Book Review: From the Pen of Pastor Paul

As a pastor, ministry certainly has its challenges. The weight of responsibility and the reality of a fallen world can take a toll. If a pastor does not keep his eyes focused on Christ, apathy can set in. When apathy sets in the heart of a pastor, it will likely reflect on that congregation. So, how can a pastor be sure his heart does not turn cold? One of the essential solutions is to study and meditate upon God’s Word. There is no better place for the pastor to cultivate this passion than to go to the books of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Daniel R. Hyde, the pastor of Oceanside United Reformed Church, knows this and the result is his work, From the Pen of Pastor Paul.

From the Pen of Pastor Paul is essentially a expositional commentary on 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Hyde does an exceptional job not only explaining what the Word of God says but also stirring a passion up within the reader. He is practical in his applications while pointing people to keep their eyes fixed on the gospel. He reinforces the themes in 1 and 2 Thessalonians and he reminds the pastor especially of the importance of both prayer and preaching in the ministry. His writing is clear and understandable. Hyde is also personal in his approach, reflecting on Paul’s words of ministering in person. All this said, the book does not come without a critique. Some chapters cover only one to two verses, sometimes feeling like the author speaks to the verse and then springboards off of it. It may have been more beneficial to address the larger context of the passage so the reader can grasp the big picture of what Paul said. Even so, the book is a good aid for Bible study.

In summary, From the Pen of Pastor Paul by Daniel Hyde is a personal and practical commentary on the books of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. This resource is beneficial to pastor and congregational member alike.

I received this book for free from EP Books via Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and are my honest review of the book.