I've been asked innumerable times if I am going to pursue a Ph.D.  While I have nothing against those who have or those who do, I most likely will not seek one.  Here's why:

1.  It would mean taking on a significant amount of debt
It would take a lot of money that I don't have to get a degree.  And with where our country is right now, I believe that you need to be very careful about whether or not you should take out a number of loans.   America is wracked with debt, which puts us in a most precarious position.  Moreover, God does not overlook our commitment to abortion.  We will be held accountable for these atrocities, and I want to be ready when He brings our nation down.  I personally believe that one of the best ways to prepare for this collapse is by being debt free.

2.  It would mean postponing the growth of my family
I want babies.  I want to adopt and raise as many kids as I can.  If I were to incur debt and go off to school, this desire would be greatly hindered.   

Here's another thing:  I've heard a lot of people ask how they can change the direction of America.  My answer is: out breed our opponents!  We have a horrendous birth rate in America.  According to one report, the average number of children per family is 1.87!  That means we are experiencing a birth implosion.  The best way to bring about a renewal in America then is to forgo that Ph.D (new car, house, etc) and start having more children who are raised in the fear of the Lord.

3.  The world needs pastors
My job is to preach and pray.  I'm a pastor at heart.  And I recognize that it is through such means that God brings about transformation of cultures and societies.

I know a lot of guys whose sole reason for getting a Ph.D because they want to get into academia.  They believe that once they do that then they can really start to change the world for the Lord.  This simply isn't true.  Not that college professors cannot be of great benefit--all the great Reformers were involved somehow in training the upcoming stars.  I too profited greatly too from my college instructors.  And if I were offered a position at a college or university, I would take it if it could serve as an extension of my pastoral office.

However, Jesus didn't start with the doctors of the church.  He started with simple fisherman.  He endowed them with the Spirit and gave them a boldness in preaching the gospel.