Sending Shepherd Book

Well, they did it again. Denny Spitters and Matthew Ellison have published another profound, pioneering, and provocative book. The Sending Shepherd was released last year, and you need to get this book.

Pioneers and 16:15 commissioned a study with the Barna Group to survey U. S. pastors on their views and practices regarding missions and sending missionaries. To my knowledge, this was the first survey of its kind. And Spitters and Ellison have published the findings. It is a unique and fascinating book.

The Sending Shepherd is for the busy leader taxed with maintenance ministry. This is not a book offering a guilt-trip but rather a helping hand for the journey. Troubling realites are addressed, but contemporary examples and action steps are offered to leaders that press into the non-Christian world with the hope of Christ.

I hope you get a copy.

And for those of you in or around the Birmingham, Alabama area on Thursday, February 26, 2026, the Department of Christian Ministry at Samford University will be hosting the one-day Sending Shepherd Conference at Beeson Divinity School. I will be co-leading the sessions with Denny and Matthew. Registration is $25, includes lunch, and a copy of the book for the first 75 registrants who attend. Register and more information HERE. I hope to see you in Birmingham on our campus for this important event!