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Timothy Keller is a household name in many Christian homes, not just in America, but across the world. He is an author, an apologist, a theologian, and one of the founding pastors of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City.

Perhaps his most defining quality, and the one he’d most want to be known for, is his genuine trust and faith in Jesus Christ. Keller has spent his life pouring into skeptics and de-churched people, showing them love and grace without compromising the truth of the Gospel.

He announced his cancer diagnosis on Facebook on Sunday, June 7th. The news has devastated many, and yet his response to such a trial shows the strength of his faith.

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The Facebook post reads:

Less than 3 weeks ago I didn’t know I had cancer. Today I’m headed to the National Cancer Institute at the NIH for additional testing before beginning chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer next week back in New York City.

I feel great and have no symptoms. It was what doctors call an “incidental pickup,” otherwise known as providential intervention. I have terrific human doctors, but most importantly I have the Great Physician himself caring for me. Though we have had times of shock and fear, God has been remarkably present with me through all the many tests, biopsies, and surgery of the past few weeks.

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Keller asks for prayers from his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.

Specifically:

  1. For God to use medical means or his direct intervention to make the cancer regress to the point of vanishing.
  2. For Kathy and me, that we use this opportunity to be weaned from the joys of this world and to desire God’s presence above all.
  3. For my family to be comforted and encouraged.
  4. For the side effects of treatment to allow me to continue writing and speaking.
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His parting words are from Scripture.

“Running the race set before me with joy, because Jesus ran an infinitely harder race, with joy, for me.” (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Keller’s books, sermons, and seminars have encouraged, uplifted, and challenged thousands of believers. His best sellers include “The Reason for God,” “Prodigal God,” and “Encounters With Jesus.”

Join us in praying for Tim Keller as he undergoes treatment!