In recent years much has been written on spiritual direction. However,
confusion and at times outright contradiction exist between the aims and
methodologies of various models of Christian spiritual direction. In
order to develop solid criteria for evaluating and critiquing these
models it is necessary to root the practice of spiritual direction in
the biblical record. The intention of this study is to provide such
biblical moorings by examining the Apostle Paul as a case study in his
function as a spiritual director--with respect to his aims and praxis of
spiritually forming the members of the congregations he founded. ""In
this wise, discerning, and pastorally suggestive book, Vic Copan
unravels before our eyes how the theme of imitating Paul can reshape our
spiritual direction to become more Christian in theory and practice.
Believe me, there is no book like this on the market. Here is a true
pastoral theology of Paul."" --Scot McKnight, Karl A. Olsson Professor
in Religious Studies, North Park University ""Victor Copan has achieved
a breakthrough in his combination of Greco-Roman foundations, close
exegesis of relevant Pauline texts, full engagement with post-modern
deconstruction of Paul's imitation language, and pastoral considerations
for those involved in spiritual direction. Students of Paul's letters in
the academy and those involved in either side of spiritual direction
relationships in the parish will benefit from this well-conceived book.
Copan delivers what he promises in clearly written chapters that are
rooted in solid research, careful exegesis of the Pauline imitation
passages, and open-eyed engagement with the pitfalls and possibilities
of Christian spiritual direction today."" --Mark Reasoner, Associate
Professor of Biblical Studies, Bethel University ""In our age of
political correctness, it sounds somewhat out of place to hear Christian
leaders enjoining others to imitate their lifestyle, in particular
because of the connotations of pride, position, and privilege. This
study engages rigorously with recent scholarship on the Pauline use of
the metaphor and makes a clear and unapologetic defense of its use in
pastoral contexts. Such a carefully argued thesis will make a valuable
contribution to the fields both of Pauline scholarship and pastoral
training."" --Andrew D. Clark, King's College, University of Aberdeen
Victor A. Copan is Associate Professor of Ministry, Palm Beach Atlantic
University, FL.
