Leadership for Growing Churches: Paul's Recipe for Prospering the Church in Crete

Would a book on how to lead a successful business answer the question of how to grow a church? The Apostle Paul would think not. Taking seriously Gods instruction in the Scriptures Paul had the apostle instructed Titus what he had to do to grow the church in Crete well--and it was not to follow a business model. This publication seeks to assist todays reader as he works his way through Pauls letter to Titus. Along the way well grapple with such questions as - How do you make a church prosper? - What should leadership in a church look like? - What role are individual members to play in the Lords church? - How does one handle dissent in a church? - How does the church thrive in a culture of deceit? A fresh look at this letters answers can only be beneficial as one seeks to grow Gods way in todays business-minded world. There are many solid and helpful commentaries on and expositions of the Pastoral Epistles--1 & 2 Timothy and Titus. Far too often the unique message of Pauls letter to Titus is overshadowed by Pauls more familiar letters to Timothy. Reverend Clarence Bouwmans sound wise and fearless exposition of Titus and the controversies it addresses is a great resource for Gods people interested in those things faithful churches do to be faithful. --Kim Riddlebarger Senior Pastor Christ Reformed Church in Anaheim (URCNA); cohost of the White Horse Inn Radio program; author A Case for Amillennialism Clarence Bouwman has written a readable and thought-provoking book on Pauls letter to Titus. At least three aspects set this book apart from other publications: (1) the discussion of Old Testament background throughout which often sheds additional light on Pauls exhortations (2) the practical applications which will be enjoyed by office-bearers and lay people alike and (3) the authors punchy writing style. Warmly recommended. --Arjan de Visser Professor of Diaconiology Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary Hamilton Ontario Clarence Bouwman received his MDiv degree from the Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary. He has served congregations in the Canadian Reformed Churches and in the Free Reformed Churches of Australia. He is the author of Spiritual Order for the Church (2000) The Overflowing Riches of My God (2008) A Vow to Love (2008) and The Privilege of Parenting (2011).