Comments on: Sabbatical Journal 1

By: Nicholas Anton

Nicholas Anton — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 14:26:09 +0000

re; “Peterson presents himself as a man who has been searching his entire writing career for what it means to be a pastor.”

Would it, perchance, be better to research and evaluate what it means to “pastor”, rather than what it means to “be a pastor”? A person is/becomes what he does rather than does/tries to do what he is by appointment and definition. If it was necessary for Christ to take on human flesh and experience humanity in order to be our High Priest, how much more to those who tentatively shepherd the church. Academics and youthful exuberance are fine and good, but never take the place of experience. That is why Paul instructed Timothy and Titus to place “older” men “elders” to pastor and shepherd the flock.

In the universal ekklesia, everyone can help feed the flock “over which the Holy Spirit has made you (unofficial) overseer” (which is composed of all true believers within one’s association) according to his/her own experience and ability. In a bureaucratic church, only those delegated as official “pastors” can freely function in that capacity. Many of these are “youthful” pastors who only have book/second hand knowledge.

By: jim

jim — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 18:55:49 +0000

I heard Peterson at a conference this summer. I’ve read a lot of his stuff and always appreciate what he writes, but I like you found that he wandered quite a bit and that it was difficult to focus so that you didn’t miss those zingers and incredible insights he has to offer.

By: Tony Kummer

Tony Kummer — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:15:02 +0000

Thanks. I’ll have to catch up with you in May. I avoid the city except on Monday when I have class.

By: Jeff

Jeff — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 12:58:01 +0000

“the church we want is the enemy of the church we have.”

That line just kicked my butt.

I’d be interested in reading more about what he said in relation to this.

By: Anna A

Anna A — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 10:39:28 +0000

Enjoy it, and I know that I am grateful for any thing that you share. I’m especially encouraged by stories, because I tend to be nourished more by them than by straight theology.

By: Kelly

Kelly — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 02:08:16 +0000

Michael,
Praying that God gives you rest and a fresh vision for His plans for your ministry. I really enjoy reading your posts – they are always thought provoking and encouraging to me – as we all journey together in our own personal relationship with God.
Blessings!

By: Michael Spencer

Michael Spencer — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 02:02:01 +0000

Leaving Wed.

When I start my sabbatical, I’ll decide what I’m going to do on the net. That will be the middle of May.

By: steve yates

steve yates — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:59:01 +0000

Can’t wait to hear how your Sabbatical goes, iMonk. Just wondering if you’re planning on giving details about how you’re structuring your time away from work (readings, meditation, none of the above, etc.) – it would definitely be helpful for those of us considering a similar departure from normalcy.

steve yates

By: Tony Kummer

Tony Kummer — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:54:15 +0000

Will you still be in Lou next Monday? If so, I would like to meet the infamous iMonk.