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The Care of Souls: Cultivating a Pastor's Heart
2020 Christianity Today Book Award Winner for Church/Pastoral Leadership
2019 TGC Ministry Book of the Year Winner
2020 ECPA Christian Book Award Winner for Ministry Resources.
Drawing on a lifetime of pastoral experience, The Care of Souls is a beautifully written treasury of proven wisdom which pastors will find themselves turning to again and again.
Harold Senkbeil helps remind pastors of the essential calling of the preaching and living out the Word of God while orienting others in the same direction. And he offers practical and fruitful advice―born out of his five decades as a pastor―that will benefit both new pastors and those with years in the pulpit.
In a time when many churches have lost sight of the real purpose of the church, The Care of Souls invites a new generation of pastors to form the godly habits and practical wisdom needed to minister to the hearts and souls of those committed to their care.
2019 TGC Ministry Book of the Year Winner
2020 ECPA Christian Book Award Winner for Ministry Resources.
Drawing on a lifetime of pastoral experience, The Care of Souls is a beautifully written treasury of proven wisdom which pastors will find themselves turning to again and again.
Harold Senkbeil helps remind pastors of the essential calling of the preaching and living out the Word of God while orienting others in the same direction. And he offers practical and fruitful advice―born out of his five decades as a pastor―that will benefit both new pastors and those with years in the pulpit.
In a time when many churches have lost sight of the real purpose of the church, The Care of Souls invites a new generation of pastors to form the godly habits and practical wisdom needed to minister to the hearts and souls of those committed to their care.
312 pages, Hardcover
Published June 26, 2019
435 people are currently reading
1321 people want to read
About the author
Harold L. Senkbeil
23 books35 followersRev. Dr. Harold L. Senkbeil (b. 1945) served as a parish pastor in the LCMS for 32 years, most recently at Elm Grove Evangelical Lutheran Church, Elm Grove, Wisconsin (1987-2002), and as Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana. In 2001 he was recognized by Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri, in the bestowing of the degree of Doctor of Divinity, honoris causa. Dr. Senkbeil is a 1988 recipient of the Servus Ecclesiae Christi Award. Since July 2008, he has served as both Adjunct Professor at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, as well as Executive Director with DOXOLOGY: The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
April 22, 2020
One of -if not the very best- books I've read on pastoral ministry. But I say that with one fairly big caveat: The author is Lutheran, he writes from a decidedly Lutheran perspective, and some of what he says/advocates is very dangerous, doctrinally. I'll say more on this below.
Pros:
-Extremely readable, heartwarming, and I found myself wanting to slow down and really soak in his words (rare for me!). It's also a beautiful book aesthetically (what you'd expect from a Lutheran!). His continued use of farming illustrations gave it an idyllic tone.
-He ends each chapter with a clear transition that leads to the next --something that is also rare in theological books. Very good flow chapter to chapter.
-Not very many references, but it's clear that he heavily relies upon the Christian Classics. In fact, he says over and over that he's not advocating a new plan, that his goal is not to enhance ministry with the latest and greatest methods, but that he's intentionally advocating a "classical" approach to ministry (i.e. a focus on word and sacrament.) For this reason alone, so many will not have time for this work --as so much focus today is all geared toward growing a bigger and better church. This author just wants to be faithful in leading people and growing them in Christ.
-He loves to emphasize the use of the Word in ministry --his focus on how he does this was tremendously helpful and encouraging, and spans from beginning to end in the book.
-He really speaks out against cultural sins, especially the sexual revolution. Refreshing for a Lutheran.
-What made this book so wonderful was his repeated emphasis on pastors as simply tools in the hands of Christ; that our job is simply to connect people to Christ through word and sacrament. It served so well to clarify some of my questions about priorities and goals in ministry, and even though it's very Lutheran at times, getting a perspective from his tradition really helped and encouraged me to look at things a bit differently. That is, this book changed me.
Cons:
-Very Lutheran, with some troubling aspects: praying to a crucifix/focussing on images to settle the mind in prayer; pretty emphatic sacerdotalism; the use of absolution is CENTRAL to his philosophy of ministry, which he returns to again and again. Now, I do think there is a place for some sort of absolution --but his wording and method fall much heavier on the Roman Catholic side (especially with his view of confession in there).
