This collection of short essays by John Stott’s friends and protégés was originally conceived as a posthumous tribute and has been published to mark his ninetieth birthday in April 2011. The editor, Chris Wright, was invited by Stott to take over the leadership of the ministries that now form Langham Partnership (known in the USA as John Stott Ministries), and is now International Director of Langham Partnership International.
Thirty-five contributions paint a picture of the man they have known. They are ‘many brushstrokes, one portrait’ and describe the early and formative years, his time at All Souls and influence within the Church of England, his international influence, his wider interests, the study assistants and ‘the final lap’. The most varied section includes the wider interests of birdwatching, caring for the environment, and renewing church music. Of course the different parts overlap because no man can be so neatly divided.
John Stott’s influence has been both wide and deep. Contributors consistently speak of his clarity, faithfulness and power as a teacher of God’s word; of his remarkable efforts in equipping the churches in each continent to speak for Christ clearly, faithfully and effectively; and of his legacy of movements which continue to mobilise Christians with the gospel. Those who knew him best were deeply impressed by his character. Time and time again they speak of his astounding gift of friendship, his humility, iron self-discipline, love for children and Christ-like love for people.
This is a portrait not a biography. The works of Dudley-Smith (1999-2001) or Steer (2009) should be consulted for the facts of Stott’s life and work. This is a portrait not a critical evaluation of his work. Critics exist already, and objective analysis must wait for the passage of a little more time. And finally, this is a portrait not a shock exposé. It is an exposé, but there is no shock. As Chris Wright observes, Uncle John is like a stick of seaside rock that is the same all the way through. I found this fond portrait to be a gripping and inspiring read, that made me want to follow Stott’s example of devotion to Christ, and to thank God for this most remarkable man and his ministry.
Reviewed for Churchman 2011
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