Project – An exposition on 2 Corinthians 5:17 and its implications to pastoral care for new convert in the Church

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The verse 2 Corinthians 5:17 from the New Testament of the Bible states, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This verse is often interpreted as a metaphor for spiritual rebirth and transformation, which is a central theme in Christian theology. The implications of this verse for pastoral care for new converts in the Church are profound and multifaceted (Borg, 2011).

Firstly, this verse suggests that becoming a Christian involves a radical transformation of self. This transformation is not merely a change in beliefs or behaviors, but a fundamental re-creation of the individual’s identity. This understanding can guide pastors in their care for new converts, emphasizing the importance of personal transformation and spiritual growth (Wright, 2018).

Secondly, the verse implies that the past is not definitive for a person’s future in Christ. This can be a source of hope and encouragement for new converts, especially those who may be struggling with guilt or shame from their past. Pastors can use this verse to reassure new converts of God’s forgiveness and the possibility of a fresh start (Stott, 2001).

Thirdly, the verse underscores the ongoing nature of the Christian journey. The phrase “the new has come” suggests that the process of becoming a new creation is not a one-time event, but a continual process. This can help pastors to set realistic expectations for new converts, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and ongoing spiritual growth (Piper, 2006).

However, it is important to note that the interpretation and application of this verse can vary widely among different Christian traditions and communities. Some may emphasize the radical nature of the transformation, while others may focus more on the gradual process of spiritual growth. Pastors need to be sensitive to these differences and adapt their pastoral care accordingly (McKnight, 2012).

Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 5:17 offers a rich and complex understanding of the Christian journey that can guide pastoral care for new converts in the Church. By emphasizing personal transformation, God’s forgiveness, and the ongoing nature of the Christian journey, pastors can provide effective and compassionate care for new converts (Yancey, 1997).

• Statement of the Problem

The problem statement for a study on 2 Corinthians 5:17 and its implications for pastoral care for new converts in the Church begins with the understanding of the verse itself. The verse states, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse is often interpreted as a call for transformation and renewal through faith in Christ. However, the practical application of this verse in pastoral care, particularly for new converts, is not well-defined or universally agreed upon.

The second issue arises from the lack of clarity on how this transformation should be facilitated within the Church. While the verse suggests a radical change, the specifics of this change, and how it should be guided and supported by pastoral care, are not explicitly outlined in the scripture. This leaves room for varied interpretations and practices, which can lead to inconsistencies in the pastoral care provided to new converts.

Thirdly, there is a problem of measuring the ‘new creation’. The verse implies a profound change in the individual, but how this change is recognized or measured within the Church is unclear. This lack of clarity can lead to confusion and potentially hinder the effective pastoral care of new converts.

Fourthly, the verse raises questions about the role of the Church and pastoral care in facilitating this transformation. The extent to which the Church should be involved in the personal spiritual journey of new converts is a contentious issue. Some argue for a more hands-on approach, while others advocate for a more individualistic journey of faith.

Fifthly, there is a problem of integration. Once the ‘new creation’ has occurred, how does the Church ensure the successful integration of these new converts into the existing Church community? This is a critical aspect of pastoral care that is often overlooked.

Lastly, there is a lack of empirical research on this topic. While there are numerous theological interpretations of 2 Corinthians 5:17, there is a dearth of research exploring its practical implications for pastoral care. This gap in the literature makes it difficult to develop evidence-based pastoral care strategies for new converts.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine an exposition on 2 Corinthians 5:17 and its implications to pastoral care for new convert in the Church. The specific objectives of the study are:

1. To thoroughly examine and interpret the verse 2 Corinthians 5:17 in its biblical context.
2. To explore the role of pastoral care in the spiritual growth and development of new converts in the Church.
3. To investigate the practical applications of 2 Corinthians 5:17 in the pastoral care of new converts.
4. To assess the current practices of pastoral care for new converts in the Church.

• Research Questions

The research questions are stated below:

1. What are the key elements and themes present in the verse 2 Corinthians 5:17 when examined in its biblical context?
2. How does pastoral care contribute to the spiritual growth and development of new converts in the Church?
3. In what ways can 2 Corinthians 5:17 be practically applied in the pastoral care of new converts?
4. What are the current practices of pastoral care for new converts in the Church and how effective are they?

• Significance of the Study

1. What are the key elements and themes present in the verse 2 Corinthians 5:17 when examined in its biblical context?
2. How does pastoral care contribute to the spiritual growth and development of new converts in the Church?
3. In what ways can 2 Corinthians 5:17 be practically applied in the pastoral care of new converts?
4. What are the current practices of pastoral care for new converts in the Church and how effective are they?

• Scope of the Study

The study examines an exposition on 2 Corinthians 5:17 and its implications to pastoral care for new convert in the Church

• Operational Definition of Terms

1. Exposition: This refers to a comprehensive description and explanation of an idea or theory. In the context of biblical studies, an exposition of a verse like 2 Corinthians 5:17 would involve a detailed interpretation and explanation of its meaning and significance.

2. 2 Corinthians 5:17: This is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. The verse reads, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

3. Implications: This term refers to the possible effects, consequences, or outcomes that could result from a particular action or situation. In this context, it would refer to the potential effects or outcomes of the teachings of 2 Corinthians 5:17.

4. Pastoral Care: This is a model of emotional, spiritual, and social support that is often offered by religious communities. It involves guidance, counseling, and support provided by religious leaders like pastors to their congregation.

5. New Convert: This term refers to someone who has recently adopted a new religious faith. In Christianity, a new convert is someone who has recently accepted Jesus Christ as their personal savior and has committed to following the teachings of the Bible.
6. Church: In a general sense, the Church refers to the entire body of believers in Christ worldwide. It can also refer to a local congregation or a physical building where worship services are held. In the context of your question, it likely refers to the community of believers that the new convert has joined

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Project – An exposition on 2 Corinthians 5:17 and its implications to pastoral care for new convert in the Church