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Pastoral Theology: Theological Foundations for Who a Pastor is and What He Does
While many pastoral ministry books focus on the practical duties of the pastor, few works actually consider how theological truth defines the pastor’s role and responsibilities. These pragmatic ministry tools, though instructionally beneficial, essentially divorce biblical doctrine from ministerial practice. As a result, pastors’ lives and ministries often lack the theological roots that provide the stability and nourishment necessary to sustain them.
Pastoral Theology constructs a theological framework for pastoral ministry that is biblically derived, historically informed, doctrinally sound, missionally engaged, and contextually relevant. By using traditional theological categories the authors explore the correlation between evangelical doctrine and pastoral practice. Through careful theological integration they formulate a ministry philosophy that defines the pastoral office and determines its corresponding responsibilities in light of theological truth.
The authors provide a theological understanding of the pastorate that will equip aspiring pastors to discern and pursue their calling, challenge younger pastors to build on ministerial truth instead of ministerial trends, and inspire seasoned pastors to be reinvigorated in their passion for Christ and his church.
Pastoral Theology constructs a theological framework for pastoral ministry that is biblically derived, historically informed, doctrinally sound, missionally engaged, and contextually relevant. By using traditional theological categories the authors explore the correlation between evangelical doctrine and pastoral practice. Through careful theological integration they formulate a ministry philosophy that defines the pastoral office and determines its corresponding responsibilities in light of theological truth.
The authors provide a theological understanding of the pastorate that will equip aspiring pastors to discern and pursue their calling, challenge younger pastors to build on ministerial truth instead of ministerial trends, and inspire seasoned pastors to be reinvigorated in their passion for Christ and his church.
- GenresTheology
336 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2017
61 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
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September 28, 2019
Akin & Pace's Pastoral Theology achieves what is sets out to accomplish: a deep though not comprehensive dive into systematic theology with a pastoral perspective in mind. It effectively deals with major Christian doctrines, pointing to biblical precepts for their formulation and drawing applications for pastors from them. Where it falls short is in its ability to intrigue the reader, at least one who is already versed in the subject matter. Unfortunately, it feels like review, it feels formulaic, and it lacks voice.
The structure laid out at the start is adhered to scrupulously, and within that structure is the apparent need to recapitulate repeatedly in order to fully expound points or ideas which would be better communicated in less words, through the use of analogies or simply by Scripture itself (which the authors do often employ). There is an abundance of proof-texting throughout as the authors seek to validate their perspectives on theology and tie them to a Scriptural basis. In this they do succeed, but the heart of the matter must be drawn into question. What does this book accomplish that others, or the Bible itself, could not more effectively?
My criticism is not of the content of this book. It is rather on its presentation and the matter of its existence. Do no other books on theology with a bent towards the pastorate exist that perhaps more effectively deal with theological subject matter? If not, then the creation of this book is warranted. If, however, there is already extant classical literature that more succinctly, creatively or elegantly communicates this information, I would point readers there.
This brings up a somewhat minor issue I have with the seminary that I attend. I understand the benefit of reading the writings of those who sit over you as teachers. I understand the self-benefit it is for authors to communicate what they have learned to others through writing. After all, teaching is the best form of learning. Yet I do not understand why their writings are placed over and above those of the Church Fathers, or other more classic Christian writings. These works are constantly alluded to and referenced by modern Christian academics, yet those works are seldom required readings for courses. If such magnum opera are so inspirational, and their writing so beautiful as to illustrate the truths of Christian doctrines in ways that transcend time and language, why must we opt to read books on par with the writings of an academic journal that seem to lack such vigor? Are the book fees we pay serving primarily to provide us with the best writings in Christian literature, or simply paying the salary of professors and scholars?
My doubts aside, this book does have its usefulness, especially for those wanting a modern read on theological topics from a pastoral perspective. Again, the book accomplishes its stated goal. I cannot recommend it as a must-read, however. Much of it is quite literally skimmable, though at times there are some great quotes (such as those I have shared below). The story illustrations at the beginning of each chapter are easily the most interesting parts. Nevertheless, it serves as a good review of a course on systematic theology for those entering the pastorate and considering the implications of each doctrine for their role in ministry.
