Witness of a Fragile Servant

Many pastors come to ministry with the potentially lethal combination of low self-esteem and high expectations of themselves and others. While the minister is set aside to preach, he or she is not immune to the same struggles that everyone faces. How they deal with themselves as persons is reflected in their proclamations as pastor and preacher. Witness of a Fragile Servant looks at both the preparation of the preacher and the sermon. It tries to call ministers to care for themselves as well as to cultivate effective sermons.

Charles B. Bugg, a native of Miami, Fla., has spent his professional career as a pastor and professor of preaching. Bugg continues to speak at many churches, serves as an interim pastor in addition to teaching at the Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond, and maintains a strong interest in preaching in the pastoral context. He is the author of A Faith to Meet Our Fears, Preaching & Intimacy and Learning to Dream Again.

"A resounding AMEN for this truly confessional work of Charles Bugg. With honesty and craftsmanship, he has knit together a prophetic word that resonates with the local pastor while exhorting and inspiring her in ministry. Many thanks for what truly is a gift."

— Rev. M. Blythe Taylor, Associate Minister
St. John’s Baptist Church, Charlotte NC

"A gifted scholar, teacher and preacher, Charles Bugg perceives preaching as an avenue of giving to God and others and, in turn, has presented to those of us who practice the craft a gift indeed. As few can do, Chuck has bridged the gap from teacher to preacher to pew through his own vulnerability and piercing insight into the human condition. This probing and practical book will make pastors better preachers and preachers better pastors. Give yourself a gift and add to your life and ministry this latest word from one of god’s most gifted spokespersons/proclaimers."

— Gary I. Carver, Pastor
First Baptist Church, Chattanooga TN