The life and work of Jefferson Davis Ray (Texas)

Wheeless, Derek Dwayne Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2001 해외박사(DDOD)

Jefferson Davis Ray was born on November 24, 1860. Ray was a pastor, professor, and author among Texas Baptists for sixty-nine years. His influence as a Baptist minister was felt far and wide across the Lone Star State for well over half a century. This dissertation examines the life and work of Jeff Ray in a chronological fashion. First this study deals with Ray's life from 1860 to 1880 and discusses the formidable influences that ultimately led him to a life of Christian ministry. This dissertation then documents Ray's development as a seasoned pastor and recognized denominational leader among Texas Baptists between the years 1880 and 1907. This study continues by examining Ray's role as a determined educator at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary from 1907 until 1944 as he established himself as a qualified pastoral theologian despite a number of personal struggles. Finally this dissertation highlights Ray's literary contributions from 1923 to 1951 as he proved to be a man of both the spoken and written word. This dissertation concentrates on the primary source material including that stored in the Jeff D. Ray Collection in Roberts Library. This study unfolds Ray's life by examining his correspondence, his books, his journal articles, and other pertinent resources available during his life. Secondary sources were also consulted to confirm and strengthen analysis garnered from the primary source materials. Only one book has ever been written on Ray's life. His third wife, Georgia Miller Ray, published <italic>The Jeff Ray I Knew</italic> fifty years ago, shortly after his death. Her volume thoroughly chronicles Ray's life but failed to place Ray within the broader spectrum of the development of Southern and Texas Baptist pastoral theology. This present work seeks to make that correction by examining Jeff Ray in light of his contributions to the field of Southern Baptist pastoral theology. This biography demonstrates that Southern Baptists, and particularly Texas Baptists, came to a better understanding of the role of the pastor as a result of the life and work of Jeff D. Ray. As a pastor, theologian, and author, Ray was a contributor to change in Texas Baptists' pastoral understandings. He assisted Texas Baptists shift from a rural oriented nineteenth century model of ministry to an urbanized, twentieth century model.

Baptist primitivist: Internal and external religion in the theology of Thomas Grantham, 1633-1692

Plumlee, Spencer Franklin Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2013 해외박사(DDOD)

The purpose of the dissertation is to show that the primitivism of Thomas Grantham has a consistent theological framework focused on "internal religion" and "external religion." Grantham, a General Baptist pastor in seventeenth-century England, has been the focus of three known dissertations, but none of these has dealt extensively with his theological framework. This dissertation will shed new light on the nature of Grantham's theological framework found in Book 2 of his Christianismus Primitivus (1678), the first systematic theology written by a Baptist. Chapter One exposes the reader to the need, purpose, and outline of the dissertation. The thesis of this paper uses terminology unique to Grantham's theology, and this chapter provides definitions of these terms. Chapter Two provides an introduction to the life of Grantham, overviewing the cultural and theological context of seventeenth-century England. Chapter Three argues that Book 2 of Christianismus Primitivus should be the lens through which Grantham's theology should be read as it displays his theological framework: "internal religion" and "external religion." Within this argument, the third chapter explains the priority of "internal religion" and the supportive role of "external religion." Chapter Four outlines the development of Grantham's theological framework, theologically and historically. The fifth and sixth chapters focus on Grantham's conception of "internal religion," showing its nature to be conversion and the Christian life. Chapter Five addresses conversion, in which Christology and theology proper function as the theological emphases, and Chapter Six addresses the Christian life, in which Grantham posits a present and future development. The seventh, eighth, and ninth chapters examine Grantham's conception of "external religion," respectively examining the nature, ordinances, and officers of the church. Each chapter shows that Grantham understands the church to focus on development and protection of "internal religion" within its membership. The final chapter summarizes the conclusions of this dissertation.

A study of attitudes of female faculty members serving in Complementarian conservative theological institutions

Ellen, Venessa Yvette Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2013 해외박사(DDOD)

