The Care of Souls

by Harold L. Senkbeil     |     Book Summary


Author: Harold L. Senkbeil
Publisher: Lexham Press
Date: 2019
Pages: 312

Book Summary of Union With Christ by Rankin Wilbourne


What is it exactly that a pastor is called to do? Everyone has some sense of what a pastor does in that they see him up front preaching on Sundays or at weddings and funerals. A pastor, however, is more than just a public speaker. The pastoral calling is ultimately to bring Jesus to people and people to Jesus through the dual means of the ministry of the Word and sacraments. Pastoral ministry is about the presence of God. 

The best pastors are the ones who are focused on the care of souls through application of the Word of God and the administration of the sacraments. This requires:

  1. Accurate diagnosis of the spiritual ailments afflicting the congregation
  2. Intentional treatment of those ailments with the Word and sacraments. 

Ultimately, pastoral ministry and the care of souls is a habitus, a way of life that is developed over time through the practice of pastoral ministry. Pastors who are careful to listen, accurately diagnose, and intentionally treat the souls of the congregation will grow into faithful pastors.





The Care of Souls

by Harold L. Senkbeil

[ Book Summary ]



Book Summary of Union With Christ by Rankin Wilbourne

Author Harold L. Senkbeil
Publisher Lexham Press
Date 2019
Pages 312


Overview:

What is it exactly that a pastor is called to do? Everyone has some sense of what a pastor does in that they see him up front preaching on Sundays or at weddings and funerals. A pastor, however, is more than just a public speaker. The pastoral calling is ultimately to bring Jesus to people and people to Jesus through the dual means of the ministry of the Word and sacraments. Pastoral ministry is about the presence of God. 

The best pastors are the ones who are focused on the care of souls through application of the Word of God and the administration of the sacraments. This requires:

  1. Accurate diagnosis of the spiritual ailments afflicting the congregation
  2. Intentional treatment of those ailments with the Word and sacraments. 

Ultimately, pastoral ministry and the care of souls is a habitus, a way of life that is developed over time through the practice of pastoral ministry. Pastors who are careful to listen, accurately diagnose, and intentionally treat the souls of the congregation will grow into faithful pastors.