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The Road Ahead: Ten Steps to Authentic Ministry for Independent Baptists
The ministry is a journey. A journey of faith. A journey of grace. A journey of balance.
But too often it has been marked by carnal divisions, unbalanced practices, and graceless relationships.
How do we get back on track? What are the steps to authentic ministry that exalts Christ, fulfills the Great Commission, and is directed by servant leaders?
Written for independent Baptists who are intent on pressing toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, The Road Ahead lays out ten steps to authentic ministry ministry directed by faith, grace, and truth.
If you are a biblical Baptist who cherishes truth, cares about revival, and is concerned for the testimony of Christ, this book is for you. Although we serve in challenging days, the road ahead will be blessed if we make Jesus our target, seek God's face, and are willing to make mid-course adjustments on the journey.
But too often it has been marked by carnal divisions, unbalanced practices, and graceless relationships.
How do we get back on track? What are the steps to authentic ministry that exalts Christ, fulfills the Great Commission, and is directed by servant leaders?
Written for independent Baptists who are intent on pressing toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, The Road Ahead lays out ten steps to authentic ministry ministry directed by faith, grace, and truth.
If you are a biblical Baptist who cherishes truth, cares about revival, and is concerned for the testimony of Christ, this book is for you. Although we serve in challenging days, the road ahead will be blessed if we make Jesus our target, seek God's face, and are willing to make mid-course adjustments on the journey.
- GenresLeadership
256 pages, Paperback
First published May 27, 2013
9 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Paul Chappell
169 books102 followersDr. Paul Chappell is the senior pastor of the Lancaster Baptist Church and president of West Coast Baptist College in Lancaster, California. His biblical vision has led the church to become one of the most dynamic independent Baptist churches in the nation. He has been married to his wife for over thirty-six years and is the father of four married children all serving in Christian ministry. His books can be found at http://www.strivingtogether.com.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 24, 2023
This book was a gift from my wife at Christmas I finally got around to reading it. I don't read a whole of Chappell's books. No particular reason I just prefer older material to the new stuff today.
I enjoyed the book overall and think he covers some important points. Our Baptist heritage is important and has been skewed in modern church histories. There are some things that Baptists are noted for, and we should endeavor to maintain them and maintain them publicly through preaching and teaching.
He goes into some detail concerning those things that mark us out as Baptists including the ordinances and even the historical background of Baptists and the persecution they suffered and how patiently they were through it. The Waldenses should be on everyone's read list.
His opening chapter, Understand the Problem of Tarnished Name, hit upon an important point as it seems more and more are shying away from the name Baptist for the church and even in their personal testimony. For some, it is because they don't the mud stick to them or their church. Mud was thrown because of what other Baptist churches and preachers have done.
I think others change the name because the name does imply certain doctrinal convictions and because they have changed their convictions doctrinally out goes the name Baptist. I always get a charge out of those who say they are non-denominational. In almost - ALMOST - every case they are Charismatic.
I also enjoyed his chapter on Fellowship and Grace both of which should be exercised with pastors who may not hold to the same convictions as you. This is something I learned years ago and enjoy the company of a number of God preachers, who love their people, and the word of God, and have a burden for the lost.
The book is an easy read with only 219 pages with plenty of scripture references in the back.
The very first church that I went to was Baptist. I didn't consider why Baptist until much later in my life and ministry. Once I started reading church history, I came to appreciate my Baptist Heritage even more.
I can't stress this enough - READ CHURCH HISTORY! As it is history is being re-written now, don't think for a second they won't change church history.
I enjoyed the book overall and think he covers some important points. Our Baptist heritage is important and has been skewed in modern church histories. There are some things that Baptists are noted for, and we should endeavor to maintain them and maintain them publicly through preaching and teaching.
He goes into some detail concerning those things that mark us out as Baptists including the ordinances and even the historical background of Baptists and the persecution they suffered and how patiently they were through it. The Waldenses should be on everyone's read list.
His opening chapter, Understand the Problem of Tarnished Name, hit upon an important point as it seems more and more are shying away from the name Baptist for the church and even in their personal testimony. For some, it is because they don't the mud stick to them or their church. Mud was thrown because of what other Baptist churches and preachers have done.
I think others change the name because the name does imply certain doctrinal convictions and because they have changed their convictions doctrinally out goes the name Baptist. I always get a charge out of those who say they are non-denominational. In almost - ALMOST - every case they are Charismatic.
