•  
  •  
 

Abstract

As the contemporary church travels deeper into the postmodern era, modern methods of education and catechesis have remained. In this paper, a foundational set of principles drawn from Michael Gorman’s analysis of Pauline spirituality—known as “cruciformity”—is examined and presented as a lens to inform and support the teaching ministry in churches. Gorman’s thought provides a fresh way to understand the central theme of Paul’s correspondence to the first century churches.

The paper begins with a brief explanation of the current conditions regarding the adult education ministry of churches and then examines Gorman’s cruciform patterns of faith, love, power, and hope, in detail. With careful study and reflection on these four narrative patterns of Pauline spirituality, students can understand the gospels and the Pauline corpus in ways consistent with the crucified Christ.

Author Bio

Benjamin D. Pickett was born in Garland, TX. Ben received his Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University in 1992 and earned his Master of Arts in Religion (2006) and Doctor of Ministry (2013) degrees from Abilene Christian University. He is currently engaging in additional graduate work at Fordham University.

Ben currently serves as the discipleship minister for the Highland Church of Christ in Abilene, TX, after several years working in a similar role in Lubbock, TX. His primary areas of ministry interest include spirituality, spiritual formation, and community outreach. Ben enjoys teaching and is currently working as an adjunct instructor in the department of Bible, Missions, and Ministry at Abilene Christian University.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Download

Share

COinS