The value of accreditation for theological institutions and qualifications among Pentecostal-type ministries in South Africa,

Abstract

In some Christian traditions, a pastor is required to qualify at an accredited institution of higher learning such as a university or a seminary. However, in Pentecostal-type ministries, some pastors start churches without an accredited qualification arguing they do not need a qualification to become pastors but only a calling for ministry. Consequently, these pastors end up being exploited by non-accredited institutions offering them non-accredited qualifications. Some pastors start their non-accredited bible colleges whose qualifications cannot respond to the skills needs of the economy. Other challenges include the exploitation of pastors by degree sellers, the negative impact on accredited institutions, and the illegality of using titles such as doctor or professor without proper qualifications. The research question is what are the significance and values of accreditation of theological institutions and qualifications among Pentecostal-type ministries? To answer this question, this article evaluates the framework of accreditation of theological institutions in South Africa. tor. The aim is to demonstrate the importance of studying in an accredited institution and obtaining an accredited theological qualification among Pentecostal-type ministries.