The Journey of Ministry

Book Review.

Gibbs,  Eddie.  The Journey of Ministry.  Insights from a life of practice.  IVP Books 2012.  

E.G.- Senior professor in the School of Intercultural Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary.

Comment.  Henry.

From his vantage point in his mid-seventies Eddie is drawing some practical lessons about ministry.  His journey has taken him to many different places and his experiences are certainly varied.  His endorsements describe him as a well- respected elder statesman in the ministry.

Most cultures in our world are still characterized by the fact that people get around by walking.  Scripture portrays the Christian experience as a walk.  As we walk together we learn together. 

There are three categories of hurdles that face churches in western culture; “individualism, consumerism and nominalism.” (45)

Dying is part of how life develops as a follower of Christ.  “When God brings about a dying process, it leads to resurrection.” (78)  This is part of the learning curve in ministry.  Jesus called this dying ‘cross-bearing’. 

Team work is a basic ingredient in effective ministry.  Teams demonstrate commitment that reflects chemistry.  They develop and demonstrate “family-life skills.” (116)

Networking has been a part of church life from the beginning but it is going through continual change.  “Networks help facilitate exponential growth.”  “126” Communication in church culture is evaluated according to “the five spheres of ministry identified- (by Paul) apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor and teacher.” (147) 

Eddie closes his presentation with a brief biography outlining some the practical experiences that were significant in shaping his life, e.g. two years in the RAF, etc.

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