Epistemology and the use of scripture in pastoral care and counselling
Date
2012-03
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This dissertation explores the topic of epistemology and the use of Scripture in pastoral care and
counseling. It examines the epistemological foundations of all theology and ministry in order to
provide clarity and guidance for pastoral care within our current early twenty-first century
context. The key problem that is implied in the topic ‘Epistemology and the use of Scripture in
pastoral care and counseling’ is the following: What normative and methodological role should
the Bible play in the counseling situation and what is the basis for this role? This problem
essentially deals with the interaction between biblical and extra-biblical data in the pastoral
encounter and how they are to be related. The following dynamics exist in systemic
relationship: understanding and use of Scripture; epistemological foundations; theological
method; ministry practices.
The key assumption is that theology and pastoral care must deal with epistemological concerns,
and that failure to do so has negative consequences. An indissoluble link exists between theory
and practice: the elements of epistemology, methodology and practice should be consistent and
in line with each other. This serves as a vital criterion for the integrity and validity of the various
theories and practices that are examined and proposed in this dissertation.
Pastoral care and biblical counseling are examined in terms of these dynamics.
Comprehensiveness in epistemology, basic theological method, and pastoral practice is
recommended. This is proposed as the best response to specific challenges posed by our
current postmodern and pluralistic context.
This research argues that it is possible to have a comprehensive and inclusive approach to
knowledge, with a related comprehensive and organic practice of biblical counseling, while
retaining an emphasis on the uniqueness of Jesus Christ and the key normative role of the
Scriptures, all within a valid epistemological grounding.
The issue of validation or warrant for this proposal is neither strictly foundational nor relative. It
exists somewhere in between and finds its locus ultimately in God. Such a stance is firmly
placed within the dynamics of faith as it interacts with reason and experience. There is therefore
no ultimate, empirical proof that can be given, but this is true for knowledge and truth claims in
all disciplines and realms of knowledge.
Description
Thesis (DTh)--Stellenbosch University, 2012.
Keywords
Epistemology, Dissertations -- Practical Theology, Theses -- Practical Theology, Pastoral care, Knowledge, Theory of