I also enjoyed his chapter on Fellowship and Grace both of which should be exercised with pastors who may not hold to the same convictions as you. This is something I learned years ago and enjoy the company of a number of God preachers, who love their people, and the word of God, and have a burden for the lost.
The book is an easy read with only 219 pages with plenty of scripture references in the back.
The very first church that I went to was Baptist. I didn't consider why Baptist until much later in my life and ministry. Once I started reading church history, I came to appreciate my Baptist Heritage even more.
I can't stress this enough - READ CHURCH HISTORY! As it is history is being re-written now, don't think for a second they won't change church history.
December 27, 2014
A gracious and godly man giving a lot of good advice. But it isn't enough to proclaim that a given issue shouldn't divide Christians. Independent Baptists need their leaders to dig deeper in their exegesis of passages like Romans 14. Chappell covered that passage but didn't seem to do any homework on it. He raced quickly over Paul's intense reasoning and left me saying, "Woah, woah! Did Paul really say that? Maybe, but I'm not just going to take the author's word for it." Without such exegesis his applications are only one more human opinion.
Two other little things: 1) The Waldenses and Albigenses were not proto-independent-Baptists. 2) And I deeply appreciated warnings about manipulative revivalist practices but puzzled over the list of Baptist worthies Chappell praised late in the book. It seemed to me that those men were guilty of some of the focus on numbers and failure to follow up with discipleship that Chappell decries.
Chappell is engaging in gentle, humble, name-no-names fundamentalist self-criticism. And that's to be appreciated.
Two other little things: 1) The Waldenses and Albigenses were not proto-independent-Baptists. 2) And I deeply appreciated warnings about manipulative revivalist practices but puzzled over the list of Baptist worthies Chappell praised late in the book. It seemed to me that those men were guilty of some of the focus on numbers and failure to follow up with discipleship that Chappell decries.
Chappell is engaging in gentle, humble, name-no-names fundamentalist self-criticism. And that's to be appreciated.
June 5, 2013
Finished the book in 2 days. Found it to be extremely well written and balanced. Addresses some very important issues. A very timely book. I found myself highlighting things on nearly every page.
Some will take his gracious attitude towards others and misinterpret it as a wink towards compromise, but after reading the entire book I believe that he took a well-defined, definite stand for himself and the great ministry that he leads. If the ten steps he outlined are put into practice, they will help our churches. I highly recommend this book to any young independent Baptist pastors who may feel frustrated or discouraged by what they see in their movement. I highly recommend it to older preachers as well, especially those still involved in mentoring and training younger preachers. I plan to purchase several copies for friends and young preachers in my ministry.
Some will take his gracious attitude towards others and misinterpret it as a wink towards compromise, but after reading the entire book I believe that he took a well-defined, definite stand for himself and the great ministry that he leads. If the ten steps he outlined are put into practice, they will help our churches. I highly recommend this book to any young independent Baptist pastors who may feel frustrated or discouraged by what they see in their movement. I highly recommend it to older preachers as well, especially those still involved in mentoring and training younger preachers. I plan to purchase several copies for friends and young preachers in my ministry.
January 11, 2023
This book helped me process many of the confusing and difficult aspects of the ministry early on as a pastor. Highly recommend to any spiritual leader!
June 7, 2013
Paul Chappell addresses the tarnished name of the "independent fundamental Baptist" movement. He exhorts leaders to take some needful steps to get the movement going in the right direction. Although he feels that the terms "independent" and "fundamental" accurately describe the movement, he feels that unbalanced ministries have blurred the meaning of those terms. There is a need for revival and renewal.
A few commendations:
Pastor Chappell challenges leaders in the movement to conform to Christ rather than a "50s-ish" culture. He pleas for leaders to not develop a culture formed around topics. He admits that many divisions have been over extra biblical issues. Many good ministries have been incorrectly labeled as "worldly" because they do things differently. I was personally appreciative for his correction of the false assumption that young leaders who do things differently are on the "slippery slope." (p. 201)
Chappell was also willing to apply the modern understanding of the term "legalist" to the movement (footnote on page 70) when others leaders explain away the accusation. He states, "As Bible-believing Baptists, we shun doctrinal legalism, but we don't always recognize what could be called "practical legalist."" He later says that a "legalistic spirit uses shame as a tool to provoke conformity." (p. 123) It was good to see him address and acknowledge this common indictment.
I was thankful to see a plea for a proper definition of holiness. "A list of rules without a walk with God will never culminate toward a Christ-honoring life." (p.85) The emphasis of our holiness should be on the heart rather than external signs of growth. He challenges leaders to forsake a works-based identity for true identity found in Christ. (p. 93) This is a very needful message for true Christian growth.
