Ethics for Christian Ministry: Moral Formation for Twenty-First-Century Leaders by Joe E. Trull

“Two experienced, inspired pastoral theologians have given us a thorough, judicious book that is sure to become the standard text on pastoral ethics. Trull and Creech not only show a deep understanding of the particular challenges faced by those called to be clergy but also offer sound, practical guidance that helps pastors make better decisions as we engage in ministry. Here’s a book that enables contemporary clergy to hold to the highest standards of our high and noble calling. What a wonderful contribution to the field of pastoral theology and ethics.”
—Will Willimon, Duke Divinity School; United Methodist bishop, retired; author of Calling and Character: Virtues of the Ordained Life“Few things harm a congregation or ministry more than the profound moral failure of a trusted leader. Trull and Creech understand this reality, and they have created a comprehensive resource for pastors and congregations that addresses the importance of ethics in ministry. This book is both theological and practical, exploring essential codes of professional conduct for pastoral work. From ministers in training to seasoned pastors, all who read this book will benefit from the opportunity to think through the real temptations ministers face, the meaning of leading with integrity, and the absolute necessity of peer support and accountability. It is possible to create healthful boundaries for long-term ministry, and this book is an excellent guide for getting started.”
—Angela Reed, Truett Seminary, Baylor University”Trull and Creech offer an excellent work in ministerial ethics. They give the reader a historical and theological foundation for the ministerial calling and profession that serves as the springboard into ministerial ethics. The reader is given a reason for ministerial ethics, a route to accomplish professional ethics, and a challenge to create a professional code of ethics with colleagues. Ethics for Christian Ministry should be read by anyone called to vocational ministry, and it should be required reading by seminary students at the onset of their training. Church planting movements would do well to make this book required reading for church planters.”
—Ira E. Antoine Jr., director, Bivocational Pastors Ministry, Baptist General Convention of Texas

Joe E. Trull (ThD, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary), now retired, previously served as professor of Christian ethics at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He lives in Denton, Texas.

R. Robert Creech (PhD, Baylor University) is Hubert H. and Gladys S. Raborn Professor of Pastoral Leadership and director of pastoral ministries at George W. Truett Theological Seminary in Waco, Texas.