God has called you to leadership, but be warned: he never promised flowery beds of roses! Exploring issues of character, effective proclamation, spiritual giftedness, and Christian growth, Stowell concludes with this: Christ equips his shepherds to do the best of things, even in the worst of times. A deeply encouraging read for church leaders. 336 pages, softcover from Moody.
Times are changing. The Truth never will. It's tough to be a pastor today. Christians who stand up for what God has said are disregarded and labeled right-wing extremists. Political correctness and tolerance of anything but godly character is the norm. So how do ministers lead God's people in this pagan culture? How do they shepherd the flock as the lights fade dimmer and the nights grow colder? This book is not about programs. It not about developing the best techniques for numerical growth. Rather it is a discussion of the heart of the matter - the heart of the shepherd. In Shepherding the Church, Dr. Stowell takes a look at what it takes to be a truly effective leader from the inside out. He encourages today's leaders to focus on their own character, spiritual growth, and spiritual gifts. Examine some heart issues like: how do I prove to my congregation that I'm trustworthy? how do I lead by loving? how do I overcome insecurities? how can I transform lives with my preaching? how do I lead my flock by the way I live my life? how do I persevere?Even in these tough times, effective leadership is possible. Learn from Dr. Stowell as he encourages today's leaders to keep their eyes on the non-negotiables of Christian ministry.
Average Rating: 5 out of 5 stars(5 out of 5 stars)
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5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Annetta Kallis (Hurdsfield, ND), November 18, 2008
I have not finished reading all of the book Shepherding the Church by Joseph Stowell, but what I have read is a great help. It is easily readable and understandable.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by David R. Bess (Charleston, West Virginia), September 27, 2003
I began reading this book on shepherding rather skeptically, thinking it would denounce church growth concepts and advocate a return to ineffective methodologies of a by-gone era. Instead, what I found was a very helpful, relevant and insightful work that offers practical tips for the 21st century pastor. Stowell divides his book into four sections: perspective, personhood, proclamation and proficiency.
When I first entered the pastoral ministry 20 years ago, I was given the classic book "Lectures to My Students" by Charles Spurgeon. I've read many titles in that time period, and hadn't found another one in its league until I read this one by Stowell. Buy it, read it, and see for yourself!
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