Analysis Of Oden's Work On Pastoral Theology

Over the past two years, through moments of deep reflection I have come to appreciate the reality that the journey of the seminarian is replete with the necessary work of deconstructing and reconstructing formative behaviors, thoughts, and theological ideologies. Through plenaries, readings, discussions, research, and practice, seminarians are provided the critical tools to help sharpen awareness, inspire passion, bring clarity with regard to the specificity of ones call, and finally, enhance and develop ministerial identity.

To date, the lectures and outlined readings have had a profound impact on reshaping my personal ministry perspective. In the one-man stage play, The Actual Dance, I was forced to grapple with the harsh inescapable reality of illness. The presentation …show more content…
Furthermore, The text outlines a detailed look into the function and application of this crucial spiritual discipline. Perhaps the most practical and enjoyable read thus far is Oden’s work on Pastoral Theology. Oden covers relevant topics such as preaching, the call to ministry, and pastoral care of the dying among others. I particularly enjoyed the chapter on preaching. Oden quotes thinkers such as Calvin, Barth, and Augustine to name a few, to reiterate the importance of the meeting of the intellectual and the spiritual at the sacred center of the act of preaching. Oden’s view presupposes the earnest and thorough preparation of the speaker, in both study and prayer. I completely agree with Oden’s thought on the matter. Combing through this particular chapter I experienced a sense of excitement and passion. My excitement may possibly stem from the fact that I would like to become the type of preacher of which Oden speaks - a student of scripture who is able to skillfully express truth with spiritual clarity and intellectual integrity of a given