Beacon-Light: The Life of William Borden

by Kevin Belmonte

The fascinating story of a young millionaire whose short life was lived in the service of his Lord
Although William Borden was taken from this world at the young age of 25, the years he lived were full of dedication to serve. Kevin Belmonte draws on letters, quotations and images to paint a unique picture of William’s life of commitment to God, delving into the ways ‘vital truth,’ as William called it, was the star he reckoned by. In the telling of the life story of William Borden, there is much to learn about living a life of devotion to God. The desire to live for Christ guided and shaped William’s life, from his school days, right up until his death.   With insightful extracts of letters and telling photos, the reader is taken on a journey through William’s life, from The Hill School, to Yale, to Princeton Seminary, and the beginning of his missionary training. Reading this book will give a wonderful view into Borden’s world, to know something of the voices and scenes he knew. A vital part of William’s life was his ‘Morning Watch’ (or what he also called his ‘breakfast’) – feeding on and contemplating the Word of God and growing deeper in his faith. It’s a privilege to have this unique insight into his life, and an inspiration for readers to strive to live such a life of devotion themselves.  

304 pages, Paperback

Published July 9, 2021

About the author

KEVIN BELMONTE holds a B.A. in English from Gordon College, an M.A. in Church History from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and a second Master's Degree in American and New England Studies from the University of Southern Maine. He has twice been a Finalist for the John Pollock Award for Christian Biography, and in 2003, his book, William Wilberforce: A Hero for Humanity, won that award. For five years, his biography of William Wilberforce has been taught as part of a course on leadership and character formation at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. On several occasions, he has served as a script consultant for the BBC, and also for the PBS documentary, The Better Hour. For six years, he was the lead script and historical consultant for the critically acclaimed film, Amazing Grace. Kevin resides in a seaside village in Maine with his wife, Kelly, and their seven-year-old son, Sam.

Reviews

[Ryan Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a moving account of William Borden who lived a consecrated life, with no reserves, no retreat, and no regrets. In just 25 years, he poured out his life to mobilize and be sent for the Muslim people of China. While never reaching them, his life was well lived and his commitment to the Great Commission task leaves a legacy that inspires many to say 'Here am I Lord, send me.'

[Brett · Rating 3 out of 5]

"No Reservations, No Retreats, No Regrets." This quote has captivated me even before I heard the life of William Borden. To live a life to the fullest, where regrets do not exist is truly living. Upon learning of William Borden's drive to follow God, his generosity to equip others, and his sacrifice of living by the guidance of God - I wanted to read this. Kevin Belmonte does a decent job organizing Williams' life events to help the reader understand what led to "Bills" intense passion for Christ. I would say that to me, this book would be better had it not been for at times jumping back and forth from different events in Williams life. Kevin's biography of D.L. Moody is outstanding; however, the writing for this one was not as sharp. Overall this is still a great read - the review (or rather the 3 stars) is due to the writing not the life/events/ ministry of William Borden. May those who bare the name of Christ be sold out for the cause of Christ as William Borden was.

[Brenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this very interesting and inspiring!