He was also willing to point out that many leaders fight over preferential issues as they try to cover real sin problems in their lives and ministries (p. 63). He challenges leaders to be accountable and in fellowship with other churches for needful Christian encouragement. He encourages leaders to clearly differentiate between preferences and convictions from the pulpit. He is bold to admit that not everything is black or white with God, but that He paints in a hue of colors.
He also addresses the need to get our attention back on soul winning and discipleship. He challenges leaders to intentionally build soul winning churches. He implores the movement to define success by disciples being made rather than attendance numbers.
A couple critiques:
Chappell sends mixed messages about non-Baptists and leaders of other movements. He admits that God used leaders in other denominations to bring about revival in our nation. (p. 96) He also said that "if our children leave their Baptist heritage, if they change their standards but love the Lord, don't fear the perception of others." (p. 124). These are great admissions. He goes on to say further, "If you are preaching the gospel, seeking to see souls saved, and proclaiming the truth of God's Word, you are not my enemy." (p. 176).
But then he paints leaders of other movements with a broad stroke although he expressed rightful frustration with people who paint independent fundamental Baptists with a large brush. He says "younger pastors, frustrated with the errors and inconsistencies in our group have chosen to follow Christian leaders from other groups - leaders who publicly drink, are open to modern-day tongues and promote non-cessationist views..., and often have a hostile, condescending attitude toward ministries more conservative than their own." (p. 17).
I believe his defense of the name "Baptist" is one of the issues that he fails to clearly clarify. While he admits that the labels "independent" and "fundamental" have been blurred, he fails to acknowledge the blurring of the name "Baptist". Today, there are far too many varieties of Baptists to give a person an accurate estimation of a church's theological beliefs by using the name.
He proposes possible new labels such as "autonomous biblical Baptist" or "biblical Baptist" to bring clarity due to public misconception of current labels. But if the name "Baptist" is essential because it represents a Bible believer, then why is there a need to attach a label like "biblical"? That is redundant. The needfulness for an extra moniker should indicate that there is a problem with the original label "Baptist".
To him the name "Baptist" is more than a system of beliefs. It is identification with a heritage. It is a "sacred cow." The sacredness of the term "Baptist" is communicated when he says "If we need anything today, it is a move back to biblical terms, not away from them!" Then he says in the next sentence, "To the extent that the world or even ecumenical religion despises the name independent Baptist because of our doctrinal position, we must be willing to endure that hardship." (p. 15) So he implores leaders to endure the hardship for the "Baptist" name.
So while the book rebukes the unnecessary divisions over extra biblical issues, it seems that for Chappell the name "Baptist" is one of the areas that is off limits to scrutiny. It's these types of mixed messages that confuse young leaders. I personally have no problem with the name "Baptist". I have no problem with Baptists for I am one. But I have a problem with a leader telling people the needfulness to endure hardship for a non-biblical issue.
I am grateful that Chappell gracefully addresses the need to not divide over minor issues. He states a few times in the book: "When we agree on 99.9% of our practices, let's encourage one another". But the book fails to recognize that every pastor is tolerant in some fashion. Most pastors would agree that Romans 14 calls for a toleration of differences. I also believe every pastor would agree with Paul Chappell that we should overlook differences if we are 99.9% on the same page.
But when a conversation about tolerating differences never clearly defines those differences, then everyone can agree. We all insert our own ideas into general statements. Every pastor has his own definition of what qualifies as "minor issues". Every pastor has his own understanding of what 99.9% agreement looks like. I would call this a pseudo-tolerance.
An example of this pseudo-tolerance is Chappell's request for grace toward those with a different musical standard. He calls for the tolerance, but then is quick to define what he believes should define the limits of that tolerance by his quick clarification of biblical music in the footnotes. (p. 109) Far too many leaders in the movement are just like this. They will say they are supportive of you until you go across "their line" or question their "issue". Unfortunately, many are left with the impression that the margin of grace in some differences is pretty small: 0.1% to be exact.
Another underlying issue in the movement is the idea that independent fundamental Baptists are the "true church." The "true church" attitude is expressed in his proposal for the label "biblical" to identify the type of Baptists of the movement. To me it communicates that all other Baptists are not biblical, which is unfortunately what many independent fundamental Baptists believe. This type of thinking is also underscored as he describes the need for churches in Southern California. He estimates that there are "few to no gospel preaching churches" within 350 mile radius of Lancaster (p. 160). I would really like to know his definition of a "gospel preaching" church for him to make such a bold assertion. He communicates, perhaps unintentionally, that independent fundamental Baptist churches are the only gospel preaching churches. This type of thinking is detrimental to the movement.
