I’ve spent a fair amount of time this week with the writings of Archibald Alexander, the first professor of Princeton Theological Seminary. He and a committee of men were commissioned to create a spiritual ethos in the seminary with a theological curriculum to fuel it.

What kind of atmosphere did they hope to promote? The seminary was intended to be (in the timeless words of Samuel Miller),

a nursery of vital piety as well as of sound theological learning, and to train up persons for the ministry who shall be lovers as well as defenders of truth as it is in Jesus, friends of revivals of religion, and a blessing to the Church of God.

Did you notice each part packed into that statement? Princeton Seminary was to be a place where men learned:

• Vital piety
• Sound doctrine
• Love for Christ-centered truth
• An ability to defend truth
• Eagerness for revival
• How to be a blessing to the church

If you’re involved in seminary administration, the application of these truths is clear enough. But what if you’re not a seminary administrator or professor? My suggestion is that you take the six points above and let them inform your goals with pastoral interns, elder candidates, or brothers in your church considering the gospel ministry.

What kind of an atmosphere are you creating in your church?