The Biblical Role of the Pastor's wife - South African Theological ...

CHAPTER 4
Opportunities and Recommendations
Now that both the real-life situation and biblical analysis is complete, it
is imperative that a comparison is done in order to evaluate any areas that
need attention, ultimately asking the question “what must we do?” (Cowan,
2000). This chapter will be dedicated to identifying any inconsistencies
between the scriptural mandate and situation praxis. Recognising needs of
pastors’ wives and introducing opportunities to meet those needs will be
considered. Many opportunities exist for wives to gain identity and fulfilment
as they serve in the home and local church.
What practical steps can be implemented whereby a congregational
member can understand and appreciate the pastor’s wife, her family and the
ministry they dedicated themselves to? What must compel the pastor’s wife to
seek guidance and education in her role as an influential member of the local
church in order to minister effectively along side her husband? These
questions shall be addressed practically in this chapter, as they are vital to
providing a way forward for the local church.
4.1. Introduction: Identifying Inconsistency and Uniformity
As previously discussed there is no designated position or office within
the church labelled “pastor’s wife”. This is also true from a scriptural
perspective. Some churches employ the pastor’s wife, together with her
husband as a pastoral couple, in order to fulfil certain tasks within the
congregation and/or minister alongside her husband so that the needs of
female congregants are met. In this case, it would be assumed that the
church leadership have a set contract and job description so that expectations
are clear and responsibilities are met.
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