10 things I learned in seminary

Seminary is a great time for developing professionally and personally.

Seminary was a rich experience for me. My seminary journey stays with me and impacts my life to this day.

1. I love to learn.

2. Biblical languages are important.

3. Small groups are needed.

4. Interpersonal relationship skills are needed.

5. Conflict management is needed.

6. Vision casting is a dying/dead art.

7. Strong leadership is a must.

8. Preaching is a small part of pastoral ministry.

9. I can live without snow.

10. I have lasting relationships.

10 GREAT conferences to attend

As young pastors we must continue to grow spiritually, but we must also grow professionally. There are many conferences available to help us grow in ministry.

You’ve probably attended one or more of these. I pray that if you get the opportunity attend one ASAP.

1. Catalyst Conference.

2. Willow Creek Leadership Summit.

3. Urban Youth Workers Institute.

4. National Preaching Conference.

5. Creative Church Conference.

6. First Impressions.

7. National Pastors Convention.

8. National Outreach Convention.

9. Connect Conference.

10. Small Groups Conference- Willow Creek.

EXTRA: 10 steps to a Bible study with depth

Michael Kelley introduced his 7 steps to a Bible study with depth. I have added a few to his steps and created ten. You can also use these ten steps in creating a sermon.

1. Ask for the Holy Spirit.

2. Read the text (10 times).

3. Question the text.

4. Mine the text (no commentaries).

5. Read commentaries.

6. Find the 3 am statement.

7. Reflect on the text. What does the text mean to me?

8. Draw up an outline.

9. Anticipate questions.

10. Present the study.

Adapted from Michael Kelley’s 7 steps for Bible study.

EXTRA 10: Threads Media resources I can’t wait to use

I highly recommend attending the Connect Conference this year. Unlike most conferences, Threads doesn’t bombard you with resources to buy. They didn’t however had a list of resources and a few samples for us to check out. I have listed below ten that caught my eye.

Check them out.

1. Chase the Lion

2. Connect the Dots

3. Repurposed

4. Feast

5. Get Uncomfortable

6. Intransit

7. Jaded

8. The Exchange

9. The Tough Sayings of Jesus part I and part II

10. You