Local Language Theological Education

Opportunity Details

Ethiopia is a religiously and linguistically diverse country with an ancient history. While Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity has deep roots, and Protestant churches abound, false teachings of a prosperity gospel are common and Islam is quickly spreading. In Addis Ababa, an MTW team is working to encourage healthy and mature Presbyterian churches that will impact their local communities with the gospel.

Do you have (or working on) a master’s degree (or Ph.D.) in biblical studies or theology? Do you have a love for the Bible and a heart for helping people understand biblical truth? In Ethiopia the predominate language of theological education is English—yet for an overwhelming majority of church goers, English is not a comprehensible language. It can be difficult for Bible school graduates to interpret truths learned in English into the local language. Regional and local-language theological education is a critical need for the future of the church in Ethiopia.

Are you willing to learn a new language and teach theology in that new language? The context will likely be in small workshops among non-traditional students—beyond the brick-and-mortar walls of a seminary. It may take you years to achieve this goal, but the work could yield fruit for generations to come. As you learn language and culture, your Christian life and relationships with local students and pastors will have great long-term impact. This is an emerging ministry that will require flexibility and creativity.

Candidates should be spiritually mature, flexible, humble and teachable. Pastoral ministry experience and ordination are a plus. Your willingness to learn and grow into this position is more important than your existing experience.