Graduate Profile: Jonathan Pruitt

As I reflect on the completion of my degree from RBS, I am reminded of Paul’s exhortation to Timothy: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

This charge has guided my journey in ministry and seminary preparation for the past twenty-three years. I have aimed to study God’s Word carefully, apply it faithfully, and serve His church with humility. I’m grateful for how the Lord has used RBS to equip me more effectively to fulfill that calling.
I came to saving faith in Christ at age 14 and sensed a call to ministry just two years later. But like many young believers, I ran from that call—until God, in His providence, used my time in the Army to bring me to a place of surrender. At 20, I submitted the call to preach. Still unsure of the road ahead, I questioned whether ministry was realistic at my age—or if anyone, especially a young woman, would want to walk that road with me. The Lord answered that doubt by bringing Amanda into my life. For the past 20 years, she has been my faithful wife, helper, encourager, and—especially throughout my studies—my best editor and most honest critic. I thank God daily for her and the three beautiful children that He has blessed us with.
Raised a Free Will Baptist, I was brought up under the ministry of my father and grandfather. I eventually became the associate pastor in my grandfather’s church, and after his passing, was unexpectedly thrust into the role of lead pastor. While I wasn’t fully prepared, the weight of weekly preaching drove me to take Scripture more seriously. The more I studied, the more I realized I didn’t have as firm a grasp on doctrine as I thought.
That realization launched a long pursuit of theological clarity. Without formal guidance, I tried to learn all I could on my own. A turning point came when Pastor Jeff Stone said, “I’m trying to place you… your theology is all over the place.” That remark stuck with me—and prompted me to ask, What Is My Theology? In seeking an answer, I began to study denominational distinctives. Determined at first to refute Reformed theology, I instead found myself convinced by Scripture. What followed was a “cage-stage” intensity in reading and studying the doctrines of grace, covenant theology, and the sufficiency of Scripture.
Eventually, I sensed that the Lord was calling me to pursue formal theological training. After researching various seminaries, I chose RBS for its strong confessional foundation, local church model, and flexibility for men already engaged in ministry. I’m grateful for how the Lord has used RBS to refine my theology and sharpen my pastoral instincts.
Though I have not yet completed the full M.Div. program, I am committed to finishing it in the near future. I’m especially thankful for the mentorship of Pastor Matt Adams and the support of my proctors, who worked around my schedule to help me succeed. I’m also profoundly grateful to my wife and mother-in-law, who faithfully proofread my papers and encouraged me through the workload.
To the professors, staff, and mentors of RBS—thank you for your diligence in training men for the ministry. Your teaching, availability, and example have been invaluable. RBS has been more than a seminary—it has been a training ground where truth is not just taught but modeled.
As I continue serving in pastoral ministry, I carry with me the lessons, notes, and books that shaped me during my time at RBS. I pray God will use what I’ve learned for the good of His church and the glory of His name.