Conclusion
"The Road Ahead" is written with a good spirit in an attempt to address some of the plagues of the independent fundamental Baptist movement. Paul Chappell does a good job to get the conversation going for needed reform. While some will believe he doesn't address some of the underlying issues that are causing many of the problems, I do believe this book is a step in the right direction for the road ahead. There were a number of times I highlighted a portion of the book and wrote "Amen!" in the margin. I highly recommend it for all independent Baptist leaders.
A few commendations:
Pastor Chappell challenges leaders in the movement to conform to Christ rather than a "50s-ish" culture. He pleas for leaders to not develop a culture formed around topics. He admits that many divisions have been over extra biblical issues. Many good ministries have been incorrectly labeled as "worldly" because they do things differently. I was personally appreciative for his correction of the false assumption that young leaders who do things differently are on the "slippery slope." (p. 201)
Chappell was also willing to apply the modern understanding of the term "legalist" to the movement (footnote on page 70) when others leaders explain away the accusation. He states, "As Bible-believing Baptists, we shun doctrinal legalism, but we don't always recognize what could be called "practical legalist."" He later says that a "legalistic spirit uses shame as a tool to provoke conformity." (p. 123) It was good to see him address and acknowledge this common indictment.
I was thankful to see a plea for a proper definition of holiness. "A list of rules without a walk with God will never culminate toward a Christ-honoring life." (p.85) The emphasis of our holiness should be on the heart rather than external signs of growth. He challenges leaders to forsake a works-based identity for true identity found in Christ. (p. 93) This is a very needful message for true Christian growth.
He was also willing to point out that many leaders fight over preferential issues as they try to cover real sin problems in their lives and ministries (p. 63). He challenges leaders to be accountable and in fellowship with other churches for needful Christian encouragement. He encourages leaders to clearly differentiate between preferences and convictions from the pulpit. He is bold to admit that not everything is black or white with God, but that He paints in a hue of colors.
He also addresses the need to get our attention back on soul winning and discipleship. He challenges leaders to intentionally build soul winning churches. He implores the movement to define success by disciples being made rather than attendance numbers.
A couple critiques:
Chappell sends mixed messages about non-Baptists and leaders of other movements. He admits that God used leaders in other denominations to bring about revival in our nation. (p. 96) He also said that "if our children leave their Baptist heritage, if they change their standards but love the Lord, don't fear the perception of others." (p. 124). These are great admissions. He goes on to say further, "If you are preaching the gospel, seeking to see souls saved, and proclaiming the truth of God's Word, you are not my enemy." (p. 176).
But then he paints leaders of other movements with a broad stroke although he expressed rightful frustration with people who paint independent fundamental Baptists with a large brush. He says "younger pastors, frustrated with the errors and inconsistencies in our group have chosen to follow Christian leaders from other groups - leaders who publicly drink, are open to modern-day tongues and promote non-cessationist views..., and often have a hostile, condescending attitude toward ministries more conservative than their own." (p. 17).
I believe his defense of the name "Baptist" is one of the issues that he fails to clearly clarify. While he admits that the labels "independent" and "fundamental" have been blurred, he fails to acknowledge the blurring of the name "Baptist". Today, there are far too many varieties of Baptists to give a person an accurate estimation of a church's theological beliefs by using the name.
He proposes possible new labels such as "autonomous biblical Baptist" or "biblical Baptist" to bring clarity due to public misconception of current labels. But if the name "Baptist" is essential because it represents a Bible believer, then why is there a need to attach a label like "biblical"? That is redundant. The needfulness for an extra moniker should indicate that there is a problem with the original label "Baptist".
To him the name "Baptist" is more than a system of beliefs. It is identification with a heritage. It is a "sacred cow." The sacredness of the term "Baptist" is communicated when he says "If we need anything today, it is a move back to biblical terms, not away from them!" Then he says in the next sentence, "To the extent that the world or even ecumenical religion despises the name independent Baptist because of our doctrinal position, we must be willing to endure that hardship." (p. 15) So he implores leaders to endure the hardship for the "Baptist" name.
So while the book rebukes the unnecessary divisions over extra biblical issues, it seems that for Chappell the name "Baptist" is one of the areas that is off limits to scrutiny. It's these types of mixed messages that confuse young leaders. I personally have no problem with the name "Baptist". I have no problem with Baptists for I am one. But I have a problem with a leader telling people the needfulness to endure hardship for a non-biblical issue.
