“Sheep have teeth, and they use them.” Dr. Craig Barnes, former professor at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, once told me this as I was sitting at a table at Pittsburgh Seminary bemoaning a parishioner’s behavior in an administrative meeting. Throughout my time as a pastor I have heard story after story of persons who have left…
Books for Pastors: Biblical Studies
What are some books that every pastor should read? PTS faculty were asked this question in spring 2023. Consider these 13 recommendations for biblical studies and interpretation: Interpretation and Hermeneutics Ellen F. Davis and Richard B. Hays, The Art of Reading Scripture Brent A. Strawn, The Incomparable God: Readings in Biblical Theology John Thompson, Reading…
Why Constitution Day Matters for Christians
In the United States, Sept. 17 is designated as Constitution Day. The holiday commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution in Philadelphia on Sept. 17, 1787. The Constitutional Convention, made up of delegates from 12 states, met beginning in May 1787 to draft the document. Why Should Christians Care? The original draft of the Constitution…