A biblical, historical, theological, and practical foundation for pastoral leadership Pastors have been entrusted with leading the people of God. The shepherds of God’s flock must protect them from and guide them through the many dangers believers face. Although ultimately the Church is led by Christ, pastors are to provide godly examples of what it means to be a follower of the Lord. Consequently, who leads the church, the type of authority they are given, how they relate to one another, to whom they are accountable, and how they are selected are of utmost importance to the life and health of God’s people. This book provides the biblical, historical, theological, and practical foundation of the crucial task of leading God’s people.

Most scholars of Reformed orthodoxy devote little attention to the nineteenth century, and most students of nineteenth century Reformed thought bypass the influence of Reformed orthodox ideas on their subjects. Aligning himself with Reformed theology in nineteenth century America, Charles Hodge's writings are an ideal place to bring such studies together. Hodge's American context and Reformed identity illustrate the persistence and change of Reformed ideas in a post-Enlightenment context. Encompassing philosophy, science, and theology, Ryan M. McGraw traces the development of Hodge's ideas with an eye both to Reformed orthodoxy and to American thought.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1845.