Center for Pastor Theologians Journal 13, 1 (2026)

The Center for Pastor Theologians Journal (formerly the Bulletin of Ecclesial Theology) is published bi-annually by the Center for Pastor Theologians.

The latest volume carries the below essays on a theology of the Spirit.

The essays are available from here, or the whole journal can be downloaded as a pdf from here.

Adam Copenhaver

What Is Preaching?

This paper constructs a definition of preaching so that we can both better appreciate the role of preaching in the life of the church and better discern what it means to preach well. As we proceed, we will consider (1) the problem with terminology, (2) three levels of word ministry and where preaching fits within them, (3) a proposed definition of preaching, and (4) warnings regarding making too much and too little of preaching.

Paul J. Morrison

Cultivating the Unity of the Spirit: A Pneumatological Case for Triage

This essay argues that the task of theological triage is a work of the Holy Spirit and that the church is called to foster its unity by keeping to that task. The essay does not seek to make a distinct contribution to triage’s traditional categories; it will employ the basic descriptions of primary, secondary, and tertiary doctrines. Instead, it will aim to capture the essential truths of the argument for triage, make claims informed by those truths which need not be adopted universally, and offer practical applications which will hopefully bear fruit in any given ecclesial context.

Jim Samra

Should Solomon Have Asked for Something Else? The Holy Spirit and Preaching

Reflecting on Solomon’s request for wisdom and subsequent descent into folly, this article asks if Solomon should have asked for something else, namely, the Holy Spirit. Working through both Old and New Testament passages, the article argues in the affirmative. The better request for the Holy Spirit is then applied to pastoral ministry, specifically the preaching vocation, to encourage pastors to seek the Spirit as they labor to serve the church.

Austin Shaw

Can a Pastor Grow in Discernment?

This paper argues that while a pastor may or may not grow in certain rhetorical skills, he can grow in knowing the members of his congregation, studying the shared social context of his local church, and applying Scripture into their present situations.

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