Church Planter, by Darrin Patrick

I think what I most enjoyed about Darrin Patrick's work is his description in part one of the book about "The Man" that is called to be a church planter / leader / pastor.  In seven chapters he goes through the character traits and qualifications of what a man needs to possess to be an effective church planter / leader.  His topics range from the "Rescued Man" to the "Shepherding Man."  He gives very good descriptions for you to dwell on as well as good practical advice for what it means to be a Shepherd / leader of your flock.

The second section of the book is "The Message" and deals with the importance of the Gospel.  The importance of having the correct message, well established and not watered down to be satisfying to all people.  The Gospel is a difficult message and sometimes harsh.  The Church Planter must be courageous in delivering the message to those that need to hear it.  They can not faint in the face of opposition.  There will be people who want them to soft peddle the Bible to make it more palatable for the hearers.  But the Church Planter needs to know the Truth, teach the Truth, and live out the Truth in their life.

Finally his last section deals with The Mission and gives very good advice and exposition of the task at hand and how when done well the task will transform the community, the culture and eventually the world.

All men thinking of going into Pastoral Ministry should read this book.  They should delve into it, make it a part of their life, add it to their collection of good books to have on their shelf and to refer to often.

I read this for an assignment with a group here at church.  By adding it to the books, Biblical Eldership and The Shepherd Leader I think it gives you just what you need to have a well rounded discussion of what it means to be "Called" into the Pastorate and what you will need to understand to be able to guide God's people through the turmoil of today's culture.

Enjoy!