The Ministerial Practice and Functions section of the Manual provides supporting resources, research material, and reference content for Christian ministry. It is designed to supplement teaching and practice by offering data, definitions, tools, and research that inform sound decision making and thoughtful study. This section functions as a reference library rather than a formational guide.
Ministry practice requires more than conviction alone. Faithful service also depends on accurate information, clear terminology, and awareness of current challenges facing the Church. This section exists to support ministers, leaders, and students as they evaluate ministry contexts, plan responsibly, and respond wisely to practical concerns within their calling.
Use this section as a reference library to support informed and thoughtful ministry.
The Abundance of the Heart Some passages in Scripture refuse to remain safely inside the boundaries of academic study. They move beyond interpretation and begin confronting the reader personally. Luke 6:45 has always been one of those passages for me. Christ says, Out of the abundance …
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder Let’s face it, there is no fun in correcting people or telling them that they are wrong about something… However, if you are in ministry, or especially a pastor, you are bound to have to do it sometime. Consider …
Michael P. Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder “Therefore, because we know the fear of the Lord, we try to persuade people…” (1 Cor. 5:11). The power of suggestion is possibly one of the greatest forces influencing our society today. Entities such as the media, advertisers, and politicians …
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder When it comes to church or ministry planning, there is always a very important perspective to consider: What if God is or is not in it? Does success mean blessing? Does failure mean you did not choose the path of …
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder Have you ever made it a habit of asking God for His favor? I find that many believers have never thought to include this request in their daily prayers. Yet, we can miss great opportunities simply because we fail to ask (James …
Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder After ordination into ministry, one of the most common questions ministers ask is: “How do I reach people?” My natural response is to ask them, “Have you asked God for people to reach?” After all, Jesus clearly said “Ask, …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Intrinsic rewards are the experiences of satisfaction after the internal drive toward specific goals. In other words, they are rewards (such as personal development, or achievement) linked to performing job functions (Mahaney & Lederer, 2006). Report Michael Maccoby (2010) is the …
Christian Identity and Self-Promotion I remain continually struck by how the Internet and social media have cultivated a ravenous appetite for self-promotion. The prevailing sentiment suggests that the more our image or brand is seen, whether through curated posts, reels, or hashtags, the higher the chance …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Often people sense a call of God to ministry. That inner summons can be quiet and persistent, or it can feel like a spiritual alarm clock that refuses to be silenced. Either way, when a man or woman becomes convinced that …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Reflect on these verses, and let them shape your understanding of self-discovery God asked, “Who told you that you were naked? Did you eat fruit from the tree I commanded you not to eat from?” (Gen 3:11 GW) …