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
Lori Tapia talks about when inclusivity excludes
JJ Peterson talks marketing for churches
Nick Warnes talks progressive church planting
Heather Thompson Day on when It’s Not Your Turn
Jose Martinez and the power of story
Loren Richmond Jr takes some time to share his story
Shane Claiborne talks guns and peacemaking
Stephen Lewis and Matthew Wesley Williams describe Another Way
Gabriel Gordon describes a Participatory Theology of Biblical Inspiration
Steve Ringelspaugh talks new digital ministry strategies
Richard Stearns wants you to Lead Like it Matters to God
HL Hix talks about The Gospel
The Many Are Here to talk about worship - Part 2
The Many are Here to talk about worship - Part 1
Chris Benek talks techno-theology and Christian transhumanism
Bruce Reyes-Chow defends kindness
Carla Leon describes Spiritual Enterprise
Rachel Pieh Jones shares how Muslim friends led her closer to Jesus
Cameron Trimble talks about planting progressive churches
Melissa Florer-Bixler tells How to Have an Enemy
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)