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Gospel Patrons
Behind every great movement of God stands a few generous men and women called Gospel Patrons. This book tells three of their stories from history and invites us to believe God, step out, and serve the purposes of God in our generation too.
For bulk orders and more resources, please visit: gospelpatrons.org
"I read this book from cover to cover. I couldn't put it down. I'm praying for thousands of similar Gospel Patrons for our generation." -Todd Harper, President of Generous Giving
"This is a great read! I love the way these stories paint a picture of stewarding relationship, affluence, and influence to lay up treasure in heaven." -David Wills, President of National Christian Foundation
"Gospel Patrons is one of the most important books I have seen this year! It's 100 years overdue and these untold stories urgently need to be told today." -George Verwer, Founder of Operation Mobilization
"As I read Gospel Patrons, I found myself weeping for joy. May the Lord powerfully use this vision around the globe!" -Howard Dayton, Founder of Compass--Finances God's Way
For bulk orders and more resources, please visit: gospelpatrons.org
"I read this book from cover to cover. I couldn't put it down. I'm praying for thousands of similar Gospel Patrons for our generation." -Todd Harper, President of Generous Giving
"This is a great read! I love the way these stories paint a picture of stewarding relationship, affluence, and influence to lay up treasure in heaven." -David Wills, President of National Christian Foundation
"Gospel Patrons is one of the most important books I have seen this year! It's 100 years overdue and these untold stories urgently need to be told today." -George Verwer, Founder of Operation Mobilization
"As I read Gospel Patrons, I found myself weeping for joy. May the Lord powerfully use this vision around the globe!" -Howard Dayton, Founder of Compass--Finances God's Way
194 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2014
68 people are currently reading
626 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
January 12, 2021
I read it for the histories. Great stories of inspiring characters I’d never heard of before! I liked the idea of Lady Huntington hosting a dinner party to invite a preacher (Whitefield) to speak! And the idea of John Thornton “buying up livings” for ministers in order to install gospel preachers. These are ways of spreading the gospel I’ve never considered.
January 17, 2020
Engaging, memorable, and empowering. After several years of trying to figure out why God didn’t want to “use” me since he didn’t take me up on my willingness to work in ministry, this book—and simply the term Gospel Patron—has completely shifted my perspective. This is one of those formative books that will shape my life for years to come. Highly recommend!
May 5, 2020
I absolutely loved reading this book. It starts out with a wonderful quote "Sometimes we need to read history so that we don't repeat it. Other times we need to read it so that we do." The author does a wonderful job to weave a wonderful vision along with a few stirring stories from history. My soul was stirred while reading this book. For me it was challenging and encouraging at the same time. While I will never be a gospel patron as shown in these historical examples, the book is more about being a financial steward. I would recommend this book to any middle class Christian. I hope it will awaken something in you like it did in me. I am so glad I came across this book and read it. One of the most interesting reads I have ever had.
March 19, 2025
What a book! The stories that Rinehart retold should be treasured by every believer and read over and over.
Besides the stories, there are few practical tools in the book which would’ve been useful. Ultimately, rich, sweet, and short. A breath of fresh air for the soul and motivation to continue pressing in.
Besides the stories, there are few practical tools in the book which would’ve been useful. Ultimately, rich, sweet, and short. A breath of fresh air for the soul and motivation to continue pressing in.
January 4, 2023
Great book describing a few wealthy believers in the historical church who used their wealth and position to cast vision on and fund huge moves of God.
I was asking a mentor of mine, "How do you reconcile the difference between people like George Muller, who died pennyless and always gave without having hardly any positions of his own, and the concepts of good stewardship in the Bible, i.e. the story of Joseph, or the great wealth of the forefathers and commendation for giving from it?" This book was recommended to me in response. I have to say, it is a good example of the contrast. There are certainly times that God calls us to live with nothing and give just as we receive a little more. There are other times where we are called to steward the finances in our care well, take advantage of business opportunities that we come into contact with, and bless, bless, bless others from stewardship of that skill that God gave us.
I recorded the 3 components of gospel patrons at the end according to John Rinehart:
1. Joyful giving - give first, even before finding personal security
2. Gospel advancement
3. Deeply personal involvement in the work of the gospel - meeting with and working with those supported
I was asking a mentor of mine, "How do you reconcile the difference between people like George Muller, who died pennyless and always gave without having hardly any positions of his own, and the concepts of good stewardship in the Bible, i.e. the story of Joseph, or the great wealth of the forefathers and commendation for giving from it?" This book was recommended to me in response. I have to say, it is a good example of the contrast. There are certainly times that God calls us to live with nothing and give just as we receive a little more. There are other times where we are called to steward the finances in our care well, take advantage of business opportunities that we come into contact with, and bless, bless, bless others from stewardship of that skill that God gave us.
