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.
JOSEPH M. STOWELL currently serves as the president of Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is a graduate of Cedarville University and Dallas Theological Seminary and was honored with a doctor of divinity degree from The Master's College in 1987. From 1987 to 2005, Joe served as the president of Chicago¿s Moody Bible Institute, joining the staff of the suburban Chicago Harvest Bible Chapel in 2005. An internationally recognized conference speaker, Joe has written numerous books including the award winning The Trouble with Jesus, Strength for the Journey, and The Weight of Your Words. Joe and his wife, Martie, are the parents of three adult children and have ten grandchildren. They currently live in Ada, Michigan.
