Everything we do is leadership! We are called to be servant-leaders who cast vision and ensure that it is implemented. We are called to be shepherd leaders with strong and gentle hearts while protecting, providing, and feeding our flocks. We are called to have willing and joyful hearts even in the midst of the mundane.…

In this discussion, we’ll look at how everything that pastors or ministry leaders do falls under the umbrella of leadership. Hansen says, “Whatever they are doing, shepherds lead.” Go to ShepherdLeader.com and read the first section entitled “About ShepherdLeader.com.” God calls “shepherds” not only to lead in the church but also in vocations: in the…

In light of the readings on ministering alongside of colleagues, consider the colleagues whom God has placed in your sphere of influence. Consider the centrality of the role of relationships in ministry—not only with your constituents but also with your peers and colleagues. Tasks: Read the codes of ethics in the appendices of Carter and…

No one ministers alone. We are all members of the body of Christ; thus, we are always called to minister alongside one other. Being sinners, sometimes we fall in the trap of jealousy, suspicion, and insecurity. Healthy leaders promote a spirit of cooperation among their colleagues (members, constituents, colleagues, and regional and national leaders). In…

In an interview in Time magazine, Billy Graham identified sex as an area in which ministers are vulnerable: I learned . . . that I would be tempted in those areas. So I never rode in a car with a woman alone. I have never eaten a meal with my secretary alone . . .…

Pastoral Theology Note: Per the South University grading policy, this assignment is classified as the Final Project assignment. If a student does not complete this assignment and fails the course, he or she will be awarded a grade of NCF. By now, you should have a grasp of what it means to be the spiritual…

Telling the Truth when People Don’t Want to Hear It Prophets are often considered great only after they moved on to another church. In most cases, they are considered too controversial and way off the normal track by the society in which they live. Sometimes, prophets are not accepted even within their own circles. In…

When the Sermon Ends Preachers are often caught up in the trap of believing that people’s immediate responses to their sermons are true indicators of their understanding and acceptance of their sermons. In the preparation for Sunday and the preaching moment, it is vital to remember that “actions speak louder than words.” In a 2-…

Define the central beliefs of Islam and how practitioners express those beliefs. Examine the role of the prophet Muhammad in the sacred story of Islam. Compare the role of Muhammad in Islam with the role of Jesus Christ in Christianity. Describe ways in which Islam is reflected in the lives of Muslims. Describe Islam’s history…

Some “seasoned” congregations were once vibrant and active in the lives of their communities. Older members remember the “good old days” when the pews were full and the church was the center of activity. What changed all that? Write an essay detailing ideas (2–3 pages) for how your congregation can create opportunities for church growth…