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 This short and succinct book gives a compelling portrait of the work of a pastor. It is packed with faithful biblical teaching, helpful practical advice, moving personal testimony, pertinent wisdom from the past, and honest advice from current pastors serving in different evangelical churches.

John Stevens
National Director, Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches, Market Harborough, Leicestershire

The task of full-time ministry is a noble one, but also a daunting one for many considering entering it. Alasdair’s book is a brilliant summary of what is involved when anyone wrestles with this challenge. It is brief, biblical, balanced and readable. I warmly recommend it.

Kenny Boyd
Minister, Govanhill Free Church, Glasgow

Alasdair’s gracious and godly voice echoes through these pages and points readers to the only true source of wisdom for ministry – God’s own word. This brief but valuable book speaks much sense and gives rich food for thought and prayer.

Jonathan Griffiths
Lead Pastor, The Metropolitan Bible Church, Ottawa; Chancellor, Heritage College & Seminary, Cambridge, Ontario, Canada

Here we get warm, biblical, nuanced, wise, challenging, engaging and inspiring counsel from an experienced and thoughtful pastor ... an essential resource for churches, church leaders and those considering gospel ministry.

Andy Mason
Minister, St John’s Church, Chelsea, London; Mission Director, Co-Mission Network

This outstanding and timely book is exactly what is needed for those considering paid full time Christian work. It is solidly grounded in Biblical teaching and thoroughly practical. I can already think of many to whom I shall recommend it – and anticipate adding numerous others to that list.

William Taylor
Minister, St. Helen's Bishopsgate, London

Here from a seasoned minister is a gracious and timely invitation to take up the task of Gospel ministry when desire and opportunity coincide.

Alistair Begg
Senior Pastor, Parkside Church, Chagrin Falls, Ohio

Alasdair Paine has done us a service by writing this clear, warm, straightforward book about pastoral ministry. Working carefully from Scripture and illustrated by his own experience and that of others in various church contexts, he has given us an accessible and useful resource, especially for young men who might be encouraged towards the work of a pastor.

Christopher Ash
Writer–in–Residence, Tyndale House, Cambridge

... biblical, clear, insightful and authoritative ....

David Cook
Founder, Expository Preaching Trust, Australia