Date

12-7-2023

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy

Chair

Daniel Moosbrugger

Keywords

Shepherd, shepherd leadership, deadly force, image of God, pastoral responsibility, self-defense, security

Disciplines

Ethics in Religion | Leadership Studies

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological multi-case study explored the practical, ethical, theological, and biblical foundations of decisions regarding an active security strategy at church gatherings by a cross-section of mainline and nondenominational churches. For the purposes of this study, an active security strategy was defined as a formal plan for site security based on the use of security personnel. This definition included any combination of volunteer personnel, contracted private security personnel, or sworn police officers acting in an official or off-duty capacity while providing security for the gathered congregation. The theory of shepherd leadership, as defined by Laniak (2006), and which related via the shepherd's responsibility to feed and protect his sheep (p. 26), guided the research. This study sought to illuminate the thought processes of church leaders who had decided either for or against the use of security personnel as well as to advance more profound research into the biblical responsibilities of shepherd-pastors as they apply to the physical protection of the congregation. Data was collected via electronically transcribed online interviews and electronically delivered questionnaires. The methodology for the study included interviews and questionnaires, which were recorded for analysis, coding, thematic development, and result description.

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