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Ministry in the Image of God: The Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service
Christianity Today Book Awards Merit winner "As the Father has sent me, so I send you." Those of us called to Christian ministry are commissioned and sent by Jesus, just as he himself was called and sent by the Father. Thus we naturally pattern our ministries after Christ's example. But distinctively Christian service involves the Spirit as well, just as Jesus himself accomplished his ministry in the power of the Spirit. Thus the whole Trinity--Father, Son and Holy Spirit--gives shape to truly authentic Christian ministry. Though as Christians we all affirm the doctrine of the Trinity, many of us might struggle to explain how understanding the Trinity could actually shape our ministry. Stephen Seamands demonstrates how a fully orbed theology of the Trinity transforms our perception and practice of vocational ministry. Theological concepts like relationality and perichoresis have direct relevance to pastoral life and work, especially in unfolding a trinitarian approach to relationships, service and mission. A thoroughly trinitarian outlook provides the fuel for our ministry " of Jesus Christ, to the Father, through the Holy Spirit, on behalf of the church and the world." Essential reading for pastors, parachurch workers, counselors, missionaries, youth ministers and all who are called to any vocation of Christian ministry.
189 pages, Paperback
First published December 2, 2005
138 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Seamands
21 books11 followersStephen Seamands (Ph.D., Drew University) is professor of Christian doctrine at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. He also frequently speaks and leads retreats and seminars on such issues as emotional healing and spiritual renewal.
His books include Give Them Christ (InterVarsity Press, 2012), Christology and Transition in the Theology of Edwin Lewis (University Press of America, 1987), Holiness of Heart and Life (Abingdon, 1990), A Conversation with Jesus (Victor, 1994) and Wounds That Heal (InterVarsity Press, 2003).
His books include Give Them Christ (InterVarsity Press, 2012), Christology and Transition in the Theology of Edwin Lewis (University Press of America, 1987), Holiness of Heart and Life (Abingdon, 1990), A Conversation with Jesus (Victor, 1994) and Wounds That Heal (InterVarsity Press, 2003).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 12, 2022
A must read for anyone desiring to understand what a life of ministry means: a life devoted serving others not because of faith in God, but ministry that is serving others alongside and through God’s great love for them.
This book served me both as a practical guide for applying deep theology of the trinity to pragmatic ministry but also gave me space for deep work in myself, letting God address my places of unhealth within my heart, mind and theology. Reading this book I grew in my call of ministry, my understanding of the mystery of the trinity, and I was encouraged by Seamands’ continued reminder to let ministry above all things, be: to abide within the 3-fold identity of God.
This book served me both as a practical guide for applying deep theology of the trinity to pragmatic ministry but also gave me space for deep work in myself, letting God address my places of unhealth within my heart, mind and theology. Reading this book I grew in my call of ministry, my understanding of the mystery of the trinity, and I was encouraged by Seamands’ continued reminder to let ministry above all things, be: to abide within the 3-fold identity of God.
May 15, 2021
This book has been super impactful to me. It has really changed my perspective of doing vocational ministry. The main takeaway and a good way to wrap up the overall point of the book is that it is all “the ministry OF Jesus Christ, TO God the Father, THROUGH the power of the Holy Spirit.”
None of what we do in ministry is about us or because of us. We want to point everyone to God as we join in the ministry Jesus is doing and it’s all because of the Holy Spirit working through us. All the weight is lifted off me because I/we just get to partake in the Kingdom work rather than feeling like we need to DO the Kingdom work!
This book was super digestible. It was dense but understandable. Highly recommend it.
None of what we do in ministry is about us or because of us. We want to point everyone to God as we join in the ministry Jesus is doing and it’s all because of the Holy Spirit working through us. All the weight is lifted off me because I/we just get to partake in the Kingdom work rather than feeling like we need to DO the Kingdom work!
This book was super digestible. It was dense but understandable. Highly recommend it.
August 20, 2017
This is one of the best books I've ever read on the Trinity. This is practical theology at its best. I love how rich this book was theologically but even more so how experiential and practical it was. What a rare thing to find for a book about the Trinity. I can see how this book may be one of the most influential books for how I see and do ministry.