I recorded the 3 components of gospel patrons at the end according to John Rinehart:
1. Joyful giving - give first, even before finding personal security
2. Gospel advancement
3. Deeply personal involvement in the work of the gospel - meeting with and working with those supported
April 28, 2023
This book was on a list of books about generous giving, and it was not a good choice... I felt like the author had some odd beliefs that sort of seeped into the stories he selected. Also, if he's trying to reach a modern audience, he should have integrated at least one modern story instead of all before the 20th century. He must have meant the little profiles at the end to achieve that purpose, but the questions asked to them weren't thoughtful, so it didn't work. Also, this is not a book someone would pick up to learn the gospel story, and he spent a whole chapter at the end just retelling one of the four gospels, as if someone would have gotten to the end of the book not knowing that story. It was like he was out of content so he just fell back on the "old faithful" fill-in used in many modern Christian books.
I was frustrated with this book because it already feels like it's hard to find practicals for extreme generosity, and I was hoping this book would give some fodder for thought on that through stories from history. It didn't, for me at least. Sigh. I'll have to try for another one!
I was frustrated with this book because it already feels like it's hard to find practicals for extreme generosity, and I was hoping this book would give some fodder for thought on that through stories from history. It didn't, for me at least. Sigh. I'll have to try for another one!
March 27, 2020
Rinehart tells some good stories from three specific examples in history. The REASON for writing isn't unpacked until one of the last chapters of the book, and really should be fleshed out more.
Inspiring stories. Thin on purpose and some nuts and bolts as to HOW we could serve better.
Inspiring stories. Thin on purpose and some nuts and bolts as to HOW we could serve better.
October 28, 2024
Very good book! Simple, straightforward, and inspiring. Got to read this with a discussion group, so it was fun getting to learn about the stories of Tyndale, Whitfield, and Newton as well as the faithful generosity behind the scenes which made their ministry possible.
“In the ultimate example of Gospel Patronage, we see that God came among us, walked our dusty streets, ate our food, and got personally involved in our lives. God is invested and involved in the spread of the gospel. We should be too.”
“In the ultimate example of Gospel Patronage, we see that God came among us, walked our dusty streets, ate our food, and got personally involved in our lives. God is invested and involved in the spread of the gospel. We should be too.”
April 4, 2025
Fundraising is a two way street. Those who support me are vital to what I am able to do in Austria and this book communicates that, through the Patrons of Thornton, Monmouth and Huntington. If it was not for Monmouth, Tyndale would not have been able to translate the Bible into English.
Abundant life is not about how much I have, but about how much I can give. This giving isn’t just about money. This giving is also about time and talent, be a good steward of all that God has given you and do not hoard anything.
God is the genesis of generosity, so why should I withhold anything?
Abundant life is not about how much I have, but about how much I can give. This giving isn’t just about money. This giving is also about time and talent, be a good steward of all that God has given you and do not hoard anything.
God is the genesis of generosity, so why should I withhold anything?
December 11, 2025
Excellent book as it underscores those individuals who were used by God to promote the ministries of Tyndale, Whitefield, and Newton.
These individuals are referred to as “Gospel Patrons”
Someone who is invested and involved in another person’s ministry to help proclaim the gospel.
The author takes these three examples and shows how we need people like this today as we carry out the Great Commission of our Lord(Matthew 28).
Excellent Book and quick read.
Chas Morse
These individuals are referred to as “Gospel Patrons”
Someone who is invested and involved in another person’s ministry to help proclaim the gospel.
The author takes these three examples and shows how we need people like this today as we carry out the Great Commission of our Lord(Matthew 28).
Excellent Book and quick read.
Chas Morse
June 14, 2020
Excellent little book
Really enjoyed reading this small, focused book on Gospel-centered philanthropy. Biblically-based, with powerful stories well told. An inspiring read--strongly recommended.
Really enjoyed reading this small, focused book on Gospel-centered philanthropy. Biblically-based, with powerful stories well told. An inspiring read--strongly recommended.
May 3, 2023
My first Audio Book. 4.5 stars as I have no complaints.
April 11, 2025
Quick & easy read that is such an encouragement! Paints a beautiful picture of those in history who have taken the charge of generosity seriously. Would recommend to anyone who gives to their church, a local charity or supports missionaries/organizations around the world!
September 7, 2015
Pros: The idea of telling the stories of the godly men and women behind the scenes supporting great Christian figures is wonderful. Their faith and actions are inspiring and an example to be followed.
Cons: Execution. The stories of these people only occupy about 80 of the book's 160 pages. The other content ought to be cut down (for example, the personal background the author gives could be entirely removed) and the story of another great Christian could be told. The actual storytelling at times feels a bit disorganized as well.
