Thielicke's subject in this book is the church, its ministers and ministries. I was pleasantly surprised at how this book addresses several of the tensions, challenges and deficiencies present in today's Christian environment. Thielicke writes as a participant in church leadership and communion rather than an outsider slinging mud at the church. He speaks of the church intimately and endearingly while also critiquing it severely at times.

Thielicke demonstrates not only a theological expertise but a Christian maturity that gives legitimacy and value to his critique and assertions. This is especially a meaningfully profound book for pastors in any church setting. The author writes poignantly on matters of preaching, leading worship, liturgy, sacraments and various ministries. His theological writing addresses the weaknesses present in some of the church's theology and philosophy that is rampant in today's Christian environment.

The approach of this book springs from Thielicke's contention that "It is certainly not too much to say that one of the services which God demands of churches is that they relentlessly question themselves and grow more mature in the process." I think for serious readers this book will inspire them to question themselves and their churches in productive ways that can lead to maturity and deeper devotion. He speaks to the essence of our Christian existence.