PROBLEM: The problem of this study was to determine whether attitudes of female faculty members employed by conservative theological colleges and seminaries reflected a complementarian perspective of biblical womanhood. Additionally, this study evaluated how these attitudes related to the female faculty member's home life and her understanding of her role as a Christian woman in regards to her personal, professional and ministry environments. RESEARCH QUESTION: There were four qualitative research questions that guided the exploration of participants in this study: How does a woman who believes God's role for her in the world, the home and the marketplace is to complement and not compete with men, handle the realities of day to day life in a predominantly male environment? How does she perceive gender equality in the marketplace? Is she bitter or better because of it? How does her heart attitude towards various career situations affect her home life and productivity in her local church?. PROCEDURES: Purposeful, criterion sampling provided 30 female faculty members from 6 major evangelical colleges or seminaries. One participant withdrew from the study. Participants had an average age range of 21 to 68 years of age and had been in their positions an average of 14 years. Participants were interviewed for qualitative data collection. Descriptive examinations of the perceptions and experiences of complementarian female faculty members who are employed by conservative theological colleges or seminaries were conducted through face to face, semi-structured interviews. These interviews were transcribed and the data was coded and analyzed using NVivo 10 software. FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION: Through qualitative data analysis three prominent themes and/or patterns were found. Findings indicated tremendous variance regarding the following: (1) What it means to be Complementarian, (2) What extent the faculty members definition of Complementarinism determined their actions in the classroom, and (3) How their theological differences regarding interpretation of various Scriptures aided in their definition and practice of Complementarinism in their home, church, and institution. These findings will contribute to the current literature on Complementarinism and posit suggestions for improving doctrinal instruction regarding Complementarinism for schools of evangelical higher education and evangelical churches in general.

Pure worship: The early English Baptist distinctive

Ward, Matthew W Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2013 해외박사(DDOD)

This dissertation argues that pure worship was the early English Particular Baptist distinctive. Their overwhelming desire to worship God purely drove the development of this group's theology and ecclesiology as well as their self-identity. Chapter 1 explains the goal of the argument, establishes a definition of worship, and clarifies the scope of the early Particular Baptists. Chapter 2 establishes the liturgical context of sixteenth and seventeenth century England, drawing particular attention to the goals and motives of the Puritans and Separatists, and explaining their connections with the Particular Baptists. Chapter 3 describes how worship influenced the early Baptist doctrine of the church, focusing on their concepts of freedom, primitivism, and separatism. Chapter 4 describes how worship influenced the early Baptist doctrine of the Scriptures, particularly right hermeneutics. Chapter 5 describes how these Baptists wed their worship with the gospel. Chapter 6 introduces the hymn-singing controversy of the late seventeenth century as a recapitulation of the entire argument. It also draws conclusions and implications for further study and development.

The importance of church discipline within Balthazar Hubmaier's theology

Goncharenko, Simon Victor Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2011 해외박사(DDOD)

This dissertation will argue that the doctrine of church discipline is of profound import to the theology of Balthasar Hubmaier, particularly in the areas of anthropology, soteriology, and ecclesiology. Hubmaier's church discipline not only intersected each of the aforementioned areas of his theology, it provided a connection between theory and praxis, as well as safeguarded the work of grace in relation to the parts of the reformer's theology that may have sounded "works-oriented.". Chapter 1 provides an historic introduction to the context of the Radical Reformation in general, and the world of Balthasar Hubmaier in particular. As no theology is developed in a vacuum, it is important to one's understanding of this Anabaptist leader and his positions to be informed of the theological landscape of the sixteenth-century Europe in which the Radical reformer operated. Additionally, this chapter introduces the particular nature of Hubmaier's doctrine of church discipline. Chapter 2 explores the trichotomous anthropology of Balthasar Hubmaier and its connection to church discipline. One must begin with the examination of the reformer's anthropology because his understanding of the makeup of a man is essential to understanding the whole of his theology. Chapter 3 evaluates the connection between Hubmaier's view of church discipline and his doctrine of salvation, placing it within the larger context of the soteriological debate of the sixteenth century. As Hubmaier's understanding of sanctification is included in his concept of justification, it too is discussed in this chapter. Chapter 4 explores the link between Hubmaier's doctrine of church discipline and ecclesiology, particularly the ordinances of water baptism and the Lord's Supper. Finally, Chapter 5 summarizes the findings of Hubmaier's understanding of church discipline as the doctrine that is central in the reformer's theology.

Community (trans) formation: The community metaphor in the pastoral theology of Charles Gerkin

Peil, Gary Wayne Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2002 해외박사(DDOD)

