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Should youth pastor and adult leaders read ministry-related books?
There are people who think that there is no need for them to read ministry-related books other than the Bible because the the Bible itself is complete and sufficient. What do you guys think about this?
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You have to read other books. If for nothing else but to understand how to understand the Bible better. The only people I've met who say that kind of thing are lazy and really don't read the Bible that much anyway... |
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I completely agree with the majority on this one. God's Word is all-sufficient to guide us through this life while showing us how to trust in Him and follow His will. And the Bible needs to be an integral part of your life. But it doesn't deal with finding the right church for your ministry and even how to plan the right kinds of activities for your jr. highers. And that's okay, that's not why God gave us His Word. It's purpose is to guide us to His Son and then guide us to progressively grow in Him. Other books are useful to challenge us and help us learn things that aren't included in the Scriptures. |
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Dude, you totally have to read other books. That doesn't mean it replaces the Bible or even that you have to agree with everything that's in print, but you should at least be willing and open to stimulate your thinking and viewpoints by those you agree and disagree with. |
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Why would you not want to learn from other people's experience. The Bible is complete and sufficient but it is
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Bible first... But, I think it is a great way to pull other ideas that may help grow the ministry. Any tools or tips that will nurture and develop the ministry to be fully healthy. I think that as long as you stay focus on the bible then everything will fall into place of what youth books can help you get where God wants you to be in the ministry. |
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The Bible first, and use the ministry related books as a secondary source for your ministry. I am not so hip on those that duplicate others ministry! Just because it worked for them, doesn't mean it will work for you. Be yourself, let GOD'S WORD saturate your heart and soul and allow GOD to multiply your ministry just like he did in Acts 2. |
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The Bible may have the answers we need regarding all kinds of ministry questions including philosophy, relationships, etc... That doesn't mean we are able to find all the answers or apply them in our context without a little help from others. Read ministry books and then make sure they are developing their ideas and thoughts from solid Biblical principals. A good ministry book will start with Biblical principals and move towards practical application. That is helpful. |
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While the Bible is complete and sufficient in giving us a broad moral standing, it doesn't always give you specifics on things like small groups, hurting kids, parents who complain, etc. Ministry-related books are a tool just like any other vocation has. The Bible needs to be the first book you read but it shouldn't be the only book you read. |
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No Question that they are valuable...but tailor the reading to accomplish what you are called there to do. Or even just use excerpts from books...slowly introduce the value to those that are a little hesitant...no pop quizzes, what a buzz kill. |
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Maybe it depends on how the book is written/used. Part of the way I look at ministry related books is a partial dialogue amongst the body of Christ on how to best apply the Bible and Scriptural principles in our current cultural context. I don't use them above the Bible, I use them in conjunction with the Bible. If the Bible isn't primary for you, that's a problem. Is it okay to read ministry books to gain additional insight, absolutely. I think it's a very good idea to be continually reading and learning. |
