Many of the current students at Redeemer Theological Academy gathered at my home this past Saturday, June 6th, for our “End of Semester Get-Together.” We had a large turn-out with nearly forty people in attendance! Besides enjoying some really tasty food–grilled chicken, rice pilaf, lots of salads, drinks, and deserts–we witnessed the graduation of one of our fellow students, Mr. John Steele. John finished his course of study–nine classes completed with all of the attendant quizzes and research papers. He also sustained a comprehensive verbal examination covering all that he had learned. As a result, the faculty awarded John his Certificate of Theological Studies. So far we have two students who have completed their academic programs–David Parker and John Steele. Both have shown themselves to be capable students who are willing to use what they have learned to glorify God and to ably serve His purposes in various ministries. This is the very reason why we formed a Theological Academy–“that we may present everyone mature in Christ” (Col. 1:28).
You might wonder, “Is this a Theological Seminary?” The answer to that question is “No.” Instead, we are an example of a “church-based” theological education program. Our goal is to provide college-level classes for the members of our congregation. We are seeking to fulfill the biblical mandate “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Eph. 4:12). The fact is this, some students desire to “go much deeper” in their knowledge of the Christian faith than they can possibly get from weekly sermons and short Sunday School classes. An academy, such as ours, allows them to explore the riches of the Bible, the details of Reformed Theology, and the key personalities and events of Church History. Over time, we plan to add classes in biblical languages, ministry skills, and apologetics. In the meantime, though, we rejoice in John Steele’s accomplishment as a newly-minted graduate!
— Dr. Marcus J. Serven