Eryl Davies
EP Books
128, £5.99
ISBN: 978-0-85234-760-7
Star Rating: 0
This book is one of the first in a new series by Evangelical Press entitled Bitesize Biographies. Slightly smaller than most paperbacks and with less pages it is ideal for introducing a new generation of Christians, and especially younger believers, to some of the outstanding Christian leaders of the past; in this case one of the most important in the 20th century.
Written by a fellow Welshman, the book adequately covers the main outline of Lloyd-Jones’s life and ministry. There is also a helpful final chapter entitled ‘Legacy’ which focuses on his beliefs and the challenges of his ministry. I was glad to see a reference to a time of depression due to overwork when he needed to take an extended period of rest. Not only was this an important event in his life, as the book indicates; but we also need to recognise the humanity of notable Christians lest we be tempted to think they are unaffected by natural weakness and illness.
Dr Davies clearly shows that for Lloyd-Jones the gospel was glorious and central to the whole of Christian life and ministry. This means it must also be central to the life of the churches and their relationships with each other. ‘The gospel was everything to him. We will not, therefore, understand his 1966 address or subsequent responses to ecumenism, liberal theology, or the Charismatic movement unless this fact is understood.’ However, glorious though the gospel is in itself, it needs to be preached in the power of the Holy Spirit and it is on that note that this book comes to its conclusion. This is a very readable book: highly recommended.
Paul E Brown
Halton, Lancaster
**** (4 stars)
