This is an account of fifty years of radio under the auspices of Grace Baptist Mission. In the preface, Philip Grist writes of the early days: ‘Not all Strict Baptists of that generation were happy about radio. Even in 1963, when in the UK on furlough, I was told by one pastor that “Radio was the devil’s instrument” and he hoped that I wasn’t intending to speak about my involvement with radio in his church.’
The book tells the story of how GBM has contributed to the great worldwide ministry of radio which has brought untold blessing to millions. Accounts are given of the various contributors to this work that has been so owned of God.
I remember being in New Zealand and, at a moment’s notice, being asked to say a few words by way of introduction to the local religious programme. Minutes later, I was astonished to hear the voice of Derek French broadcasting the message for that day from the GBM studios in Britain.
From its original ‘chicken house’ status, the studios have expanded to facilitate the present far reaching ministry to many countries. The teaching ministry has done wonderful work, not only for believers in general, but for pastors and leaders in particular.
Mr Grist concludes: ‘Radio will continue to reach millions and, amongst the millions, many who are completely unreachable apart from radio. God has his chosen people in the “closed” countries and he will make certain that they hear the gospel before he returns again. GBM is therefore committed to continue into the next fifty years.’
A small book — but a big vision.
