The author originally preached all of these sermons in his "home" church, but has rewritten them for a wider audience. One reviewer has said that these words touch the very center of our minds as well as our hearts. The problems we find in having faith, pairing sin and suffering, accepting change, worrying, and loving are as relevant today as they were eons ago. Dr. Ramey's insights and directions lead us to examine (or re-examine) Scripture. His discussions illumine those ancient texts with a conversational tone that is never "preachy," and the ideas reflect his years of teaching and research. Therein, we ultimately find the love and comfort Christ brings to those of of us who call ourselves Christians. At the same time, his sermons reveal the power of Christ to those who may not know him. That is, after all, what sermons should do. His words linger in our thoughts long after reading.

This book shows how church members and leaders, pastors, and personnel committees can work together to fulfill God's mission for their church. It answers key questions such as: How can we better understand and support our pastor's call to ministry, as well as his or her personal, spiritual, and professional needs? How can we work together to create a global strategy for our mission? How can we transform our often boring church committees into vital communities of faith? How can we deal with "clergy killers" and troublemakers who constantly disrupt our church? Also, churches seeking a new pastor will find this book an invaluable resource to guide their search committees as they study their task. Personnel committees will find it helpful as they evaluate the performance of their pastor in a constructive and non-threatening way. Any church member will find the book a helpful tool in understanding and working with their pastor. Pastors themselves will profit from reflecting on their own experiences in ministry. Each chapter features "Talking Points" that provide discussion material for church members and pastors to deepen and enrich their understanding of the particular subject. Written by a pastor who served five southeastern churches and who also taught ministry in a theological seminary for sixteen years, this book is anchored in his pastoral experience and theological reflection. Thus the author promotes a much better understanding of the life and work of a pastor even while it strives to cultivate a church member's discipleship. Through the entire book runs the recurring theme that pastor and members are partnering to carry out God's mission in their community and to the uttermost parts of the earth. As a result they will more likely renew their commitment to this task.

The Pastor's Start-Up Manual provides a blueprint for seminary students moving into their first pastorate with answers to questions such as: What's the first thing I should do when I get to the church? What should my first sermon include? Should I unpack or start visiting members first? For seasoned clergy, the Manual shows how to learn the church history, determine when it's time to add additional staff, help family members adjust to a new community, and investigate multiple staff opportunities. Survey tools provide practical help in dealing with conflict and change in the congregation. Ramey offers women, minorities, and second-career clergy advice on dealing with the special issues they often encounter.