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We all need help navigating the politics of ministry. "Politics" is
often considered a dirty word. It brings to mind lies and
manipulation, accusations and scandals. But at its most basic
level, politics is simply the everyday activity of getting things
done with other people: understanding their interests, recognizing
the power dynamics at play, and learning how to negotiate
relationships and institutions to achieve a common goal. These
realities are as true in ministry settings as anywhere else. In The
Politics of Ministry, Bob Burns, Tasha Chapman, and Donald Guthrie
combine their long ministry experience with sociological research
on the topic. Filled with real-life stories taken from a variety of
ministry settings, this book sets out wise principles and practices
that help us see more clearly the political dynamics at play in our
churches and parachurch ministries. All ministry is political. As
servants of Christ's kingdom, we are called to navigate the
politics of ministry with grace, wisdom, and charity. This book
shows us how the gospel of Jesus changes the way we work with those
around us toward our common goal.
What does it take to have fruitful ministry over the long haul? The
stresses of pastoring are well known and can be a match for even
the best-prepared, most experienced in ministry--multiple tasks,
long hours, taxing responsibilities and, yes, some challenging
personalities. Too often the results can be burnout, being run out
or just feeling worn out. To find out how pastors can thrive as
well as survive, the authors undertook a five-year in-depth
research project among working pastors. Here in this
ground-breaking book is the distilled wisdom of dozens of pastors
who have been on the front lines of ministry. We hear from them
what works, what doesn't and what distinctive issues people in
ministry face. The authors uncover five key themes that promote
healthy, sustainable ministry that lasts--spiritual formation,
self-care, emotional and cultural intelligence, marriage and
family, leadership and management. These themes are unpacked from
the vantage point of ministry on the ground. Questions for personal
evaluation and reflection are included throughout the book to bring
home the significance of each section. This is the perfect
companion for a peer cohort of pastors to read together. It can
also be of value to church boards and others who want to better
understand how to help sustain their pastors in ministry. In short,
this is a book pastors can't live without.
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