Finishing Well to the Glory of God: Strategies from a Christian Physician

Most people want to finish life well, yet so few take the time necessary to carefully think through what that entails. Some say it means contentment, happiness, and freedom from pain. Many desire to simply maintain their dignity and enjoy their family and loved ones. These are reasonable goals; yet, there is a more profound, uniquely Christian approach to the end of life.

John Dunlop, a medical doctor who has practiced for over thirty years and specializes in geriatrics, combines his medical expertise, firsthand experience with patients, and firm commitment to Scripture to propose nine strategies for finishing life well. He shows how with proper physical, emotional, and spiritual preparation, aging and death need not be a fight to the finish but a purposeful resting in the arms of the Savior. Theologically robust and practically relevant, this book will prove to be a sensitive and helpful resource for anyone facing end-of-life issues.

Author:

John Dunlop (MD, Johns Hopkins University) serves as an adjunct professor at Trinity International University and practices geriatrics in New Haven, Connecticut, where he is affiliated with Yale School of Medicine. Dunlop is the author of Finishing Well to the Glory of God: Strategies from a Christian Physician and Wellness for the Glory of God: Living Well After 40 with Joy and Contentment in All of Life.

Endorsements:

“Drawing from his years of experience as a physician who has shepherded countless patients through the ‘valley of the shadow of death,’ John Dunlop provides pastoral wisdom and sound strategies. Finishing Well to the Glory of God is filled with examples from his own life and practice, laced with rich Scriptures and punctuated with thoughtful prayers. Dr. Dunlop gently addresses spiritual, emotional, psychological, financial, and physical needs. This book helps us plan our final decades, months, weeks, and hours with a God-centered attitude toward death and dying.”

Paige Cunningham, Executive Director, The Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity

“Don't face your death or that of a loved one unprepared. Finishing Well to the Glory of God is the comprehensive, deeply Christian and readable resource I know of its kind and will prepare you and your loved ones to die well.”

David Stevens, CEO, Christian Medical and Dental Associations

“Anyone who thinks the Bible is archaic will be quickly dissuaded after reading Dr. Dunlop's scriptural insights. To these insights, he adds his professional observations, personal stories, and very practical advice. The strategies he offers are clearly the result of years of experience in caring, deeply caring, for persons in their twilight years. This book will be helpful for patients and families both before death and afterward.”

Robert Orr, MD, Professor of Medical Ethics, Loma Linda University, Center for Christian Bioethics