies by men recognised by their church as gifted for the ministry of the Word. In partnership with IRBS the Fellowship provides access to International Reformed Baptist Seminary (IRBS) courses through its Church Partnership Programme: this offers tuition-free study for approved students. It is recognised that the right choice of programme will depend largely on an individual’s previous training, current context, financial situation and overall goals, so partnership with IRBS does not exclude the possibility of studying through another institution and elders are encouraged to explore appopriate options. Those wanting to study through a New Zealand institution that takes advantage of IRBS courses should consider Grace Theological College which now has a formal relationship with IRBS for cross-crediting courses.