The Pastor as Public Theologian - Part 2
I have taken up “The Pastor as Public Theologian” again after being distracted for a time in ministry work and elder prescribed reading. I realize that my first post was a hopeful introduction and that many readers would want to know what further gleanings were gained upon finishing it. There is a lot in this book. This book requires me to read at a slower pace so I can process the depth of the content being discussed.
The Pastor as a Prophet, a Priest, and a King
We are familiar with these roles being associated with Christ, the Good Shepherd. The book explores how the Pastor as an under-shepherd to the good shepherd reflects a lesser extent these same roles. I was challenged in each of these roles to see myself and my work among those whom I shepherd. I must think of myself in a priestly role to those under my care bringing them closer to God through the regular sacraments. I must think of myself in the role of prophet to those whom God has given to declare the truth of God and call for repentance. I must think of myself in the role of a king for those whom God has asked me to lead, steward, and protect with every decision. These roles operate in obedience and dependence upon the Good Shepherd
A history of the Pastorate
A history beginning with the early church fathers through modern times demonstrates the importance of pastors. I especially appreciated the portions describing Jonathan Edwards views on pastoral ministry. Many of Edwards’ quotes were new to me on this subject. Edwards had a bold view of his role in the church and society.
In his own preaching, Edwards felt no shame in relating all areas of life to God. If an area of God’s created order seized his attention, he felt glorious freedom to situate it within his God-centered worldview and preach it to his people. This was the outworking of being a gospel minister, the figure who served the kingdom of Christ, which stood over the world, ruling it. Two centuries before Dutch theologian Abraham Kuyper would picture Christ saying “Mine!” over all his creation, Edwards was already calling “His!” in his preaching and writing. (p. 85).”
I often feel the hints of caution to declaring the truth of God as it relates to certain topics - even though the scripture speak plainly about them. The subjects of politics, sexuality, and racial reconciliation have become no-no topics for pastors and sermons today. These cultural issues are too uncomfortable so the preference is to avoid them. Edwards would disagree with these modern opinions. God has a lot to say about these topics today and his truth needs to be declared by bold preachers who walk in Edwards’ footsteps.
The Pastoral perspectives section
These sections written by various pastors offer practical ideas given through real pastoral experience. Things I have gleaned from these pastors:
Do not feel bad or guilty for making time to think theologically and prepare theological sermons that speak truth to our world. There are a lot of ministry needs that demand time from pastors and this must be prioritized.
That there is a theology of technology that is derived from the scriptures. The way tools, weapons, and chariots were used in the Bible gives us an understanding of how we use iPads and Livestreams.
Genesis 1-3 speaks to many of our cultural issues today. This should be a sermon series in every church that grounds our cultural discussion. This section of our Bibles needs to be well worn through the frequency of putting it before our people to root it in our minds and hearts.
“True faith is life-changing faith” (p. 97). Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). The fruit of faithful pastoral theologians is not smart people, the fruit is demonstrated by changed lives.
“Theological reflection will never matter to God’s people if they know that it doesn’t matter to God’s preachers.” (p. 99). Preaching must always include passion, an effort to bring theology down to the heart, and a constant redirection of our hearts to the glory of Christ. These elements are vital to communicating theologically.
I am glad to get these thoughts down on paper if for no one else but my benefit. I am realizing now that I am only halfway through the book and yet another installment of this blog will be due as I finish it up.