This is a short book with the author's suggestions on how a pastor should go about conducting his pastoral duties. I think much of his suggestions stemmed from the cultural norms of his day rather than Biblical foundations, and I did not find those suggestions relevant or interesting. The first chapter is the most intriguing read to me, for in it the author discussed the essence of pastoral work as to "preach the gospel." So...instead of caring, counseling, helping walking the difficult mile with the people you're pastoring, the pastor's vocation is actually to preach the gospel to them, get their heart and mind to focus on the gospel. The author realizes in doing this, the pastor takes a risk. But he sees the risk as an essential element of pastoring. I find this chapter interesting because when done badly, this could result in extremely crude pastoring. But when I reflect on the good pastoring I've witnessed or experienced, I can see how indeed the gospel is "preached," or presented, or upheld, or enacted, throughout the process. So it can be a wise advise, when acted out by a pastor with the wisdom and love from the Lord. ( )

The translator thinks very highly of himself. How else do you explain an introduction that takes almost half of the book? Otherwise, the guidance given by Bonhoeffer is very profitable, especially for pastors. As a layman I still found the information beneficial as providing insights into the things a pastor faces on a daily basis and will help me in knowing how to pray for our spiritual leaders more effectively. ( )