Ministry

by Charles J. Brown

The life of the minister is the life of his ministry. It is to be deeply regretted that a low level of spiritual vitality greatly hinders the impact of even the most gifted ministries. Paul's words to Timothy, ?Take heed unto thyself ?, continue to apply to all ministers of the gospel. Charles J. Brown was a man who took the Apostle's words seriously. ?An animated, incisive, and very spiritual preacher?, he was often asked to give addresses on the subject of pastoral ministry. This powerful little volume survives as a statement of what he saw as the essence of the gospel ministry?preaching with the Holy Spirit sent down from heaven. Men of doctrinal earnestness, catholic spirit, tender hearts, and abiding prayerfulness, whose lips have been touched with a ?live coal from off the altar?, have ever been the means of reviving the church and awakening the world. Only let the Christian ministry return to the apostolic rule of Acts 6:4 and the church will surely see brighter days.

Genres: Theology

112 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2006

Reviews

[Zack]

An excellent help in ministry, though some readers will surely find the 19th century style somewhat cumbersome at points. This is a gem of a little book.

[Jonathan]

Nuggets of wisdom from a mature pastor and preacher. Recommended.

[Josue]

This short book of 112 small pages (39 of which are appendices) is composed of "addresses to student of divinity" given by Charles J. Brown in the mid 1800s.

The first chapter on "the connection between godliness and Christian ministry" is excellent! I definitely would like to read it again. Unfortunately the rest of the book dropped my rating to 2 Stars.

The second chapter on public prayer contains some good insights, but he spoke a bit too much on long, drawn out public prayers methinks. His point was quite clear in just two sentences.

The third chapter on preaching was good too. He also seemed a bit too passionate about giving sermons without a manuscript on hand. It's understandable why he chose not to use manuscripts; I just don't think he needed to spend so much time going on about it.

The last chapter and appendices also contain great insights.

I can't really say this is a book everyone ought to read. I think there are much better books that touch on these same subjects.