The Baptist Association: Assisting Churches. Advancing the Gospel.

by Ray Gentry

As Southern Baptists, we believe we can accomplish more together than we can separately for the Lord. Even before there was a Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), associations were the cornerstone of cooperation among Baptist churches in America.
The Southern Baptist Conference of Associational Leaders (SBCAL), the oldest and largest associational network recognized by the SBC, is pleased to sponsor this work. After extensive research, the SBCAL gathered successful associational leaders and other respected leaders from across the United States to contribute chapters to The Baptist Association. This book marks the renaissance of the importance of associations, of the distinctive role of the associational leader,
and of the proficiencies of an effective Associational Mission Strategist (AMS) in the 21st century.
This book is
• Seminary students to explore the history, role, and importance of local associations so they understand the blessings and benefits of associating with sister churches when they graduate and serve in a church.
• Prospective and new associational leaders seeking to understand the expectations and needs of associations and to learn the 17 Proficiencies of an Effective Associational Mission Strategist.
• Seasoned associational leaders who are assisting their churches in advancing the Gospel amidst a changing culture by equipping them to lead even more effectively.
• Anyone serving in or alongside associations desiring to make associational ministry more effective – AMS search committees, associational moderators, associational committee members, pastors, SBC and state convention leaders, and others.

348 pages, Paperback

Published June 16, 2020

Reviews

[Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is somewhat specific to Southern Baptist Churches that are questioning the validity of the modern Association. Using the term Associational Mission Strategist in the place of Director of Missions, this bo0k helps to confirm that role of the association in Baptist life by carefully defining the role of the leader, the role of the association, and the rationale for involvement in funding and activity. Laying out the needed character and proficiencies of a AMS or DOM, this book can be a ready resource for associations searching for a Director of Missions as well.

[Dennis Thurman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taking on the role of Associational Mission Strategist for the first time in my ministry has made such a resource as this extremely helpful. Hearing from practitioners who have served effectively is enlightening and encouraging as I sail into uncharted waters.