R. Robert Creech - Pastoral Theology in the Baptist Tradition: Distinctives and Directions for the Contemporary Church

Creechs examination of the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of pastoral ministry adds a distinctly Baptist voice to this field of study. Creech explores the who of pastoral ministry as well as the what of pastoral roles of prophet, priest, and servant. Along the way, he addresses with care and skill an issue on which Baptists differ: the ordination of women as pastors. Creechs study will challenge readers to think through their philosophy of ministry, and the book deserves a place on any course syllabus used in preparing pastors for Christian ministry.

Adam Harwood , Baptist Center for Theology & Ministry, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary

New pastors need seasoned pastors who will walk alongside them as they navigate the contours of pastoral ministry. These experienced pastors provide vital mentoring in the classroom and in the congregation. Creech is just such a person. In this book, he unearths a treasure of Baptist theology and practice for those yearning to make sense of what it means to be a pastor. Creech highlights three pastoral tasks: preaching, pastoral care, and leadership. Each chapter demonstrates how these tasks are rooted in Scripture, how they have been rehearsed throughout history by Baptist pastors, and how we can reflect theologically about these tasks. By engaging the work of theologians like James McClendon and pastors like Martin Luther King Jr., Creech reminds us that the heritage Baptists inherit is as diverse as it is deep. Those longing for a biblical alternative to the pastor as CEO model of pastoral work will find a refreshing vision, rooted in a rich heritage, for faithful pastoral ministry.

Emmanuel C. Roldan , senior pastor, Primera Iglesia Bautista, Waco, Texas

Creech has written a stellar text on Baptist theology. He writes as a Baptist pastor and professor who loves the tradition that formed him and who both affirms and thoughtfully stands apart from it. The book fills a huge void in Baptist literature and is written in a scholarly yet highly accessible manner. He grounds the work theologically, traces its development historically, and offers his own theological reflection as a loving critic. I commend this work to you.

Jim Herrington , former executive director of Union Baptist Association, Houston, Texas; coach and consultant with The Leaders Journey

Finally, we have a Baptist perspective to add to the pastoral theology guild. Creech brilliantly explores fundamental and perennial pastoral undertakings from his experience in Baptist life. Readers will be both informed and inspired by Creechs work. While proudly providing the reader a Baptist-shaped lens to peer into pastoral theology, those from other faith traditions who dare to read this book will not feel excluded. Creech invites adherents from all faith traditions to constructively critique, cultivate, and commend their way of thinking about and performing pastoral ministry.

Delvin Atchison , senior pastor, Westside Baptist Church, Lewisville, Texas