Trip to the Arabian Gulf
Interview with Walid Zailaa
Although darkness continues to surround our region, God is remarkably at work across nations and communities. During a two-day visit to the Arabian Gulf, ABTS Academic Dean, Walid Zailaa, met with believers to strengthen relationships and to share how the Holy Spirit is using theological education to equip men and women for effective ministry.
We met with Walid upon his return to hear about his trip.
WHAT WAS THE PURPOSE OF THE TRIP?
I traveled to the Arabian Gulf to introduce ABTS and its programs to believers while also learning more about the needs and realities of churches in the region. My goal was to encourage Christians to pursue theological training and to highlight the vital role it plays in equipping leaders to serve their congregations effectively.
I shared how ABTS addresses the need for theologically trained leaders by providing practical and contextualized training for those serving in ministry. I also presented ABTS’s online programs, which enable students to study while continuing to work and serve in their local communities.
This is something I relate to personally. When I lived in the Arabian Gulf, I longed for theological training, but I was unable to leave my job, and no suitable opportunities were available. For eight years, this remained a significant challenge. Today, ABTS offers flexible pathways that make it possible for believers to receive theological education without uprooting their lives or ministries.
WHAT ACTIVITIES DID YOU PARTICIPATE IN DURING THE VISIT?
During the visit, I spent two days with a local church community. On the first day, I participated in a training offered by one of our graduates on healthy church growth and the church’s role in serving the surrounding community. The sessions emphasized the importance of looking beyond the church’s internal needs and engaging society in meaningful and transformative ways. During the training, I had the opportunity to introduce ABTS, share about our programs, and answer questions from participants.
On the second day, I was grateful to join the church gathering and preach from Exodus 19:3-6: “Then Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain and said, ‘This is what you are to say to the descendants of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: “You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Then if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.” Together, we reflected on God’s calling of His people to be a holy nation and a kingdom of priests, and how this calling continues in the life and mission of the Church today. It was a reminder that each of us is called to live as Christ’s ambassador wherever God has placed us geographically.
WHAT NEEDS AND CHALLENGES DID YOU OBSERVE?
One of the greatest needs I observed was the lack of theologically trained leaders. Some of the churches in the Arabian Gulf do not have pastors or individuals with formal theological education, yet they need people who can lead, teach, and disciple believers.
Another challenge is the social and legal context in which many Christians live. While there may not always be direct persecution, various restrictions can make it difficult to openly practice or share one’s faith.
HOW DOES THIS CONTRIBUTE TO THE KINGDOM OF GOD?
When believers are equipped to teach Scripture, disciple others, and serve in their communities, the impact extends far beyond the individual student. Stronger leaders contribute to stronger churches, which in turn become better equipped to participate in God's mission and witness in their contexts. In this way, the fruit of theological education extends far beyond ABTS itself and reaches families, churches, and communities throughout the region, contributing to the growth of God’s Kingdom.
We pray that God continues to work in the Arabian Gulf and that He continues to grow the planted seeds. We also pray that these believers, men and women alike, may be salt and light in their communities.