Manuel Cababan, from the Philippines, is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies while actively serving in discipleship, family ministry, and campus ministry. Already involved in leading discipleship groups, he entered theological study with a desire to become more effective in ministry and more grounded in the Word of God.

His decision to pursue seminary was shaped in part by the encouragement of his pastor and fellow students. At first, however, he was unsure whether an online program would be the right fit. The idea of studying in a fully online environment raised questions for him. Yet over time, he came to see that the format offered something important: flexibility. Because the program could be done asynchronously, he was able to continue his studies without neglecting his work, career, and responsibilities.

“It can be done asynchronously, so I don’t have to sacrifice my career and responsibilities.”

That flexibility was only part of the story. What helped Manuel continue pursuing his degree was the support system around him. He points to the encouragement of the faculty, staff, and fellow students as one of the biggest reasons he has been able to keep going. That sense of support made the experience not only manageable but enjoyable.

As he progressed through his courses, Manuel found that what he was learning was immediately useful. The practical skills he gained did not stay in the classroom. They strengthened both his ministry and his personal study of Scripture. For him, theological education became something deeply applied—training that shaped the way he read God’s Word and the way he served others.

One challenge he especially appreciated receiving help with was the language barrier. As a Filipino student, English was not his native language. Yet he found meaningful support through coaching programs, English training, and guidance for distance learning. Rather than becoming an obstacle, this area became one in which he felt strengthened and equipped to continue.

Among the most important lessons Manuel has learned are the practical tools he now applies in ministry, especially in preaching the gospel to those who do not yet know Christ. Campus ministry, in particular, is close to his heart. As he has grown in his training, he has also grown in confidence and effectiveness in sharing the gospel with students.

That growth has not remained theoretical. Manuel has seen real fruit in ministry. He shares that his seminary education has helped him witness multiplication in his discipleship work. What began as one discipleship group grew into two, extending not only through family ministry but also through campus ministry. His training has also strengthened his work in evangelism, giving him greater clarity and confidence as he proclaims Christ.

“I became more confident and effective in preaching the gospel to the students.”

For Manuel, this is why theological education matters. It helps believers grow personally in the knowledge of the Lord, but it also equips them to serve more fruitfully in ministry. In his view, the goal is not knowledge alone. It is gospel faithfulness—being better prepared to share Christ so that more people may come to know Him.

That is also why he recommends this path to others who are considering seminary education. His testimony is simple and compelling: theological training can deepen personal growth, strengthen ministry, and make one more effective in sharing the gospel. For those who long to serve Christ more faithfully, Manuel’s story is a reminder that practical, supported, and accessible training can become a powerful tool for discipleship, evangelism, and kingdom impact.