A Portrait of Paul: Identifying a True Minister of Christ

by Rob Ventura, Jeremy Walker

What does a true pastor look like, and what constitutes a faithful ministry? How can we identify the life and labors of one called by God to serve in the church of Jesus Christ? To address these questions, Rob Ventura and Jeremy Walker examine how the apostle Paul describes his pastoral relation to the people of God in Colossians 1:24–2:5. By discussing these essential attitudes, qualities, and characteristics of a faithful minister of Christ, A Portrait of Paul provides gospel ministers an example of what they should be, and demonstrates for churches the kind of pastors they will seek if they desire men after God’s own heart.

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Theology

207 pages, Paperback

First published September 30, 2010

Reviews

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good biblical overview on what the pastoral ministry entails by looking at the example of the apostle Paul. I like how they have added practical insights for the laypeople and the pastor in every chapter's conclusion. Highly recommended (and comforting) for those who aspire or hold the pastoral office.

[Larry Gales · Rating 5 out of 5]

A convicting and encouraging book. This book illustrates the true heart of a Pastor. It also describes what a true Biblical Pastor looks like, referenced from Holy Writ.

[Victor Chininin · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent, go-to resource to reflect on the reality of the call to the ministry.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

"A Portrait of Paul" is a helpful overview of Paul's life and ministry, and its structure makes it particularly useful. After explaining each aspect of Paul's ministry, the author provides practical application for every Christian, and then further application directed at pastors. Even if you find yourself well acquainted with the theology explained in each chapter, the application sections provide rich insight into a number of areas of Christian life.

One of the strongest encouragements I came away with was to be more prayerful for my pastors. The idea of this is obviously nothing new, but the focus upon it in this book was both refreshing and challenging.

This book is quite readable, and I recommend it broadly. In particular: if you are considering pastoral ministry (or new to it) this book will be an excellent guide to you.

[Michaelpatrick Keena]

As the Apostle Paul said, follow me as I follow Christ, for those pursuing do well to follow such a servant (minister) of the Gospel.