Pastoral Theology

This book seems to focus on the what rather than the do of pastors. What do they believe, why do they believe it and how it impacts those they lead. 

I believe this book is hugely important because pastors play such a role in the body of Christ that they are responsible for shepherding God's people and their hearts. And that is what this book addresses. It addresses the different rhetoric and ways that we fall by the wayside. It helps those in ministry (even those not pastors) to see the areas in which they are relying more on theology and knowledge rather than God, Himself. One of my favorite quotes is that "The required characteristics establish the pastor as a representative of the One whom he ultimately serves and to whom he must give an account." To be a pastor is more than preaching on Sundays and collecting an offering. It is more than a platform. But rather a pastor is a representative of God and ultimately that is who they serve and report to. The church board is not the highest authority the pastor is accountable to. And as such pastors must be aware of and meet the characteristics set forth by God's Word. This even applies to those who simply operate a ministry but may not be a pastor. 

The book approaches pastorship and ministry from a theological, Christological, pneumatological, anthropological, ecclesiological, missiological, ministerial, homiletical, and familial perspectives. By approaching from these many perspectives (each receiving their own chapter) the authors help us view pastorship and ministry from different angles so that we grasp the accountability of the roles we find ourselves in. And how we are responsible for them. 

I recommend this book to those in any form of ministry, not just those in a pastorship, although I highly recommend those in or training for the pastorship.

{FYI, I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.}