The Shape of Practical Theology: Empowering Ministry with Theological Praxis

by Ray S. Anderson

Too often in the life of the church, theological reflection and the practical matters of leading and serving have been considered independently. The result has been the impoverishment of both Christian faith and Christian practice. In this groundbreaking book Ray Anderson reflects theologically and practically on preaching, worship, ethics, social justice, therapy, family, homosexuality, burnout in ministry, reconciliation in relationships and theological education itself. The result is The Shape of Practical Theology, a new and renewing foundation for engaging in Christian ministry. Anderson lays out his threefold goal as Illuminated by stimulating discussion and helpful case studies, The Shape of Practical Theology is aimed at seminary students, at Christian educators, and at working pastors and counselors. Anderson's work, fascinating and fruitful, brings together the Word of God with the Spirit of God in the ever-changing context of real-life ministry.

Genres: Theology

342 pages, Paperback

First published January 31, 2001

About the author

aka Ray Sherman Anderson

Ray S. Anderson (Ph.D., University of Edinburgh) was senior professor of theology and ministry at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, where he had taught since 1976. He was also a contributing editor to Journal of Psychology and Theology.

He wrote many books, including Judas and Jesus: Amazing Grace for the Wounded Soul (2004), The Soul of God: A Theological Memoir (2004), Spiritual Caregiving as Secular Sacrament: A Practical Theology for Professional Caregivers (2003), Dancing with Wolves While Feeding the Sheep (2002), The New Age of Soul: Spiritual Wisdom for a New Millennium (2001), The Shape of Practical Theology: Empowering Ministry with Theological Praxis (2001), Living the Spiritually Balanced Life (1998) and The Soul of Ministry: Forming Leaders for God's People (1997). Anderson's articles and book reviews have been published in a wide array of scholarly and popular periodicals.

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is required reading for my program of studies. It is a well-written and somewhat concise description of practical theology. Some of it was tedious, but Anderson writes critically and with hope for how Christendom can be faithful to Christ and the Holy Spirit and relevant in these changing times.

[Loyd Harp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic book!

[Zia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing content but definitely would suggest having a dictionary on hand

[Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a little dense in places, and there was one chapter I really did not understand, but overall it is packed with helpful ways of looking at the work of ministry, and rooting this in sound theology and biblicism.