-Seems to deny the doctrine of God's impassibility, though not explicitly. Regardless, it's clear throughout that he has a much higher view of and place for 'mystery' than the Reformed tradition.
-I found a troubling lack of emphasis on the role of the church corporate, including corporate worship. Granted, this is a book on pastoral ministry, so he's focussing on the pastor. But so much of his ministry is people individually confessing their sins to him with him privately granting absolution, individual and private observance of the Supper (objectively united them to Christ), etc. The place and importance of corporate worship, corporate confession, corporate observance of the Supper (the only proper observance), and the gifts/graces of the church corporate, are sadly under-emphasized and neglected.
Overall - this is a book I plan to read every few years. I think this is my favorite, most helpful book I've ever read on the Christian ministry, all things considered. I highly recommend it.
Pros:
-Extremely readable, heartwarming, and I found myself wanting to slow down and really soak in his words (rare for me!). It's also a beautiful book aesthetically (what you'd expect from a Lutheran!). His continued use of farming illustrations gave it an idyllic tone.
-He ends each chapter with a clear transition that leads to the next --something that is also rare in theological books. Very good flow chapter to chapter.
-Not very many references, but it's clear that he heavily relies upon the Christian Classics. In fact, he says over and over that he's not advocating a new plan, that his goal is not to enhance ministry with the latest and greatest methods, but that he's intentionally advocating a "classical" approach to ministry (i.e. a focus on word and sacrament.) For this reason alone, so many will not have time for this work --as so much focus today is all geared toward growing a bigger and better church. This author just wants to be faithful in leading people and growing them in Christ.
-He loves to emphasize the use of the Word in ministry --his focus on how he does this was tremendously helpful and encouraging, and spans from beginning to end in the book.
-He really speaks out against cultural sins, especially the sexual revolution. Refreshing for a Lutheran.
-What made this book so wonderful was his repeated emphasis on pastors as simply tools in the hands of Christ; that our job is simply to connect people to Christ through word and sacrament. It served so well to clarify some of my questions about priorities and goals in ministry, and even though it's very Lutheran at times, getting a perspective from his tradition really helped and encouraged me to look at things a bit differently. That is, this book changed me.
Cons:
-Very Lutheran, with some troubling aspects: praying to a crucifix/focussing on images to settle the mind in prayer; pretty emphatic sacerdotalism; the use of absolution is CENTRAL to his philosophy of ministry, which he returns to again and again. Now, I do think there is a place for some sort of absolution --but his wording and method fall much heavier on the Roman Catholic side (especially with his view of confession in there).
-Seems to deny the doctrine of God's impassibility, though not explicitly. Regardless, it's clear throughout that he has a much higher view of and place for 'mystery' than the Reformed tradition.
-I found a troubling lack of emphasis on the role of the church corporate, including corporate worship. Granted, this is a book on pastoral ministry, so he's focussing on the pastor. But so much of his ministry is people individually confessing their sins to him with him privately granting absolution, individual and private observance of the Supper (objectively united them to Christ), etc. The place and importance of corporate worship, corporate confession, corporate observance of the Supper (the only proper observance), and the gifts/graces of the church corporate, are sadly under-emphasized and neglected.
Overall - this is a book I plan to read every few years. I think this is my favorite, most helpful book I've ever read on the Christian ministry, all things considered. I highly recommend it.
July 24, 2021
This isn't the thing that is supposed to stand out, but it was welcome to me nonetheless: I liked it that I could listen to the wisdom of an experienced and decided Lutheran and find overwhelming commonality with his advice. He comes from a different tradition than I do, and he's from a different generation, and he's still eager to speak of sanctification as God-driven. He's still eager to point people to sound doctrine and to the Word. He views himself in his pastoral office as a sheepdog and not a salesman or entrepreneur. He has a humility and a gratitude about his successes that become a true Christian. He sees the same major cultural threats against the church that I see.
