Original Research - Special Collection: UP Faculty of Theology Centenary Volume One
Calling, is there anything special about it?
Submitted: 07 September 2015 | Published: 15 July 2016
About the author(s)
Malan Nel, Department of Practical Theology, University of Pretoria, South AfricaEric Scholtz, Department of Practical Theology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
Abstract
Within the Reformed tradition, ‘calling’ is a core concept. Often, this biblical verse is cited when a pastor is installed or a new candidate is ordained, ‘The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it’ (1 Th 5:24 NIV). It is also confessed within this tradition that all Christians are called to be faithful ministers of the graces of God in whatever profession they may serve. In some Presbyterian congregations, it is a practice to say at the baptism of a child, ‘This is your ordination to ministry’. This article focuses on what is meant by calling when we use it in so many ways and with so many meanings. The first part explores the use of the concept in church history by different scholars and leaders – like in the Reformation. The second part briefly explores the implications and impact of the calling of someone into full-time congregational ministry.
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Crossref Citations
1. Exploring Uniting Reformed Church of South Africa African pastors’ well-being, calling and healing: An interactive qualitative analysis
Elizabeth C. Rudolph, Christina Landman
HTS Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies vol: 75 issue: 4 year: 2019
doi: 10.4102/hts.v75i4.5539