The Journey of Ministry: Insights from a Life of Practice
"Sage advice, sound teaching, fascinating stories--such jewels you will find in Eddie Gibbs's new book,The Journey of Ministry, where he shares a lifetime of insight and experience. I had the privilege of sitting under his instruction at Fuller Theological Seminary; he is a master teacher. You may not agree with every conclusion he has reached over 50 years of ministry (and he has come with some amazing insights)--but you will be challenged, instructed and inspired by his life, ministry and vision for the kingdom. I know I was." (Jim Belcher, author of Deep Church)"Eddie Gibbs has not only been a gift to the church for as long as I can remember but someone who has been hugely influential in my life and ministry. The beauty of Eddie's life is that he has always been a practitioner and a scholar, refusing to let the hallowed halls of academia change, in any way, the calling of his life as a disciple of Jesus. This poignant book of Eddie's reflections will illuminate what life can be like if you follow Jesus over the course of your life with steadfastness, vigor and adventure. I can't recommend it highly enough." (Mike Breen, founder and global team leader, 3DM)"Pay attention to this book! Eddie Gibbs is weaving gold from the many threads of his life." (David Hansen, Kenwood Baptist Church, Cincinnati, Ohio, author of The Art of Pastoring)"Eddie Gibbs, a cherished mentor to me and thousands of others, is a national treasure in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Now I want to say more: the godly wisdom communicated inThe Journey of Ministrydeserves a global hearing." (Bishop Todd Hunter, founder, Churches for the Sake of Others (C4SO), author, Christianity Beyond Belief)"From the air raid sirens of WWII in England through the era of iPad and droid enthusiasm, Eddie Gibbs, the mechanic's son, who never had a library in his home as a youngster, shares his unique perspective on life's journey and lessons learned on both sides of the pond. From the time Eddie and I first met in 1982-1983 in preparation for the Mission England efforts throughout the United Kingdom, I have been learning from him. His insights are refreshing. This book is no different, as Eddie guides us through life committed to Christ, its struggles, hurdles, joys and growth. GibbsNext would have been a great title for this book, for Eddie has become a guru for all who know and appreciate that perspective of ministry in culture as well as practical and theological development." (Tom Phillips, vice president of crusades, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association)"Eddie is one of the few elder statesmen around in missional church circles. I am personally always thankful for Eddie and deeply value everything he has to say. In this reflective book, the sage offers sagely advice on issues ranging from ministry, spirituality, character and of course . . . mission. A worthy read." (Alan Hirsch, author, activist, dreamer (www.alanhirsch.org))"Eddie Gibbs loves the church, and his heart aches when it falls short. With humility and humor, Eddie shares challenging words in this book, words that can only emerge out of a lifetime of service with those who are on the forefront of ministry so that the church might advance. "Read this book slowly. It is full of wisdom from a seasoned pastor, missionary and professor who through the experiences of his life and his family reminds church leaders what is most essential for fruitful ministry. These are words to read and then to incorporate into our lives." (Dr. Kurt Fredrickson, associate dean for Doctor of Ministry and Continuing Education, assistant professor of pastoral ministry, Fuller Theological Seminary)