Quotes:
"God’s grace teaches us to strive for comprehensive holiness that permeates our lives in the midst of a sinful world." (p. 124)
"Though overseers are the spiritual leaders who bear responsibility for the church, Scripture does not endorse a dictatorial or elitist model of leadership. Pastors are not superior to the people of God nor do they serve as their spiritual mediators before the Lord. In fact, repeatedly in Scripture we see the spiritual leaders of the church empowering the congregation to take authoritative action (Acts 6:1–4; 1 Cor 5:4–5). Therefore, godly pastoral leadership must seek to empower the church, not wield power over the church. As a result, we can understand the relationship between pastors and God’s people as similar to a “complementarian” view of marriage, in which the husband and wife are understood to be equal in essence and value but different in role. So also, pastors and church members possess different roles in the church but they are equal in essence and value. As “overseers,” pastors bear the primary responsibility for leadership." (p. 154)
"Building a theologically driven missiology is hard work because (1) as our global, national, and cultural contexts change from era to era our missiology must be reworked and rewritten afresh; and (2) proof-texting does not suffice to handle such complexities faithfully. Many of the particular challenges that we face are not addressed explicitly by Scripture. Rather, we must call forth the deep-level principles in the Bible and allow them to speak to the issue at hand." (p. 179)
"R. Albert Mohler Jr. has proposed that the hospital emergency room provides an apt analogy for how we might make such determinations. In emergency room triage, doctors and nurses determine the priority of the illnesses and injuries that will be treated. Shotgun wounds are treated before ankle sprains, and seizures before bunions. This is because certain illnesses and injuries strike at the heart of one’s well-being, while others are less life-threatening." (p. 185)
"It is common for well-meaning believers to say things like, “The light that shines farthest shines brightest at home,” or, “Missions begins with our Jerusalem and then moves to the ends of the earth,” or, “People are just as lost in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana as they are in Algeria, Oman, and Laos.” Although these statements are well intended, they reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of the breadth of God’s mission, both theologically and missiologically. Missiologically, the issue is not one of lostness but rather one of access to the gospel. Theologically, this belief misreads the strategy of the apostle Paul and the methodology laid out in Acts 1:8." (p. 195)
"In addition to being merciful and gracious, God is also described as “slow to anger.” This term highlights the next pastoral attribute in Titus: a pastor is “not quick-tempered.” Pastors must not have a short fuse. We must be patient, understanding, and not easily provoked. In other words, we must understand the difference between reacting and responding." (pp. 30-31)
"Typically, those who are called discern their perceived appointment to vocational ministry through the evaluation of their usefulness (gifts) and willingness (desire) to serve the Lord and help others. But this narrow and pragmatically defined understanding of the pastoral call has resulted in well-meaning, well-intentioned, capable followers of Christ serving in a pastoral capacity that God never intended for them to occupy. Many believers will surrender to vocational ministry out of gratitude for their salvation and a desire to be used by God. But the conventional understanding, noble as it may be, fails to fully consider the multiple dimensions of calling that the Bible describes." (p. 39)
"Considering the sacred nature of the office, the magnitude of the responsibilities, and the list of qualifications, no man is worthy of the pastoral calling. While the honor and nobility of the office could tempt us to spiritual arrogance, an honest and sincere look in the mirror will elicit a confession of our own glaring inadequacy. Yet God chooses to use those things that are weak and worthless to exhibit and exalt his wisdom and power. In Christ, we possess the wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption that qualify us to serve him with a humble confidence (1 Cor 1:26–31). Therefore, the adage rings true: “God does not call the qualified; he qualifies the called.”" (p. 43)
"The authority of God’s call eliminates other options for fulfillment and satisfaction in our lives. While his call can be resisted (see Jonah), it cannot be revoked. If we resist God’s calling, we invite his corrective discipline into our lives; but when we surrender to God’s will, our lives become anchored by his purpose in the safe harbor of his plan." (p. 45)
"Spiritual giftedness, ministerial opportunity, and hopeful expectations do not automatically translate into a call to pastoral ministry. They must be carefully considered in light of the types of affirmation described in Galatians 1." (p. 47)
"One of the most difficult things for a pastor is learning how to balance his family life with the demands of ministry."(p. 284)
The structure laid out at the start is adhered to scrupulously, and within that structure is the apparent need to recapitulate repeatedly in order to fully expound points or ideas which would be better communicated in less words, through the use of analogies or simply by Scripture itself (which the authors do often employ). There is an abundance of proof-texting throughout as the authors seek to validate their perspectives on theology and tie them to a Scriptural basis. In this they do succeed, but the heart of the matter must be drawn into question. What does this book accomplish that others, or the Bible itself, could not more effectively?