December 21, 2020
Beautiful book. I wish I had read this book 5 years ago
June 19, 2023
This book prompted me to ponder who I’m becoming. It reminded me of the importance of seeing myself and others as image bearers of God. I appreciate that the book revealed how childhood wounds can and will impact our ministry if they are not surrendered and healed by the Divine Healer. It is both sad and encouraging to hear stories of people in ministry realize their need for healing at an older age. I am grateful for the knowledge, hope, practicality, and opportunity for God to speak to me so intentionally throughout this read.
January 21, 2021
*Due to studying the text for school (I chose it) I got to read 50% - 60% of the book
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It was refreshing. More Pastoral than I expected, the author came through as a pastor Professor, ministering to other ministers.
Rich in Theology about the Triune Nature of God but not bogged down.
It’s a relatable book because the author shares his own weaknesses and points the reader to God’s character and grace.
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It was refreshing. More Pastoral than I expected, the author came through as a pastor Professor, ministering to other ministers.
Rich in Theology about the Triune Nature of God but not bogged down.
It’s a relatable book because the author shares his own weaknesses and points the reader to God’s character and grace.
August 17, 2025
I am grateful to have read this book. It certainly opened my eyes and ushered a deeper understanding of the Trinity and the relationship between the Father, Son and Holy Spirit (which deepened my understanding of being made in the image of God and how marriage reflects the triune God). It was written so a layperson can understand. It is not over your head and laced with complicated vocabulary or 'over-philosophical.' It is both a practical and philosophical read, written for anyone.
March 31, 2020
This is one of the best books I’ve read on the Trinity, and how it plays out into ministry philosophy. It helped take my understanding deeper from just using the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit at the end of a prayer to understanding how ministry and our Christian life engages the Trinity in a foundational way.
January 21, 2021
What does the Trinity have to do with ministry? According to this author, everything. In this very readable book the author shows how the Trinity shapes the way Christian ministry should look. A noce blend of theology and practical ministry.
August 23, 2024
Read for my doctoral programme
September 27, 2023
This book is amazing. The authors goal of making a book that is theologically rich & practical succeeded by leaps & bounds. It's beautiful & applicable. It will expand your understanding of the Trinity, a book I will absolutely be recommending alongside On the Holy Spirit by Saint Basil, and your understanding of how ministry should function & will function if you apply it.
September 27, 2023
This book is the first theology book in some time that has actually shaped my application in an obvious way.
March 10, 2010
This book accomplishes two things quite well. First it presents potentially heady theological concepts of the Trinity in a simple (not simplistic) way, filled with quotes and examples from Dr. Seamands's own life and ministry. Second, it takes the concept and askes the question: So what? Dr. Steve Seamands has a passion to push his students and readers beyond the mere knowledge of theology into the realm of appropriation and practicality. A great resourse for anyone involved in ministry at any level!
March 20, 2013
A quote from the book: "Sometimes we can miss God's work by our very desire to do God's will!"
This book is about how the tri-unity of God impacts every area of our life not just the sacred, but the secular. The trinity is a part of the fabric of life and is weaved into every aspect. I mean without the trinity we can not even be relational beings. We can not do things for God without a relationship with God. We must understand how God works in relation to himself to be better servants of God.
This book is about how the tri-unity of God impacts every area of our life not just the sacred, but the secular. The trinity is a part of the fabric of life and is weaved into every aspect. I mean without the trinity we can not even be relational beings. We can not do things for God without a relationship with God. We must understand how God works in relation to himself to be better servants of God.
September 26, 2018
I loved the simplicity with in-depth explanation drawing upon experiences that resonated, whether applicable or not to my personal experiences. It gave significant insights into the full picture of the Trinity.
January 29, 2026
Stephen Seamands’ book, Ministry in the Image of God: The Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service, presents a new way of seeing and applying the doctrine of the Trinity. Stephen Seamands aims to “demonstrate the significance of the doctrine of the Trinity for the vocation of ministry” (Seamands 11). He does this by explaining seven essential attributes and aspects of the Trinity and relating them to the Christian ministry. The seven characteristics of ministry within the Trinity are “relational personhood, joyful intimacy, glad surrender, complex simplicity, gracious self-acceptance, mutual indwelling, and passionate mission” (Seamands 178).
