Its no secret that the church as an institution in America is undergoing great change, and with it the role and function of clergy. In this episode, Ted Smith joins the show to talk about the history of formal theological education in the United States, the transition from the standing order to voluntary associations as the primary sociological gathering model, the professionalization of ministry, and the emergence of denominations as we know them. He also talks about the downsides of the professionalization such as clergy being lonely, isolated, and out of touch. Ted also speaks about growing trends such as Christian leaders being formed outside of professional education, smaller and more homogenous denominations, and Mega-churches and micro-churches.
Ted Smith is Charles Howard Candler Professor of Divinity and Associate Dean of Faculty at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology. He holds degrees from Duke University, Oxford University, Princeton Theological Seminary, and Emory University. He is the author of three books: The New Measures, Weird John Brown, and, most recently, The End of Theological Education, which reviewers have hailed as a generational landmark in reflection on theological education. He has edited books on sexuality and ordination, contemporary issues in preaching, and economic inequality. Smith also serves as director of Theological Education between the Times and the editor of the series of books that have grown out of that project. Ordained to ministry in the Presbyterian Church (USA), Smith served as pastor to two congregations in upstate New York prior to beginning his doctoral studies.
Presenting Sponsor:
Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.
Supporting Sponsors:
I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian'
Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.
Future Christian Team:
Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer
Martha Tatarnic – Guest Host / Co-Host
Paul Romig–Leavitt – Executive Producer
Danny Burton - Producer
Dennis Sanders – Producer
Pastoral Health, Leading Change, and Building Connection: Martha & Loren highlight season 15
Brian McLaren on Leading and Living after Doom
How to Lead Faithful Innovation in your church
New models of clergy credentialing: Jonathan Foster talks about the Open Table Network
Nichole Torbitzky talks campus ministry and what the next generation needs from church.
Wounded Pastors: Carol Howard talks about the challenges clergy face
Doug Powe on Sustaining while Disrupting
Mark Feldmeir on Life after God (and Covid)
AI Faith: Artificial Intelligence experts explore AI's role in Church
Liz Cooledge Jenkins talks 'Nice' Church Patriarchy
Jessica Dominguez on Mobilizing Churches for Affordable Housing
Dave Boden on Belonging before Believing and Stirring Spiritual Curiosity
Stressed Pastors Club: Kinsie Tate on Finding Balance and Hope in Ministry
Womanist Ministry: Irie Session talks Preaching, the Black Church Tradition, and Womanist Theology
Dea Jenkins on living into the purpose God has placed on our hearts
Jay Kim on why digital tools don't bring spiritual transformation
Navigating the Coming Wave of Church Property Transition with Mark Elsdon
Understanding the Impact of Societal Changes on Congregational Dynamics: Insights from Dr. Scott Thumma
Justin Anthony and Why Leadership is a Myth
Join Podbean Ads Marketplace and connect with engaged listeners.
Advertise Today
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Hello Heaven Podcast
Cast The Word
Let Me Be Frank | Bishop Frank Caggiano’s Podcast | Diocese of Bridgeport, CT
The Kingdom Power Fellowship Podcast
The Bible Recap
The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)