Date
10-2011
Department
Seminary
Degree
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Chair
Charles Davidson
Primary Subject Area
Religion, Clergy; Religion, Biblical Studies; Religion, General; Theology
Keywords
failure, foundation, identity, longevity, pastor, Paul
Abstract
The challenges of pastoral ministry can be seen since New Testament times. Studies reveal that an alarming number of pastors leave the ministry each year. Those that remain in ministry often see their families in turmoil as a result of the hardships of ministry. The Apostle Paul's ministry challenges are detailed and described for today's pastor through the New Testament. Today's pastor can learn a great deal from Paul's example in regard to how to finish the race of ministry. Through an examination of Paul's writings, writings about Paul in the book of Acts, surveys with pastors, and a review of relevant literature, this project will seek to identify key foundational elements in Paul's pastoral identity that allowed him to finish the race of ministry.