Tuesday
Oct312006
Pastors need to be theologians
Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at 12:00AM From Kingdom Come:
Missional leaders are driven by theology rather than pragmatism. There is an idea that pastors don't have the luxury of doing serious study. That is to be left for those living in ivory towers. In the real world we just need to get busy and find out what works. But pragmatism leads to theological error. Pragmatism leads to moral failure. Pragmatism leads to a human agenda.
More than ever, pastors need to be theologians.
Reader Comments (7)
Good to connect with some folk who are thinking about these issues and recognize that missional formation is first and foremost a theological conversation. Thanks for providing this kind of forum. I struggle with all the books 'missional' coming out these days. They tend to take current theological imaginations and simply baptize them with the missional label. Thanks for taking a different tack.
Your first sentence is wonderful to read, thanks!
Hey,I like this. After taking hits for not being "applicationally proactive", it's good to know there are those who believe that most heresy is borne out of pragmatist agenda.Wow, I wrote some big words there.
Darryl,Thanks for the link.
Again, another brief but great post.Blessings in Christ Jesus!
Amen
Often 'what works' doesn't accomplish what we (or others) like to believe it is accomplishing. And the inability or unwillingness to think critically about our methods, tools, mediums and efforts leaves us incredibly vulnerable. Are there times to be pragmatic? Sure. Perhaps Solomon would call that wise living. But Paul cautions his young apprentice to "Keep a firm grasp on both your character and your teaching." (1 Timothy 4:16 - The Message). Keeping that grasp requires time and attention.