My criticism is not of the content of this book. It is rather on its presentation and the matter of its existence. Do no other books on theology with a bent towards the pastorate exist that perhaps more effectively deal with theological subject matter? If not, then the creation of this book is warranted. If, however, there is already extant classical literature that more succinctly, creatively or elegantly communicates this information, I would point readers there.
This brings up a somewhat minor issue I have with the seminary that I attend. I understand the benefit of reading the writings of those who sit over you as teachers. I understand the self-benefit it is for authors to communicate what they have learned to others through writing. After all, teaching is the best form of learning. Yet I do not understand why their writings are placed over and above those of the Church Fathers, or other more classic Christian writings. These works are constantly alluded to and referenced by modern Christian academics, yet those works are seldom required readings for courses. If such magnum opera are so inspirational, and their writing so beautiful as to illustrate the truths of Christian doctrines in ways that transcend time and language, why must we opt to read books on par with the writings of an academic journal that seem to lack such vigor? Are the book fees we pay serving primarily to provide us with the best writings in Christian literature, or simply paying the salary of professors and scholars?
My doubts aside, this book does have its usefulness, especially for those wanting a modern read on theological topics from a pastoral perspective. Again, the book accomplishes its stated goal. I cannot recommend it as a must-read, however. Much of it is quite literally skimmable, though at times there are some great quotes (such as those I have shared below). The story illustrations at the beginning of each chapter are easily the most interesting parts. Nevertheless, it serves as a good review of a course on systematic theology for those entering the pastorate and considering the implications of each doctrine for their role in ministry.
Quotes:
"God’s grace teaches us to strive for comprehensive holiness that permeates our lives in the midst of a sinful world." (p. 124)
"Though overseers are the spiritual leaders who bear responsibility for the church, Scripture does not endorse a dictatorial or elitist model of leadership. Pastors are not superior to the people of God nor do they serve as their spiritual mediators before the Lord. In fact, repeatedly in Scripture we see the spiritual leaders of the church empowering the congregation to take authoritative action (Acts 6:1–4; 1 Cor 5:4–5). Therefore, godly pastoral leadership must seek to empower the church, not wield power over the church. As a result, we can understand the relationship between pastors and God’s people as similar to a “complementarian” view of marriage, in which the husband and wife are understood to be equal in essence and value but different in role. So also, pastors and church members possess different roles in the church but they are equal in essence and value. As “overseers,” pastors bear the primary responsibility for leadership." (p. 154)
"Building a theologically driven missiology is hard work because (1) as our global, national, and cultural contexts change from era to era our missiology must be reworked and rewritten afresh; and (2) proof-texting does not suffice to handle such complexities faithfully. Many of the particular challenges that we face are not addressed explicitly by Scripture. Rather, we must call forth the deep-level principles in the Bible and allow them to speak to the issue at hand." (p. 179)
"R. Albert Mohler Jr. has proposed that the hospital emergency room provides an apt analogy for how we might make such determinations. In emergency room triage, doctors and nurses determine the priority of the illnesses and injuries that will be treated. Shotgun wounds are treated before ankle sprains, and seizures before bunions. This is because certain illnesses and injuries strike at the heart of one’s well-being, while others are less life-threatening." (p. 185)
"It is common for well-meaning believers to say things like, “The light that shines farthest shines brightest at home,” or, “Missions begins with our Jerusalem and then moves to the ends of the earth,” or, “People are just as lost in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana as they are in Algeria, Oman, and Laos.” Although these statements are well intended, they reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of the breadth of God’s mission, both theologically and missiologically. Missiologically, the issue is not one of lostness but rather one of access to the gospel. Theologically, this belief misreads the strategy of the apostle Paul and the methodology laid out in Acts 1:8." (p. 195)
"In addition to being merciful and gracious, God is also described as “slow to anger.” This term highlights the next pastoral attribute in Titus: a pastor is “not quick-tempered.” Pastors must not have a short fuse. We must be patient, understanding, and not easily provoked. In other words, we must understand the difference between reacting and responding." (pp. 30-31)