A key idea of this book is the too often neglected importance of the Trinity. The Trinity is essential to understanding the Christian God Yahweh. One must understand who God is in order to do ministry well. Not only that, but without this understanding of the Triune creator, one cannot accurately comprehend the purpose and fundamental elements of ministry in the first place. After establishing the importance of the Trinity, Seamands seeks to apply the doctrine to the life of a minister as opposed to the work of ministry. Ministry is not so much God joining our own work, but “ministry is participating with Christ in his ongoing ministry as he offers himself to others through us” (Seamands 20).
One of the greatest strengths of this book is the practicality of Seamands’ application. For
example, in the chapter “Gracious Self-Acceptance,” Seamands gives a list of the essential
elements of emotional maturity. The first is “renouncing the false self” (Seamands 127). This
usually requires God to reveal the parts of one’s false self that are still alive within someone.
Seamands tells the story of how God revealed his own fig leaves to him and how he was forced
to get rid of them in order to become the emotionally mature person God meant him to be.
Explicit examples of how these concepts can actualize in someone’s life can open the eyes of the
reader to how they may be aware of the fig leaves in their own life. This way of writing gives a weight to Seamands’ writing that would otherwise be much less impactful.
While Seamands’ writing style, use of examples, and useful application are helpful, his exegetical assumptions are a prominent weakness. For example, when discussing God’s intention for communion of the Trinity and humans, Seamands uses the Icon of the Holy Trinity as evidence. This icon is a painting based on Genesis 18, when three strangers visit Abraham and have a meal with him before moving on to Sodom and Gomorrah. According to the icon, the three visitors are not just angelic beings, but representatives of the Trinity itself (Seamands 12). Seamands goes on to draw conclusions about the Trinity based on this assumption. While his assertions concerning the Trinity may be true, this icon is contrary to the text in Genesis. The men in this story do not represent the Trinity, and no one reading this text in the 6th century would have believed this either. Two of the beings are angels, as clearly stated in Genesis 19:1, and most likely the third “man” is the angel of the Lord. Seamands uses poor exegetical practices again when discussing Genesis 1:26 when God says, “Let us make mankind in our image” (NIV). Seamands again sees evidence for the Trinity that is not there, claiming that the use of the plural form is anticipating the Trinity. More likely, the usage of the plural is either a “plural of deliberation,” or God is referring to the heavenly host as well as himself. Both instances are more likely than viewing this verse through the lens of progressive revelation.
Ministry in the Image of God ultimately makes a valuable contribution to the conversation about ministry's theological foundations, encouraging readers to view their service not merely as tasks to accomplish but as participation in the life and work of the Triune God. While readers should approach Seamands' exegetical claims with discernment, his vision of ministry grounded in the relational, self-giving nature of the Trinity offers a compelling alternative to solely pragmatic ministerial ways of thinking.
A key idea of this book is the too often neglected importance of the Trinity. The Trinity is essential to understanding the Christian God Yahweh. One must understand who God is in order to do ministry well. Not only that, but without this understanding of the Triune creator, one cannot accurately comprehend the purpose and fundamental elements of ministry in the first place. After establishing the importance of the Trinity, Seamands seeks to apply the doctrine to the life of a minister as opposed to the work of ministry. Ministry is not so much God joining our own work, but “ministry is participating with Christ in his ongoing ministry as he offers himself to others through us” (Seamands 20).
One of the greatest strengths of this book is the practicality of Seamands’ application. For
example, in the chapter “Gracious Self-Acceptance,” Seamands gives a list of the essential
elements of emotional maturity. The first is “renouncing the false self” (Seamands 127). This
usually requires God to reveal the parts of one’s false self that are still alive within someone.
Seamands tells the story of how God revealed his own fig leaves to him and how he was forced
to get rid of them in order to become the emotionally mature person God meant him to be.
Explicit examples of how these concepts can actualize in someone’s life can open the eyes of the
reader to how they may be aware of the fig leaves in their own life. This way of writing gives a weight to Seamands’ writing that would otherwise be much less impactful.
While Seamands’ writing style, use of examples, and useful application are helpful, his exegetical assumptions are a prominent weakness. For example, when discussing God’s intention for communion of the Trinity and humans, Seamands uses the Icon of the Holy Trinity as evidence. This icon is a painting based on Genesis 18, when three strangers visit Abraham and have a meal with him before moving on to Sodom and Gomorrah. According to the icon, the three visitors are not just angelic beings, but representatives of the Trinity itself (Seamands 12). Seamands goes on to draw conclusions about the Trinity based on this assumption. While his assertions concerning the Trinity may be true, this icon is contrary to the text in Genesis. The men in this story do not represent the Trinity, and no one reading this text in the 6th century would have believed this either. Two of the beings are angels, as clearly stated in Genesis 19:1, and most likely the third “man” is the angel of the Lord. Seamands uses poor exegetical practices again when discussing Genesis 1:26 when God says, “Let us make mankind in our image” (NIV). Seamands again sees evidence for the Trinity that is not there, claiming that the use of the plural form is anticipating the Trinity. More likely, the usage of the plural is either a “plural of deliberation,” or God is referring to the heavenly host as well as himself. Both instances are more likely than viewing this verse through the lens of progressive revelation.
Ministry in the Image of God ultimately makes a valuable contribution to the conversation about ministry's theological foundations, encouraging readers to view their service not merely as tasks to accomplish but as participation in the life and work of the Triune God. While readers should approach Seamands' exegetical claims with discernment, his vision of ministry grounded in the relational, self-giving nature of the Trinity offers a compelling alternative to solely pragmatic ministerial ways of thinking.
November 14, 2020
"The doctrine of the Trinity has been described as the grammar of the Christian faith. A grammar is a set of rules governing a particular language. It tells us how to speak the language correctly and to properly convey our meaning. As the Christian grammar, trinitarian doctrine trine enables us to speak rightly about the God who is revealed in Scripture as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. In fact, it is this doctrine that makes the Christian understanding of God distinctly Christian and not merely theistic."
Stephen Seamands. Ministry in the Image of God: The Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service (Kindle Locations 63-66). Kindle Edition.
Seamands builds a coherent worldview around the concept and truth of the Trinity that leads to a healthy and powerful trinitarian motivation for ministry.
Stephen Seamands. Ministry in the Image of God: The Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service (Kindle Locations 63-66). Kindle Edition.
Seamands builds a coherent worldview around the concept and truth of the Trinity that leads to a healthy and powerful trinitarian motivation for ministry.
November 27, 2024
This was a really hard book for me to read. They were times where I had to read just three words at a time and let them soak in. Times when I had to re-read a paragraph two or three times to get its meaning. And, there were times when I was able to read page after page as quick as I would a beach-time summer novel. What really resonated with me is that the Trinity is a beautiful representation and foundation of how we as Christians are to interact with each other and with the world. I won’t soon forget the impact this book has made on my life and that it’s given me a new way of thinking About the why for the things that I do. I especially loved that the author used a visual representation of the Trinity as the North Star of remembrance for what the Christian faith should look like.
March 30, 2020
This is a must read book for pastors. It is densely theological, throughly practical, and authentically personal. Seaman’s is a very well-versed reader and also quite ecumenical...probably beyond what many will be comfortable with.
I’ve never considered ministry through a Trinitarian lens, and although much that is here was not new, it was a re-anchoring of truth in the essence of who God is, which makes the applications far more meaningful. I found myself highlighting and note taking constantly throughout for there is such good insight, and nearly all of this resonates with my heart for ministry.
I’ve never considered ministry through a Trinitarian lens, and although much that is here was not new, it was a re-anchoring of truth in the essence of who God is, which makes the applications far more meaningful. I found myself highlighting and note taking constantly throughout for there is such good insight, and nearly all of this resonates with my heart for ministry.
September 13, 2023
Stephen Seamands demonstrates how to live out a practical view of trinitarian theology. A great read on the topic of what christian ministry is all about and what common pitfalls and obstacles to avoid. Presents a clear word of exhortation and encouragement in a day and age of nominal dependence upon the Holy Spirit among other topics. Some very compelling ways of articulating the christian call to ministry spoken from a personal experience.
February 3, 2026
profound approach to ministry
As we consider the Trinity, is it merely a doctrine or a true reality which impacts every aspect of our Christian life and ministry. This is written with a minister in mind, yet are we not all ministers who in relationship to the Trinity are called and empowered by God’s love to love, serve, and live out the fullness of that calling shaped by the character of God, Father, Son, and Spirit
As we consider the Trinity, is it merely a doctrine or a true reality which impacts every aspect of our Christian life and ministry. This is written with a minister in mind, yet are we not all ministers who in relationship to the Trinity are called and empowered by God’s love to love, serve, and live out the fullness of that calling shaped by the character of God, Father, Son, and Spirit
February 21, 2019
This book was a great read that included both depth of subject and readability that made it accessible to a wide variety of readers.
This book really encourages a better understanding of the Trinity, and how In Christian vocation, it is imperative to model our ministries and relationships to the likeness of the Trinity.
This book really encourages a better understanding of the Trinity, and how In Christian vocation, it is imperative to model our ministries and relationships to the likeness of the Trinity.
March 10, 2019
This book was an interesting and Illuminating read regarding the characteristics of the Triune God. This book has inspired me to join God’s mission. To know that I am not alone in doing God’s work that I have been called to reassuring, know THREE-IN-ONE: God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. “So I came to the edge, and he pushed me. And Together, we flew!”
September 11, 2020
I feel like this book encapsulates my doctor of ministry studies (at ACTS seminaries) in a nutshell.
Christian Ministry finds its source in The trinitarian god, who is relational and missional in his essence. We are called to join him in his work!
Full of theological depth and practical insight, Seamands bridges the gap between academics and ministry.
Christian Ministry finds its source in The trinitarian god, who is relational and missional in his essence. We are called to join him in his work!
Full of theological depth and practical insight, Seamands bridges the gap between academics and ministry.
March 22, 2021
A wonderful book. Seamands explores the ways the Trinity shapes and affects our lives and ministries. Each chapter was biblical and inspiring. This would be an excellent book to work through with a group of pastors or elders. May our ministries grow out of, and be empowered by, the richness of God's own life.
March 21, 2023
Encouraging work.
I was very encouraged by Seamands work. The concern I have for the current state of the church is shared and the remedy is clearly illustrated. The magnitude of the shift required in church culture to achieve the divine call is not understated and delivered with hope.
I was very encouraged by Seamands work. The concern I have for the current state of the church is shared and the remedy is clearly illustrated. The magnitude of the shift required in church culture to achieve the divine call is not understated and delivered with hope.
September 28, 2023
I love everything about this book. I love how well Seamands explains all the different characteristics of the Trinity and I love his intentionality in connecting Trinitarian characteristics to ministry and vocation. This book is so important for anyone pursuing even the most vague form of ministry, or for anyone who is looking to dive deeper into the mysteries of the Trinity.
December 8, 2024
Makes a lot of true points but the entire book is about sourcing these books back to the trinity. None of this definitively defends the trinity. Most of these points could be seen from a Oneness perspective and still remain true. Many statements made are implicitly incongruent with trinitarian theology. Several things stated just didn’t make sense.
December 26, 2017
It was a good perspective on Trinitarian theology and gave a lot of insight on ways to view it. It’s certainly worth reading if you want new perspectives or you’re looking for more opinions on what you already understand.
July 17, 2019
This book explores what ministry grounded in the doctrine of the Trinity might look like:
1. Relational personhood
2. Joyful intimacy
3. Glad surrender
4. Complex simplicity
5. Gracious self-acceptance
6. Mutual indwelling
7. Passionate mission
Such a great book.
1. Relational personhood
2. Joyful intimacy
3. Glad surrender
4. Complex simplicity
5. Gracious self-acceptance
6. Mutual indwelling
7. Passionate mission
Such a great book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews