Iain Murray is a wonderful biographer who has captured the lives of men such as Martyn Lloyd-Jones (2 vol) and Jonathan Edwards. In his newest work, John MacArthur: Servant of the Word and Flock, Murray presents the life and ministry of MacArthur. This is an interesting project for Murray since the subject of his book is still alive and leading a thriving ministry. Murray recognizes and admits that this biography is by no means complete and MacArthur’s life will one day warrant a complete biography, though he says he is not the one to do it.
As I read through this account of MacArthur’s life there are a few things that standout to me that really characterize MacArthur and his ministry. Murray captures very well that MacArthur’s drive in ministry is unapologetically the Word of God. Since being called by Grace Community Church in 1969 he has consistently set aside 30 hours per week devoted to the study of the Word. This has allowed to preach through the entire New Testament verse by verse (June 2011). These sermons are what make up his commentary series published by Moody Publishers.
Another point that I came away with, though it wasn’t necessarily discussed by Murray, is that MacArthur has surrounded himself with helpful, godly, and capable people. There would be no other way he would be able to write and publish as many books as he has while speaking as much as he does. Much of this credit, Murray says, is due to Grace To You’s Executive Director Phil Johnson who handles most of MacArthur’s book projects.
It is really unimaginable the impact the ministry of John MacArthur has had and what it will continue to have. Through his many years of tape ministry, Grace To You letters, books, and thousands of sermons, he has impacted the life of millions.
This is a book I found enjoyable and easily read. Murray is a great writer and explains life and ministry well. I read the entire book (240 pages) in three separate sittings. I think it is helpful to read biographies in larger chucks if possible. It helps give you a fuller picture of the story (much like Scripture). I do not think you would be disappointed to give some hours over to reading this great work.
FTC Rhetoric: I do not receive payment for my book reviews. I do sometimes receive free review and giveaway copies from authors, publishers, and publicists. My first responsibility is to my readers, therefore, I am committed to honest reviews.
