The Living Church: Convictions of a Lifelong Pastor

The authors build a refreshing, yet practical handbook for those tasked with the accurate and potentially life-changing presentation of the Bible. The contents offer wisdom and helpful insight gained through years of relevant education and experience. Vulnerable areas within interpretation of Scripture are identified in order to raise awareness of routine linguistic blunders and speak to the equally important human proclivities as well. Clearly, struggles with pride, authority, and human emotions influence the interpretation of the reader - for the better, or for worse.Particular interest and priority are given to the careful preservation of the original meaning of the text. A clear biblical interpretation, supported within the given context is reinforced as essential to proper exegesis. This prerequisite to biblical preaching requires watchful discipline in understanding the Bible in an increasingly modern culture clamoring for relevance and perceived "felt needs." Throughout the course of history, men have sought to hi-jack the text in order to accommodate their own selfish motives and political agendas. It is doubtful that the future will offer any immediate relief to this pernicious blight upon humanity as "every man does (thinks) what he believes is right" - in his own eyes of course. As is often the case in our thought process, "a fish rots from the head down." In other words, once our thinking is contaminated, everything that follows will deteriorate as well. A proper understanding of the biblical text is fundamental to everything that follows.In preaching, the primary purpose of the vigilant interpreter is to identify the timeless and universal principles discovered within the actual text with a watchful eye toward meaningful application to the context of ministry in the 21st century. The subsequent delivery, or homiletics, involves the careful construction of a figurative "bridge" into the actual life of the listener that, coupled with the effective work of the Holy Spirit, compels her to grant the Word of God access to the heart and mind. The authors rightfully address the temptation of taking unprofitable rabbit- trails, or taking-up "matters of indifference" that surround a given text and the latent potential for disruptive and unintended consequences. To this end, emphasis is given to the significance of establishing a "core" meaning of the passage in question. This key point should be methodically strained through a filter which obstructs superfluous information or detail while allowing those things that are considered "normative" for all Christians at all times.A helpful discussion around narrative text and specific considerations relative to the New Testament economy were insightful and addressed critical principles in proper exegesis of the text. For instance, the idea that "... what is only narrated or described does not function in a normative (obligatory) way ...." The authors then offered helpful categories under which to classify N.T. narrative text: Christian theology; Christian ethics; Christian experience; and Christian practice. Each of which offer the reader an instructive rubric under which to accurately interpret the text and apply the teachings to the listener in a constructive manner.Additional insight is offered in the proper interpretation of the Gospels, Old Testament, Prophets, and The book of Revelation as well. The authors attempt to set an informed foundation for the expositor in her search for a beginning place in the process of interpretation. This proves to be a beneficial reading for anyone who is seeking to better understand the context or a given pericope. We all come to the text with presuppositions - the purpose of this text is to offer some helpful guard-rails in keeping the presentation of The Word "within the white lines" of theology. Helpful indeed..

For many years, John Stott has distinguished himself as a preeminent theologian and pastor. For 60 years, Stott has been rector at All Souls Church in England where he has initiated a dynamic ministry which now reaches internationally. Having authored more than 30 insightful and powerful books, Stott has recently released The Living Church: Convictions of a Lifelong Pastor. This promises to be an important and influential text for the leadership of the church as it seeks to move forward in its mission.The book itself is well-written and accessible in style and length. It covers many of the challenges of the church, both locally and internationally. Chapter topics include: ESSENTIALS, WORSHIP, EVANGELISM, MINISTRY, FELLOWSHIP, PREACHING, GIVING, IMPACT as well as three historical appendices. Many cluster groups and pastoral ministry teams will find this a valuable course of study in evaluating and establishing a ministry which is faithful to the kingdom and relevant for today's world.If the material in Stott's book has been said elsewhere then it is obviously being ignored, for the simple fact of the matter is that his reflections are quite timely to the current situation and needs of the Western church. No, he does not get bogged down in the many techniques and theories of church growth and community life (that is the very reason I chose this book - I avoid churchy how-to books like the plague they usually are). Stott's wisdom here is that he does stay rooted in the biblical text without losing relevance to a contemporary world (that is the very reason why I recommend this book).One quote: "This is a splendid Trinitarian truth about the church, namely that it belongs to God the Father, has been redeemed by the blood of Christ his Son, and has overseers appointed by God the Holy Spirit. This fact should humble us" (83).

The Living Church is a very solid and welcome addition to the current world of books on the pastoral vocation. Instead of obsessing with image, size and relevance, Stott focuses on what things are necessary--biblically necessary--for a living church. Each chapter is devoted to a major theme of church life such as worship, evangelism, fellowship, preaching and so forth. I especially liked that he took every opportunity appropriate to note the foundational importance of right theology and doctrine to the life of the church. More and more, doctrinal orthodoxy is being exchanged for relevance under the guise of "mission." Stott, to be sure, uses the concept of mission, but places it squarely in the context of a solid view of the church of Jesus Christ.Because Stott is concerned with the basics, the book will probably feel a little predictable from time to time. But, contrary to what you might think, that is a good thing. As Stott points out, the truth remains the same while the cultural contexts change over time. If we rightly concern ourselves with orthodoxy, some things will begin to sound the same. Novelty can be dangerous.Stott's chapter on preaching is a great reminder to hold in tension what he calls "paradoxes." One paradox was the pastor's need to be "thoughtful and passionate." The pastor needs to be studious and responsible with the Word, and simultaneously passionate. We appeal to minds and hearts, and neglecting one for the other is less than what we ought to do.I think this is a great, foundational reminder of the vocation of pastor and the character of the church of Jesus Christ in our world today.

John Stott - excellent as ever, but on a subject that is not straight forward bible exposition. Some challenging ideas that make sense. We were involved in a strategy discussion in our churches and this gave me some good ideas and thoughts about how to move forward. Highly recommended

Having sat under John Stott's Ministry for a number of years, this book does not disappoint me, it is written from a Pastor's Heart.

Love the way the author describes the church and the role it has in todays society. Very clear and an excellent read

As ever, very swift and smooth transaction. This is a very good book for any Christian to read. It is clear and good to think with.

Great well written and powerful book.