Theological Hermeneutical Reflections on Paul’s Perspective of Pastoral Roles
John Kwasi Fosu 
Issue: Vol.11 No. 9 2025 Issue Article 1 pp. 442 – 451
DOI : https://doi.org/10.38159/erats.20251191 | Published online 29th September, 2025.
© 2025 The Author(s). This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
This article aims to examine Paul’s teachings on the role of the pastor in 1 Tim. 3:1-7 and related passages in 2 Tim. 4:1-5 and Acts 20:26-31 from a theological hermeneutics perspective. Through theological interpretation of 1 Tim. 3:1-7, it becomes clear that Paul’s primary emphasis is on highlighting key images that illustrate the character and vital responsibilities of the pastor. These qualities are holistic, covering social, managerial, and spiritual maturity, as well as social and emotional competencies necessary for effective pastoral ministry. Theologically reflecting on Paul’s conception of pastoral roles reveals certain implications for academia and the ecclesial community. Contrary to traditional views that depict pastors mainly as shepherds, teachers, missionaries, and evangelists, and taking care of themselves and their families, this study contends that the pastor’s multifaceted role guides contemporary leaders and pastors to create balance and ensure that the church and community become therapeutic.
Keywords: Pastoral Roles, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, Therapeutic community, Theological Hermeneutics
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Rev. Dr John Kwasi is the Senior Lecturer at the School of Theology and Ministry of the Ghana Baptist University College, Kumasi. He is also the Executive Director of Glocal Compassion gGmbH, Germany.
Fosu, John Kwasi. “Theological Hermeneutical Reflections on Paul’s Perspective of Pastoral Roles.” E-Journal of Religious and Theological Studies 11, no. 9(2025): 442 – 451. https://doi.org/10.38159/erats.20251191.
© 2025 The Author(s). Published and Maintained by Noyam Journals. This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
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