Tim Keller obit

Tim Keller dead: ‘Theological lion of his time’ dies at 72

 

He was not on the list.

Christian author and teacher Dr. Timothy Keller is being remembered by faith leaders as a “theological lion of his time” following his death on Friday.

Keller was a prominent evangelical Christian speaker and founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City. He died Friday morning at his home at the age of 72.

About two years ago, Keller announced he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Keller’s son, Michael, shared the death of his father on Facebook after having gone home to receive hospice care on Thursday.

“Timothy J. Keller, husband, father, grandfather, mentor, friend, pastor, and scholar died this morning at home. Dad waited until he was alone with Mom. She kissed him on the forehead, and he breathed his last breath,” Michael Keller wrote. “We take comfort in some of his last words, “There is no downside for me leaving, not in the slightest.” See you soon, Dad.”

Focus on the Family Vice President of Communications Paul Batura noted Tim Keller’s impact on the Christian faith, with 31 books, more than 1,500 sermons digitally available, and hundreds of articles and interviews for people to reference.

“In the coming years, the full force and influence of Tim Keller’s ministry will be known,” Batura stated. “Yet even hours after his death, it’s not too soon to declare him a theological lion of his time, a man whose words and teaching ministered to millions and whose efforts will long proceed him.”

The Gospel Coalition remembered Tim Keller for his “articulate arguments for the Christian faith.”

“He will be remembered among this generation’s most effective Christian pastors, apologists, and evangelists,” Gospel Coalition interim President Sandy Willson shared on Facebook. “Tim not only made the most articulate arguments for the Christian faith; he also demonstrated our faith with his humble and gracious spirit and his relentless passion to see the lost come to know the Lord he so loved.”

Prior to Tim Keller’s founding of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in 1989, he led the rural congregation in Hopewell, Virginia, for eight years. He also taught at Westminster Theological Seminary.

Days before his death, he prayed with his family, saying, “I’m thankful for all the people who’ve prayed for me over the years. I’m thankful for my family, that loves me. I’m thankful for the time God has given me, but I’m ready to see Jesus. I can’t wait to see Jesus. Send me home.”

Tim Keller is survived by his wife, Kathy, and their three sons.