 After graduating from a Reformed gymnasium (an academic high school), he took his theological studies at the Theological University of the Reformed Churches in Kampen and graduated "cum laude" in 1914.Schilder was a pastor at Ambt-Vollenhove, Vlaardingen, Gorinchem, Delft, Oegstgeest, and Rotterdam-Delfshaven.During his time as a minister Schilder published several books among which "De Openbaring van Johannes en het Sociale Leven, Bij Dichters en Schriftgeleerden" and the trilogy "Christus in zijn Lijden."