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Introduction

This is one of two volumes which collect the articles of ministry by our brother Jim Renton that were first published in two magazines, A Word in its Season and Notes of Ministry. Almost none were published anywhere else, although there is a reading at three-day meetings in London in 1976 which also appeared in the book from those meetings. The articles run in date order from 1973 up to just before the Lord took our brother on 17 January 1994. I have added to these previously published articles ten other hitherto unpublished pieces for which records came to hand while the books were being assembled; these are identified by end notes. The articles are arranged in date order, with four un-dated pieces at the end of the second volume.

The two magazines, which have continued with a succession of editors from 1973 until now, have a wealth of recent ministry, but very few original sets remain, so that this resource has become inaccessible – and unknown to those who did not have the magazines when they were issued. While this can be remedied by making a digital edition, others may agree with me that there is also value in printed books. I have therefore embarked on an exercise to make collections like this one of ministry given by various brothers who have been especially helped in ministry over the years; and it is a relatively simple task now to make these into books. This one will be available in print, and for e-readers.

Articles in these magazines were normally revised by the brother serving and by the editors. I have made very few changes beyond some adjustment to the formatting to achieve a common style. I have not tried to find references for all the citations from other ministry—it would be an invidious task; and I have left them as first published. I have lightly edited some of the previously unpublished articles.

I remember Jim Renton and his ministry with much affection—he was humble and brotherly, with a sustained interest in the welfare of those with whom he had fellowship; he was not only active in the ministry himself, but very supportive of others serving in the Lord’s work. I trust others who are now able to read this selection will profit from it for the glory of the Lord.