Apologetics-Focused Education for the Senior, Lead, and Teaching Pastor

PASTORAL Ministry Training

at Southern Evangelical Seminary

Prepare for Pastoral Ministry:
Shepherd and Disciple with Wisdom and Truth

Apologetics is no longer an optional focus for pastors

Pastoral ministry requires more than an intense passion for shepherding a congregation—it demands strong theological training, apologetics knowledge, and practical ministry skills. The church universal is desperate for pastors, chaplains, and other Christian leaders trained in apologetics and critical thinking for pastoral ministry who are able to disciple those under their care. How can those wanting to deepen their faith, equip their families, or share their faith defend the faith without a leading shepherd?

Why is Apologetics Necessary?

In today’s culture, pastors must teach and defend Scripture and, in turn, disciple others to do the same. Apologetics helps church leaders answer tough theological and cultural questions, strengthening the faith of their congregations and reaching skeptics with reasoned biblical truth. Pastors risk leaving their flock vulnerable to doubts, misinformation, and secular influences without a solid foundation in apologetics. Research shows that only 41% of Senior Pastors have a biblical worldview, emphasizing the urgent need for well-equipped pastors who can lead, disciple, and defend biblical truth in today’s culture. 

Answer the Call: Train for Pastoral Ministry with SES

Through integrated apologetics-focused Christian education, Southern Evangelical Seminary (SES) equips you to form a complete and systematic Christian worldview. Our vital training provides the knowledge and confidence you need for effective evangelism and discipleship, with tools you can practically incorporate into your ministry as you equip your flock to remain steadfast in the truth.

*”Biblical Worldview” is defined here as making sure our understanding/choices are consistent with God’s principles and commands.

Example SES Degrees for Pastor Training

Master of Divinity (M.Div.) in Apologetics

84 HOURS

For a more traditional seminary degree with an apologetics focus, this M.Div. may the right path for your future ministry

Apologetics-Focus Graduate

Master of Divinity (M.Div.) in Biblical Studies

84 HOURS

Add a deep knowledge of the original languages to your more traditional seminary degree with this M.Div. option

Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) in Apologetics

36 HOURS

This extremely practical and hands-on degree will prepare to for apologetics ministry in a variety of ministry contexts

What will the SES degree in apologetics do for you as a pastor?

"As a busy pastor in a church of 2,600 in the D.C. environment, I can answer that practical question with five observations. One, you will be trained to use classical apologetics to build a bridge to a culture which rejects the Bible outright. Two, you will learn how to use [classical] thinking to devise sound philosophical arguments to reach a world that embraces logically inferior and untenable worldviews. Three, you will learn how to maintain a balance between apologetics and evangelism … Four, you will be equipped to identify and lovingly deconstruct false philosophical systems … Five, your thinking will be challenged and deepened, and your walk with Christ will be taken to a whole new level. SES delivers on all of these points and so much more."

Dr. Marty Baker

PASTOR, SES ALUM

Overcoming the Challenges of Pastoral Ministry

Many individuals called to pastoral ministry encounter hurdles that make it challenging to pursue proper theological training:
  • Time Constraints – Balancing work, family, and ministry commitments make it challenging to attend a traditional seminary.
  • Financial Barriers – Many prospective students worry about the cost of obtaining a theological education.
  • Theological Clarity – With so many seminaries available, it can be hard to discern which one provides sound biblical teaching.
  • Practical Ministry Training – Some theological programs emphasize academics without preparing students for real-world ministry challenges.

SES addresses these concerns with flexible online programs, Smart Tuition payment plans, scholarship opportunities, and a strong commitment to biblical truth in every degree and certificate offering.

Ready to Apply Now?

Start the admission process today. You can begin in just a few minutes by filling out our initial application and it will open the door for us to have an exploratory conversation about your educational priorities and hopes for ministry. We have an entire team at SES who is ready to help you in the process of discerning your gifts and calling to ministry so you can engage our culture in the conversations that matter the most.

Strengthen Your Calling with SES’s
Unique Approach to Theological Education

You may already have a foundation in Christian apologetics and have explored books like Tactics by Gregory Koukl, Lewis' Mere Christianity, or I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist by SES alum Frank Turek and SES co-founder Norman Geisler. These resources provide valuable insights, but as you continue to deepen your understanding, you may find yourself seeking a more structured, comprehensive approach to apologetics and theology.

At SES, we believe apologetics and theology reach their full potential when grounded in sound philosophy. Developing this foundation strengthens your ability to defend the faith and enriches your spiritual growth and ministry. SES is here to equip you with the training and support you need to sharpen your reasoning skills, confidently engage with tough questions, or deepen your biblical worldview. Watch the short video below to learn more.

How SES Prepares You for Effective Pastoral Ministry

See the Vital Need for Apologetics-Focused Education

Engaging real-world issues for the sake of the Gospel

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