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

the South African pastor’s wife: does she experience the same ‘stardom’ as
that of her American counterpart? Are unrealistic expectations placed on her?
Is the church adhering to biblical principles with regard to the role that the
pastor’s wife may or may not play?
1.1.2. Statement of the Problem
The objective of this study is to ascertain how pastors’ wives in
Somerset West understand their roles within the local church and to evaluate
how well current praxis in the sample churches lines up with a biblical
perspective on the roles and responsibilities of pastors’ wives.
The following constitute the major questions that I will seek to address
in this research:
• What is the current situation regarding the role of the pastor’s wife in
the context of churches in Somerset West, Western Cape?
• How does the current situation compare with the biblical requirements?
• What biblical principles are needed to assist the pastor’s wife in
understanding her role in the local church in the South African context?
• What teaching does the local church require in order to understand the
role of the pastor’s wife in the local church biblically?
1.1.3. Elucidation of the Problem
Misconceptions are widely held concerning the role of the pastor’s wife
in the local church by both the church and the pastor’s wife. Such
misunderstandings cause major problems in terms of expectations and
involvement in the local church ministry.
As opposed to other positions in the church, like elder or deacon, there
is not a specific job description or list of duties that depict the role of the
pastor’s wife. Each wife is different and possesses different spiritual gifts.
Placing her in a uniform office may limit her capabilities and purpose in the
church, if indeed she has a specific purpose within the church. As there is
currently no defined role for a pastor’s wife, identifying her purpose is
necessary.
12