Barry King
1. How did you become a Christian?
Though raised in a Christian home and in a sound local church, I first heard the gospel with understanding as a teenager. I thank God for giving me grace to repent of my sins and place faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. I have walked with the Lord – albeit falteringly at times – ever since.
2. What lessons have you learnt since that you would want to pass on to a younger Christian version of yourself?
Things are seldom as good – or bad! – as they seem at the time. Keep your eyes on Christ, not your circumstances.
3. How would you describe your prayer life?
Better than it once was, but not yet what I desire it to be.
4. Which two or three Christian books apart from the Bible have most influenced your faith?
Spiritual Leadership by Oswald Sanders and The Swans are Not Silent series by John Piper.
5. Who or what have been your biggest Christian influences?
My parents, R.B. and Sue King, who taught me by word and deed to love the Lord, the local church, and the lost. My wife, Frances King, who keeps my feet on the ground when things are going well and my knees on the floor when they are not.
6 What are the main challenges you believe Christians face today?
To be consistently – and courageously! – warm, winsome, and wise witnesses in the face of apathy, antipathy, and increasing hostility.
7. What encourages and what discourages you?
I am encouraged by older Christians who selflessly give their time and resources to serve the Lord. I am discouraged by younger Christians who selfishly spend their time and money on themselves.
8. What makes you laugh?
Myself with all my faults and foibles. My college roommate, long-time Baptist pastor Jamie Powell. My wife, children, and grandchildren – especially my wife!
9. What would you want to say to the wider evangelical world?
Older Christians – with their greater formality – are not necessarily irrelevant. Younger Christians – with their greater informality – are not necessarily irreverent.
10. Which Biblical person (other than Jesus) do you most look forward to meeting in glory and why?
Ittai the Gittite. I’m pretty big on loyalty and I think he is a great example.
