The subtitle “Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City” provides a very fitting summary of this book.

Finding a well thought-through balance between different alternatives runs like a thread through the entire work. Should a pastor be judged by achieved success or by the mere fact that (s)he has been faithful? The metaphor of fruitful service combines both positions. Should church life focus on theoretical doctrines or practical “how to” steps? We require a theological vision at the intersection between both areas, which determines how biblical teachings lead to good decisions in the various ministries of the church. Should a church have the character of an institution or of a movement? Growing churches need both aspects.

Keller presents the biblical Gospel in detail: the liberating message of the unconditional grace, which deeply changes the life of a person who experiences it. Whilst he does not dilute the timeless relevance of these biblical truths, he points out that its communication very much depends on the culture. There are biblical truths, which match the opinions of a culture. Keller calls them “A” beliefs. Keller recommends highlighting them in evangelistic sermons. However, in every culture, there are exceptions, which are opposed to biblical tenets. Keller calls them “B” beliefs. It is up to the pastor/preacher to show his/her audience how the rejected “B” beliefs build on the welcome “A” beliefs and are supported by them.

As a Presbyterian pastor, who planted a flourishing church in the secular and liberal metropolis New York, Keller underscores how important it is to plant churches in big cities where there are relatively few Christians. In these places, it is possible to influence the culture positively to a larger extent.

I highly recommend this book not only for church planter in cities. As the pastor of a church in a relatively small German town, I experience that thought patterns, which have shaped a secular metropolis like New York for much longer than my setting, make their presence increasingly felt. For those, who are challenged by the question how the church should deal with the surrounding culture and politics (isolation, alignment, activism, etc.), this book is also helpful because it contains detailed analyses and balanced aids. Overall, Timothy Keller excels in combining his theological expertise and long-standing practical experience. The results are mature ministry recommendations.

Philipp Heinrich