"Typically, those who are called discern their perceived appointment to vocational ministry through the evaluation of their usefulness (gifts) and willingness (desire) to serve the Lord and help others. But this narrow and pragmatically defined understanding of the pastoral call has resulted in well-meaning, well-intentioned, capable followers of Christ serving in a pastoral capacity that God never intended for them to occupy. Many believers will surrender to vocational ministry out of gratitude for their salvation and a desire to be used by God. But the conventional understanding, noble as it may be, fails to fully consider the multiple dimensions of calling that the Bible describes." (p. 39)
"Considering the sacred nature of the office, the magnitude of the responsibilities, and the list of qualifications, no man is worthy of the pastoral calling. While the honor and nobility of the office could tempt us to spiritual arrogance, an honest and sincere look in the mirror will elicit a confession of our own glaring inadequacy. Yet God chooses to use those things that are weak and worthless to exhibit and exalt his wisdom and power. In Christ, we possess the wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption that qualify us to serve him with a humble confidence (1 Cor 1:26–31). Therefore, the adage rings true: “God does not call the qualified; he qualifies the called.”" (p. 43)
"The authority of God’s call eliminates other options for fulfillment and satisfaction in our lives. While his call can be resisted (see Jonah), it cannot be revoked. If we resist God’s calling, we invite his corrective discipline into our lives; but when we surrender to God’s will, our lives become anchored by his purpose in the safe harbor of his plan." (p. 45)
"Spiritual giftedness, ministerial opportunity, and hopeful expectations do not automatically translate into a call to pastoral ministry. They must be carefully considered in light of the types of affirmation described in Galatians 1." (p. 47)
"One of the most difficult things for a pastor is learning how to balance his family life with the demands of ministry."(p. 284)
September 13, 2017
The work of pastoral ministry is one that is not for the faint of heart. There are so many expectations and demands on the one who chooses to follow the Lord's calling and serve the local church. Akin and Pace have put together a great work that will help any aspiring pastor to understand what God has called him to and have a solid theological foundation as he serves the Lord.
While Pastoral Theology may be seen by many as a textbook of sorts, the authors have done a fantastic job in writing in a way that it does not seem academic. The authors use a practical approach to help equip pastors to see that the work that they have been called to is one that must be rooted in a solid theology. I love how the book is soaked with Bible references and not just popular thoughts of what a pastor should be doing today.
While Pastoral Theology may be seen by many as a textbook of sorts, the authors have done a fantastic job in writing in a way that it does not seem academic. The authors use a practical approach to help equip pastors to see that the work that they have been called to is one that must be rooted in a solid theology. I love how the book is soaked with Bible references and not just popular thoughts of what a pastor should be doing today.
February 15, 2024
Helpful read but no new profound insights from other theology books. Missiological section was super helpful on how to ensure as a pastor you lead people to focus on living missionally locally while also casting vision for the need to go to the nations.
October 31, 2017
The goal of this simply written book is “to assemble a theological framework for the pastorate on the foundation of evangelical theology. . .To demonstrate that pastoral ministry should be approached as a field of practical theology.” That goal makes the writing unique. (I wish I had this book in seminary.) Establishing a purpose, however, does not mean that it is fulfilled in producing the pages.
The authors achieve their goal. Broad categories of biblical theology, such as Christology, pneumatology, ecclesiology, anthropology, are presented as foundations of pastoral ministry. Because “ministry that is defined and driven by a theoretical, traditional, or practical basis is ultimately a ministry that is detached from sound theology.” After establishing the foundation, specific pastoral tasks which grow from those foundations are discussed.
The first foundation block is a pastor’s view of God. “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” That quote from A. W. Tozer recaps why theology is crucial to practical ministry. This chapter closes with a most helpful explanation of the Pastor’s call. Chapters relating how the attributes of the Son and Holy Spirit apply to ministry add the basic biblical precedents for applied pastoral theology.
Chapter 6 on the Church is germane. Particularly helpful is the section on membership. Most pastors struggle with this aspect of ministry. Akin and Pace have biblical solutions.
The book moves along through each chapter with the theological premise, biblical precepts and pastoral principle pertinent to each subject. Chapter nine serves as a seminar on expository preaching.
One immediately noticeable feature which may be a distraction to some readers is the constant use of alliteration. I’m a word guy so I found it interesting and wondered how long it took to develop the patterns.
If you are a pastor, will be one, or know someone who is, Pastoral Theology will be a serviceable answer book for many questions. I’ll keep it handy.
