24 year seminary professor returns to pastorate and discovers difficulty of applying theory to practice. Dr. Salter explores the gap between theoretical preparation for ministry and its practical implementation. Lack of communication between the Academy and the Church often leads to disillusionment by the practitioner. The intellectual culture of the Seminary and the sociological culture of the Church results in a frustrating tension for the newly minted pastor. The author explores ways in which this tension can be remedied through dialogue, evaluation of curriculum, and creative ways in which the Academy and the Church can best serve one another. Especially helpful are realistic appraisals of missional outreach, spiritual formation, and the emergent church. The author is optimistic that both the Church and the Academy can work more harmoniously together in order to prepare effective, Christian leadership for the 21st century.

Today's postmodern world prefers mystery over logic, impression over rationale, aesthetic beauty over practicality, and symbolism over obvious answers. We live in an art-enriched, art-minded world. For ministers, this rebirth of creativity and imagination opens the door for exciting possibilities. Scripture itself is an art form. The story of our Christian faith is woven together with the mystery, imagination, creativity, and beauty that characterize the very mind of God. No other book contains more murder plots, love stories, betrayals, adulterous affairs, heroic feats, tragedies, triumphs, and redemptive endings than the Bible. Preaching as Art challenges pastors and speakers to use the Bible and its colorful imagery and literary brilliance to celebrate God's amazing story. It encourages preachers to invite their listeners to dialogue with them, to experience the Bible stories as they are being told; and by doing so, participate in the very nature and image of God. Author Darius Salter provides practical ideas, sermon illustrations, examples, and a variety of media options to help speakers enrich and transform their messages into art forms that will help listeners appreciate the artistry of Scripture and encounter God as never before.