Book Review: A Passion for Faithfulness
As part of our church’s journey through the book of Nehemiah, many may desire help with practically applying the lessons of this sometimes difficult book of the Old Testament. Some may want to simply connect with it better on a personal level. Well-known Christian author J.I. Packer’s book, A Passion for Faithfulness: Wisdom From the Book of Nehemiah, powerfully conveys a very personal and applicable exploration of the lessons of Nehemiah for everyday churchgoers. Packer, well-known across the world for his classic book, Knowing God, has written a devotional on the book of Nehemiah, exploring its contents and interpreting its theology for the church today.
Packer begins with a prologue that sets the agenda for his writing, and makes his point clear as he begins his task of interpreting Nehemiah. He claims that this book of the Old Testament is relevant to us today because he sees Nehemiah as a lesson in church-building, in restoring and dedicating the church. In Nehemiah, we can see an example for us to follow in building the church, all for the purpose of pointing us toward the one who ultimately does this once and for all: Jesus.
The next seven chapters of the book offer Packer’s reflections and journey through the book of Nehemiah and its story. In chapter 1, he explores the character and background of Nehemiah himself: what makes him a model of a leader and reformer of God’s people, while also giving light to his flaws and shortcomings that led to his dependence on God. Packer explores the nature of Nehemiah’s calling to his task of ministry and service in chapter 2, and dedicates a couple of chapters to directly overviewing the lessons from his work in organizing and driving the movement to restore Jerusalem. He gleans the theological messages for us about work, leadership, and organization, all while dealing with the issues of opposition and spiritual warfare. He explores the spiritual renewal and blossoming that takes place as a result of the success of Nehemiah’s work, and how it can be a model for revival. He ends this section with a very practical application of these lessons, explaining how care and discipleship must take place after this radical act of building and dedication. Spiritual highs cannot last forever, and a true builder of God’s people must create long-term spaces for people to thrive and live as they navigate life’s challenges.
Packer ends with an epilogue, in which he overviews his exploration of Nehemiah. It is a text that gives us an image of a faithful leader working diligently to build up and restore the church, God’s people. He closes with some needed cautionary warnings on not seeking the world’s view of success and thriving, but instead to pursue faithfulness to God and his call.
A Passion for Faithfulness is a perfect devotional book in applying the lessons of this Old Testament text in the world today. If you are going through Nehemiah and wondering just how it relates to your everyday experience in a world that looks so different, this is an incredible resource. Packer teaches in a compassionate, pastoral manner, and conveys these lessons in a way that is approachable for all readers.