Leadership patterns and the development of ideology in early Christianity

Journal/Book: Sociol Relig. 1997; 58: Marist Hall Room 108, Catholic Univ America, Washington, DC 20064. Assoc Sociology Religion. 323-341.

Abstract: Gerd Theissen opened up important questions concerning the conflict in Earliest Christianity between ''charismatic'' and ''community organizer'' forms of itinerant leadership. This paper focuses upon the equally significant distinction between itinerant leadership and leadership from resident members of the community, examining evidence for the development from the former to the latter in early Christianity and evidence of the conflicts and difficulties caused by this transformation. It is also suggested that this change may be closely related to the development of more socially conservative patterns of instruction, such as those found in the ''household codes.'' These forms of instruction are increasingly ideological insofar as they provide (often theological) legitimation and naturalization of the dominant serial order. In this particular trajectory - dominant at least within the New Testament itself - the transformation of leadership patterns and the development of increasingly ideological forms of instruction are inextricably interconnected.

Note: Article Horrell D, Univ Exeter, Dept Theol, Queens Bldg, Exeter EX4 4QH, Devon, ENGLAND

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