When You're Through Learning...You're Through

"Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance." - Proverbs 1:4 (NIV)

Legendary college basketball coach, John Wooden is credited with saying, “If I’m through learning, I’m through.” Wooden, also well respected for his devout Christian faith, was an avid reader of his Bible, which sat on his office desk. After an illustrious career, which included ten national championships, he co-authored a devotional (Coach Wooden’s Pyramid of Success: Building Blocks For A Better Life) and continued to be a lifelong learner until his death at 99.

As pastors, church leaders, teachers, and members, it is important for each of us to be lifelong learners. This is especially important when it comes to being discipled. Every Christian should invest time and energy in being mentored and trained in the teachings of Jesus Christ, and knowledge of God’s inerrant Word. For those of us privileged to be called into Christian leadership, it’s also important to stay informed and abreast of continued opportunities for learning.

In August, the Dover Baptist Association will continue our support for pastors, church leaders, teachers, and members in their quest for lifelong learning. This includes continuing theological education and degrees from accredited institutions. On August 14th at 10 a.m., Dover will host the webinar Remissioning Church: Growing Churches for the Flourishing of the Neighborhood. The webinar will be led by Rev. Dr. Josh Hayden, author of Remissioning Church: A Field Guide to Bringing a Congregation Back to Life, and Rev. Dr. Ken Pruitt, President of Leland Seminary. Dr. Hayden also serves as Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church Ashland (a Dover church).

In September, Dover will serve as a satellite campus for the Appalachian School of Theology (AST). Classes will meet in the Dover Baptist Association conference room & via Zoom. AST classes offered this fall semester include Formation for Ministry and A Theology of Paul and His Letters. AST is a fully accredited theological institution and past recipient of Dover’s New Work Grant. AST offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees in Theology. The Appalachian School of Theology would be a great next step if you or someone you know is pursuing a theology degree and/or considering professional ministry.

Recently, the Dover Baptist Association hosted an open house and ice cream social for our Hepler and Fairmount Scholarship recipients and their families. Dover is helping support Christian students ranging from seniors in high school to senior citizens. We encourage everyone to be a faithful lifelong learner, because when you’re through learning, you’re through.

God Bless,

Arnold “Win” Davis,

Executive Director of Missions