Many have the misconception that satellite schools are strictly for training preachers. Certainly, the training of preachers and teachers is emphasized. We are losing more preachers each year in the churches of Christ than we are producing from all of our brotherhood universities, colleges, and preaching schools combined. Some estimate that we are losing 1000 preachers each year by death, sickness, immorality, divorce, and for economic reasons. Furthermore, with the passing of the Great Generation, and as the Baby-Boomer Generation grows older, the fear is that the church will be even more desperate for men to become preachers and women to become teachers in the near future. Satellite schools provide opportunities for training prospective preachers and teachers to help reverse this current exodus.
However, the purpose of satellite schools being set up within congregations depends on the needs of each congregation. It is important to remember that a satellite school is merely a teaching tool that offers a structured methodology for the study of God's Word. God's Word has a way of addressing needs and instructing on how to set things in order so that equipping can take place. (Take time to read the purpose and profitability of God's Word outlined in 2 Timothy 3:16-17.) What has been noted over the past ten years or so is that, like cream rising to the top, churches involved with a satellite school are beginning to produce more preachers and teachers. Furthermore, churches are becoming engaged directly in local and foreign missions by sending their own members.
Having said this, God's first aim with any congregation is to produce healthy kingdom people. Good spiritual health is essential if the church expects to properly equip to fulfill her mission. This requires a well-balanced Bible diet. The curriculum offered in the courses of the satellite school program present a 47-year proven method that produces and promotes good congregational health.
How many times have you been to a Bible study where the teacher reads a verse of scripture and then launches into a topic that is completely unrelated? Teachers who are students in satellite schools learn how to teach effectively from the text, which also teaches the church how to study effectively. Poor teaching habits lead to a failure of proper study methods and habits. What is more, poor teaching habits do not produce healthy churches --leaving unhealthy churches perpetually and unhealthily dependent and immature.
Finally, churches that have satellite schools built into their teaching ministry grow more deeply in love with our amazing Savior, Jesus Christ, His Father, and His Holy Spirit. I hope you will give serious consideration to adding a satellite school where you are.
Is A Satellite School Needed Where You Are?
