Rock Solid Biblical Advice For Church Leaders
Book Review By Dr. David P. Craig
It’s a rare occasion that I get to read and review a book by an author I know well. The author and I have been close friends since we were roommates in Bible college in the mid-eighties. I also feel honored and humbled that he would dedicate this book to me. David S. Steele is the man in my life that next to me dad, I admire more than any man I’ve ever known. He is the most disciplined godly man I know and I am delighted to recommend this book with the highest recommendation possible.
In this book Dr. Steele tackles the subjects of worldview, theology, biblical theology, heresy, and spiritual warfare with the skill of a top notch surgeon. There is no one I know that comes close to being as well-read, and a student who takes seriously the pursuit of godliness and the application of God’s Word as Pastor Steele. Where this book shines so brightly as an encouragement to leaders is in its depth. Dr. Steele is adept at brining the best of the Bible, Church History, Philosophy, and Theology in a way that brings tremendous depth, logic, and coherence to a Church Leader’s task.
The bottom line thesis of this book is that many pastors and church leaders in our culture have capitulated to the cultural relativism of our age. We have exchanged the great truths of the Bible for half-truths – which are really full-on lies. Too many pastors and leaders of churches are lazy with their minds, and thus not able to run the race before them. Steele brilliantly examines five key areas where the Church has compromised: (1) The dismantling of the biblical God; (2) The blatant disregard for biblical doctrine; (3) The denigrating of the person and work of Christ; (4) The disregarding of the unified attributes of God in salvation and judgment; and (5) The demolishing of a Christian mind.
What I love about this book most is that though the author does not minimize the problems we face, his emphasis is on biblical solutions that are immensely practical. The three most helpful chapters for leaders are the last five – which include a wonderful Epilogue and Appendix that are very encouraging. Steele offers a helpful strategy, offensive insights, and a plan of perseverance for leaders. This book will inspire you, re-invigorate your calling, and help you to fall in love again with your first Love. It is a call to worship the God of the Gospel. It is a resounding call to all church leaders to be what God has made us to be – His ambassadors who are not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. Soli Deo Gloria!
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