Ministry in the Image of God - by Stephen Seamands (Paperback)

About the Book

Stephen Seamands demonstrates how a fully orbed theology of the Trinity transforms our understanding and practice of vocational ministry.

Book Synopsis

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.

Review Quotes

"I had several reactions when I saw Ministry in the Image of God by Steve Seamands. First, I will benefit from this book. I personally need to understand how to more effectively minister in a 'trinitarian shape' as Steve calls it. Second, there are periodic books which go deeper, go well beyond the 'norm' of life. This is one of those. Who would have thought that focusing on the Trinity would give us so much practical help in ministering? Third, anything by Steve Seamands is worth reading. I knew him as a fellow classmate at both Asbury Theological Seminary and later Princeton Theological Seminary. He was thoughtful, focused, reflective, fun, warm and caring. And as you'll learn from this book, he still is!"

"One thing too often missing from the contemporary renaissance of the doctrine of the Trinity is its practical application especially to ministry. Stephen Seamands has helpfully closed that gap with Ministry in the Image of God. Now we know how belief in the Trinity impacts the practices of ministry. Every Christian minister (lay or professional) interested in integrating theology with Christian service should read this book."

About the Author

Stephen Seamands (Ph.D., Drew University) is professor of Christian doctrine at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. He frequently leads retreats and seminars on such issues as emotional healing and spiritual renewal. He is the author of several books, including Holiness of Heart and Life and Wounds That Heal.