At a few points—mainly any time the eucharist and baptism came up—I was indeed reminded that I was listening to someone from a different tradition. But I found it encouraging simply to hear from an older brother in Christ who has trodden the pastoral path long before me. He wasn't jaded by the trials; he was hopeful—because he doesn't rely on himself, ultimately, to protect the sheep.
At a few points—mainly any time the eucharist and baptism came up—I was indeed reminded that I was listening to someone from a different tradition. But I found it encouraging simply to hear from an older brother in Christ who has trodden the pastoral path long before me. He wasn't jaded by the trials; he was hopeful—because he doesn't rely on himself, ultimately, to protect the sheep.
June 17, 2025
Out of all the book I have read on Pastoral Ministry, this one takes the cake. The church is in dire need to recover the ancient vision on Pastoral Ministry. There are too many self ordained pastors that see it as a career and not a calling. Men a dropping like flies in the ministry, to burnout or sexual immorality leaving the door open in our egalitarian age for women to try to pick up the mantle.
Reading this book I was so encouraged. It was a paradigm shift in many ways. Overall, this Lutheran Pastor with over 50 years of ministry helped me to see the absolute privilege it is to be an “errand boy” for Jesus. Pastors, we are called to be sheepdogs, living among the sheep while being in tuned with our shepherd.
I highly recommend this book.
Reading this book I was so encouraged. It was a paradigm shift in many ways. Overall, this Lutheran Pastor with over 50 years of ministry helped me to see the absolute privilege it is to be an “errand boy” for Jesus. Pastors, we are called to be sheepdogs, living among the sheep while being in tuned with our shepherd.
I highly recommend this book.
January 9, 2021
2021 reads: 03/52
Rating: 4 stars
Publisher: Lexham Press
Harold Senkbeil has written a refreshing, poetic and vivid proposal for pastoral ministry. The book pushes up against the flow of commercial culture and methods of pragmatism that abound in the church today. The main burden of Senbeil is that pastors ought to develop a pastoral ‘habitus’—a way of being that cares for souls through the word and sacraments. Senkbeil is an avid Lutheran which brought some novelty to the book (speaking as a baptist). His proposal is realistic and hopeful, never excusing the warts and pains of ministry but ever directing the pastors efforts to Christ’s presence in word and sacrament. Some sections were pure gold; Senkbeil’s 50 years of ministry shines through in many ways. The book’s argument is also couched in agricultural imagery which gives it an earthy and fresh telling. I so appreciated the lessons about waiting, patience, navigating relationships and Senkbeil’s willingness to know the limits of the pastoral vocation.
Readers outside the Lutheran tradition will find his emphasis on sacrament and absolution a little jarring, but I was helped by it and it certainly gave me much to think through. Besides this (and the somewhat difficult layout of very short sections under new headings) this is a book on the ministry every one should read. Senkbeil’s contemplative, deeply scriptural and ancient approach to caring for souls is much needed in today’s modern landscape.
Rating: 4 stars
Publisher: Lexham Press
Harold Senkbeil has written a refreshing, poetic and vivid proposal for pastoral ministry. The book pushes up against the flow of commercial culture and methods of pragmatism that abound in the church today. The main burden of Senbeil is that pastors ought to develop a pastoral ‘habitus’—a way of being that cares for souls through the word and sacraments. Senkbeil is an avid Lutheran which brought some novelty to the book (speaking as a baptist). His proposal is realistic and hopeful, never excusing the warts and pains of ministry but ever directing the pastors efforts to Christ’s presence in word and sacrament. Some sections were pure gold; Senkbeil’s 50 years of ministry shines through in many ways. The book’s argument is also couched in agricultural imagery which gives it an earthy and fresh telling. I so appreciated the lessons about waiting, patience, navigating relationships and Senkbeil’s willingness to know the limits of the pastoral vocation.
Readers outside the Lutheran tradition will find his emphasis on sacrament and absolution a little jarring, but I was helped by it and it certainly gave me much to think through. Besides this (and the somewhat difficult layout of very short sections under new headings) this is a book on the ministry every one should read. Senkbeil’s contemplative, deeply scriptural and ancient approach to caring for souls is much needed in today’s modern landscape.
