Boldly Bi–Vocationaloffers a fresh perspective on ministry,
challenging traditional notions of full–time pastoral work.
Drawing from personal experience and biblical wisdom, Powell presents bi–vocational ministry as a strategic and fulfilling calling rather than a mere stopgap measure.
This book explores the biblical foundations of bi–vocational ministry, tracing its roots to the apostle Paul’s tent–making example. Powell argues that this model can enhance a minister’s effectiveness, providing unique insights and opportunities for kingdom impact both within and outside the church.
Key topics include:
The glory of diversified kingdom investment
Navigating the challenges and opportunities of bi–vocational life
Balancing roles and maintaining boundaries
Enhancing preaching through real–world experience
Correcting common ministry pitfalls
Powell offers practical advice for pastors considering or currently engaged in bi–vocational ministry, as well as guidance for churches supporting such leaders. He presents this paradigm not as a universal solution, but as a biblically grounded option for expanding gospel influence.
Boldly Bi–Vocational is an essential read for pastors, church leaders,
and anyone interested in innovative approaches to ministry in today’s complex world. It calls for a renewed vision of pastoral work that embraces both sacred and secular spheres for God’s glory.
Contents:
Foreword
Preface
Tenets and commitments
Introduction: Isn’t this something missionaries often do?
Part One: First Things
1. Ministry Burnout and a Paradigm Shift
2. Making Tents and Preaching the Gospel: A Vocational Life
Part Two: Bi–Vocational Ministry Explored
3. The Glory: A diversified kingdom investment
4. The Mindset: Plundering the Egyptians
5. The Surprise: The same Word, the same preacher … BUT
6. The Opportunity–Cost: Considerations for the church and minister
7. The Balance: A corrective alignment
8. The Vision: Something even bigger
Endorsements
This book should be required reading for all seminary students and church leaders. Jim’s words have deeply encouraged me to continue to use my gifts to pursue a singular calling to make the Gospel known wherever God has placed me.
Josh Kwasny Certified EOS Implementer; Pastor of Soma Valley Church in Lewisville, North Carolina
Not letting Boldly Bi–Vocational challenge your view of ministry may be a missed opportunity to experience new passion and energy, and overall effectiveness, in the work of bringing light to a people who walk in darkness.
Mark Hecht Founder, Coaching Horizons
Having spent several seasons in bi–vocational ministry myself, I deeply resonate with Jim’s reflections and biblical insights on his pastoral journey. Without romanticizing his experience, he highlights the strategic gospel opportunities that bi–vocational ministry offers both pastors and churches. In the rapidly secularizing West, this vision for ministry will only grow in relevance and importance.
Kevin Walker Director of Ministries, The Charles Simeon Trust
Jim Powell … provides these churches with exciting new strategies for bridging the financial gap with tent–making options. This is a must read for churches, pastors, and church–planters!
William J. Curtis Lead Pastor, Cornerstone Baptist Church, Darlington, South Carolina
I have known Jim Powell since his seminary days and can testify that he is a wise, godly, courageous, and gospel–driven man. His experience in faithful, fruitful tentmaking ministry has much to teach us all.
Douglas A. Sweeney Dean, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University, Birmingham, Alabama
Everyone considering ministry or who is ordained should wrestle through this work to gain greater clarity on what it means to serve Christ in their community.
Chris Vogel Church Planting and Vitality Coordinator, Mission to North America, Presbyterian Church in America
James Powell serves as Teaching Pastor of Christ Community Church in Johnson City, Tennessee (PCA). Since 2013 he has been intentionally bi–vocational, simultaneously serving as a leader within housing organizations. He is married to Kori and the father of six children.
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