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Rediscovering the Call: A Must-Read for Every Pastor

In a recent conversation I had with Dr. Jerry Rueb, the founder and chairman of the Church Transformation Network, I was struck by the depth of his passion and clarity of vision for the global Church. This nonprofit exists to meet some of the most pressing challenges facing the Body of Christ today—challenges like limited access to sound spiritual resources, the lack of in-depth theological training, and the dangerous rise of doctrinal confusion and false teaching.

Dr. Rueb’s heart for equipping pastors—especially those faithfully leading small and mid-sized congregations—is nothing short of inspiring. In a world where the role of a pastor is often misunderstood or watered down, he has taken up the mantle to bring clarity, encouragement, and biblical wisdom to the front lines of ministry.

After reading his book, Pastoring the Flock of God, I found myself both encouraged and convicted. Encouraged by the reminder that God’s vision for pastoral leadership is timeless and rooted in His Word, and convicted by how far much of our modern pastoral training has drifted from those biblical foundations.

If you've ever felt under-equipped, overwhelmed, or unsure whether your pastoral leadership is aligned with the call God placed on your life, you're not alone. Many seminaries and leadership courses today offer tools for communication, administration, and innovation—but few help shepherds understand the sacred and specific call to pastor as God intended. That’s why this book is so timely.


Overview: Pastoring the Flock of God by Dr. Jerry Rueb

Dr. Rueb's book is more than a manual—it’s a heartfelt return to the biblical foundations of pastoral ministry. Drawing from decades of personal experience in ministry and leadership development, he outlines what it means to shepherd God’s people with clarity, conviction, and Christ-centered care.

Here are a few key themes you’ll find throughout the book:

1. The Identity and Calling of the Pastor

Rueb takes readers back to the Scriptures to explore the who of pastoral ministry. Before you do, you must be. He challenges pastors to reflect on their calling, not merely as a role to be filled, but as a divine assignment to nurture, guide, and guard the flock of God.

2. The Character of the Shepherd

With deep insight and pastoral warmth, Rueb emphasizes that who you are speaks louder than what you do. Integrity, humility, faithfulness, and spiritual maturity are not optional extras—they are essential qualities for anyone leading God’s people.

3. Practical Shepherding in a Complex World

This book doesn’t shy away from the real-life pressures of ministry. Rueb offers practical guidance for dealing with conflict, leading through change, teaching sound doctrine, and ministering to the hurting—all with a focus on doing so biblically and relationally.

4. Guarding Against Drift

Borrowing from the quote, “Leading is like rowing a boat against the current—once a person stops rowing, he starts slipping backwards,” Dr. Rueb reminds pastors that personal development is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline. The ministry demands continual growth, not just in skill, but in soul.


Why This Book Matters—Especially for Small Church Pastors

If you are leading a smaller congregation, you may often feel unseen, under-resourced, or even underappreciated. But God sees you. And He cares deeply about how you care for His people. Pastoring the Flock of God is a much-needed reminder that faithful shepherding matters far more than flashy ministry.

This book is not about building your brand—it’s about strengthening your calling. It’s not about chasing relevance—it’s about returning to the reliability of God's Word. Whether you’re a seasoned pastor or early in your ministry journey, this book will offer wisdom, encouragement, and tools for your growth.


Final Thoughts and an Invitation

In a time when pastors are navigating more complexity and cultural tension than ever before, this book is a breath of fresh air. It brings us back to the core of pastoral ministry—loving, feeding, leading, and protecting the flock that belongs to God.

I encourage you—don’t let another month go by without investing in your personal and pastoral development. Get a copy of Pastoring the Flock of God. Read it slowly. Reflect deeply. And allow the Holy Spirit to breathe fresh wind into your ministry sails.

Your church doesn’t need a celebrity. It needs a shepherd.

You don’t have to lead alone. You just have to lead well.

And this book can help you do exactly that.


Pastor if you are feeling stretched, discouraged, or just in need of a little guidance, we want you to know—you don’t have to do this alone. At Small Church Guys, we exist to help pastors and churches stay in the game and lead in a healthy, sustainable way. Whether you need a listening ear, practical resources, or leadership support, we’re here for you. Call or message us anytime—we’d be honored to walk alongside you.


Send us a message; we're eager to talk with you!

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