The Joy of Service

by Julian Hardyman

Self–denial and sacrifice are unpopular ideas in our culture. Even as Christians, it can be all too easy to make temporary happiness our goal. We can doubt that the call to take up our cross and follow Jesus is actually for our good.

In this honest book, experienced pastor Julian Hardyman discusses the relationship between serving, ministry and joy. He writes openly of how his own experience of suffering has shaped his ministry. He explains that pain and suffering are not only to be expected, but are the tools that God uses to equip us to serve others joyfully.

Genres: Christian

Paperback

Published January 1, 2023

About the author

Julian Hardyman is Senior Pastor of Eden Baptist Church in Cambridge. His enthusiasms include walking in the Cambridgeshire Fens, listening to opera and eating strong cheese. In his daydreams he beats his contemporaries at squash, serves as a local councillor and services his own car. But these are only dreams. He is married to Debbie and they have three children; Robin, Fiona and Kitty.

Reviews

[Sophie Hudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this read. Each chapter ends with a personal prayer for the reader to echo. Light-touch Bible passages to inspire his writing and a personal account of many years of ministry at Eden Baptist Church, Cambridge.

The only area he doesn't examine in much detail those not in in fulltime, paid, church ministry. Not a flaw, but might have been nice to have a chapter on this...?

[Chris Rousell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I suspect my review will no doubt be coloured by knowing the author personally but, for me at least, it makes The Joy of Service all the richer. Hardyman's vulnerability seeps through the pages as he lays bear things from his own ministry experiences that would no doubt be uncomfortable to share. His honesty and insight into the joys and sorrows of church ministry make this a great little read.

[Jonathan Downing · Rating 4 out of 5]

A candid look at ministry and the sacrifices pastors are called to make. Sobering - think I need to pray more for my church leaders!

Had expected it to be a little more general than it was; it definitely just focuses on the service of those in full-time ministry rather than laymen helping out with the odd church event. So it was good for me to read to be able to thank God for those He's provided to serve the church in that capacity and to learn just how much is required of such a role. Less good in terms of stirring me to joyful service around my day job.

Thanks, Julian, for your vulnerability here and such an edifying look at the cost (and joy!) of serving the church.

[Alice Gent · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful little book for those doing church ministry. Though it was focused at those in paid full time ministry, I still found it helpful as a normal serving member of church. Hardyman is heart-breakingly honest and humble in this book, often speaking from his own experiences of suffering, sin and joy. The results is a very powerful, raw, challenging book that encourages us to be open with ourselves and each other. A wonderful encouragement to keep on going when it's hard and to stay faithful to the Bible, whatever the cost. I think all people in a ministry role should read this.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This slim volume is personable, clear-eyed, faithful and honest. A stimulating and thoughtful look at the life of a Christian pastor. Spoiler alert: it’s not easy. The style is chatty, the prayers at the end of each chapter are also wonderful. Probably worth all Christians reading it for the insights into what it means to take a pastoral calling seriously. It’s not comprehensive but it is a perfect introduction.

[Tom Pountain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very refreshing to be reminded about the core 'service' of word and prayer in the Christian life, and appreciated how the whole idea of joy was located in the context of suffering, and found many of the personal examples and stories of a life in ministry very helpful also.

[Toby Irvine · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice easy to read book on service/ministry - though I think more focused on the cost/difficulty of service than on its joy. Appreciated Julian’s personal anecdotes, and was helpful for expectation setting regarding service now.

[Jennifer Coppenhall · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read, thoroughly thought provoking and incredibly honest, I could relate so much to the struggles Julian talks about and honestly cried knowing I wasn’t alone! Definitely a mist read for any one serving or thinking about serving in paid or a volunteering role.

[Matthew Weston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great little book. Julian Hardyman's pastoral concern and experience drip off the pages. One to return to when ministry feels hard and exhausting.

[Dora Uthayakumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read for those who are in any sort of ministry at church. I enjoyed the writing style and the honesty of the author. So many good quotes and lots of encouragement to keep going.