February 1, 2024
Phenomenal.
Senkbeil draws from sources old and contemporary to talk about the "habitus" (a pastoral temperament or character worked by the Holy Spirit through his means) (17). His writing is moving and beautiful (and so is the art in the book!) rooted in years of pastoral ministry. His Lutheranism is a helpful feature in a day where ministry methods are rooted in subjective means (though I deny infant faith and baptism, and absolution).
Favorite quotes:
"Mission and ministry go together. Gathering and tending, evangelization and pastoring are the package work to which you are called. Equipped with his life-giving word and healing sacraments, Jesus sends you out empowered by his Spirit both to gather in those sheep that have wandered far from home and to tend those already gathered" (133).
"There is no division between the care of souls and mission" (220).
"The formula for growth of the church now in this confused and confusing world is still the same as it was during the apostolic era: faithful teaching and administration of Christ's saving word and sacraments" (231).
Senkbeil draws from sources old and contemporary to talk about the "habitus" (a pastoral temperament or character worked by the Holy Spirit through his means) (17). His writing is moving and beautiful (and so is the art in the book!) rooted in years of pastoral ministry. His Lutheranism is a helpful feature in a day where ministry methods are rooted in subjective means (though I deny infant faith and baptism, and absolution).
Favorite quotes:
"Mission and ministry go together. Gathering and tending, evangelization and pastoring are the package work to which you are called. Equipped with his life-giving word and healing sacraments, Jesus sends you out empowered by his Spirit both to gather in those sheep that have wandered far from home and to tend those already gathered" (133).
"There is no division between the care of souls and mission" (220).
"The formula for growth of the church now in this confused and confusing world is still the same as it was during the apostolic era: faithful teaching and administration of Christ's saving word and sacraments" (231).
December 17, 2025
I just love this book. I can’t wait to read it again in a few years already.
June 19, 2024
Very good! I disagreed with basically everything on the sacraments (he is Lutheran)
His thoughts on caring for the souls God puts in your charge we’re excellent and I pray that I cultivate a pastoral habitus for the joy of the people at BHBC and the glory of my King!
If you are a pastor of want to be one, I would recommend reading this.
His thoughts on caring for the souls God puts in your charge we’re excellent and I pray that I cultivate a pastoral habitus for the joy of the people at BHBC and the glory of my King!
If you are a pastor of want to be one, I would recommend reading this.
March 20, 2025
A book to return to -- a book about "mere pastoring" in the very best of senses. And published with the most satisfactory text font I have ever seen.
November 15, 2022
This book made me cry. Made me afraid of entering ministry and made me want to enter ministry.
February 28, 2025
This is not a book about how to run a church or make a church grow in size, but it is a book on leadership. I enjoyed this and found it refreshing due to its focus on the heart of pastoral leadership: dwelling with God and leading others to the words of Christ.
After a while I found myself feeling like I was reading the same thing over and over and he is decidedly Lutheran, so there were some things that he had a different perspective on.
Overall, I’m glad I read this and found it very encouraging!
After a while I found myself feeling like I was reading the same thing over and over and he is decidedly Lutheran, so there were some things that he had a different perspective on.
Overall, I’m glad I read this and found it very encouraging!
April 26, 2020
Careful, insightful, and humble. An enjoyable read that brings clarity to the pastoral vocation, and shoots some holes through the vision of the ministry Eugene Peterson derided as 'religious entrepreneurship.'
June 12, 2025
Undoubtedly one of the best books on pastoral ministry I’ve read
Beautifully written, convictionally deep, and practically wise, this book is full of truth, compassion, and the fire that sets ablaze anyone that’s been called to ministry. Every Pastor should read it and reread it often!
Beautifully written, convictionally deep, and practically wise, this book is full of truth, compassion, and the fire that sets ablaze anyone that’s been called to ministry. Every Pastor should read it and reread it often!
March 17, 2023
4.5
Too Lutheran for its own good at times 😅 but so warm and rich. The pastor as a sheepdog analogy used throughout was particularly helpful.
