Since my early twenties, I have had the practice of a professional studier. I even studied google to confirm that spelling. I have since read about a “conscientious autodidact” from Peter Watson in, The Age of Nothing, so let’s just go with that. It was rarely an event, but more like a lifestyle. This would take formal residence in 2002 when we would leave for Adelaide, Australia, which has some Egypt-type-comparison, you will understand, for a Kiwi. I would complete a Bachelor’s degree, winning the Excellence in Theology award in 2004. This was the first step in my master-plan to go right through to a Ph.D. But mine has not been His. God continues to have another; with long-term affliction limiting the extent. I would start a Masters, before pulling the pin, willing to let this dream rest from present wearying. After all, this is not empowering my identity finally to believe. It is my conviction that especially into a post-Christian culture, we need more Pastor-Theologian-types of the Past; not because of their outstanding intellectual ascent, but because this path should prepare the Shepherd to better put together God’s ideas through the Gospel; thereby connecting the dots as to why the trajectories and storylines of the Bible best explain ultimate reality and existential purpose; especially in comparison with other worldview-answers and quasi-solutions. This also means with more than a handy apologetic as deeper than spadework. This is no small feat; will take discipline, process, and time, which seems more than presently lacking. This requires the serious intention of the Body of Christ, as we tackle our cultural predicaments, and prepare each generation to be faithfully and fruitfully equipped. God willing, I will be part of tangibly seeking this answer, and not only in this word, but through other plans involving a community, and the equipping of humans.
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With my specially-designed graduation suit; you really have to see the back-of-the-jacket and pants for full effect; with a Greek New Testament, gifted to each completing student. This image is post the event after we returned to Middle Earth, while the locks have long-since-left, much to the Queen’s satisfaction.