The authors achieve their goal. Broad categories of biblical theology, such as Christology, pneumatology, ecclesiology, anthropology, are presented as foundations of pastoral ministry. Because “ministry that is defined and driven by a theoretical, traditional, or practical basis is ultimately a ministry that is detached from sound theology.” After establishing the foundation, specific pastoral tasks which grow from those foundations are discussed.
The first foundation block is a pastor’s view of God. “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” That quote from A. W. Tozer recaps why theology is crucial to practical ministry. This chapter closes with a most helpful explanation of the Pastor’s call. Chapters relating how the attributes of the Son and Holy Spirit apply to ministry add the basic biblical precedents for applied pastoral theology.
Chapter 6 on the Church is germane. Particularly helpful is the section on membership. Most pastors struggle with this aspect of ministry. Akin and Pace have biblical solutions.
The book moves along through each chapter with the theological premise, biblical precepts and pastoral principle pertinent to each subject. Chapter nine serves as a seminar on expository preaching.
One immediately noticeable feature which may be a distraction to some readers is the constant use of alliteration. I’m a word guy so I found it interesting and wondered how long it took to develop the patterns.
If you are a pastor, will be one, or know someone who is, Pastoral Theology will be a serviceable answer book for many questions. I’ll keep it handy.
July 10, 2017
This book, Pastoral Theology, Theological Foundations for Who A Pastor Is and What He does, is like no other book that I have ever read. While not a pastor, I have ready many books on Pastoring for seminary, and this is by far the most comprehensive of all that I have read.
Many books go into the how-to of pastoring, along with thy why behind those how-to's. However, in Pastoral Theology, Akin and Pace go deep into the timeless yet oft forgotten Scriptural, theological, and doctrinal basis behind the pastor, his ministry, and his calling. And they do so in such a way that help the reader, whether the reader is a pastor or not, comes out with a greater understanding of WHY pastors do or say or think or act in such a way. Why? All to the glory of God. Why not do it in this way that seems easier? Because that's not how it's laid out in God's Word.
I highly, HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone and everyone who professes saving faith in Christ. It will not only push you into a deeper understanding and more passionate relationship with Christ, it will give the layperson a unique view behind the scenes of pastoring, driving one to their knees on behalf of their pastor. For the pastor, it will be as a breath of fresh air, or a draft of crystal clear refreshing mountain water, encouraging them to that youthful zeal of bringing God glory in all that they do as pastors.
Many books go into the how-to of pastoring, along with thy why behind those how-to's. However, in Pastoral Theology, Akin and Pace go deep into the timeless yet oft forgotten Scriptural, theological, and doctrinal basis behind the pastor, his ministry, and his calling. And they do so in such a way that help the reader, whether the reader is a pastor or not, comes out with a greater understanding of WHY pastors do or say or think or act in such a way. Why? All to the glory of God. Why not do it in this way that seems easier? Because that's not how it's laid out in God's Word.
I highly, HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone and everyone who professes saving faith in Christ. It will not only push you into a deeper understanding and more passionate relationship with Christ, it will give the layperson a unique view behind the scenes of pastoring, driving one to their knees on behalf of their pastor. For the pastor, it will be as a breath of fresh air, or a draft of crystal clear refreshing mountain water, encouraging them to that youthful zeal of bringing God glory in all that they do as pastors.
October 8, 2017
A Pastor is a commonly known role both inside and outside the church. These people are generally described by and talked about in what they do. There are many important things that Pastors do, but what is behind the roles that Pastors fulfill? In their book Pastoral Theology, Daniel Akin and R. Scott Page go deeper and look at who a pastor is, what this leads to in terms of doctrinal formation and then what the pastor practically does. Akin and Page are correctly adamant that there is a need to understand the theological foundations of a pastor to then set up the what he does from that perspective. In reading this book, understanding the foundation biblically and then doctrinally before getting to the nitty-gritty so to speak of the day to day work that pastors do helps put things into perspective and also helps set up for my pastoral role, whether within my family, friends, or potentially one day in a vocational role.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my own, honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my own, honest opinion.
December 24, 2022
The book toes the line between an introduction to theology and a guide for practical ministry. Its goal was basically to show the biblical basis for the basics of ministry.
The book sticks close to Scripture. It dabbles in councils and creeds, but the bulk of the content is expounding on key passages that relate to key aspects of belief and ministry.
