John Ortberg

Date of Birth: May 5, 1957

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Biography

John Ortberg is an influential American Christian clergyman, author, and speaker, known for his thought-provoking sermons and extensive body of written work. He was born in Rockford, Illinois, and grew up with a strong Christian foundation that influenced his future vocation. Ortberg earned his undergraduate degree from Wheaton College and went on to attain a Master of Divinity and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary. Ortberg’s career in ministry began at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois, where he served as a teaching pastor. His dynamic preaching style and ability to connect with contemporary issues quickly garnered a large following. In 2003, he accepted the role of senior pastor at Menlo Church in Menlo Park, California, where he served until 2020. Throughout his career, Ortberg has authored numerous best-selling books on Christian living, including “If You Want to Walk on Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat,” “The Life You’ve Always Wanted,” and “Soul Keeping.” His work often focuses on spiritual formation and personal growth within the Christian faith. Ortberg’s contributions to Christian thought and practice have made a significant impact on both his congregations and a broader audience through his writing and speaking engagements.

5 Interesting Facts about John Ortberg

1. John Ortberg has a doctorate in clinical psychology, which he often integrates into his ministry and writings.

2. He served as a teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church before becoming the senior pastor at Menlo Church.

3. Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat,” has sold over a million copies worldwide.

4. He has been a frequent speaker at Christian conferences and events, including the Willow Creek Association’s Global Leadership Summit.

5. Ortberg is known for his emphasis on spiritual formation and personal growth, often drawing from psychological principles to enhance his teachings.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Ortberg

1. “Faith is not the absence of doubt; it’s the presence of action in the face of doubt.”

2. “God’s primary will for your life is not the achievements you accrue; it’s the person you become.”

3. “Hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day. You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life.”

4. “The soul is not a computer that can be programmed. It is a living thing that must be nurtured, cared for, and loved.”

5. “The power of God is seen not in the avoidance of suffering, but in the transformation within it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Ortberg’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $3 million.

Children

John Ortberg and his wife, Nancy Ortberg, have three children: Laura Ortberg Turner, Daniel M. Lavery, and John Ortberg III. Each of his children has pursued their own unique paths, with Laura being a writer, Daniel an author and columnist, and John III following his own professional interests.