Book Review: Pastoral Theology by Daniel Akin and R. Scott Pace

Many churches have job requirements for pastors as well expectations. Most of those requirements and expectations can be unrealistic. Some of them may not even be the job of a pastor, but he is expected to it. Some people in the church think all the pastor needs to be is just a guy who knows his Bible.

Daniel Akin and R. Scott Pace have written a book that looks at the theological foundations of the role of the pastor and what kind of man the pastor is suppose to be. The book is titled, Pastoral Theology. Akin and Pace wrote when the church lacks a sound theological basis for pastoral ministry, it will open the door for the church to struggle with improper motives and misplaced priorities which will lead to be insecure about anything.

They continue on to say that a theological driven ministry will help the heart of the pastor and reorient his approach to ministry. This is done not just with sound doctrine but to take a look in the Bible as to what is the role of duties of a pastor. The pastor is to be a man of character who protects the flock. A pastor aspires to be conformed to the likeness of Christ, which should be the desire for all Christians not just those in ministry. A pastor also leans on the leadership of the Holy Spirit as he leads the church.

The pastor is one who leads with the church with grace and truth. He also protects the church from all forms of falsehood. The pastor understands that the church is God's, not his. The pastor also understands the role of the church is not fill butts in the seats, but (no pun intended) to send people on mission to proclaim the gospel of Christ. The pastor also is aware that the primary means God speaks to His people is through the Word of God rightly preached.

This book excellent for those who desire to go into the pastoral ministry. It also would not be a bad idea for this book to be read by anyone in the church to get a better idea as to what the pastor is support to be doing and who he is suppose to be.

Thanks B&H Publishing Group for letting me review this book.