Because of that, if you are already biblically and theologically literate, the book can drag on. The content is solid, and there are some prime quotes in there, but overall it's a little safe and a little redundant at times.
I'd recommend it to anybody new to accepting the call to ministry, or anybody getting into ministry who could use a solid biblical and theological basis.
The book sticks close to Scripture. It dabbles in councils and creeds, but the bulk of the content is expounding on key passages that relate to key aspects of belief and ministry.
Because of that, if you are already biblically and theologically literate, the book can drag on. The content is solid, and there are some prime quotes in there, but overall it's a little safe and a little redundant at times.
I'd recommend it to anybody new to accepting the call to ministry, or anybody getting into ministry who could use a solid biblical and theological basis.
Read
February 14, 2021I can appreciate the premise of this book, but it ultimately fails to deliver. It reads as a weak introduction to broad theological concepts with vague implications for pastoral ministry. I have the utmost love and respect for Drs. Akin and Pace, but this book didn’t do it for me. Anyone who says that “God killed his son, so he didn’t have to kill you,” is lazy with their theological language and thinking. My favorite chapter was about missiology and the missional heart of God as it relates to the pastor. My least favorite chapter was the last on on the family life of a pastor as it relates to the ministry.
May 15, 2021
Save me from alliteration hell!
I'm not the biggest fan of alliteration, so it was fairly difficult to see it on every page...the sections, the chapters, the main points, the sub points, EVERYTHING.
Other than that, it was an ok book, a general overview of nine different topics, none of which had enough depth to make this book something work turning to.
If you're looking for a decent, general overview of a wide range of topics, with a decent biblical foundation for these topics, then this might do the trick. But you can trust the relatively low ratings for this book and skip it.
I'd give it 3.5 if I could, so I rounded down because of the alliteration.
I'm not the biggest fan of alliteration, so it was fairly difficult to see it on every page...the sections, the chapters, the main points, the sub points, EVERYTHING.
Other than that, it was an ok book, a general overview of nine different topics, none of which had enough depth to make this book something work turning to.
If you're looking for a decent, general overview of a wide range of topics, with a decent biblical foundation for these topics, then this might do the trick. But you can trust the relatively low ratings for this book and skip it.
I'd give it 3.5 if I could, so I rounded down because of the alliteration.
March 14, 2018
Not my Favorite
This book is positioned to give a biblical foundation for pastoral ministry. While the content is valid and biblical, the structure seems forced and arbitrary. Some concepts of pastoral ministry are oddly absent. Sometimes the authors seem more focused on good alliteration than clarity. I would recommend the book only for those in early stages of pastoral ministry investigation.
This book is positioned to give a biblical foundation for pastoral ministry. While the content is valid and biblical, the structure seems forced and arbitrary. Some concepts of pastoral ministry are oddly absent. Sometimes the authors seem more focused on good alliteration than clarity. I would recommend the book only for those in early stages of pastoral ministry investigation.
January 30, 2024
This is a solid book that develops a biblical and theological basis for who a pastor is and what a pastor does. However, there is a tremendous overabundance of alliteration. Alliteration is often helpful, but in this case there were several times where I felt like I was reading recycled sermon outlines, rather than a book written in paragraph form. Worth reading nonetheless.
May 21, 2024
The authors have provided pastors with a basic summary of different areas of theology and how they can apply that to their ministry. I had hoped this would give readers more interactions with theology and the work of the pastor but about 90% of the book is describing each theological element. This might be a good resource for lay leaders or pastors who've not had seminary training.
September 14, 2019
Pretty good, but too heady
The book was very thorough and comprehensive in terms of evaluating the role of the pastor. The authors were so thorough that sometimes it felt like they were covering things that were not fully relevant to the topic.
The book was very thorough and comprehensive in terms of evaluating the role of the pastor. The authors were so thorough that sometimes it felt like they were covering things that were not fully relevant to the topic.
October 17, 2020
I appreciate this so much. Practical theology founded in Christ. And I love that each chapter follows the same heading layout looking at each issue and aspect of practical theology under the same headings. Worth a read for all in pastoral ministry.
February 15, 2024
Helpful book on the theological foundations of pastoral ministry. Theology should form the foundation of ministry, which will then provide the framework and application for ministry.
December 30, 2024
Every Christian should read this.
Read
August 25, 2025For PT501: Intro to Practical Theology/Pastoral Theology
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews