De pastor a pastor

by Erwin W. Lutzer

El papel del pastor se complica con frecuencia debido a asuntos problemáticos que deben tratarse con serenidad, eficacia y en algunas ocasiones de manera pública. El autor ofrece consejos prácticos acerca de cómo manejar situaciones difíciles relacionadas con asuntos tales divisiones en las iglesias, adoración, consejería y juntas de iglesia. [A book by well-known author and pastor Erwin Lutzer that will help every pastor in his ministry.]

Genres: Leadership

128 pages, Paperback

First published March 26, 1999

About the author

Erwin W. Lutzer is senior pastor of The Moody Church in Chicago. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and Loyola University, he is the author of numerous books, including the Gold Medallion Award winner "Hitler's Cross" and the best seller "One Minute After You Die". He is also a teacher on radio programs heard on more than 700 stations throughout the United States and the world, including "Songs in the Night," "The Moody Church Hour," and the daily feature "Running to Win." He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area and have three married children and seven grandchildren.

Reviews

[Lexie Darce · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good book, and a very solid one. Lutzer is not afraid to speak the truth, and unashamedly makes many points that the church of today’s modern world needs to become aware of and act upon. The doctrine in the book is very sound- there were only I think 2 places where I disagreed a little bit, but even then it was on controversial topics (such as the role of psychology in church counseling).

You don’t have to be a pastor to read this book. This book has practical applications for pastors, but in the end, pastors are just people like everyone else. The truth written and the repentance and humility called for in this book needs to be read and heeded by every follower of Christ.

[Sharon Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a necessary read for all pastors and lay leaders. Lutzer provides a real account of the labor and rewards of Pastoral practices. Can't tell you how many times I' ve read this book. I keep it in my car for a quick refresher in the day to day process of serving others. Pastor Sharon

[Daniel Calle · Rating 4 out of 5]

En el prólogo, el pastor Warren Wiersbe dice: “No leas este libro con ligereza. Haz una pausa, examina, ora, y ¡crece!”. Como pastor, estoy muy agradecido por la sabiduría de Erwin Lutzer en cada tema que toca. Son 20 breves capítulos en los que aborda temas tan relevantes para el ministerio pastoral como la prioridad de la predicación, cómo tratar con gente problemática, el agotamiento en el ministerio, el rol de la psicología en la consejería, las prioridades en el ministerio, etc. Este es un libro para releer cada cierto tiempo, especialmente si has sido llamado a la labor pastoral. Es obvio que el pastor Lutzer no solo conoce su Biblia, sino que ha experimentado en carne propia los desafíos del ministerio. Así que este es un libro escrito por un consiervo en medio de la batalla, y que anhela igual que todos nosotros terminar bien la carrera y presentarse con alegría ante su Señor en el día final.

[Michael Vincent · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lutzer covers much ground in this solid work focused on encouraging and challenging pastors. I wish he would have given more detail in how he specifically accomplishes the task, but he addresses many important topics. A good book to create discussion and prayerful thought for those in ministry.

[Manuel Alfredo · Rating 5 out of 5]

claro, simple, directo y pastoral.

[Jason Harris · Rating 3 out of 5]

This review was originally posted over at my website.

Lutzer takes a fatherly approach to some key issues in pastoral theology. Some issues addressed include dealing with congregational expectations, surviving church disputes, dealing with problem people, dealing with church politics, restoration of fellow ministers, and burnout. If you're a younger man serving as a pastor/elder or have a desire to do so, I would encourage you to read this brief, but worthwhile, book.

The ups

First, Lutzer's advice is level. He demonstrates wisdom and humility in his discussion of these issues and encourages the same approach in the reader. His insights are beneficial for a younger generation of ministers.

Second, the book is both concise and profound. Chapters are roughly four to six pages in length, but contain a cogent handling of the topic addressed. All of this while having a warm-hearted, devotional tone.

The downs

First, several points seem to reflect the moralism that seems to fit so comfortably in the cultural religious right. Along with this tends to come a short-sighted ethnocentricity which is, regrettably, the case in this book.

Second, an unfortunate number of problematic cliches make an appearance. For instance "forgive and forget" and referring to Arminianism as Armenianism.

Conclusion

Not a perfect book, but an excellent tool for those seeking wisdom on some of the trickier aspects of serving as a pastor/elder.

[Peter Voorhees · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading "Pastor to Pastor" felt as if I was in a small group gleaning from a pastor with many years experience and one in whom has seen God move in and through the church in powerful/lasting ways. It was a topical based book touching on certain topics that always seem to be asking to be addressed. Regarding the chapters on counseling and God's judgement, I personally don't see eye to eye at this point with Mr. Lutzer, but I appreciate his attempt to tackle difficult subject matter. There is much to be gleaned from this book and one that I think I will go back to time and time again in the future for his pearls of wisdom.

[Drew Van Gorder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't say anymore about this book than, "If you're a pastor, then you need to own this book, read it, digest it, re-read it, highlight it, and dog ear almost every page." Erwin hit the nail on the head with this small, very practical, and often times therapeutic book.
Erwin understands the complications that come with being in ministry and the appropriate approaches to take in sometimes very uncertain circumstances. I love this book and it will remain one of my go to books for the rest of my ministry career!

[Gerald Thomson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lutzer shares his years of experience to help pastors with focus, burnout, delegation and working with boards and congregations. Lutzer has good examples to illustrate his points. Though many may disagree with his very conservative approach to many theological views, the practical side of his advice is excellent. A good read for the layperson to find ways to support your pastor from the congregation.

[Douglas Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good.

[Eric Durso · Rating 4 out of 5]

After I finished this short book, I said "This is a once-a-year book." It is, even though I haven't read it once a year.

[Alicia Calbucoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Realidad de un lider