The Pastor as a Theologian

Have you ever heard a pastor say "now I'm no theologan but"? The following article deals with the question does a pastor have to be a theologian? 

Every pastor should be a theologian. In making such a statement it is necessary to define exactly what a theologian is. A theologian is "a person who is an expert in theology"[1]. Theology is defined by Webster as, "the study of religious faith, practice, and experience; especially:  the study of God and of God's relation to the world"[2]. "Why would such a requirement be placed upon a pastor", one might ask? The answer lies in what the pastor's calling entails. His calling is to "feed the flock of God" (1 Peter 5:2), he is to take the Word of God and place it in the hearts of the people of God. In order for him to faithfully do this it is expedient that he understand the Person of God and His dealings with man. To grow believers it is essential that they be fed a steady diet of the Word of God, and to effectively do that the pastor must be familiar with the Word and the God of the Word.

 As Albert Mohler Jr. said, "the health of the church depends upon its pastors functioning as faithful theologians - teaching, preaching, defending and applying the great doctrines of the faith."[3] He goes on to say, "The pastor's concentrated attention to the theological task is necessary for the establishment of faithful preaching, God-honoring worship and effective evangelism in the local church."[4] There is no question that the pastor must be theologically apt to fulfill his calling. This will further enable him to conduct true research. True research is research that involves the pastor studying a biblical topic utilizing every available tool. He will be able to quickly discern what is good and helpful material and what is flawed because of his theological knowledge. Without his being a theologian he could easily teach doctrinal error and lead the flock of God in the wrong direction. The pastor's willingness to equip himself with a solid theological background is essential for him to faithfully fulfill the calling God has placed on his life.