Ministry by the Book - by Derek Tidball (Paperback)

About the Book

Focusing on pastoral leadership within local churches or groups of churches, Derek Tidball provides a comprehensive survey of the variety of ministry models and patterns found in the New Testament with applications for today's ministry.

Book Synopsis

The New Testament writers set before us a number of models of ministry, each of which is shaped by the particular needs of the churches they were serving. Their own backgrounds, ambitions and passions also contribute to what they have to say about ministry. The contours of New Testament pastoral leadership, inspired by the Holy Spirit, exhibit a genuine diversity that finds its unity in Christ and his gospel.Focusing on pastoral leadership within local churches or groups of churches, Derek Tidball provides a comprehensive survey of these models and patterns with applications for today's ministry. Tidball's overview offers "models of permission" that enable a freer approach to ministry and the way it is conducted, challenges the stunted understanding of ministry that can often characterize our churches today, and gives encouragement to those who do not fit a "ministry by numbers" approach.Well-grounded in relevant scholarship, Tidball's fresh engagement with the biblical texts, stimulating analysis and wise application will be of value to all who are established in pastoral leadership, or training for it, and looking to explore a variety of biblically valid approaches to ministry.

Review Quotes

"Ministry by the Book is a valuable resource for anyone who takes the NT seriously in looking for biblically acceptable models for ministry in today's church."

"Pastors often look to the New Testament for theological guidance but often miss the import of the books found there for practical leadership advice. But Derek Tidball's Ministry by the Book is a wonderful contribution to pastors who want to take the New Testament seriously theologically and practically. The author contends that 'the New Testament writers set before us a number of models of ministry, each one of which is shaped by the needs of the church they were serving. . . . Each New Testament book has a lot to say about pastoral leadership.' It is to this end that working pastors will find this book most valuable."

"Tidball's systematic analysis of the books of the NT provides substantial insights into models of ministry that responded to particular needs of communities of faith in that era. . . Well structured and clearly written."

About the Author

Derek Tidball is visiting scholar at Spurgeon's College, London. Previously, he served as principal of the London School of Theology. He is the author of numerous books, including Skilful Shepherds: Explorations in Pastoral Theology, Builders and Fools: Images of Pastoral Ministry in Paul, and The Message of Leviticus and The Message of the Cross.