Cons: Execution. The stories of these people only occupy about 80 of the book's 160 pages. The other content ought to be cut down (for example, the personal background the author gives could be entirely removed) and the story of another great Christian could be told. The actual storytelling at times feels a bit disorganized as well.
February 14, 2016
I've never given a great deal of thought to patronage—especially Gospel patronage—before this. Yet on reading, I realized I've seen it and just not known what it was, especially in the New Testament with Paul, and during the Renaissance with art.
It made me realize how imperative it is that we provide support for thought leaders who will shape the future of the Church.
The book unpacks several inspiring stories of Gospel patrons throughout history, and leaves the reader with a challenge...how will I respond? Can I change the world with my generosity?
It made me realize how imperative it is that we provide support for thought leaders who will shape the future of the Church.
The book unpacks several inspiring stories of Gospel patrons throughout history, and leaves the reader with a challenge...how will I respond? Can I change the world with my generosity?
August 16, 2017
Overall, this book hits its mark of showcasing how the gospel has been aided throughout history by "gospel patrons" of uncommon joyous generosity. As an editor, I didn't appreciate a lot of the "lite" elements of the book, such as the translating of formal narrative into the colloquial. I think the profound, unique message the author had to share would have been aided by more robust writing to complement the obviously thorough research he did. I guess I'm saying that he could have benefited from a good team of editors:).
July 12, 2016
It's a good easy read though the dialogue is a little story bookish,a bit cheesy for a book reaching out to business professionals. Though it is only about 30% of the book.
Where it is not in dialogue the book is fantastic! It stirs the soul with conviction to think about how one can be more involved in the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I highly recommend this book to anyone who knows of people in the workforce who need encouragement to be involved in God's Kingdom work.
Where it is not in dialogue the book is fantastic! It stirs the soul with conviction to think about how one can be more involved in the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I highly recommend this book to anyone who knows of people in the workforce who need encouragement to be involved in God's Kingdom work.
November 7, 2023
An important book with a vital message. As Christians, we should be looking to support those who are actively proclaiming the Gospel (and should be proclaiming the Gospel ourselves).
Unfortunately, this book barely scratched the surface of its potential.
The book focuses on 3 individuals: the patron of William Tyndale (who translated the Bible into English), the patron of George Whitefield (who evangelized in England and the United States), and the patron of John Newton (who wanted England evangelized) and, to a lesser extent, William Wilberforce (who abolished the slave trade in the British Empire). While these were OK examples of "gospel patrons," the discussions should have been either much longer (like "CHRISTIAN HEROES: THEN & NOW" to provide more detail) or much shorter (like a page or two to allow for more "gospel patrons" to be mentioned).
The author also should have discussed many other "gospel patrons." He alludes to many "gospel patrons" in the Bible (Joanna, Susanna, etc.) but the author barely mentions more than their names. A chapter should have been devoted to each character.
The author also interviewed several contemporary Christians at the end of the book. At least 2 could have been considered "gospel patrons." It would have been a magnificent addition to include chapters about those modern individuals and their work as "gospel patrons" instead of interviewing them about their thoughts on the book.
While I debated on whether to rate the book at 3 or 4 stars, I believe that the theme of the book is important enough to round up, even if the content was lacking.
Unfortunately, this book barely scratched the surface of its potential.
The book focuses on 3 individuals: the patron of William Tyndale (who translated the Bible into English), the patron of George Whitefield (who evangelized in England and the United States), and the patron of John Newton (who wanted England evangelized) and, to a lesser extent, William Wilberforce (who abolished the slave trade in the British Empire). While these were OK examples of "gospel patrons," the discussions should have been either much longer (like "CHRISTIAN HEROES: THEN & NOW" to provide more detail) or much shorter (like a page or two to allow for more "gospel patrons" to be mentioned).
The author also should have discussed many other "gospel patrons." He alludes to many "gospel patrons" in the Bible (Joanna, Susanna, etc.) but the author barely mentions more than their names. A chapter should have been devoted to each character.
The author also interviewed several contemporary Christians at the end of the book. At least 2 could have been considered "gospel patrons." It would have been a magnificent addition to include chapters about those modern individuals and their work as "gospel patrons" instead of interviewing them about their thoughts on the book.
While I debated on whether to rate the book at 3 or 4 stars, I believe that the theme of the book is important enough to round up, even if the content was lacking.
January 15, 2025
Encouraging and inspiring account of committed, wealthy patrons who are wholly devoted to Jesus and the Great Commission and use their resources, time, and relationships strategically to fund and encourage ministers of the Gospel. I was recommended this book by a friend and boss, and it’s a quick but deep read to challenge people in business to orient their lives around the building of the Kingdom. God calls up preachers and teachers, and he also calls up people to use their influence to fund and mentor those ministries. However you are gifted, I would recommend this book to see examples of roles God would have us pursue and repeat from history.
