Dr. Davis Reports on the Importance of Emotional Intelligence
Dr. John Jefferson Davis, senior professor of systematic theology and Christian ethics, has taught at Gordon-Conwell for almost fifty years. In that time, he has observed and addressed the changing emotional and spiritual needs of students.
In his latest article “Emotional Intelligence: A Missing Category in Discipleship Training and Spiritual Formation?” for the Journal of Spiritual Formation & Soul Care, he presents his research on the increasing need for seminaries and churches to help those under their spiritual and academic care to develop emotional intelligence. He explains, “The ability to properly manage one’s emotions is an essential characteristic of a follower of Jesus. For example, a mature disciple subdues the negative emotions of unrighteous anger and worry, and cultivates the positive emotions of joy and gratitude.”