The Pastor as Scholar and the Scholar as Pastor: Reflections on Life and Ministry by John Piper and D. A. Carson, is an insightful, helpful and fascinating read. Its short too. If you’ve learned from these two men, you’ll want to read this and/or check out the content online that inspired its writing. If you don’t know much about these men, this could be a good place to start. It’s one part auto-biography and two parts reflection on pastoral scholars and scholarly pastors. Piper addresses how he became a Romantic Rationalist (which explains a lot) and Carson admits he is a actually a pastor in scholarly garb. Its not just for pastors, however, but for all who want to love and think well for the glory of God and good of others.
Right thinking about God exists to serve right feelings for God. Logic exists for the sake of love. Reasoning exists for the sake of rejoicing. Doctrine exists for the sake of delight. Reflection about God exists for the sake of affection for God. The head is meant to serve the heart. - John Piper