There is a great omission in theological education: a seminary-wide approach to train pastors to develop an apostolic imagination. While there are exceptions, very few schools have this as a core value.
Yes, pastors are called to pastoral ministry. However, the apostolic mindset is necessary to assist with proper thoughts regarding equipping and sending of missionary teams. Most pastors process everything through a pastoral framework–including apostolic activity among unreached people groups. This paradigm is appropriate in many established church contexts, but limited and often hinders the multiplication of disciples, leaders, and churches. The pastor also needs an apostolic imagination, but seminaries have no clue as to what it is or are aware of the omission.
Many missiologists are aware of this omission and the need for the pastoral mind to include the apostolic imagination. However, these brothers and sisters often find themselves struggling for respect from their colleagues and students. Are not missiologists the atheological professors whose lectures are just stories about dead missionaries and eating bugs in the jungle?
There is a problem. It is not new.
I plan to present a paper at this year’s Evangelical Missiological Society titled: “Educating Pastors Toward an Apostolic Imagination.” It is my hope and prayer that this will assist in bringing about healthy change.
If you are attending EMS, please check the schedule for the location of my Friday afternoon presentation. I hope to see you there. If you are unable to be present, please read over my paper (linked above) and share it with other professors (especially those outside of the missions department). Help start the conversation for healthy Kingdom change.
JD, unfortunately I won’t be attending the event, but will download and read your paper. Very interesting topic/study. Would you happen to know if your presentation will be recorded and available for public viewing?
Thanks, Angela. The presentations are not recorded.