Epistemology for Pastors
In my last essay, I outlined a basic understanding of personhood from a Christian perspective. In order for pastoral ministry to yield the kind of fruit we pray for in the lives of God’s flock, we have to be sure that our assumptions about what people are square with the biblical account. As God’s image-bearers, we’ve been formed and made for relationships, fruitfulness, cultural stewardship, and dominion. All of these callings...
What Language Shall I Borrow?
Steve Jobs, the man who revolutionized the way we listen to music, was asked by his 2011 biographer what was on his iPod. In his answer, Jobs related a musical experience that had nothing to do with an mp3 player. Jobs had desperately wanted virtuoso cellist Yo-Yo Ma to play for his wedding. Though scheduling conflicts would not allow it, they soon developed a friendship. One day Ma visited Jobs’ home to play the J. S. Bach piece he...
Knock-knock: Toward a Theology of Humor
What hath a “knock-knock” joke to do with Him Who stands at the door and knocks? That is, does God care about humor? Often times, humor finds itself on opposite ends of the spectrum, from a spiritual perspective. On one end it can be borderline sacrilege, making the things of God out to be trivial at best and blasphemous at worst. On the other end are the perennial “pastor jokes”—those that incite equal portions of groans and pity...
Is Schleiermacher Sharing Your Pulpit?
Some say it doesn’t matter the path you take so long as you arrive at the proper destination. According to this advice, the final destination is assumed to be more important than the path taken. But the path and destination are not so easily separated. Whether discussing travel or life, we’re all aware that paths shape us, for good or ill. What’s more, they always determine our condition when we arrive at our destination—and often...
Anthropology for Pastors
Pastors spend a lot of time thinking about people. As much time as they invest in biblical study, planning services, and more, people are the focus of their ministry. To be sure, Christ is the ultimate object of our worship and service. Serving Him means we are shaped primarily by His Word and the Holy Spirit. However, sermons are preached to people. Struggling members are counseled. Wayward saints are confronted. Take any meaningful...
From Rebellion to Reverence
Appear before the Queen of England and you will quickly discover a clear list of dos and don’ts [1]. Call it royal etiquette. For instance, you stand when she enters the room. You don’t speak, unless first spoken to. If spoken to, you address her in a proper manner worthy of Her Majesty. You certainly don’t initiate physical contact. If she deems your hand fit to shake, your handshake should be brief. You also dress in a particular...
Recent Comments