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Chapter 7: "The Shepherd and His Flock: Authority, Structure, and Ritual"

Michael R. Leming, Ph.D.
Professor of Sociology
Spring Semester 1998

  1. What is the symbolism of the pulpit, and of the open Bible?
  2. In what ways does the pastor have considerable personal and institutional authority? Does this help us understand why "televangelists" are able to build up such a following, collect so much money, and in some cases have so much political influence--and how they are in a position to be able to abuse their authority at times?
  3. Why does the pastor have so much authority, both charismatic and traditional? How is pastoral authority a model for all authority relationships (including those in the home)?
  4. Why is the church power structure all male?"

Go back to Sociology 265 - Discussion Questions

If you have any questions or comments please email:

leming@stolaf.edu

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