A quote to summarise:
“No amount of the powers of persuasion, personal, charisma, charm, leadership, and administrative skills will ever bring people to Jesus and his gifts; only the Holy Spirit can do that as he works through the word preached and taught by pastors and day by day as he undergirds and empowers ministry in Jesus’ name.”
Too Lutheran for its own good at times 😅 but so warm and rich. The pastor as a sheepdog analogy used throughout was particularly helpful.
A quote to summarise:
“No amount of the powers of persuasion, personal, charisma, charm, leadership, and administrative skills will ever bring people to Jesus and his gifts; only the Holy Spirit can do that as he works through the word preached and taught by pastors and day by day as he undergirds and empowers ministry in Jesus’ name.”
February 27, 2020
This was so refreshing! Very sound advice for pastors from a seasoned pastor. He's from a Lutheran tradition but I was easily able to navigate those and the gist is trans-denomimational- even for a Baptist 💪🏻
I'll come back to this one again.
I'll come back to this one again.
Read
March 9, 2025I agreed with much of this book.
November 13, 2019
This book surprised me. The advertisements for it looked intriguing, but we are blessed to have many wonderful volumes about the work of a pastor. The author, Harold L. Senkbeil, is a long-time Lutheran pastor. Since I am not a Lutheran, I wondered if I might diverge from him on many points. To be sure, he would sometimes talk about the sacraments or baptism in a way that is totally foreign to my thinking, but I loved his book nonetheless. I could easily roll over those sacramental comments because what he had to say about God, His Word, and the ministry struck me directly in the heart. He wrote in so many ways about the pastor I want to be and showed me the way to get there.
He had a knack for working in his life experiences without ever making it about him. He would mention what he learned growing up on a farm many times but I assure you it was never trite nor meaningless. In fact, every facet of farming that he ties to the ministry will be so clear that you will wonder why you hadn’t thought of it before. He gives a wonderful description of what a pastor even is. He will explain both the care and the cure of souls and define a pastoral “habitus” along the way. Even if you’ve never heard the term before, you will be glad to make its acquaintance. There’s an extraordinary chapter on how the word of God is our source for ministry. His description of part of pastoring being the work of diagnosis and a work on the soul covers more in one chapter than some such books do in their entirety. His chapter on treatment of what is diagnosed makes it all practical. Other chapters that tie everything to Christ are extraordinary. He relates theologically how to talk about sin and justification and what shame and guilt are in a way that will minister to your soul as he’s trying to tell you how to help others! Be sure to check out his sexual case study, which again is written for you to help others, in a chapter that is as good as I’ve ever read on that subject.
I have underlined many sentences in my copy. In addition to the wonderful material, the author is an extraordinary, captivating writer. I was unable to read this book fast. In fact, I could never read more than one chapter at a sitting because it would give me so much to dwell on. That means it may take you a few days to read it, but they will be days well spent. This publisher has had a legacy year in writing about pastoring as they’ve already released one of the best volumes on preaching (The Heart of the Preacher) that I have seen in a long time. This book is worthy of the highest possible recommendation!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
He had a knack for working in his life experiences without ever making it about him. He would mention what he learned growing up on a farm many times but I assure you it was never trite nor meaningless. In fact, every facet of farming that he ties to the ministry will be so clear that you will wonder why you hadn’t thought of it before. He gives a wonderful description of what a pastor even is. He will explain both the care and the cure of souls and define a pastoral “habitus” along the way. Even if you’ve never heard the term before, you will be glad to make its acquaintance. There’s an extraordinary chapter on how the word of God is our source for ministry. His description of part of pastoring being the work of diagnosis and a work on the soul covers more in one chapter than some such books do in their entirety. His chapter on treatment of what is diagnosed makes it all practical. Other chapters that tie everything to Christ are extraordinary. He relates theologically how to talk about sin and justification and what shame and guilt are in a way that will minister to your soul as he’s trying to tell you how to help others! Be sure to check out his sexual case study, which again is written for you to help others, in a chapter that is as good as I’ve ever read on that subject.
