Domestic Piety in the Ministry of John Angell James
Abstract
ABSTRACT
DOMESTIC PIETY IN THE MINISTRY OF
JOHN ANGELL JAMES
Jeffery Steven Wright, Ph.D.
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2013
Chair: Dr. Timothy Paul Jones
Chapter 1 introduces John Angell James as a person worthy of recognition and research. James's godly character, pastoral leadership and worldwide influence, unheard of to most except the astute historian, presents the foundation for the significance of the study. Additionally, a definition of terms is given in order to help the reader contextualize James's rhetoric.
Chapter 2 gives an introduction into the childhood and ministry call of John Angell James. Understanding the historical background in which James formulated his conviction toward domestic piety is paramount. Thorough consideration is given in this chapter to major societal movements and historical issues that made the world in which James lived.
Chapter 3 examines James's ministry at Carrs Lane, his personal suffering, his passion for writing and work at shaping congregationalism. James was not only being challenged and shaped by external world events, but every day he was influenced by his church ministry and his times of great suffering. It was not long before his passion for the family and its immortal purpose would become the focal point of many of his writings.
Chapter 4 examines James's exhortations regarding domestic piety through his writings and sermons. James had much to say throughout his life directed to fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters. This chapter also demonstrates through James's preaching and writings how his familial focus developed a thorough understanding and ministry practice for parents.
Chapter 5 carefully analyzes James's integration of domestic piety and evangelism. James unapologetically admonished domestic piety and his ministry bore the fruit of this emphasis.
Chapter 6 offers practical implications that will aid pastors and church leaders in their local church ministries. James's life and ministry in many ways serves as an exemplary model for pastors to follow. There are principles that James embraced that are transferrable to today's pastors who find themselves in similar situations.