Reimagining Theological Education for the Modern World: Roles, Challenges, and Prospects

Theological education has historically shaped Christian leaders and provided moral direction for society. In the 21st century, however, its form and content face new challenges demanding critical reassessment. Previous studies by Farley and Wheeler highlighted a growing disconnect between theological curricula and contemporary realities, leaving a gap in contextual responsiveness and practical engagement. This study addresses this gap by reimagining theological education through a contextual, transformative lens. The theoretical framework is based on Farley’s, “Theologia,” which critiques the fragmentation of theological education and calls for integrative formation. Using qualitative research methods, the study draws from document analysis, case studies of theological institutions, and interviews with theological educators. The research focuses on theological seminaries in West Africa, chosen for their dual challenges of cultural rootedness and global relevance. Findings reveal a strong need for interdisciplinary curriculum reform, digital adaptation, and stronger church-academy community collaboration. Recommendations include embracing hybrid pedagogies, contextual curriculum development, and capacity building for theological educators. The study concludes that reimagining theological education is essential for equipping leaders who can engage meaningfully with today’s complex world.