Being a Christian leader is a huge privilege. It is also a huge challenge. Paul, a man who knew how tough it could be, wrote a letter to his young friend who was at a crossroads in the ministry, to encourage resilience in the spiritual battle. John Benton looks at what 2 Timothy has to say about finding strength, recovering from discouragement and keeping going as a Christian leader.
Paul wrote to a young, scared and struggling Timothy, who sometimes found the ministry really hard. I am a 21st century Timothy, and therefore am so thankful to John for pointing me to the gold that's in God's word for weak pastors like me. If you're a Timothy too, read this book. And if you know any Timothys, give them this book. May God use this resource to help young (and old) pastors everywhere find the much needed resilience that this book is all about.
-- Rhodri Brady (Pastor, Alfred Place Baptist Church, Aberystwyth, Wales)'Resilient' is full of honest realism, written to Pastors who have 'signed up for hardship and sacrifice'. Using the timeless truths of 2 Timothy, John shows how it is possible to be resilient, to persevere in ministry, though the challenges and pressures are huge. This book will be of great help to church leaders, to all who teach God's word and pastor His people and to those who support those who do so.
-- Julia Jones (Director of Women's Courses, London Seminary, UK)For pastors under pressure, John Benton brings help from 2 Timothy so that we can not only survive but grow and flourish in ministry. John speaks from his own experience as a pastor, and his current ministry of supporting others who serve Christ's church. There is much wisdom here not just for pastors but all who seek to serve the Lord.
-- Bill James (Principal, London Seminary, London, UK)I am so grateful, as one in the early days of ministry, that John has put in black and white sound and earthy wisdom from God's word on how to joyfully persevere in ministry for the long term. I can only thank him for writing it and encourage others in ministry to read it!
-- Paul Brennan (Pastor, The Tron at Kelvingrove, Glasgow, UK)John combines careful study of 2 Timothy with the wisdom of years of experience on the frontline of church ministry. This is an incredibly helpful, realistic and faith-boosting read for all in ministry, whether you have been soldiering on for many years or are just starting out.
-- Bart Erlebach (Associate Vicar, Emmanuel, Tolworth, UK)This book is a wonderful example of how God's word speaks afresh in every generation. With a careful exegetical eye and a kind pastor's heart, Dr Benton unpacks 2 Timothy showing us the true roots of and great need for resilience in pastoral ministry. This is an excellent resource for pastors to keep on keeping on.
-- Robin Weekes (Minister, Emmanuel Church, Wimbledon, London)