Monday 4 April 2011

John Stott: A portrait by his friends

Those of my generation, outside of London and Anglican circles, could be forgiven for not knowing much of John Stott, his ministry and his legacy. But to continue in that ignorance would be foolish. The Lord used this servant more than any other one man, to influence Christianity in the UK (and possibly worldwide) in the 20th century - and therefore, also in the 21st. His books, preaching, CU missions, IFES involvement, London Institute of Contemporary Christianity (equipping Christians & churches for whole-life discipleship in the world), The Lausanne Movement (connecting evangelical leaders worldwide towards world evangelization, 'an exchange of gifts'), Langham Partnership ministry encouraging, training and equipping across cultural borders (especially global north-south), and his friendship and discipling of so many - more people have been edified through his ministry than realise it, if we consider the cascading effect. 

So for Stott's 90th birthday, IVP have brought out: John Stott, a portrait by his friends. They already have the two-volume TD-S biography, of course, which is well worth a read, and Roger Steer's recent and more brief Inside Story (a nice introduction). But if you just want the flavour of this man of God and some insights into how he was used - and why it would be of benefit to read his books, and those about him - then pick up John Stott: a portrait by his friends. It's not quite the 'warts and all' that he wanted, but doesn't completely descend into hagiography - there are still useful things to learn and much for which to praise God. 

(As it's a beautiful hardback, get it for your pastor / spiritual parent / ministry leader, as they'll surely appreciate it, and then borrow it to read yourself!) IVP have it on an introductory offer of £9.99 - as of 29-3-11, no note for how long.

I would have reviewed it, but Mark Meynell got in there first and said what I was going to.

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