Conviction of Things Not Seen, The

by Todd Johnson

A unique resource for identifying issues involved in Protestant pastoral ministry and adjusting pastoral approach to those issues.

236 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2002

About the author

Todd Johnson was born 27 April 1956 in Montclair, New Jersey as the second son and middle child of Horace Wright Johnson (deceased 2009), who worked for DuPont, and Anne McCaffrey(deceased 2011), who had her second short story published that year. He has two siblings: Alec Anthony, born 1952, and Georgeanne ("Gigi", Georgeanne Kennedy), born 1959.

Reviews

[David Carriere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Todd Johnson’s The Conviction of Things Not Seen is a thoughtful and distinctly grounded exploration of Protestant pastoral ministry. Though published in 2002, its insights feel strikingly current, especially as it guides ministers through the often-unspoken tensions, expectations, and spiritual burdens that shape real pastoral work. Johnson writes with both clarity and empathy, offering a framework that helps readers recognize the challenges beneath the surface of congregational life while also illuminating paths toward healthier leadership.

What makes the book compelling is Johnson’s ability to weave theological grounding with practical, lived experiences. There’s no abstraction for abstraction’s sake each chapter brings forward issues that any modern pastor will recognize: relational dynamics, spiritual fatigue, congregational expectations, and the complexity of guiding people through unseen struggles. Readers looking for depth, structure, and a wiser approach to ministry will find this resource both affirming and eye opening. A well crafted and insightful contribution to pastoral studies.