In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery chats with Dr. Russ Meek—Adjunct Professor of Old Testament and Hermeneutics at Midwestern Seminary’s Global Campus and Senior Academic Editor at Kregel Publications—to explore a common tension: formal theological study versus spiritual formation. Russ shares how, contrary to common warnings, serious academic engagement with Scripture has deepened rather than diminished his love for Christ and the church. Together they discuss integrating scholarly study and devotional life, resisting false dichotomies between heart and mind, and approaching academic work itself as an act of worship. The conversation offers encouragement to students, pastors, and teachers seeking to love God with both intellect and affection.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

theological education, spiritual formation, seminary, devotional life, loving God with the mind, Old Testament studies, academic theology, Christian vocation

Takeaways

• Formal theological study and spiritual formation are not rivals but should be mutually reinforcing.

• Academic engagement with Scripture can function as an act of worship when approached with the right heart posture.

• Maintaining a distinct devotional life helps prevent academic study from becoming performative or pride-driven.

• Time constraints and ministry pressures can actually sharpen focus and deepen dependence on God’s Word.

• Integrating coursework with real ministry contexts helps students see the relevance of what they study.

• Faithful scholars and pastors from earlier generations can continue to disciple us through their writings.

• Whole-person discipleship includes loving God with the heart, soul, strength, and mind.

Formal Study vs. Spiritual Formation? | A Study Story with Russ Meek