ANALOGY OR HOMOLOGY - AN INVESTIGATION OF THE CONGRUENCY OF SYSTEMS-THEORY AND BIBLICAL THEOLOGY IN PASTORAL LEADERSHIP

Pastoral interventions have generally assumed a linear, cause-effect a pproach. General systems theory and family systems theory (Bowen Theor y) provide a more sophisticated approach to the complexities of workin g with the congregation as a living system. This article explores the crucial question of biblical congruency by examining the biblical witn ess to the church as the family of God, the body of Christ, and the co venant community. In the context of affirming substantial congruency, a final theological critique of the assumptions of systems theory is o ffered.