Lecturer at Seminary

Job Description

Some seminaries of the mainline protestant churches can be tough places in North Sumatra. Many students come from small villages and have a deep animistic background under a thin layer of Christianity. Some of the students have a genuine calling to serve the Lord, while others are sent by their parents or driven by a wish to have a good career in the church. Many of the idealistic first-year students become frustrated and disappointed second-year students. There are many obstacles to missional zeal. 

Students whom the Lord has called for cross-cultural work often face adversity from lecturers and church leaders of a liberal persuasion. The subject of 'Theology of Religions' plays a pivotal role in defending or quenching mission among large People Groups that have yet to be reached with the Good News of Jesus.

These seminaries are placed in mega-cities, like Medan and Jakarta. The climate is hot and humid. The air is polluted by vehicles of ALL sizes, often stuck in traffic jams (except for the motor-bikes). But the people are warm and hospitable. According to Encyclopaedia Britannica the population of Indonesia is 87% Muslim. There is also a significant population of Buddhists, Hindus and Christians.

Responsibilities

First Responsibility: Learning the Indonesian language to an advanced level in order to be able to lecture. This typically takes at least one year. For those that are not exceptionally fast language learners the preference would be a longer-term commitment.

After one year (or more) of language study: 

-Teaching Theology of Religions at one or more seminaries in Indonesia. 

-Mentoring students who are interested in mission.

-Helping students with their final thesis.

Qualifications

A Masters of Ministry or Masters of Divinity are generally not sufficient anymore. This is not only for visa reasons, but also for the accreditation of the seminary by the Indonesian government. For this, a Ph.D would be best. 

Minimum recommended qualification: Master of Theology. Better still would be a Ph.D in Theology of Religions or similar.

Some experience in lecturing will be helpful.

Living Situations

Most likely you can find a comfortable house (with air-conditioning) in a quiet area not far from the seminary and can hire a househelper.