Seven Practices of Effective Ministry

There’s no scoreboard in the sanctuary, and the only plate is probably for the offering. But every church leader needs to know how to win, and every congregation needs to know when to cheer. This insightful book speaks to every church leader who yearns for a simpler, more effective approach to ministry. An engaging parable about one overwhelmed pastor is followed by an overview of seven successful team practices, each one developed and applied in a ministry setting. Reinforced by relevant discussion questions, these clear, easy, and strategic practices can turn any ministry into a winning team.

Your ministry is perfectly designed to produce the results you are currently experiencing. If you are satisfied with those results, you don’t need this book. If not, it’s time for a change.

Like your own personal trainer, 7 Practices of Effective Ministry is an insightful guide for any leader who yearns for a simpler, more effective approach to ministry. Here are seven strategic principles that when put into play will bring focus and clarity to everything you do and turn your ministry into a winning team.

Story Behind the Book

Looking for ways to help pastors faced with hectic lives and depleted resources, Andy Stanley, Reggie Joiner, and Lane Jones decided to write a parable about the complicated life of a local pastor. Rather than come straight at those in ministry with formulas and lists, they engage readers in an effort to have them identify with the character.

“For many years, I practiced and taught church growth. What I have witnessed as a member at North Point takes church growth to a whole new level. Andy and his team communicate principles that will add value to you and the church you love.”
-John C. Maxwell, founder, The INJOY Group

“Every professional athlete recognizes the value of solid coaching. The best are always working to get better. From what I’ve seen at North Point, these seven practices can improve the game of any church in America.”
-John Smoltz, Cy Young Award-winning pitcher

“The practices covered in this book are down-to-earth, practical, and come from real difference-makers who know what church leadership is all about. Andy, Reggie, and Lane have definitely hit the ball out of the park with the 7 Practices of Effective Ministry.”
-Ed Young, Jr., senior pastor, Fellowship Church

Customer Reviews:

A Must Read for Every Leader!

By Gerald Khoo - March 13, 2005

This book has been a highlight in my reading this year! It has challenged me to look deeper into what needs to be done in ministry. The 7 Practices are (1) Clarify the Win, (2) Think Steps, Not Programs, (3) Narrow the Focus, (4) Teach Less for More, (5) Listen to Outsiders, (6) Replace Yourself, and (7) Work On It.

The book begins with a parable, much like that from authors Spencer Johnson or Ken Blanchard, where the 7 practices are being explained in a story about a pastor with a situation in church where he needs help in. The story begins with the pastor thinking whether he should go for a board meeting (which he was dreading to go), or to go for possibly the most important baseball game that season. In order not for me to spoil your reading, I would not go further but to say that the story will wet your appetite for more.

The book continues to explain each practice not only with clarity, but ending each chapter with a list of questions. It is often that... read more

A Brief Disclaimer

By R. Kirkham "jrkirkham" - June 7, 2006

Page 67 has contains a brief disclaimer that begins with the following sentence: "The principles and practices described in this book are not and cannot be a substitute for God's blessing or power." I love that disclaimer.

Church growth architects tend to love books like this. Theologians and contemplatives hate them. Don't allow yourself to be sucked in by either side. Quality pastoral ministry has at least four dimensions: pragmatic, Spirit empowered, personal, and public. This book focuses on the pragmatic. In doing so it found its nitch.

Written in story style, which is designed to appeal to post moderns, this book offers 7 principles, which if followed, will most likely enhance any pastor's ministry potential. Pastors, you owe it to yourselves and your congregations to keep as up to date as possible on all facets of ministry. Get this book. It is worth its price.

Nice book. Lacks Biblical Substance

By ACS "ACS" - August 16, 2011

I liked this book. I read it within a few days. It is a really quick read. It has some great points. However, what it lacks is sricptural reference. This book describes 7 habits for an effective 501(c)3 organization. It parralels itself with "ministry".

I think this book can be very helpful to today's church leaders. However, as with much of today's "church" literature, I suggest that you read it side my side with your Bible. Make sure that you are not compromising the Word or God's divine assignment for your ministry in order to line up with the practices and examples in this book.

Overall, I think that a "mature" leader will be able to pull some ideas from this book that will definately help their ministry.

AVAILABILITY
Merchant	Format	Price
Amazon US	Paperback	$4.38 - $19.99
eBooks.com	Digital (PDF)	$10.99
BookByte	Paperback	$14.99
eCampus	Paperback	~~$12.99~~ discount!