Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Letters to a young pastor # 2 - Reading

Read widely. As the wise sage once said, "Don't be so heavenly minded that you are of no earthly good." In this context, read theology and inspirational literature, but read other material too.

One pastoral book, Preaching with Freshness, suggested that a pastor read four different kinds of books at a time. Read 1) theologically meaty fare, 2) culturally relevant writings, 3) politically motivated books, and 4) something fun. This is where I tend to err: I love to read the fun stuff. A novel, a book on history, a book that does not take a lot of mental gymnastic power...all these are my vice, my weakness. The theologically meaty stuff has been hard to get into since I finished my Masters simply because I don't have to read this stuff.

However, if I would suggest some readings in the theological category, here are some good ones.
Spiritual Leadership, by J. Oswald Sanders, is an easy read but also hugely practical thoughts based on the Word that speaks loudly to the real issues of leadership. You can read it as a daily inspiration, reading a chapter at a time, or all at once. I would highly recommend that you read a chapter at a time so as to better absorb the wisdom of this book and reflect on how these principles apply to your ministry.
Knowing God, by J. I. Packer, was in my possession for too long before I cracked its spine. This classic is broken up into parts that can be read devotionally and prayed over. I did this and found it extremely rewarding. As the author highlighted an aspect of God, I used that reflection as a tool to worship God for who He is and to further know God.
Discipleship, by David Watson, could also be used in like manner as Knowing God. Watson explains what it means to be a disciple and how to disciple others. Together with Transforming Disicpleship and the companion workbook Discipleship Essentials, you will find inspiration to go and make disciples the way Jesus intended us to.

It is also wise to consider the classics and older writers. What you will find is that some things never change. From what we sing to how we preach, the functions and politics of the church tend to remain the same. Read Martin Luther, Thomas A'Kempis, and other Reformation writers. Read Phillips Brooks, a nineteenth century preacher.

READ!!! Read everything you can get your hands on. Read so that you will know the world God has placed you in.

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