My good friend Brett, told me a couple of weeks ago, that he wasn't interested in reading any books written by someone in their 30's. He wanted to wait until they were in their 70's. Then, they have something credible to contribute. That's what this book is about. Paul Smith is close to 80, and has been involved in ministry for well over 50 years, in the hot hub of southern California, and he's got a story to tell, and some perspective to give to guys like me.
I think every pastor should read this book, or at least be aware of it's content. I would heartily include anyone interested in ministry.
Paul tells the story of the evangelical church and starts the book with a meeting in New York City in 1905. By the end of the book, you'll either be mad, or fired up.
For me, it was eye-opening. I've had a negative reaction to a lot of ministry techniques, training, suggestions that are popular today, and never knew why. For me, many times it was a spiritual thing, I couldn't put my finger on it, but I knew something was just off. This book helped clear that up. Clearly, there are some influences in the evangelical church today that are of a different spirit. Paul's naming names, quoting letters, telling stories from board meetings, he's really done his homework, and the material is well footnoted.
At the end of the book. I'm more committed than ever to continue teaching, preaching, drawing attention to, believing, sharing, getting out of the way of, the Holy Bible.
This is the only place I know to buy this book, there may be others.
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