Concordia Seminary’s Dean of Theological Research and Publication Dr. Kevin Golden interviews Dr. Ryan Tinetti, Assistant Professor of Practical Theology, about his new book, “The Quiet Ambition: Scripture’s Surprising Antidote to Our Restless Lives,” which explores the concept of finding meaning and significance in life through simple biblical teachings. Tinetti draws from his pastoral experience and Scripture, particularly 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12, to advocate for a quiet ambition that involves living peacefully, tending one’s own business, and working with hands. He emphasizes the importance of quietness as a posture of faith and trust in God’s actions. “And even the going about my business, I’m going to tend to my business, what are the good works that he’s prepared in advance for me to walk into?” Tinetti says. “That’s what I want to be about. ‘How can I how can I serve my neighbor? How can I bear a faithful witness?’ And in the midst of that, then, as Christians, we don’t have to anxiously wonder, ‘Have I done enough’ … in God’s sight, it’s not so small after all.” The book is structured around these themes and aims to encourage readers to focus on small, meaningful actions rather than striving for huge, grand achievements.
The book is available through InterVarsity Press and Amazon.