Charles Gerkin is the Franklin N. Parker Professor of Pastoral Theology, Emeritus, at Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, Georgia. Gerkin has been a pioneering voice in the field of pastoral theology both as a clinical pastoral education supervisor and as a professor. The thesis of this dissertation is that the metaphor of community is the lynchpin of Gerkin's pastoral theology. The formation and transformation of community is a caring act. Therefore, Gerkin's use of the community metaphor is an important development in reclaiming the congregation as the primary context for pastoral care. The primary sources used in this project were Gerkin's published books, journal articles, essays, and book reviews. In addition to these primary sources, personal interviews were conducted with Dr. Gerkin. Chapter one examines the shaping forces in the life and thought of Charles Gerkin. His background, as the son of a Methodist minister, laid the foundation for his understanding of community and pastoral care. Chapter two will focus on the transition in Gerkin's life from a focus on chaplain ministry to his emphasis on pastoral theology. Chapter three will analyze Gerkin's understanding of the community of faith as the provider for ministry. Primary attention will be given to the distinction that Gerkin makes between the church as centrifugal community vs. the church as centripetal community. Chapter four will present Gerkin's hermeneutic project and examine the ways in which language and narrative impact and form community. Chapter five will focus on the ethical dimension of Gerkin's pastoral theology. Gerkin's pastoral theology calls for the community of the church to impact the surrounding culture. Chapter six revolves around challenges to community that are presented by different stages in the life cycle, and appropriate care responses in the context of the congregation. Chapter seven analyzes the major contributions of Charles Gerkin's use of the community metaphor to the field of pastoral theology. The study concludes that Gerkin's use of the community metaphor has made a significant contribution to the field of pastoral theology and offers a helpful theoretical basis for anchoring pastoral care in the context of the congregation.

The church as place in Dietrich Bonhoeffer's theology

Grace, W. Madison, II Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2012 해외박사(DDOD)

This dissertation argues that the three main doctrinal loci of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's theology---ecclesiology, Christology, and ethics---find continuity and expression in his concept of the church as place. In recognizing this theme of the church as place in Bonhoeffer's mind, one is able to see that from his earliest days to those in prison he was concerned with the church. This concern was expressed and developed in the three major theological enquiries of his life addressing not just formal ecclesiological themes but how Christians are to exist as the church in Christ for the world. Methodologically, this thesis is argued by examining a selection of Bonhoeffer's writings concerning each of the three doctrines in turn to exhibit how it functions and coinheres with the others. Thus the interconnection of ecclesiology with Christology and ethics becomes apparent. Specifically each doctrine will be examined chronologically from his major writings, especially coming out of Bonhoeffer's first work Sanctorum Communio, wherein an examination of it introduces Bonhoeffer's three doctrines as well as his methodological style. Chapters three, four, and five are similar in so far as each chapter concerns one of the three loci. The examination of ecclesiology shows the emphasis not just upon the structure of the church, but the necessary essence of the church existing in Jesus Christ. Building upon this, chapter four shows Bonhoeffer's turn to Christology wherein Christ exists not just as the church, but exists pro me. This concept is helpfully illustrated in the concept of Stellvertretung, vicarious representative action, which is an action Christ performs for humanity by incurring humanity's guilt and suffering. This develops into the final loci and chapter five on Ethics wherein Bonhoeffer finds Jesus Christ as the only form for ethics. Such an affirmation leads to an ethic of love wherein Christians, in the church in specific places, are to act as representatives for the world. The conclusion of the dissertation summarizes the previous work and helps one see the forest for the many trees of Bonheoffer's thought and thoughts. In the concept of the church as place, seen in each of the loci, one has a way to understand Bonhoeffer's theological concerns and impulses for ministry and life.

A necessary smelting: Leonhard Schiemer's theology of suffering

Wilkinson, Michael Don Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2011 해외박사(DDOD)

This dissertation argues that Leonhard Schiemer utilized key concepts of medieval German mysticism to express an Anabaptist theology of suffering. Schiemer, under the influence of the Theologia Germanica, combined mystical ideas with normative sixteenth century Anabaptism to develop a significant theology of the cross. The Introduction explains the thesis, outlines its methodology, and provides an overview of medieval German mysticism and Anabaptist theology. In addition, it argues for a greater appreciation of Schiemer's contribution to South German and Austrian Anabaptism. Chapter 1 gives a biographical account of Schiemer's life, highlighting his activity as an Anabaptist leader and his courageous martyrdom. This chapter also summarizes the letters of Schiemer that were analyzed in this dissertation. Chapter 2 identifies the primary mystical elements that Schiemer utilized. The first task determines what the author of the Theologia Germanica meant in his use of these ideas. Hans Hut's "the gospel of all creatures" is included as well. The second task compares Schiemer's use of these ideas to the Theologia Germanica (and Hans Hut) in order to determine how he adapted them for his theology of suffering. Chapter 3 analyzes the Anabaptist doctrine in Schiemer's writings to demonstrate that he represents typical sixteenth century Anabaptism. This chapter also explores the way he ties each of the major doctrines to the necessity of experiencing the pain of Christ's cross. Chapter 4 synthesizes the results of the two previous chapters to spell out Schiemer's theology of suffering. This chapter explains why, for Schiemer, the cross of suffering cannot be avoided. It also studies Schiemer's perspective regarding God's purpose in suffering and the importance of the Holy Spirit's comfort in suffering. The Conclusion provides a summary of the dissertation's conclusions and suggests possibilities for future explorations. The focus of this dissertation argues that Leonhard Schiemer utilized key concepts of medieval German mysticism and expressed them through Anabaptist theology to develop his kreutzestheologie. In doing this, Schiemer makes a unique contribution to South German and Austrian Anabaptism.

