Minding God's Business

Description: Pastors, leaders of Christian organizations, and lay persons will find an invaluable guide and spiritual wisdom in this book. Focusing primarily on the what rather than the how of managing Christian organizations, Ray Anderson clearly presents a biblical and theological basis for understanding the unique characteristics of Christian organizations and what it means to manage such organizations in a Christian way. Anderson emphasizes the role of leadership for pastors and those who manage Christian organizations, providing helpful teaching on issues such as strategic planning, the development of mission statements as a definition of the organization's goals, and what it means to use biblical principles, prayer, and dependence on the Holy Spirit in carrying out the organization's goals. Endorsements: ""There is an increasing interest in--and concern for--how 'Christian' organizations (and churches) are managed in today's complex society. Ray Anderson has made a careful study of this Christian organizational problem and helps us all to better understand the biblical stance related to an issue which affects so many of us. Here is timely help, a theological perspective, and practical applications. The author gives us an effective, refreshing, creative approach to 'Minding God's Business.'"" --TED W. ENGSTROM President, World Vision ""After several decades of leadership theory and practice without much theology, often leading to ruthless pragmatism on one hand or ineffective mysticism on the other, Ray Anderson has stepped in and done what he does best. He teaches us that Minding God's Business is most effective when it simultaneously pays attention to the Spirit and to the organization--with no nutty, false dualisms. If reading 'how to' books on leadership and management are leaving you wanting more, and if theological works make you say 'What do we do now?' pick up Minding God's Business. You'll get the whole picture."" --Todd Hunter, Founder and President, Society for Kingdom Living, author of Christianity Beyond Belief ""Ray Anderson merges the 'secular' concepts of accountability, competence, and excellence with the 'spiritual' concept of the calling of God to the secular workplace, erasing the lines we often draw between the two. As a leader in both the secular and para-church environments, I have striven to operate with one standard--God's 'good, pleasing and perfect will.' Ray ties it all together in a theological context that will help us 'get it right.'"" --CRAIG W. OLSON CEO, Fresh Start Bakeries, Chairman, Concordia University Irvine, California Board of Regents About the Contributor(s): RAY S. ANDERSON (1925-2009) was Senior Professor of Theology and Ministry at Fuller Theological Seminary where he has taught for more than thirty years. He is the author of more than twenty-five books, including, The Seasons of Hope, Marriage and Family Ministry in a Postmodern Culture, The Soul of Ministry, Ministry on the Fireline, and The Shape of Practical Theology.