This is an absolute must for all those in the ministry, preparing for it, or thinking about it. The sub-title, Archibald Alexander and the Christian Ministry, gives a more precise rendering of the content. Dr Garretson uses the life and teaching of Alexander to provide a mine of useful instruction, exhortation, encouragement, and warning to all those involved with preaching the Word of God and pastoring churches. Though our historical circumstances are vastly different from the nineteenth century the spiritual truths set out here are as relevant as ever and anyone who fails to benefit from this instruction is probably unsuited to ministerial work. This is no ordinary treatment of a vital subject as the reader will soon discover. Just to read the quotations at the beginning of each chapter is enough to give a taste of the overall quality.