Will you be a faithful servant? Let’s learn to finish strong from the examples of Kay Arthur, Jimmy Swaggart, John MacArthur and James Dobson, four Christian leaders who this year have joined the cloud of witnesses that cheer us on.
Will you be a faithful servant?
The Bible urges us to consider the lives of those who have gone before us. Hebrews 11, often called the ‘hall of faith’, lists men and women who trusted God despite their struggles, weaknesses and trials. They are described in the very next chapter as part of a “great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1), cheering us on as we run the race set before us.
This year, 2025, four faithful servants of God have joined that heavenly cloud: Kay Arthur, Jimmy Swaggart, John MacArthur and James Dobson. Each of them lived out their calling, impacting millions with the message of Christ. Their legacies remind us of the importance of running well and finishing strong.
Kay Arthur
Bible teacher, author, and co-founder of Precept Ministries, Kay Arthur went home to the Lord on 20 May 2025, aged 91. She was widely loved for teaching believers to study Scripture through the inductive method, encouraging Christians to observe, interpret and apply God’s Word for themselves.
What began as a small group in her living room became a global movement, with millions studying the Bible using Precept resources. Kay’s writings, teachings, and broadcasts have raised up countless leaders who continue her mission today.
Kay continues to inspire us to fall in love with God’s Word, letting Scripture shape our lives so that we may stand firm in faith.
Jimmy Swaggart
Televangelist, gospel musician and Pentecostal preacher, Jimmy Swaggart passed away on 1 July 2025, aged 90. From humble beginnings in rural Louisiana, his passionate preaching and gospel music touched nations. In the 1970s and 80s, his ministry reached millions through television broadcasts and music sales.
Though his journey was marked by very public failures, Jimmy never stopped preaching about the grace of God. Through the SonLife Broadcasting Network and Jimmy Swaggart Bible College, he continued to proclaim the gospel into his later years.
Jimmy continues to inspire us to keep serving Christ even when life is messy, knowing God’s grace is greater than our shortcomings. Visit the legacy page of Jimmy Swaggard.
John MacArthur
Renowned expositor, pastor, and author, John MacArthur entered his heavenly rest on 14 July 2025, aged 86. For over five decades he pastored Grace Community Church in California, where he became known for uncompromising, verse-by-verse preaching.
Through his radio and TV ministry “Grace to You”, his role as chancellor of The Master’s University and Seminary, and his many books, John discipled generations in sound doctrine and Biblical truth. His MacArthur Study Bible has been used worldwide to equip Christians in their walk with God.
John continues to inspire us: to hold firmly to truth, preaching God’s Word clearly and courageously, no matter the cultural cost. See the John MacArthur memorial page.
James Dobson
Child psychologist, author, and founder of Focus on the Family, Dr James Dobson passed away on 21 August 2025, aged 89. For decades he was one of the most influential Christian voices on family, parenting, and culture. His radio broadcasts, books, and teaching on marriage and child-rearing shaped Christian homes around the globe.
His ministry consistently pointed families back to Biblical values, equipping parents to raise children in the ways of the Lord.
Dr Dobson continues to inspire us to invest in our families and the next generation, building households rooted in God’s truth and love. See the James Dobson Memorial website which includes a message on Passing on the Baton – how this is the most important mission of every Christian parent.
Learning to finish strong
These four faithful servants are now among that great cloud of witnesses. Their lives call us to persevere in the faith, no matter the cost, and to fix our eyes on Jesus, “the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:2).
They remind us to:
- Continue preaching Christ with humility, even in weakness;
- Love and teach God’s Word with passion and depth;
- Stand firm in truth, uncompromising in doctrine; and
- Raise families that honour the Lord.
As we reflect on their examples, let us ask ourselves: Will I be a faithful servant? May we run with endurance, finish strong, and one day hear those cherished words from our Saviour: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).
Photos: Wiki Commons.
UK Christian
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