A History of, and Response to, Theological Thinking About Ordaining Gays and Lesbians in the Presbyterian Church (USA)
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to explore the theological concept of humanity created in God's image as a context for a discussion of humans created as fully embodied persons that includes their sexuality, leading to the research question: is a leadership position within the Presbyterian Church (USA) a unique calling requiring specific human characteristics and excluding others? Presbyterians believe Jesus Christ calls individuals to ordained ministries.
Contents
Introduction
Cultural background. The cultural question facing the Presbyterian Church (USA) ; 1978 Presbyterian Blue Book, Part I, Report ; Gay and lesbian ordination controversy is not unique to America
Natural theology. The impact of natural theology ; Defining the terms ; Why is Karl Barth so important for this discussion? : a case in point ; The Brunner-Barth debate
Image of God. The implications of humanity created in God's image ; Paul's vision of the natural world and human fallenness
Qualifications for leadership. Christian leadership and prerequisite qualifications
Conclusion
Original item type
PDF
Original extent
125 pages
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