I have underlined many sentences in my copy. In addition to the wonderful material, the author is an extraordinary, captivating writer. I was unable to read this book fast. In fact, I could never read more than one chapter at a sitting because it would give me so much to dwell on. That means it may take you a few days to read it, but they will be days well spent. This publisher has had a legacy year in writing about pastoring as they’ve already released one of the best volumes on preaching (The Heart of the Preacher) that I have seen in a long time. This book is worthy of the highest possible recommendation!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
December 28, 2020
This is one of the best books I have read on pastoral care. Although very Lutheran (let’s play with a crucifix while we pray, etc), this is both bomb and balm.
It blows up any worldly/power/CEO style ideas that may have infiltrated our ministries. But is also applies gallons of balm repeatedly by pointing us to Jesus.
I feel both gutted by the mistakes I have made, but also empowered (by the Spirit) to become a faithful sheepdog.
It blows up any worldly/power/CEO style ideas that may have infiltrated our ministries. But is also applies gallons of balm repeatedly by pointing us to Jesus.
I feel both gutted by the mistakes I have made, but also empowered (by the Spirit) to become a faithful sheepdog.
November 11, 2022
Excellent through and through. If you are a pastor or aspire to be one, pick this book up and read it. The imagery of being sheepdog to the Shepherd will remain with me as a frequent reminder of the delight of doing the Shepherd's will in caring for his sheep.
October 6, 2020
Some books come at the right time in one’s life. That’s this book for me. I’d encourage any pastor to read it.
October 3, 2024
One point that Senkbeil makes again and again is that Pastors give nothing to their flock which they did not first receive from the Chief Shepherd. Any love or truth which we disperse came first from Him! We are simply His sheep-dogs, watching Him closely to see where He will direct us, and overjoyed at the opportunity to do His bidding.
Thus, the pastoral habitus (the primary theme of this book) is developed, not through our own hard work, but through Christ working in and through us over time. God is the actor...in our discipleship, counseling, growth, and mission.
I learned so much from this book and Senkbeil's 50 years of pastoral experience. I was particularly struck by his compassion for people. You can tell Senkbeil has spent time watching the compassionate Shepherd.
This book is inescapably Lutheran. Where Senkbeil says "the Word and Sacraments," I would much prefer "the Word." But, honestly, the excellent pastoral counsel is so rich, it would be foolish to get too hung up on our differences. There's plenty to walk away with for those who want to grow in the care of souls.
Thus, the pastoral habitus (the primary theme of this book) is developed, not through our own hard work, but through Christ working in and through us over time. God is the actor...in our discipleship, counseling, growth, and mission.
I learned so much from this book and Senkbeil's 50 years of pastoral experience. I was particularly struck by his compassion for people. You can tell Senkbeil has spent time watching the compassionate Shepherd.
This book is inescapably Lutheran. Where Senkbeil says "the Word and Sacraments," I would much prefer "the Word." But, honestly, the excellent pastoral counsel is so rich, it would be foolish to get too hung up on our differences. There's plenty to walk away with for those who want to grow in the care of souls.
October 12, 2023
Rev. Senkbeil's book is entirely deserving of all the praise it has received, if not more. Although geared towards those in the pastoral office, as a lay person I found the book encouraging and even enchanting. Rev. Senkbeil unlocks the treasure chest of the Lutheran tradition and freely distributes its wealth of pastoral wisdom to the rest of Christendom. I was especially struck by how he applies and brings home the effective power of the word far better than I've ever heard it expressed before. The way he approaches his writing is in of itself pastoral and I found myself feeling like I just came out of a encouraging meeting with my own priest.
On a very different but not an altogether unimportant note: this book was possibly one of the most gorgeous books I've ever owned.
On a very different but not an altogether unimportant note: this book was possibly one of the most gorgeous books I've ever owned.
April 14, 2025
Truly amazing! One of my favorite books on pastoral ministry!
As Horton explains in the Preface, sometimes seminarians (and others) come to embrace Reformation teaching on salvation but fail to see how that impacts pastoral ministry. This book seeks to be a thorough-going Reformational ministry book.
