I believe that every pastor should strive to become the best theologian they can possibly be. For some, this will involve formal education all the way to the level of a PhD. That has been my path, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to study theology in this way. It’s been a tremendously enriching experience. The value of such a degree, in my opinion, goes beyond the content of the knowledge acquired during the degree—pursuing a PhD shapes you as a person, and as a thinker. I love the vision of organizations like the Center for Pastor Theologians that seek to bridge the divide between the church and the academy, encouraging pastors to pursue academic excellence and intellectual rigor as much as possible.

As a fellow minister of the gospel here in Southern California, I want to articulate why I believe cooperating with the current restrictions is not necessarily a cowardly desertion of our calling, but may instead reflect the path of wisdom, responsibility, and love. My motive in writing is not to attack MacArthur, who is my brother-in-Christ, but from sincere concern about the impact of his views on other pastors and churches.