Pastors as Theologians
I will often hear pastors preface their remarks with “I’m not a theologian, but…” The problem with this statement is that it is wrong. Pastors are theologians.
People have gotten it into their heads that if they do not have a PhD in theology, they are not theologians. There were theologians long before the invention of the doctor of philosophy degree. In fact some of the most influential theologians even in recent centuries did not have PhDs.
Some pastors may not be great theologians, but they are theologians. They look to the Scriptures, their denominational traditions and attempt to connect them to Christian discipleship in the contemporary context. That is theology.
Not only are pastors theologians, they are the primary shapers of theology within their congregations. While some congregants may read theology books, most will come to their theological conclusions based on what they hear from the pastor on a Sunday morning.
As a pastor, I really feel that pressure.
What concerns me is how little some pastors work toward developing their theological knowledge. Many (but not all) will pass on the theology books and reach for the practical helps on church growth.
I am not suggesting that Sunday services become a mini-seminary with the pastor being the lecturer. Rather I am saying that if we truly understand the theological influence we have, we should take seriously what is happening in the theological discipline. Don’t let your last seminary class be your final interaction with theological scholarship.
It has never been easier to access theological resources. No pastor has an excuse not to develop in the area of theology. You may want to audit a course at a local seminary or read some books by respected theologians. Just do something to take your role as a theologian seriously.
