Unlocking the Wisdom of the Past
The Forgotten Heritage of Evangelical Pastors
Many evangelical pastors today are unfamiliar with the church fathers, despite their profound influence on Christian theology and ministry. This lack of awareness can have a significant impact on their ministries, leaving them without the rich wisdom and insights of the early church.
A Gap in Ministry Training
Coleman Ford, co-author of a new book on pastoral virtues and early church figures, believes that this gap in knowledge is partly due to a functional ignorance of church history. Many evangelicals view anything before the Reformation or 17th century as suspect, tainted by Catholic thinking and Roman Catholicism. This misconception has led to a disconnection from the early church fathers, who shaped the way we think, read Scripture, and approach pastoral ministry.
Peeling Back the Curtain
Ford argues that the church fathers were ordinary, fallible men who were deeply committed to Christ’s church and the gospel. By understanding their thoughts and approaches, we can charitably critique and learn from them, removing the taboo surrounding their teachings. This appreciation for history can help evangelical Christians today to recognize the fathers as brothers in the faith, rather than distant, mysterious figures.
Cultivating a Love for History
Ford emphasizes the importance of instilling an appreciation for history in our churches. He believes that Christians should care about history because our faith is rooted in historical events. By recognizing the significance of these events, we can understand our heritage and our place within the broader tradition of the faith.
The Value of Patristic Wisdom
While some may view the church fathers as untrustworthy due to their unfamiliar language and concepts, Ford argues that this fear is unfounded. By inhabiting the world of the fathers, we can understand their commitments and learn from their wisdom. This approach can help evangelical Christians to engage with the fathers in a more nuanced and charitable way, recognizing their value as vital conversation partners and friends.
Rediscovering Our Heritage
Ultimately, Ford’s goal is to help pastors and evangelical Christians appreciate the church fathers and their contributions to our faith. By embracing a classic, patristic vision of ministry, we can tap into the rich wisdom of the past, enriching our ministries and deepening our understanding of the Christian faith.
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