Review: John MacArthur – Servant of the Word and Flock

Most Christians will have heard of John MacArthur. For more than 40 years he has been Pastor of the same large church in Los Angeles, USA. He is best known for his books, audio sermons and radio broadcasts.

This biography by the co-founder of Banner of Truth brings to life John MacArthur. We find a preacher devoted to spending 30 hours a week preparation for preaching; a pastor dedicated to helping others; a father committed to his loving wife and his children and a bold contender of the faith who spoke against the charismatic excesses and a shallow understanding of the Gospel. Here is a man who loves his Saviour and loves the doctrines of grace.

Although Mr. Murray writes with warmness about a man who is also his friend, he is not afraid to highlight where he disagrees with his theological position and to write about what he considers are errors of judgement. The book quotes extensively from Dr. MacArthur’s writings and from those closest to him. The book closes with an interesting comparison between Dr. MacArthur and C. H. Spurgeon.

This book is not a full biography: as Iain Murray says in his introduction that must wait until after a man has passed on. However, that does not detract from this being an enjoyable, thought provoking and edifying read.

This article was first published on GoodBookReviews.org.uk. The site has been closed as of March 2019.