Book Review: Resilient Ministry by Bob Burns, Tasha Chapman, and Donald Guthrie

Resilient Ministry

Bob Burns, Tasha Chapman, and Donald Guthrie

Published in 2013 by InterVarsity Press; 312 pages

Summary

‍Resilient Ministry stems from a pastor’s summit in which pastors gathered together and discussed and encouraged one another in life and ministry in order to discuss how to survive and thrive in ministry, staying resilient in a vocation that can be very difficult. Throughout the book, five themes surfaced as a result of these discussions at the pastor summit regarding resilient ministry: Spiritual formation, self-care, emotional and cultural intelligence, marriage and family, and leadership and management. Though each of these themes could have, and do have, many books written about them specifically, this book uses two chapters towards each area, giving an in depth look at how healthy habits in all of these areas can better equip pastors to reach their communities and tend to their churches. 

Spiritual formation looks at the understanding that the ongoing process of maturing as Christians is important, even for pastors. It can be so easy to get caught up in all of the responsibilities and expectations that are placed on a pastor that can lead to failing to simply abide in him. Self-care discusses the importance of understanding one’s limits and finite capabilities compared to never-ending ministry work. Boundaries, care, and mental health are important areas for pastors. Emotional and cultural intelligence focuses on the assumption that our reality is the only way to look at things. Pastors shepherd people from all different cultures and walks of life and need to position themselves in places of learning. Marriage and family centers on the home life of a pastor. One’s marriage, children, and overall family are a ministry of their own and just as important as the church by which one is employed. Finally, Leadership and management is important for any pastor. While pastors must embrace these challenges as part of their calling, the tendency to be a hero and do it all is not healthy for the pastor or a church. 

Critical Evaluation

I picked up this book as a young pastor starting at a new church, seeking help and ideas on how to last and pastor well. I believe that this book, through the collection of input from many pastors, successfully communicates its main points about the five areas key to a successful and sustained ministry. The overall idea of the book gives practical tips in each of the five areas for pastors to consider, be encouraged, and grow. Within each chapter there are “Questions to Ponder” that allow for reflection, understanding, and real-world application. Through input from many, the book does not seem to push any sort of denominational view, theological stance, or anything particularly divisive, but rather encourages pastors of all ages, church sizes, and community locations in ways to survive and thrive wherever the Lord has called a person to serve. I highly recommend this book to any pastor that might feel overburdened or who simply needs a little encouragement!

Jordan LaBry

Pastor at First Baptist Sabinal