Daniel R. Hyde |

Reformed Catholic Theology

A Catechism on Pastoral Theology

Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin

A catechism on pastoral theology. What follows is a brief catechism, or, instruction using questions and answers. This catechism reflects on my understanding and application of the Word of God over twenty years in pastoral ministry. No doubt there are many topics I need to add, but it’s a start!

Introduction

  1. What is pastoral theology?

The study of the office, calling, equipping, character, and duties of the pastor.

The Office of the Pastor

  1. What is “office?”

A distinct and official function.

  1. What offices are there?

The general office of believer and various special offices.

  1. What special offices were there in the Old Testament?

Prophet, priest, and king.

  1. What special offices are there in the New Testament?

Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. (e.g., Eph. 4)

The Calling of the Pastor

  1. How is a pastor called?

Through the internal calling of the Holy Spirit and the external calling of the church. (e.g., Acts 13)

The Equipping of the Pastor

  1. How is the pastor equipped for this office?

By the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

  1. In what ways does the Spirit anoint the pastor?

In illuminating his mind to know the truth of God, moving his will to obey the will of God, touching his heart to experience the love of God, and opening his mouth to proclaim the gospel of God.

The Character of the Pastor

  1. What is the character of the pastor to be?

Example of faith and of godliness. (e.g., Heb. 13:7)

The Duties of the Pastor

  1. What are the duties of a pastor?

The ministry of the Word and prayer. (e.g., Acts 6:4)

  1. In what ways is the Word administered publicly?

Through preaching and through sacraments, which are visible appendices to the preached Word. (e.g., Matt. 28:19–20)

Preaching
  1. How is the pastor to fulfill his ministry of the Word?

In preparation and administration.

  1. How is the pastor to prepare for the ministry of the Word?

By diligent and prayerful study of the Word. (e.g., Ezra 7:10)

  1. How is the pastor to administer the ministry of the Word?

Both publicly and privately. (e.g., Acts 20:20)

  1. How is the ministry of the Word exercised publicly?

In the public reading and preaching of the Word. (e.g., 1 Tim. 4:13)

  1. When is the Word to be preached?

At all times, in season and out of season. (e.g., 2 Tim. 4:2)

  1. How is the ministry of the Word exercised privately?

In visiting people according to their needs.

  1. What are some of these needs?

Family visitation, hospital visits, spiritual counsel, and evangelism.

Sacraments
  1. When should baptism be administered?

As soon as feasible.

  1. When should the Lord’s Supper be administered?

Frequently.

Prayer
  1. How is the pastor to exercise his ministry of prayer?

Both publicly and privately.

  1. What is public prayer?

The minister acting as the voice of the congregation before the Lord.

  1. What use are forms of prayer?

As examples and helps, but not as required prayers.

Conclusion

  1. What is goal (τέλος) of pastoral theology?

The glory of God, edification of the saints, and the salvation of sinners.

A Catechism on Pastoral Theology (to be continued…)

Support the ongoing cost of this site, the Spanish site in-development, and mailing theology books to pastors-in-need outside of the U.S by visiting our merchandise store or with a donation.