Senkbeil knows and emphasizes the importance of the presence of Jesus, the efficacy of the Word, and the power of the forgiveness of sins. These concepts resurface on page after page of this book.
As a Baptist, I wouldn't word absolutely everything the same or say all of the same things (since he is a Lutheran). But, many Baptists underestimate all of the treasures that can be gleaned from the Lutheran tradition.
I commend this book wholeheartedly!
As Horton explains in the Preface, sometimes seminarians (and others) come to embrace Reformation teaching on salvation but fail to see how that impacts pastoral ministry. This book seeks to be a thorough-going Reformational ministry book.
Senkbeil knows and emphasizes the importance of the presence of Jesus, the efficacy of the Word, and the power of the forgiveness of sins. These concepts resurface on page after page of this book.
As a Baptist, I wouldn't word absolutely everything the same or say all of the same things (since he is a Lutheran). But, many Baptists underestimate all of the treasures that can be gleaned from the Lutheran tradition.
I commend this book wholeheartedly!
December 17, 2020
Outstanding. This book ministered to my soul. I'm in a bit of an extended Sabbath, about to move (God willing) into a new pastorate soon. And I've wanted to stay close to Jesus and the ministry of pastor that I believe he's called me to. I couldn't have asked for a better book to read now.
I found it very clear on the good news of Jesus, clear on who the pastor is first and foremost before God, the role of the pastor, the struggles and joys of pastoral ministry, helps for growth, harmonising with reality, and deeply hope giving.
The author comes from a different position to me in a number of areas, but this didn't put me off. The opposite happened. I learnt to see some things which I had questioned with a new clarity, sometimes still disagreeing, but nevertheless appreciating where he's coming from and loving the wider body of Christ more.
Couldn't recommend it more highly.
I found it very clear on the good news of Jesus, clear on who the pastor is first and foremost before God, the role of the pastor, the struggles and joys of pastoral ministry, helps for growth, harmonising with reality, and deeply hope giving.
The author comes from a different position to me in a number of areas, but this didn't put me off. The opposite happened. I learnt to see some things which I had questioned with a new clarity, sometimes still disagreeing, but nevertheless appreciating where he's coming from and loving the wider body of Christ more.
Couldn't recommend it more highly.
June 23, 2023
This is an honest and refreshing book on pastoral ministry from a seasoned saint who has been through the joys and trials of pastoral ministry. I loved the honesty, the farming illustrations, and the continual moving the readers eyes and hearts on to the Great Shepherd. I will revisit this one often and recommend it with great joy.
November 14, 2021
This was a book I had to slow down and read in small doses. Here you meet an elder pastor with a heart to pass on his “habitus” and his insights gleaned from life on the farm and in the parish. Highly recommended for pastors and church elders!
May 26, 2025
Surely this one is an all timer. A classic within 10 years of being written. Simply put, it is a pastoral book that gives no cute fixes, no short cuts, just one answer to how you can care for the souls in your flock; namely the Gospel of Jesus Christ. A clean conscious and the promises of the Gospel attached to the sacraments. These are the only thing your congregation truly needs. I was ministered to immensely by this book. My heart felt a special calm every time I picked it up.
May 21, 2021
Wow this book was phenomenal. I haven’t read much on “the care of souls”. Senkbeil teaches it in such a compelling way. I think every pastor should read this book. If you aren’t Lutheran and can look past his Lutheran doctrinal distinctive, you will find a treasure of wisdom here.
April 2, 2025
Senkbeil is very Lutheran but if you read past differences in denomination he has great insight into how to love and care for souls in ministry.
November 30, 2021
I'll be rereading this one. Senkbeil comes from a very different tradition than me and as a result he approaches the role of the pastor in a way that is unintuitive for me, but compelling and encouraging. I found the appeal to pastoring (instead of leading or "breaking through" to the "next level") refreshing and encouraging).
March 17, 2024
I received this book for free and it sat on a shelf for months... what a mistake.
This is not a great book, or a 5 star, but rather, one of the best books I've ever read. I couldn't recommend it enough.
Wow.
This is not a great book, or a 5 star, but rather, one of the best books I've ever read. I couldn't recommend it enough.
Wow.
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