I really like this statement about John Knox as a ‘preacher-theologian’. So often there is a wedge placed between these two, and clearly God has called some to be professional theologians (i.e. teachers); but I think what really is missing amongst pastors today is that they fail to see their role as a theologian (out of necessity — teaching God’s Word requires this). No, no, I’m not saying the pastor needs to be an “academic,” but that he should be serious about communicating who God is (thus the theologian part). Anyway here is how TF Torrance talks about John Knox in this vein:
John Knox himself was essentially a preacher-theologian, one who did not intend to be a theologian, but who could not help being a theologian in the fulfilment of his vocation. He regarded his vocation: a) as a preacher of the Gospel, someone burdened with the lively Word of God, which he had to proclaim in a correspondingly lively manner; b) as a steward of the mysteries, or ‘a steward of the mystery of redemption’ (one of his favourite expressions).
The price of Christ Jesus, his death and passion is committed to our charge, the eyes of men are bent on us, and we must answer before the Judge, who will not admit everie excuse that pleaseth us, but will judge upryghtly, as in his words he hath before pronounced . . . Let us be frequent in reading (which allace, over many despise) earnest in prayer, diligent in watching over the flock committed to our charge, and let our sobrietie and temperate lyfe eshame the wicked, and be example to the godly . . .
The desperate earnestness with which Knox took his calling demanded theological earnestness: . . . (Thomas Torrance, “Scottish Theology,” 2-3)
If only we had preacher-theologians like Knox today. Too often it seems we have preachers who are preacher-CEO’s or something . . . ah, enough Evangelical bashing; but you know what I mean, right?
Unfortunately I know very well what you mean. We’ve just had a team from my old bible college come to help us with our mission outreach events. They were all very polished speakers. But their gospel was dry as dust and devoid of much Jesus at all. I really fear we’re raising up “communicators” rather than theologians captured by the Gospel-God.
I agree, Glen. And, to be honest, I don’t see this coming from anywhere else but the pit! My Seminary and BC was filled with this kind of wishy-washy approach too . . . intentions at this point mean nothing! We’re either for Christ or against Him (hmm I just thought of another post π ).
I really fear weβre raising up βcommunicatorsβ rather than theologians captured by the Gospel-God.
There’s a huge gap in the Church between evangelization to get the Word “out” and personalized discipleship of those who are drawn “in” to the fold.
There are a lot of hungry sheep wandering around, guys.
Heather,
I know. Glen has a platform to meet that, and that’s awesome. I hoping to be able to get into the ministry once this season is over with!
I’ll admit that when I pray for your family, it is difficult to not wonder what God is healing you for. That’s not to say that your family isn’t a good enough reason. God’s given you a lovely wife and children to minister to.
And I’d never want to shove someone in a direction the Lord isn’t already leading. That can be disastrous. Still. Can’t help but contemplate.
Thank you, Heather.
I do think of my family as ministry first; but I really do desire to be in the “ministry.” Whether that be a pastor, or a missionary (which both my wife and I have had a heart for, it’s what brought us together in the first place — she got her degree in intercultural studies). I’m excited to see how the Lord is going to lead us.