For follow-up discussion and general commentary on the topic. Comments are sorted chronologically.
Vincent Mercado
Whose church has a pastor that doesn't have a degree in Theology?
Josh Fields
I know of hundreds that are in the southern USA. I myself am one :). I don't have a man made degree. I got my "degree" from God on my knees and my nose in his word prayerfully seeking his wisdom and not man's. :)
Bruce Morgan
I have heard lay preachers, new theological students and ministers with full post-graduate Theology qualifications in my time.
In every case, the more study of God's Word, the more edifying the sermon and most definitely the less unscriptural rubbish being preached.
We are all called to do private and small group study of Scripture, so that we grow in the knowledge and love of Christ (2 Peter 3:15-18) and the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).
I see no problem with formal study through a correspondence course, part-time or full-time study at a reputable theological college. Given that teachers will be singled out to be strictly judged by God (James 3:1), they should prepare the very best they can to preach Biblically.
Remember, those who teach falsehoods are condemned to destruction (2 Peter 2:1-3).
Cindy Jennings
If I'm going to have an operation on my body, I would like a medical doctor with a medical degree.
If someone is going to teach me what the Bible says, I would like someone with some background in how to study the Bible, who knows the original languages, the history of the various things mentioned, which we would have no knowledge of having not read and studied these things ourselves.
Of course, the Holy Spirit is the ultimate guide but a good amount of knowledge sure doesn't hurt.
Jan Mumma
Of course a person can study the bible on their own. This is an issue which has infiltrated the church on many levels. Each person's individual life experience should greatly be examined for example upbringing, social influence, what was available to them spiritually, family income etc.Many are not given the opportunities that some have and do not know that there is any other alternative for them.God chose mostly the life educated one's over the book scholars in most cases when choosing his twelve disciples!