Doreen Moore

Personally I have difficulty fully accepting the authors point of view. Though Moore seems convinced that the judgment she has rendered is justified, I wonder if she has now expanded her evaluation to two axis rather than one. Should we stop at two? If ministry does not make or break the man then is it reasonable that evaluating both ministry and marriage is sufficient either? Probably not, although the picture is more complete.

Despite my difficulty accepting two axis argument, I think it is positive to put forth for discussion the basis for evaluating the life of a minister. It cannot be solely in ministry as it has often been in the past. This book is a good step toward a more holistic view of the Christian and the minister in particular. It is significant because people are often given to lauding extreme successes. We have a culture that praises people for success in one area of life while they let others go by the way side. God intends for a balance to be found.

The overall tenor is of the work is quite negative. Reviewing the author's points really seem to make the Whitefield's marriage a failure as well. Sarah Edwards seems to be the only wife who is not treated with pity. The reason this is so disturbing is that it may imply that people have either greater insight into a future spouse or greater control over the events of life than they actually do. The difficulties of Elizabeth and George Whitefield, with regard to children, could have many other sources and should not be construed as worthy of judgment. God is at work to form us through both comedy and tragedy, good and evil, triumph and failure. We are imperfect beings judging other imperfect beings and we have finite knowledge. I am reminded that a slave answers to his own master and the mind of God is often veiled to us. This, however, should not stop us from seeking to grow and be more effective through our marriages.

Perhaps the most useful portion of the book is chapter four where Moore is giving a summary and list of principles which are helpful in evaluating a relationship for marriage. It is also beneficial for provoking thought for those already married. The sections only drawback is that it seems to focus more on the responsibilities of men than women. Despite this minor oversight, the section as a whole is well formed should be frequented by both married and eligible.

Overall I think this is an excellent book an would recommend it to others both married and those thinking about marriage. I believe that the arguments are consistent with the authors approach to evaluation and well constructed. In a short form for the target topic, it gives a unique glimpse into the lives of church leaders which have impacted the protestant tradition.… (plus d'informations)