Today we talk about Battle-Cries, a book by Robin Hawkins published with our publishing house Europe Books.
Europe Books had the pleasure of interviewing the author Robin Hawkins to get to know him better, what prompted him to the writing of his collection of songs, poems, prayers and monologues Battle-Cries, as well as what Writing means to him.
Below you can find our interview. Take a seat and enjoy your reading!!!
- What prompted you to write this collection of songs, poems, prayers and monologues?
Back in the 1960’s and 70’s, the church in Britain, and many other parts of the world was undergoing renewal in what became known as the Charismatic Movement. This was a rediscovery of what the Bible refers to as the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, and for 1000’s of Believers, proved to be a life-changing experience, as they learned how to live every day in the power of the Holy Spirit; and rediscovered the gifts of the Holy Spirit:- Tongues, Prophecy, Healings, Miracles, and as otherwise listed in 1Corinthians 12:7-11 in the Bible. Sadly, not every church welcomed these changes. Some churches were divided on these issues; and other churches disfellowshipped those who had had this experience! I’m afraid, during those early years, and as a young Believer, I often found myself in churches resistant to this renewal; and the frustration I experienced found expression in poems like “It’s Our Church” – which, of course, it’s not! “The Ministers’ Lament” was a comment on the impact on faith that Bible Colleges often had on their students. I had an old friend in mind as I wrote this! A Bible series by David Pawson on the Book of Jude inspired “The Enemy Within” – and so it went on. A sermon from Cecil Cousens inspired “I Love You Anyway.” John Wimber provoked “Don’t You Know That There’s A War On?
- What does Writing mean to you?
Writing gives voice to the hunger in my heart for a deeper knowledge of, and a closer walk with Jesus. It feeds my desire to be in a church of people who want to follow Him; who want to share the Good News that Jesus brought us, who love His Word, and who want to live by it. The call to Christian ministry 35yrs ago gave me the opportunity to develop this. It’s been an immense privilege to serve God thus, but it’s a journey that won’t finish this side of Heaven. But in it all, Lord gave me a wife who has been a wonderful partner in this work, without whom I would not be doing it today.
- What did you want to convey in this book?
This is a very difficult question to answer, because I never set out to write a book! I was simply stirred by things I heard or saw, to communicate them in the hope that they would make a difference in the lives of those who heard them. The book came about because one day, a year ago, I was browsing through a folder of these poems and songs, and thought they might be a blessing to people who got to read them. And one thing led to another….!
- Is there a book to which you are particularly attached?
Yes, the Bible! It is God’s Word, and contains the meaning of life, and why we are here!
- Are you planning to write another book in the near future?
I have written little in recent years. There was a chapter in my life between 1976 and 1987 during which I wrote most of the contents found in “Battle-Cries”. I would never say never, but it seems to me most likely that that chapter came to an end forty years ago! On reflection though, it occurs to me that there is a lot going on around us all about which I could write!
Europe Books thanks the author Robin Hawkins alongside him on the editorial path that led to the publication of his book Battle-Cries. We wish him the best of luck for his book and for his future works.
To you, my dear reader, may this book interest you and amuse you. At the same time I hope it provides you with food for thought to reflect upon, which once reflected, will be transformed into something applicable in your everyday life!
So, my dear reader, all I have to say is to enjoy your reading!
Your editor!