Rightly Handle the Word
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15, ESV). Paul’s instruction to Timothy contains an implicit reality. The word of God is often mishandled. Therefore, pastors and teachers of the word must accurately teach the Bible and faithfully live in obedience to the word. This is the essence of pastoral ministry. This is why I am overwhelmed by God’s mercy toward the city of Memphis. How so? In the fall of 2025, Union University will offer the Master of Arts in Bible and Theology (MABT) in Memphis.
“This is why I am overwhelmed by God’s mercy toward the city of Memphis. How so? In the fall of 2025, Union University will offer the Master of Arts in Bible and Theology (MABT) in Memphis.”
The MABT is designed to train pastors and church leaders to accurately interpret and teach the Bible. The program focuses heavily on learning the original biblical languages and formulating a biblically robust theological foundation that will equip students to have the mind of Christ. As a pastor in this city, I can’t express to you how thankful I am for this opportunity. Memphis desperately needs the gospel. I am convinced that the pulpit is the most influential place in the life of the church, and churches need biblically faithful preaching. The MABT will equip pastors to fulfill their God-given responsibility. As a result of faithful preaching, churches will grow healthier and the city (and beyond) will benefit as the gospel spreads.
Since 2018, I’ve taught theology for the MABT program (formerly under Bethlehem College and Seminary). I can tell you with great confidence grounded in personal experience that in-class discussion is one of the most valuable aspects of the program. In higher education, there are numerous opportunities to earn degrees online. No doubt, online learning serves an important role in educating students. The MABT program, however, has the working student in mind and seeks to create an opportunity for students to continue with the busyness of life and ministry while receiving the benefit of in-person education.
“I am deeply thankful for Union University. They are not running from Nineveh. They are running boldly into Nineveh to equip pastors and church leaders to expound the living word of God!”
One of the most enjoyable experiences for me as a professor is to gather with a group of students in a classroom and learn theology through instruction and interaction. Not only do students learn from the professor, but they learn from one another as they engage in conversation centered around the Bible. Furthermore, great camaraderie is built in the classroom setting. Deep friendships are formed that allow students to participate in healthy theological discussion, but more importantly worship the Lord Jesus together! This approach to education is transformative.
If you are thinking about pursuing theological education, you should strongly consider immersing yourself in the Bible by enrolling in the MABT program. You’ll learn from academically qualified professors who are pastors. These practitioners will not only teach you how to “rightly handle the word of truth”, but help you learn to apply the truth of the word to life and ministry. I am deeply thankful for Union University. They are not running from Nineveh. They are running boldly into Nineveh to equip pastors and church leaders to expound the living word of God!
