Introducing Christian Ministry Leadership: Context, Calling, Character, and Practice

The demand for integrity—genuine spirituality, exemplary character, and competent skills—among ministry leaders has never been greater. This book introduces students and beginning practitioners to the theological and practical elements that make for healthy leadership and leaders in Christian ministry. How ministry leaders understand who God is and who they themselves are governs every aspect of their work and well-being, and how they understand the nature of the church and their role as ministry leaders forms their sense of purpose and identity.
This book is written from the perspective of ministry leadership in Christian traditions with congregational polity, but there is much that applies to ministry leadership in all Christian traditions. The text introduces terms, ideas, and skills foundational for getting started in ministry leadership and for more advanced study in each area. Most importantly, the book integrates biblical, historical, and theological reflection with the description of practical skills, demonstrating how students themselves can think theologically about ministry leadership. Thinking clearly about context, calling, and character provides the perspective from which to understand the essential practices of ministry leadership and to conduct them with integrity.

William D. M. Carrell is professor of christian studies and director of ministry guidance at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. He has served as a professor and administrator at universities in Virginia and Texas and as a pastor of churches in Texas, Indiana, Virginia, and Maryland.