Neither mystic nor Muentzerite: The conversational theology of Hans Denck

Schowalter, Ralf Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2012 해외박사(DDOD)

This dissertation argues that Hans Denck's concept of theology and Christian life does not primarily depend on medieval mysticism and on the thought of Thomas Muntzer. Instead, Denck pursues conversational theology in discussion with various theological-theoretical traditions and religious phenomena of his times. Chapter one reviews the scholarly literature on South German Anabaptism and Hans Denck and shows a need to challenge assessments on the theology of Hans Denck which have become a commonplace since the 1970s. Chapter two presents the historical context and relevant biographical data of Hans Denck, a necessary precondition for an understanding of his written works. Chapter three concentrates on the refutation of inadequate assumptions concerning Denck's dependence on medieval mysticism. A reading of relevant primary sources is a fundamental first step. Complemented by a reading of secondary sources, the achieved definition of mysticism will be applied to the works of Denck. Chapter four challenges the assumption that Denck is strongly influenced by Thomas Muntzer. While considering Muntzer's and Denck's biographies, the focus is on a comparison of their extant written works. Because essential elements of the prevalent picture of Denck in scholarly literature have been called into question throughout the preceding chapters, chapter five will try to offer a new approach: An inductive study of Denck's works read in their chronological order, following an approach of conversational theology presented by Malcolm B. Yarnell III., reveals new insight into Denck's theology. In consequence, a reading of Denck's works from a believer's church perspective is needed for an adequate understanding and assessment of his works. A conclusion summarizes the findings of the present study and offers suggestions for further research.

A model of Clinical Pastoral Education for training pastors and church leaders in Ghana

Hormenoo, David Kwaku Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 2001 해외박사(DDOD)

Theological educators in Africa are searching for new and innovative ways of training pastors and church leaders to meet the changing and growing demands of the Christian Church in Africa. This dissertation is an attempt to develop a clinical pastoral education model that can be used in training pastors in Africa, specifically in the Ghana Baptist Seminary in Ghana, West Africa. The suggested model of clinical pastoral education will be developed using the Clinical Pastoral Education model used in North America. This North American model will be adapted and contextualized to fit the cultural context and needs of the Ghanaian society. A dialogical approach will be used in the suggested model to bring various disciplines such as psychology, sociology, theology, traditions, and customs to bear upon the giving of pastoral care. The introduction of the dissertation offers the definition of the words <italic> model, clinical, pastoral</italic>, and <italic>education</italic> concerning how they will be used throughout the paper. It also enumerates the purpose of using the clinical method of pastoral education. Chapter 1 discusses the demographics of Ghana and pastoral education in Ghana. A critical evaluation of pastoral education follows and the chapter concludes with the need to use clinical pastoral education in pastoral education in Ghana. Chapter 2 examines the history of Clinical Pastoral Education, its goals and methods. A critical evaluation of the goals and methods was followed by implications of these goals and methods for training Ghanaian pastors and church leaders. Chapter 3 explores pastoral identity and pastoral authority. The discussion around pastoral identity focuses on human development, the significance of psychosocial history, and self-awareness. Conversion experience, call to ministry, and spiritual growth were examined in relation to pastoral authority. Chapter 4 addresses pastoral competence. Pastoral formation, pastoral development, and pastoral functioning were examined and the chapter concludes with their implications to the training of pastors and church leaders in Ghana. Chapter 5 focuses on interpersonal competence with selected communication skills and the context for learning these skills. Some implications of these communication skills for training Ghanaian pastors and church leaders were discussed. Chapter 6 concerns pastoral theology and the theological integration of clinical pastoral education. The chapter focuses on biblical examples of theory and practice of ministry, and also pastoral care issues and methodology discussed by pastoral theologians from North America and Africa. Chapter 7 proposes a model of clinical pastoral education for training pastors and leaders in Ghana. The dissertation concludes with the summary of the contents, values, and contribution of the dissertation.