I am grateful that Chappell gracefully addresses the need to not divide over minor issues. He states a few times in the book: "When we agree on 99.9% of our practices, let's encourage one another". But the book fails to recognize that every pastor is tolerant in some fashion. Most pastors would agree that Romans 14 calls for a toleration of differences. I also believe every pastor would agree with Paul Chappell that we should overlook differences if we are 99.9% on the same page.
But when a conversation about tolerating differences never clearly defines those differences, then everyone can agree. We all insert our own ideas into general statements. Every pastor has his own definition of what qualifies as "minor issues". Every pastor has his own understanding of what 99.9% agreement looks like. I would call this a pseudo-tolerance.
An example of this pseudo-tolerance is Chappell's request for grace toward those with a different musical standard. He calls for the tolerance, but then is quick to define what he believes should define the limits of that tolerance by his quick clarification of biblical music in the footnotes. (p. 109) Far too many leaders in the movement are just like this. They will say they are supportive of you until you go across "their line" or question their "issue". Unfortunately, many are left with the impression that the margin of grace in some differences is pretty small: 0.1% to be exact.
Another underlying issue in the movement is the idea that independent fundamental Baptists are the "true church." The "true church" attitude is expressed in his proposal for the label "biblical" to identify the type of Baptists of the movement. To me it communicates that all other Baptists are not biblical, which is unfortunately what many independent fundamental Baptists believe. This type of thinking is also underscored as he describes the need for churches in Southern California. He estimates that there are "few to no gospel preaching churches" within 350 mile radius of Lancaster (p. 160). I would really like to know his definition of a "gospel preaching" church for him to make such a bold assertion. He communicates, perhaps unintentionally, that independent fundamental Baptist churches are the only gospel preaching churches. This type of thinking is detrimental to the movement.
Conclusion
"The Road Ahead" is written with a good spirit in an attempt to address some of the plagues of the independent fundamental Baptist movement. Paul Chappell does a good job to get the conversation going for needed reform. While some will believe he doesn't address some of the underlying issues that are causing many of the problems, I do believe this book is a step in the right direction for the road ahead. There were a number of times I highlighted a portion of the book and wrote "Amen!" in the margin. I highly recommend it for all independent Baptist leaders.
December 29, 2017
This book is a great read for anyone who considers themselves an independent baptist. Be reminded of the history, as you explore the philosophy of the current movement.
May 28, 2014
I appreciate Paul Chappell's willingness to step back and acknowledge flaws and imbalances within our group of churches, while humbly noting strengths and hopefully pointing toward the future. He, of all people, is currently in probably the best position to do this, and so readers should recognize that they are getting the heart of THE thought-leader for a large (growing?) number of unaffiliated Baptists. In general, he champions an approach to future ministry that is wise, peaceful, biblical, and Christ-centered. There are a few areas in which I would love to ask questions, such as the preeminence of a particular method of personal evangelism, or the three kinds of people for whom he seems to reserve little acceptance: Christians drinking alcohol, Calvinists, and charismatics. In a book largely devoted to promoting unity and celebrating liberty, these remain outcasts. But they receive the smallest of mentions, and I wouldn't expect a book like this to deal with these issues. Which is why I'd love to ask some further questions. Another being why an excellent warning against letting fellowship turn into "camps" doesn't extend beyond the boundaries of this particular family of churches. But - again - that's not the thrust of this book, just another question in this reader's mind. The purpose of this book is for the author to reject failure, embrace strength, and provide gracious, biblical counsel to his tribe, which he does exceptionally well. So well, in fact, that even those outside would profit by reading it.
November 1, 2013
As a young Independent Fundamental Baptist pastor, this book helped me more than words can tell. Dr. Chappell addresses the current issues that are consuming Fundamentalism today. Issues such as the tarnished name of "IFB", the exaltation of man's personality to the level of doctrinal truth, agreeing to disagree in a Christlike spirit on gray issues according to Romans 14, pride in standards, the need for soul winning churches that disciple their converts and many many more. This book was a tremendous encouragement to me and was a breath of fresh air to have been written by a leader in Fundamentalism who realizes we have some serious issues that need to be addressed. Every young IFB pastor needs to read this book with an open mind and a heart sensitive to the Holy Spirit. Thank you Dr. Chappell for writing this with men like me in mind.
July 11, 2014
Thoughtful & reasoned look at the current situation of independent Baptist people. The remedies were Biblical. This book is an especially great read for those in leadership.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews