Synopsis "Tending God's Flock: Pointers For Pastors"
This book is a storehouse of practical suggestions for pastors, but it also has many applications, written in a conversational style for all who are involved in Christian leadership and ministry in any capacity. The reader will find helpful advice in the pages of this book that will be valuable in a wide variety of church ministry and life situations. The book begins with a discussion of what it is to be called of God, along with some practical advice for recognizing His will for one's life. Then the importance of staying in close fellowship with God is emphasized, with Christian ministry and leadership portrayed as being in large part the overflow of the minister's personal walk with the Lord. Next, the focus shifts to the value and necessity of getting a quality theological education in preparation for a life of ministry. Also emphasized is the importance of maintaining strong relationships within the pastor's family in the midst of the demands of ministry, as they have made sacrifices to be in the ministry along with the pastor. Helpful suggestions are given for finding a ministry position in a local church and for recognizing a door that God is opening. Then counsel is offered as to how to begin a pastorate which will enhance the likelihood of a long-term ministry of fruitfulness with a congregation. Also discussed are principles for building a thriving, shared ministry by developing strong relationships with the people, getting the right people in the right positions of leadership, fostering teamwork among the church members, and introducing change effectively. Then advice is given for handling opposition and dealing with difficult people. The discussion then moves to potential dangers and difficulties to avoid in church ministry and how to navigate such areas when they are encountered. Attention moves on as the pastor is urged to develop a strong preaching and teaching ministry, which will not only inform and motivate the congregation, but will also unify and invigorate them with spiritual truth. This is followed with practical suggestions for building a balanced ministry, which includes not only preaching and teaching, but an emphasis on involving the congregation in meaningful worship and hands-on ministry in the community. Then the reader is encouraged to develop a strong support system of relationships which can help ease the many burdens which must be carried as one endeavors to meet the many challenges of ministry. Finally, practical advice is given concerning when and how to conclude a pastorate in a wholesome way, in order to conserve the fruitfulness of the pastor's ministry with a congregation in which one's life has been invested. Throughout the book, the author draws from his years of experience as pastor of several congregations. Woven into the fabric of the book is an emphasis on the importance of one's own walk with God, relationship building, fostering teamwork, patience and care with the introduction of change, and leading the congregation in a loving, compassionate way. The author's intent is to offer help and encouragement to all whom God has called to shepherd His flock.
