Subtitled ‘The Privilege Of Participating In The Ministry Of Christ’ and written by a minister currently living in Adelaide Australia this is a book for pastors and leaders having some theological background and training. The author has lived and ministered in both the UK and Australia and lectured in Tabor College, Australia and brings to his subject perspectives from a wide background which includes the charismatic churches. Many are involved in pastoral ministry and are overwhelmed by the demands made upon them, the methods advocated and a sense of their own inadequacy. This book states unequivocally that we are called to participation in the Trinitarian work in which Father, Son and Holy Spirit are engaged in the joy of their Divine movement! Some would regard this book as not boring to read, but it is not easy for some and perhaps attempts to do too much. Some sections are much better than others though all is generally helpful. To realize that Jesus is not a spectator watching ministers engage in His work is a great relief, rather, we are called to watch, work and worship with Him in that which He is accomplishing until all is done. The whole concept of the Trinitarian framework from which all springs is so helpful and this is applied in many of the areas of challenge that face the church today. We must participate in the Community Life of God and abide steadfast there as the people of God and the Body of Christ and the Temple of the Spirit. Yet we must also participate in the context of the world in which we live, not detached and aloof. There are helpful sections on participating in the worship of Christ, the mission of Christ and the compassion of Christ. The book concludes with some thought provoking paragraphs on pastoral temptations hinging particularly on being overly pragmatic in the management of ministry and the contribution of ‘Athens to Jerusalem”. (A reference to a quote of the early church father Tertullian). Perhaps this is a book that demands a re read to gain maximum benefit because at times its subject matter is a little ‘dense’. We need to consider its overall thesis seriously though in order to be saved from many pitfalls possible in engaging in Christian Ministry today.
