The aim of this book is to provide information and guidance for those who are considering full-time Christian ministry. It is divided into an introduction, two main parts and two appendices.
Part one is about the ‘Call to ministry’ and has a twelve-part description of what to look for in a person considering full time ministry. Put the other way round, it addresses what a candidate should look for in themselves. It is not overly complicated and filled with good advice and Scripture references.
Part two is particularly relevant to our times. The authors point out that much has changed in the last 25 years and the model of a ‘typical person’ taking the ‘typical route’ into ministry, whether it be pastoral or missionary, is no longer the norm.
There is now a spectrum of ministries within churches. A number of these ministries are described, along with helpful advice, such as the different kinds of training available, the wider range of ages of people that now go into ministry, financial considerations and having church support, and so on.
The two appendices have lists of helpful books and articles, along with addresses of a number of colleges and courses that are available. The only potential improvement I can suggest would be for future reprints to have a more attractive cover design.
The authors, who have written the book in response to a need identified by the FIEC, are clearly experienced and mature pastors. Their advice is good and built solidly on a Scriptural base.
I believe this book should be read by anyone considering full-time, paid Christian ministry. Although brief, it has much to offer and probably should be read a number of times to absorb all the contents. Looking back, I can only wish that this calibre of information was available when I responded to ‘the call’.
Graham Kissack
Accrington
