Advanced Graduate Spotlight: A Conversation with John Wilson

Why did you choose Southeastern Seminary?

I chose to come to Southeastern in 2019 for my MDiv because of the school’s love for the Scriptures, the local church, and the nations. I had a great experience completing my MDiv at Southeastern, so I was excited about the opportunity to continue studying here in the ThM program. I took Church history 1 and 2 during the final year of my MDiv, and I developed an appreciation for how reflecting on the past can benefit us as we seek to live wisely today. I want to serve the church in Mississippi long-term, so I decided that studying some aspect of Mississippi history in the ThM program here would be great preparation for ministry there.

What aspects of your time at Southeastern were particularly formative or encouraging to you?

My Church history courses with Dr. Eccher were some of the most formative I took. Specifically, they deepened my understanding of and love for the Church. Jude 1:3 speaks of contending for the “faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (ESV). Studying Church history helped me understand how Christians throughout the ages have articulated, defended, and preserved the gospel of Jesus Christ. In our churches today, we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us, and we bear the responsibility of carrying on their legacy of faithfulness in the way we steward the truth of the gospel. The saints of old inspire me and make me grateful for the opportunity to regularly gather with other believers, worship our King, proclaim the gospel to one another, and remind one another of our common mission to make disciples of all the nations.

Studying Church history helped me understand how Christians throughout the ages have articulated, defended, and preserved the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I’ve also really enjoyed my time working in the library at Southeastern because it has connected me with so many members of the Southeastern community. It’s been a blast coming alongside students in all the various degree programs and helping them get connected to the resources they need to complete their assignments and be equipped for the callings God has on their lives. I’ve loved hearing their stories and have been encouraged by all the people God is raising up to serve him as he builds his Kingdom here on earth as it is in heaven.

How did your education at Southeastern shape your view of the Great Commission?

My Old Testament and New Testament classes were particularly formative in helping me see God’s heart for the salvation of the nations in the entirety of Scripture. It has been cool to see over the course of my time here that the Great Commission is not something that the school just talks about, but also something that it lives out. I’ve seen so many of my friends and classmates move to areas of the United States and around the world that are lacking strong gospel witness. I’ll be leaving here with a bigger heart for the nations, no doubt.

Which classes, professors, or memories stand out from your time here?

It’d be impossible to answer this question without honoring the memory of Dr. Keith Harper. I actually never had a class with Dr. Harper, but he frequently visited my office in the library and would sit and talk for hours. He was full of ideas, wit, and wisdom. You never knew what was going to come out of his mouth next, and I loved every chance I got to interact with him. Having the opportunity to study under him in the ThM program was an experience I’ll always cherish.

How have you seen theological education go hand in hand with ministry preparation during your time as a student?

I have not served in a ministry staff position during my time in seminary, but I have benefitted greatly from my theological education as I’ve served in various volunteer roles in my church. I’ve become a better student of the word and, consequently, a better disciple-maker. I’ve grown in my confidence in leading small groups and grown in my conviction about the importance of participating in the life of the local church. I’m grateful for the things I’ve learned in the classroom at Southeastern and I’m looking forward to seeing what more I can learn serving in a full-time ministry position in the coming years.

I’ve become a better student of the word and, consequently, a better disciple-maker.

What are your plans now following graduation, and how do you hope to use your degree?

Sarah and I are hoping to move back to Mississippi and take a ministry job there. I love the local church, and I’d like to spend the rest of my life serving there. My ThM project drew theological insights and ministry principles from John M. Perkins, who has been ministering in Mississippi for decades. I hope to apply what I’ve learned from him in my ministry and participate in the Kingdom-building work God is doing in my home state.

How can your Southeastern family be praying for you?

Please pray that God will open the door for ministry opportunities for me and Sarah. Pray that God will continue to grow our love for one another and strengthen our marriage as we transition to a new season. Pray that we will both continue to be formed into the image of Christ and will serve him faithfully for the rest of our lives.