Uneducated vs. Educated

I am considering seminary for a number of reasons. I want to further my understanding of the scriptures, receive insightful teaching, build strong relationships, meet older and wiser teachers, and gain a degree in some Biblical area that may help in a future ministry position. With thoughts of seminary in my mind, I am continually drawn to the importance of simply “being with Jesus.”

Acts 4:13 says, “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.”

Peter and John had just healed a man and preached the gospel to a large group of people. Peter called the people to repentance, and quoted two references from the scriptures (Deuteronomy 18:18-19 and Genesis 22:18). They were arrested and thrown into jail. The next day they came before the High Priest and the high-priestly family, the elders, scribes, and rulers. These uneducated men were questioned by the most educated people. I assure you that their answers would be analyzed. Peter responds by speaking of Jesus and quoting more scripture (Psalm 118:22).

They spoke confidently and boldly to the people who were educated. And here lies the interesting point. Ironically, it was the “uneducated” who were correct in understanding the scriptures and the “educated” who were misguided in their understanding of the scriptures.

Being with Jesus is better than education.

I would rather be “uneducated” and Christ centered than “educated” and self centered. I would rather be “uneducated” and bold than “educated” and judgmental. I would rather be “uneducated” and humble than “educated” and proud.

Please hear what I am saying. I am not saying education is bad or discouraging it.

I am simply saying that being with Christ is the best education there is.