Leading on Purpose: Intentionality and Teaming in Congregational Life

Exploring the Purpose-Driven Church phenomenon, Eric Burtness provides pastors and church leaders with a Lutheran view of what it means to lead on purpose and integrates the Purpose-Driven philosophy into the context of Lutheran congregational life. He tells the stories of numerous Lutheran congregations, large and small, rural and urban, that have used this structure and ministry emphasis for health, growth, and revitalization.

"Eric Burtness confidently adapts the Purpose Driven Church to Lutheran convictions of discerning where God is calling the congregation. If God is leading your church beyond the way things have always been, you will be blessed by his practical wisdom and pastoral courage."
— David Tiede, President and Professor of New Testament Luther Seminary

"Leading On Purpose is a helpful book interpreting the contributions of Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Church and The Purpose Driven Life from a Lutheran perspective. Pastor Burtness has provided a helpful commentary on the themes of church growth with practical examples for engaging, empowering and equipping persons for transformational ministry. In acknowledging the theological differences between 'decision' and 'grace' in the Warren texts, Pastor Burtness highlights the '...structure for ministry that can transform lives, churches, teaching and preaching, and can deepen one's growth as a disciple of Jesus Christ.' The Great Commandment and the Great Commission provide the themes of practical ministry examples lifting up the purpose of congregational ministry: worship, ministry, evangelism, fellowship and discipleship. Pastor Burtness has provided an instructive and practical tool in providing spiritual guidance and leadership in congregational settings."
— Bishop Paul R. Swanson, Oregon Synod, ELCA