Ministry in the Image of God: The Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service

This book shows that the Trinity is more than just a hard to understand theological concept, but is the foundation of Christian ministry. It shows how the Trinity permeates everything both in the spiritual and physical world.This book will be helpful to anyone seeking to have a truly Christ centered ministry.Seamands' book is Theological on the one hand but quite practical on the other. It gives a clear understanding of what the real motivation behind ministry should be.Seamands writes with honesty and humility. He shares his own vulnerability and fears to letting go and trusting God.

Seamands' book is a needed and sound treatise on practical application of Trinitarian theology. We have used it in our large southern church as the summer sourcebook for a sermon series titled "Serving in the Image of God", meaning it was the basis for both the sermons and Sunday School lessons for adult and teen classes, adapted by our resident theologian and author. Seamands' theology is refreshingly pure Wesleyan, and we are Nazarenes, so the fit was warm and wonderful. The biblical passages in each chapter provided the biblical foundation for the sermons and lessons, and Seamands' excellent quotes from prominent theologians and practical applications were so helpful. I highly recommend this book with the highest of endorsement.

Seamands, Stephen. 2005. Ministry in the Image of God: The Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Books.How does the doctrine of the Trinity apply to ministry today? That is the question that Seamands answers in his book on how the Trinity affects Christian service. He declares, "I am convinced that no doctrine is, in fact, more relevant to our identity and calling as ministers than the Trinity" (11). Although Seamands tends to relate more to those in pastoral ministry, what he says applies to all believers if we understand the priesthood of all believers.The first chapter "Trinitarian Ministry: Why it Matters" sets the agenda for the following seven chapters dealing with and progressing from the "Nature of Trinitarian ministry" through to the "Impulses of Trinitarian Ministry."This reviewer found this was an extremely helpful book to prepare for teaching how the doctrine of the Trinity applies in the life of both believers and the functioning of the local church. The only question one will need to ask from time to time is to what degree does Seamands pastoral tendency flow into his teaching on the Trinity rather than out of it. Nevertheless, I highly recommend this book to delve into just that question.

This is a wonderful book for pastors and church leaders who want to be engaged in their ministry through the Holy Trinity.

This book has been one of the most influential regarding the nature of Christian ministry that I have ever seen.* It takes the doctrine of the Trinity and shows how the truths of the nature and work of the Trinity apply directly to our ministry.* It encourages a God-centered ministry. Our ministry is the ministry of Christ to the Father in the power of the Spirit on behalf of the world.* It encourages a vibrant relational unity within the church, and helps the reader to see barriers to that unity.* It reminds us that the natural flow of the Trinity moves outward, encouraging us to be on mission, reaching out to draw people into relationship just as we have been drawn into the Trinity.

A thoughtful examination of the Trinity and its application to life and ministry. EVERY minister should read this book. EVERYONE! It has eight chapters:1. Trinidadian Ministry: Why It Matters2. Relational Personhood: The Nature of Trinitarian Ministry3. Joyful Intimacy: The Foundation of Trinitarian Ministry4. Glad Surrender: The Heart of Trinitarian Ministry5. Complex Simplicity: The Mystery of Trinitarian Ministry6. Gracious Self-Acceptance: The Particularity of Trinitarian Ministry7. Mutual Indwelling: The Reciprocity of Trinitarian Ministry8. Passionate Mission: The Impulse of Trinitarian Ministry

Amazing book! It opened my mind. Every chapter of this book is filled with deep theology and deep application for our life as Christian. It clearly shows that the Trinity is not just a doctrine that lives in the abstract world of our thoughts but it has very important and enriching practical applications.

I loved the simplicity with in-depth explanation drawing upon experiences that resonated, whether applicable or not to my personal experiences. It gave significant insights into the full picture of the Trinity. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a deeper understanding of the Trinity.

This is an awesome book that will help us understand that church is about deep relationships with each other, especially within our own communities and the people we are close to.

An excellent book written in a user friendly way and making sense throughout. This really brings to live thoughts on the concept and reality of the trinity - a 'must buy' and very challenging book.