Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-2008

Abstract

This essay proposes a hermeneutic of change, grounded in theology and theory, which can inform church leaders’ strategic actions in the midst of change. Drawing from the work of practical theology, it looks at four vantage points proposed by Don Browning: descriptive, historical, systematic, and strategic. The descriptive view offers two insights: God is active and present in the midst of change and God’s people are simultaneously saints and sinners. The historical perspective points out that God has always been in the midst of change, but God’s love and promises for the world have not changed. Systematic theology fuses the descriptive and the historical in a thoughtfully crafted argument that seeks to be true across time and place. Finally, strategic theology offers leaders the tools to use languages, relationships, and practices in managing change.

Publication Title

Journal of Religious Leadership

ISSN

1935-6943

Volume

7

Issue

2

First Page

13

Last Page

38

Published Citation

Elton, Terri Martinson. “Leading in the Midst of Change: A Theologically Grounded, Theoretically Informed Hermeneutic of Change.” Journal of Religious Leadership 7, no. 2 (September 2008): 13–38.

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