Reference no: EM133363708

Assignment:

Discussion Thread: Epistemological Priorities

During this discussion, attention will be focused on the Epistemological Priorities as presented by David Powlison in the article, "Cure of Souls (and the Modern Psychotherapies)." An overview of this approach can be found in "Interact: Approaching Leadership Studies Assignment Guide."

Powlison's article focuses on the world of "Soul Care" (a more popular term is "counseling"). Within this course, we will use his model, but we will seek to apply the model to the world of leadership. His Epistemological Priorities are:

1. "Our first priority must be to articulate positive biblical truth, a systematic practical theology of those things our culture labels 'counseling issues.' A systematic theology of care and cure for souls will wed conceptual, methodological, and institutional elements."
2. "Our second priority must be to expose, debunk, and reinterpret alternative models, whether secular or religious...Our point of view radically critiques other points of view, and invites them to a thoughtful conversation."
3. "Our third priority must be to learn what we can from defective models. We will always be stimulated, challenged, and informed by those with whom we disagree and whom we aim to convert." (13-14)

For the initial post, each student must address the following 3 questions:

1. Why is it important Powlison's model start with the articulation of biblical truth?
2. What are some of the alternative starting places (other than Scripture) that culture uses as a foundation for leadership?
3. In attempting to start with the articulation of biblical truth as a foundation for leadership, what are some biblical doctrines or passages that come to mind that would be helpful in building a foundation for leadership?