The Politics of Ministry: Navigating Power Dynamics and Negotiating Interests

Bob Burns · Tasha D. Chapman · Donald C. Guthrie

Jan. 2019 · InterVarsity Press

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We all need help navigating the politics of ministry. "Politics" is often considered a dirty word. It brings to mind lies and manipulation, accusations and scandals. But at its most basic level, politics is simply the everyday activity of getting things done with other people: understanding their interests, recognizing the power dynamics at play, and learning how to negotiate relationships and institutions to achieve a common goal. These realities are as true in ministry settings as anywhere else. In The Politics of Ministry, Bob Burns, Tasha Chapman, and Donald Guthrie combine their long ministry experience with sociological research on the topic. Filled with real-life stories taken from a variety of ministry settings, this book sets out wise principles and practices that help us see more clearly the political dynamics at play in our churches and parachurch ministries. All ministry is political. As servants of Christ's kingdom, we are called to navigate the politics of ministry with grace, wisdom, and charity. This book shows us how the gospel of Jesus changes the way we work with those around us toward our common goal.

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Steven Garber is professor of marketplace theology and leadership at Regent College, Vancouver, and the principal of The Washington Institute for Faith, Vocation and Culture. A consultant to foundations, corporations, and schools, he is a teacher of many people in many places. His books include Visions of Vocation and The Fabric of Faithfulness.

Tasha D. Chapman (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is associate dean of lifelong learning and adjunct professor of educational ministries at Covenant Seminary. She is coauthor of Resilient Ministry with Bob Burns and Donald C. Guthrie.

Donald C. Guthrie (PhD, University of Georgia) is professor of educational ministries at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. Guthrie has a broad range of past experience serving the university sphere over the years as campus minister, vice president for academics, and director of several university programs and conferences. He is coauthor of Resilient Ministry with Bob Burns and Tasha D. Chapman.

Bob Burns (PhD, University of Georgia) is the pastor of spiritual formation at Church of the Good Shepherd in Durham, North Carolina. He was previously dean of lifelong learning and associate professor of education ministries at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis. He is ordained in the Presbyterian Church in America. He is coauthor of Resilient Ministry with Tasha D. Chapman and Donald C. Guthrie.