|
| Christian news worldwide |
 Home |
 Archives |
 Subscriptions |
 Adverts |
 Find a church |
 About us |
 Contact us |
 Site Map |
 PrintableVersion Going the distancePerseverance for pastorsGOING THE DISTANCE 'This is a book of unusual insight and pertinent, practical wisdom for both minister and the congregation', writes David Jackman in his foreword. Peter Brain, the author shares, in a very readable way, lessons learned through 30 years of pastoral ministry, both in the local church and now as a bishop in the Australian church, pastoring pastors. The book has much to teach and challenge us in a church climate where many churches are searching for pastors, where a growing number of pastors are quitting full-time ministry, and too many conflicts and misunderstandings exist between pastor and congregation. Leadership in any church is increasingly demanding in today's world, even in the context of a rediscovery of team ministry and the outworking of the New Testament emphasis on the total ministry of the body of Christ. Peter Brain powerfully speaks into this situation. The book is very practical and faithful to Scripture. Instructive chapters on 'Burnout - friend or foe?', 'Stress and the demands of ministry', 'Learning to say no', 'Depression doesn't have to be depressing', 'Anger, using it constructively', 'The pastor's family', etc., all include clear plans to promote action. The author's overall aim is '...to help pastors care for themselves and encourage church members to be thoughtful contributors to the pastoral care of their pastors'. The opening chapter is a development of Paul's instructions to the Ephesian leaders to 'care for the flock', but firstly, 'pay careful attention to yourselves'. With so many unbiblical and unrealistic expectations from both pastors and people, it is good to be forcefully reminded that our self-worth and value is found in Christ and does not depend on performance. To this end the key doctrine of justification by faith alone is presented as 'the article of a standing or falling pastor'. This is a very special book. It could prove a lifeline to struggling pastors and is a 'must read' for those preparing and entering into Christian leadership. It is good material for leadership team studies and fraternals. Church members, will, on reading this, hopefully love and understand their leaders better. David Abernethie, © Evangelicals Now - August 2004 |
|
