Both/And Ministry

It is so easy to settle into our personalities and preferences and surrender to ‘that’s-just-the-way-I-am-and-I-can’t-change.’ But when we do, we find that the Spirit is constantly at work pointing out the gaps between this approach and all that the gospel calls us to be. Both/And Ministry not only points out the gaps we may have become blind to; it also energizes us for ongoing repentance and faith until the day when all of the gaps are gone for good. | With a heart for those who exercise any kind of Christian ministry or leadership, Millar writes with compassion, encouragement and insight to guide his readers into the joy of both Jesus’ completed work for us and his continual work in us. Both/And Ministry does more than call out the error of the Christian ‘pendulum swing’ that constantly oscillates between two half-truths—it directs us into fullness of life in Christ. | In a day of soundbites and hype, this book comes as a refreshing word of sanity. Gary Millar shows the multicoloured nature of Christian life and ministry, and refuses to allow it to become monochrome. He helps us grasp the different angles of Jesus’ teaching and resist the temptation to boil them down to just one thing. We all need ‘both/and’ ministry. | It takes a particular talent to accomplish what Gary Millar has done in this characteristically clear and profoundly helpful book. With a lightness of touch he helps us understand the keys to living a life truly grounded in the gospel and pursuing a ministry genuinely shaped by that gospel. | Distinctly Christian integrity insists that we hold the ‘both/and’ concepts of our faith in a perpetual bear hug. With gracious wisdom and candid explanations, our friend Gary teaches us how to do just that. You’ll be both encouraged and challenged by this book. | I absolutely love how gospel-centred this book is! As a result, it is both deeply humbling and wonderfully liberating at the same time. Read it to be refreshed and rejuvenated to serve Christ fervently again. | Christ is only our representative Savior. Or Christ is our example to follow. Why do these two have to be divided? My good friend Gary Millar challenges stalemates such as this with his usual pastoral and theological wisdom. This book should be read as widely as possible! | A realistic and gracious book that helps you better understand God’s character, his work, and who you are—and that helps you better reconcile the paradox that although living as a Christian is difficult at times, it is a life full of joy. Gary Millar has written an immensely practical book that will bless many as they are convicted and comforted by our Lord Jesus Christ. | In this warm and wise book, Gary Millar makes sense of the many apparent tensions of ministry and leadership, reminding us that as disciples of Christ, we are called to ‘a life that is marked by contrasts and paradoxes that reflect the glorious richness of our God and Saviour’. Gary helps us to recognise, navigate and value the many ‘both/and’ realities we encounter when we seek to live and lead like Jesus. A great personal or team read for facilitating reflection on ministry and growth in ministry. | Gary Millar is the Principal of Queensland Theological College in Brisbane, Australia. He teaches Old Testament, Biblical Theology, and Preaching. Before taking up the post as Principal, he was a pastor for 17 years in both Ireland and Northern Ireland. He is married to Fiona, and they have three children.