Theological Training Introduction

Fire Lilies Theological Training for Transformational Leadership

Purpose

Theological training for untrained church leaders is essential to restore the church to its biblical mission as defined by Jesus.

Key Points

1. The church is failing to fulfil its role as 'salt and light' in communities. The church is called to represent the Kingdom of God in the community.  

2. Jesus commanded the making of disciples, not just converts, through intentional teaching and example.

3. Church leadership today often contradicts Jesus’ model of servanthood, with leaders being served rather than serving.

4. Maturity in Christians means they spiritually feed others, not just receive.

5. Our theological training aims at transformation—of leaders, churches, and communities—not mere knowledge transfer. Transformation means the renewing of the mind with the truth of God’s Word (Romans 12:1-2) and turning from one kingdom to another. Knowledge without transformation puffs up and brings death.

Summary

The primary motivation for providing theological training to church leaders without formal education is the church’s observable failure to fulfil Jesus’ intended mission. Jesus called the church to be 'salt and light'—a visible source of hope and freedom in every community. This involves making disciples, not mere converts, by teaching others to follow Christ faithfully through both word and example.

Jesus modelled a life of service and sacrifice, serving others and paying the price for their freedom—something leaders today must emulate. However, false teachings have inverted this model: many church leaders now expect to be served and receive privileges, contradicting Christ’s example.

Theological training seeks to recentre leaders on the true character of Jesus. One day, all leaders will be accountable to Him for how they cared for His 'sheep.' A key goal is spiritual maturity—where believers do not just consume teaching but actively feed and care for others. This includes serving the vulnerable, protecting the oppressed, and spreading hope.

Ultimately, the church is called to be 'Jesus’ feet on the ground.' Theological training is not about transferring information, but transforming character—starting with leaders, then the church, and finally the wider community. Anything short of this transformative purpose fails to qualify as a true church, and accountability will come.

Actions and Next Steps

1. Provide theological training to untrained church leaders

2. Focus training on Christ-like servanthood and discipleship

3. Emphasise spiritual maturity that results in active care for others

4. Align church leadership practices with Jesus’ example of sacrifice

5. Apply all the truths learned in the Word of God firstly personally, then in the church and lastly in the community

6. Prepare leaders for eternal accountability before Christ

George Snyman