September 7, 2021
An easy ready to helpfully expand your view of gospel work - it was really interesting looking at stories of faithful patrons of the gospel, the individuals that God uses to support some of histories greatest evangelists.
And a helpful reminder that gospel patronage doesn’t have to be for rich businessmen alone, that giving financially is one part, but personally investing time and prayer, and a joyful heart for giving is equally as important.
“To be useful to one soul is of more importance than the temporal prosperity of a whole nation” - John Newton
And a helpful reminder that gospel patronage doesn’t have to be for rich businessmen alone, that giving financially is one part, but personally investing time and prayer, and a joyful heart for giving is equally as important.
“To be useful to one soul is of more importance than the temporal prosperity of a whole nation” - John Newton
February 26, 2022
The 3 stories were wow factor and inspiring. I was moved by the sacrifices both ministers and business people choose to make for Kingdom work. It got me inspired and confirmed what I felt for the ministry I oversee - that God would connect iRefresh Ministries with businesses that want to give as a result of the impact they see and hear of those we are honored to help through prayer and God’s Word. Powerful and energizing for how God uses all our gifts together to further His purposes and plans.
March 25, 2023
👍🏻the author took three stories of previous gospel patrons and wrote them in a narrative easy to understand today. The book helps grasp the impact you can make for ministry even when not working directly in ministry/for a church.
👎🏻 I wish there were more tactical steps in being a gospel patron. There was more of a broad stroke around helping spread the gospel vs. specific actions you can take to make the impact.
👎🏻 I wish there were more tactical steps in being a gospel patron. There was more of a broad stroke around helping spread the gospel vs. specific actions you can take to make the impact.
February 4, 2024
This's a series of brief accounts of the people who financially supported various famous Christian leaders, such as Humphrey Monmouth who supported William Tyndale, or Lady Huntington who supported George Whitfield.
I got this book from a Christian ministry I help support, and it's definitely exhortational. From the historical point of view, it just whets my appetite. Personally, I'm somewhat encouraged in my generosity. All in all, this was a fast and shallow read.
I got this book from a Christian ministry I help support, and it's definitely exhortational. From the historical point of view, it just whets my appetite. Personally, I'm somewhat encouraged in my generosity. All in all, this was a fast and shallow read.
May 30, 2024
2.9 stars
This was a nice read with an easy flow. I really enjoyed the overall theme of the book, and the historical figures who best portrayed the lessons at hand. Overall, I had no issues with the content of the book and the author did a nice job getting his point across.
At times, I felt that there could have been more. Occasionally the stories seemed rushed and therefore shallower than what the author was intending. However, it was still a great book that I enjoyed.
This was a nice read with an easy flow. I really enjoyed the overall theme of the book, and the historical figures who best portrayed the lessons at hand. Overall, I had no issues with the content of the book and the author did a nice job getting his point across.
At times, I felt that there could have been more. Occasionally the stories seemed rushed and therefore shallower than what the author was intending. However, it was still a great book that I enjoyed.
April 7, 2024
Must read for Christian young adults (and anyone) who want to steward their resources for the church. A great, short yet deep, telling of the stories who have made the advancement (and availability) of the gospel possible throughout history. Even though we might not know their names (before reading about them), they’ve made an impact on our lives as 21st century Christians.
June 5, 2024
I think books like this help shape the idea of wealth in the Christian’s mind through a gospel lens. I would like to read more about gospel patrons and see how this can be applied in my life and cultivated in our children. Read to the end. Even the acknowledgments in the book, I think they speak to the heartbeat of the book.
July 19, 2024
Helpful, little book. Covers three different movements of God in England and highlights the role of the patrons who leveraged resources to contribute. I didn’t love the style of the book but would recommend it as a resource for church members wondering why their work, home, business connections matter for kingdom work.
September 17, 2024
Amazing book!! Must read. Very entertaining and inspiring to read the stories of wealthy believers from history who used their resources to partner with others to advance the gospel.
He has 3 stories of partnerships, then the gospel explained, then interviews with 3 modern day gospel patrons. I would have loved 1 to 2 more elongated stories!
He has 3 stories of partnerships, then the gospel explained, then interviews with 3 modern day gospel patrons. I would have loved 1 to 2 more elongated stories!
June 25, 2025
Quick and enlightening read about some of the more influential individuals in Christian church history, and how they were enabled to do their ministry by wealthy, connected backers. The book dives into what it means to be a Gospel Patron and gives some real examples of how people are using their wealth to change the world for Christ.
August 2, 2025
Money/wealth can be a touchy topic in some church circles. This book outlines the stories of three wealthy people who were gripped with a vision for the Kingdom and used their money for that rather than for themselves. That kind of story/vision is much more compelling to me than most other alternatives
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews