| Bucyrus Free Will Baptist Church |
| The Old Fashion Preacher I Timothy 5:17 "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine." |
| Charles Grandison Finney (1792 ~ 1875) |
Charles Grandison Finney was a licensed Presbyterian minister,
having become so at the age of 32. He was well known for his
unique style of evangelism, being credited for such innovations as
the anxious bench (a designated area where the unsaved who were
considering becoming Christians could sit to receive prayer and
counseling), and using the method of calling individuals out by their
name during his sermons.
Finney was born on August 29th, 1792 in Warren, Connecticut. He
spent his childhood in New York before deciding to teach in New
Jersey following graduation. He returned to New York where he
began to study law. It was during this time of study that he realized
that many legal decisions were based on Scripture, and thus he
decided to begin studying the Bible. During this time period
having become so at the age of 32. He was well known for his
unique style of evangelism, being credited for such innovations as
the anxious bench (a designated area where the unsaved who were
considering becoming Christians could sit to receive prayer and
counseling), and using the method of calling individuals out by their
name during his sermons.
Finney was born on August 29th, 1792 in Warren, Connecticut. He
spent his childhood in New York before deciding to teach in New
Jersey following graduation. He returned to New York where he
began to study law. It was during this time of study that he realized
that many legal decisions were based on Scripture, and thus he
decided to begin studying the Bible. During this time period
Calvinism was the main school of theology in the Church, which irritated Finney as he began to see
the Scriptures in a new light. It was in 1821 that Finney encountered the Lord Jesus whom he
would later preach. It is said that Finney envisioned himself standing face to face before the Son of
God. This supernatural experience led to old time conviction, which lead to old time salvation under
the preaching of one George Gale.
Along with being a teacher and law student, Finney was also a third degree Master Mason in
Freemasonry. He received an honorable discharge from the Freemasons three years after his
conversion, stating that he felt the oath of Master Mason conflicted with his obligations and calling
to the ministry. The Lord used this announcement as a spring board to launching his ministry due to
his well known reputation and name among the freemasons.
Although Finney was licensed as a Presbyterian minister, he never held any pastoralships within the
denomination, and actually enjoyed greater success and acceptance with the more rural Baptist and
Methodist denominations. Finney’s popularity grew as an Evangelist in the late 1820’s and
early 1830’s in the New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania areas. There
were famous accounts of many conversions during revivals and camp meetings in which Finney
held in New York City, Providence, Boston, and Philadelphia.
In the later years of his life, Finney decided to devote what energy he had left in giving the gift of
his knowledge to the younger up and coming ministers. He accepted a position with Oberlin College
in Ohio as head of theology. This gave him not only the opportunity to teach but to also write,
leaving wonderful works such as Lectures on Revivals of Religion, Important Subjects, and Views
of Sanctification. In 1851 Finney became the president of Oberlin College, a position he was able to
hold until the end of the Civil War. Despite his failing health and increasingly busy schedule, Finney
never stopped preaching or holding revivals. He died on August 16, 1875 at the age of 82. Finney
preached for approximately 50 years. His more famous messages included temperance, the sin of
slavery, the value of charity, and the free will for man to be saved.
the Scriptures in a new light. It was in 1821 that Finney encountered the Lord Jesus whom he
would later preach. It is said that Finney envisioned himself standing face to face before the Son of
God. This supernatural experience led to old time conviction, which lead to old time salvation under
the preaching of one George Gale.
Along with being a teacher and law student, Finney was also a third degree Master Mason in
Freemasonry. He received an honorable discharge from the Freemasons three years after his
conversion, stating that he felt the oath of Master Mason conflicted with his obligations and calling
to the ministry. The Lord used this announcement as a spring board to launching his ministry due to
his well known reputation and name among the freemasons.
Although Finney was licensed as a Presbyterian minister, he never held any pastoralships within the
denomination, and actually enjoyed greater success and acceptance with the more rural Baptist and
Methodist denominations. Finney’s popularity grew as an Evangelist in the late 1820’s and
early 1830’s in the New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania areas. There
were famous accounts of many conversions during revivals and camp meetings in which Finney
held in New York City, Providence, Boston, and Philadelphia.
In the later years of his life, Finney decided to devote what energy he had left in giving the gift of
his knowledge to the younger up and coming ministers. He accepted a position with Oberlin College
in Ohio as head of theology. This gave him not only the opportunity to teach but to also write,
leaving wonderful works such as Lectures on Revivals of Religion, Important Subjects, and Views
of Sanctification. In 1851 Finney became the president of Oberlin College, a position he was able to
hold until the end of the Civil War. Despite his failing health and increasingly busy schedule, Finney
never stopped preaching or holding revivals. He died on August 16, 1875 at the age of 82. Finney
preached for approximately 50 years. His more famous messages included temperance, the sin of
slavery, the value of charity, and the free will for man to be saved.
| Peter Cartwright (1785 ~ 1872) |
Peter Cartwright was an old fashion hell fire and brimstone
preacher from the hills of Kentucky and Tennessee. Cartwright
was an ordained Methodist circuit rider whose fame as a powerful
camp meeting and revival minister was shared abroad during the
Second Great Awakening. During that time period, Cartwright is
credited for baptizing over 12,000 souls.
Cartwright was born on September 1, 1785 in Amherst County,
Virginia before relocating to Logan County, Kentucky as a young
boy. At the age of 16, Peter gave his heart to the Lord during an
old fashion camp meeting and quickly joined the Methodist
Episcopal Church. At the age of only 17, Cartwright preached his
first message. He later served as the Methodist’s District
Superintendent from the years 1812 till 1862.
In the year 1824, after serving his country in the War of 1812,
preacher from the hills of Kentucky and Tennessee. Cartwright
was an ordained Methodist circuit rider whose fame as a powerful
camp meeting and revival minister was shared abroad during the
Second Great Awakening. During that time period, Cartwright is
credited for baptizing over 12,000 souls.
Cartwright was born on September 1, 1785 in Amherst County,
Virginia before relocating to Logan County, Kentucky as a young
boy. At the age of 16, Peter gave his heart to the Lord during an
old fashion camp meeting and quickly joined the Methodist
Episcopal Church. At the age of only 17, Cartwright preached his
first message. He later served as the Methodist’s District
Superintendent from the years 1812 till 1862.
In the year 1824, after serving his country in the War of 1812,
Cartwright made the decision to move to the state of Illinois. His reasoning for the move was
strictly based on his desire to further the gospel, the same gospel he was so well known for in the
foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Illinois was a rather younger state in the Union and
organized religion was lacking. Cartwright was quoted as saying about that move that, “I could
carry the Gospel to destitute souls that had, by their removal into some new country, been deprived
of the means of grace.� This move to Illinois would be his last as he remained in the Prairie
State until his death in 1872.
While in Illinois, Peter was a founding member of the Illinois Annual Conference, where he was
elected to the General Conference 13 times. He was given the name, “God’s Plowman,�
due to this colorful and energetic style of preaching. Peter was also a stark supporter of Christian
based education, especially schools that promoted his beloved Methodist doctrine. He is credited
for helping to found three colleges, including McKendree College, MacMurray College, and Illinois
Wesleyan University. Cartwright’s influence wasn’t just felt in the school rooms across the
state of Illinois, but also in the halls of Congress. Twice he was a member of the state legislature
and ran for the United States Congress in 1846. He lost to a lawyer from the city of Springfield by
the name of Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln is noted for saying that he considered Cartwright a dear
friend, high remarks coming from the person that most American’s consider the greatest
President of all time.
Although Cartwright explored politics in the later years of his life, he would never abandoned the
pulpit. He was in the end and always will be remembered as being a hell fire and brimstone
preacher who wasn’t afraid to tell it like it was, no mater who was in attendance, including the
sixteenth President of the United States.
strictly based on his desire to further the gospel, the same gospel he was so well known for in the
foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Illinois was a rather younger state in the Union and
organized religion was lacking. Cartwright was quoted as saying about that move that, “I could
carry the Gospel to destitute souls that had, by their removal into some new country, been deprived
of the means of grace.� This move to Illinois would be his last as he remained in the Prairie
State until his death in 1872.
While in Illinois, Peter was a founding member of the Illinois Annual Conference, where he was
elected to the General Conference 13 times. He was given the name, “God’s Plowman,�
due to this colorful and energetic style of preaching. Peter was also a stark supporter of Christian
based education, especially schools that promoted his beloved Methodist doctrine. He is credited
for helping to found three colleges, including McKendree College, MacMurray College, and Illinois
Wesleyan University. Cartwright’s influence wasn’t just felt in the school rooms across the
state of Illinois, but also in the halls of Congress. Twice he was a member of the state legislature
and ran for the United States Congress in 1846. He lost to a lawyer from the city of Springfield by
the name of Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln is noted for saying that he considered Cartwright a dear
friend, high remarks coming from the person that most American’s consider the greatest
President of all time.
Although Cartwright explored politics in the later years of his life, he would never abandoned the
pulpit. He was in the end and always will be remembered as being a hell fire and brimstone
preacher who wasn’t afraid to tell it like it was, no mater who was in attendance, including the
sixteenth President of the United States.
There were many influential preachers during the Great
Awakening of the early and mid 1700’s, but no one is more
inspiring during this time period for what would later become
Methodists and Baptists than that of George Whitefield. Born at
the Bell Inn, on Southgate St., in England on December 16, 1714,
Whitefield was the son of a widow. His poor upbringing didn’t
keep him from great educational achievements. He studied at
Pembroke College, in Oxford where he served other more
privileged students by waking them in the morning, polishing their
shoes, carrying their books, and even doing their homework.
During those years in Oxford, he became a part of the Holy Club,
where he was introduced to John and Charles Wesley. Following
his conversion, he was ordained by the Bishop of Gloucester due
to his eagerness to share his newfound faith despite his youthful
age.
Awakening of the early and mid 1700’s, but no one is more
inspiring during this time period for what would later become
Methodists and Baptists than that of George Whitefield. Born at
the Bell Inn, on Southgate St., in England on December 16, 1714,
Whitefield was the son of a widow. His poor upbringing didn’t
keep him from great educational achievements. He studied at
Pembroke College, in Oxford where he served other more
privileged students by waking them in the morning, polishing their
shoes, carrying their books, and even doing their homework.
During those years in Oxford, he became a part of the Holy Club,
where he was introduced to John and Charles Wesley. Following
his conversion, he was ordained by the Bishop of Gloucester due
to his eagerness to share his newfound faith despite his youthful
age.
| George Whitefield (1714 ~ 1770) |
George quickly took to the open air, preaching in his hometown of Gloucester. His reputation as a
dramatic minister quickly grew. At an early age, George developed a talent for acting in the theatre.
He soon realized as a preacher that he could call on these talents while preaching by re-enacting the
stories from the Bible in which he was ministering about. During this time, he was also accepting
the ideas of Methodism, and although his view point on the predestination was slightly different
than the Wesley Brothers, he was a strong voice in the formation of the first Methodist Conference.
He was named as the groups first President, but quickly relinquished the position to fulfill his calling
to evangelize.
His calling to evangelize would not only carry him across England, establishing Methodist churches,
but also across the sea to the Colonies in America. In the year 1740, George preached nearly
everyday for months in what would later become the start of the Great Awakening in U.S. religion.
His message to the lost, and then his plea to them following his sermon was something that had
never been seen before on U.S. souls. Thousands of sinners fell on their face repenting following
his spirit filled sermons.
God blessed Whitefield with a powerful voice. It was said that as many as 30,000 people in a
crowd could hear George preach during his open air. One of the men in the large crowd that had
gathered in Philadelphia to hear the British evangelist preach was Benjamin Franklin. George was
also the first minister to take the gospel to slaves. During his years of evangelism, he make 13 trips
across to Atlantic from Brittan preaching in the American Colonies, Scotland, Ireland, Bermuda,
Gibraltar, and the Netherlands. He is considered the founding father of Evangelicalism and is the
most famous preacher in both England and America in the 18th century.
George died in Newburyport, Massachusetts on September 30, 1770 after preaching the night
before in what very well maybe the most dramatic goodbye sermon ever preached. After hearing of
his arrival, many people came to the parsonage of the Old South Presbyterian Church and begged
for George to preach a short sermon. Whitefield lit a candle and told the group he would preach
until the candlelight went out. His message was on faith and works, and preached for two until the
candlelight finally gave way. He died the next morning. He was buried, according to his request, in
a crypt under the pulpit of the Old South Presbyterian Church in Newburyport. One of the men in
attendance that night was Benjamin Randal, the founding father of the Free Will Baptists.
dramatic minister quickly grew. At an early age, George developed a talent for acting in the theatre.
He soon realized as a preacher that he could call on these talents while preaching by re-enacting the
stories from the Bible in which he was ministering about. During this time, he was also accepting
the ideas of Methodism, and although his view point on the predestination was slightly different
than the Wesley Brothers, he was a strong voice in the formation of the first Methodist Conference.
He was named as the groups first President, but quickly relinquished the position to fulfill his calling
to evangelize.
His calling to evangelize would not only carry him across England, establishing Methodist churches,
but also across the sea to the Colonies in America. In the year 1740, George preached nearly
everyday for months in what would later become the start of the Great Awakening in U.S. religion.
His message to the lost, and then his plea to them following his sermon was something that had
never been seen before on U.S. souls. Thousands of sinners fell on their face repenting following
his spirit filled sermons.
God blessed Whitefield with a powerful voice. It was said that as many as 30,000 people in a
crowd could hear George preach during his open air. One of the men in the large crowd that had
gathered in Philadelphia to hear the British evangelist preach was Benjamin Franklin. George was
also the first minister to take the gospel to slaves. During his years of evangelism, he make 13 trips
across to Atlantic from Brittan preaching in the American Colonies, Scotland, Ireland, Bermuda,
Gibraltar, and the Netherlands. He is considered the founding father of Evangelicalism and is the
most famous preacher in both England and America in the 18th century.
George died in Newburyport, Massachusetts on September 30, 1770 after preaching the night
before in what very well maybe the most dramatic goodbye sermon ever preached. After hearing of
his arrival, many people came to the parsonage of the Old South Presbyterian Church and begged
for George to preach a short sermon. Whitefield lit a candle and told the group he would preach
until the candlelight went out. His message was on faith and works, and preached for two until the
candlelight finally gave way. He died the next morning. He was buried, according to his request, in
a crypt under the pulpit of the Old South Presbyterian Church in Newburyport. One of the men in
attendance that night was Benjamin Randal, the founding father of the Free Will Baptists.
| D. L. Moody (1837 ~ 1899) |
Very few American Evangelists are loved and revered more than one
Dwight Lyman Moody. D. L. Moody, has he was known, was born
on February 5, 1837 in Northfield, Massachusetts. His father, known
as an alcoholic, died when Dwight was only four years old. This
forced Moody and his five older brothers into a future that would
entail much hardship and labor as the family tried to cope with their
loss. Moody was sent to work to help pay for room and board until
he turned 17 when he moved to Boston to work in his uncle’s
shoe store. Although Moody was raised in the Unitarian Church, it
wasn’t until his uncle took him to the Congregational Church that
Moody was touched by something greater.
At the age of 18 Moody accepted the Lord and was marvelously
saved. Moody moved to Chicago a year later and joined the
Congregational Church where he began to take an active role in
prayer meetings. At the age of 20 Moody was called to preach. He
began by
Dwight Lyman Moody. D. L. Moody, has he was known, was born
on February 5, 1837 in Northfield, Massachusetts. His father, known
as an alcoholic, died when Dwight was only four years old. This
forced Moody and his five older brothers into a future that would
entail much hardship and labor as the family tried to cope with their
loss. Moody was sent to work to help pay for room and board until
he turned 17 when he moved to Boston to work in his uncle’s
shoe store. Although Moody was raised in the Unitarian Church, it
wasn’t until his uncle took him to the Congregational Church that
Moody was touched by something greater.
At the age of 18 Moody accepted the Lord and was marvelously
saved. Moody moved to Chicago a year later and joined the
Congregational Church where he began to take an active role in
prayer meetings. At the age of 20 Moody was called to preach. He
began by
He began by preaching to sailors, as well as gamblers and thieves in the Chicago saloons. He then
began a Sunday School, which quickly became the largest in the United States, and later would
become the Illinois St. Church and then the Chicago Ave. Church following the Great Chicago
Fire. During his time in Chicago, Moody met one Emma Revell, whom he married and had two
children with. Moody and his family would stay in the Windy City for 15 years where his
reputation as a minister grew. One reason his name grew in Chicago was because of his
involvement with the YMCA where he volunteered his time. Moody then used his reputation among
community members through the YMCA to form the Committee on Devotional Meetings to union
soldier troops stationed near Chicago. This opened the door for Moody to begin ministering to civil
war soldiers, which he did. He also began traveling to other areas around the country where union
soldiers were stationed, preaching to them and holding revival meetings. This began Moody’s
evangelizing experiences outside of Chicago and paved the way for Moody to travel full time.
Only three months following the Great Chicago Fire, the church where Moody was pastoring was
rebuilt on Chicago Ave. But in the months following the move to the new building Moody began to
long for the country side of Northfield and was led to evangelize to all parts of the country and
world. In 1872 at the age of 35, Moody moved back to Massachusetts and in that same year made
his first trip overseas to England, where he held numerous revival and camp meetings in Great
Britton. His fame quickly spread and upon his return to the United States he became the most
sought after minister in the country. During Moody’s second trip to the UK, he was asked to
meet and preach for Charles Spurgeon which only increased his fame.
Over the next 22 years Moody would preach all over the country and world. During that time he
established two schools, including the Moody Bible Institute, published several works including a
hymnal and wordless bible for the illiterate, and a Mission house in England which still stands today
and is now called the Carrubbers Christian Centre.
Moody passed away on December 2, 1899 after preaching his final sermon a month earlier in
Kansas City. Some of Moody’s most famous sermons were titled; What Must I Do To Be
Saved?, Tomorrow May Be Too Late, The Reward Of The Faithful, and The Seven "I Will’s"
of Christ.
began a Sunday School, which quickly became the largest in the United States, and later would
become the Illinois St. Church and then the Chicago Ave. Church following the Great Chicago
Fire. During his time in Chicago, Moody met one Emma Revell, whom he married and had two
children with. Moody and his family would stay in the Windy City for 15 years where his
reputation as a minister grew. One reason his name grew in Chicago was because of his
involvement with the YMCA where he volunteered his time. Moody then used his reputation among
community members through the YMCA to form the Committee on Devotional Meetings to union
soldier troops stationed near Chicago. This opened the door for Moody to begin ministering to civil
war soldiers, which he did. He also began traveling to other areas around the country where union
soldiers were stationed, preaching to them and holding revival meetings. This began Moody’s
evangelizing experiences outside of Chicago and paved the way for Moody to travel full time.
Only three months following the Great Chicago Fire, the church where Moody was pastoring was
rebuilt on Chicago Ave. But in the months following the move to the new building Moody began to
long for the country side of Northfield and was led to evangelize to all parts of the country and
world. In 1872 at the age of 35, Moody moved back to Massachusetts and in that same year made
his first trip overseas to England, where he held numerous revival and camp meetings in Great
Britton. His fame quickly spread and upon his return to the United States he became the most
sought after minister in the country. During Moody’s second trip to the UK, he was asked to
meet and preach for Charles Spurgeon which only increased his fame.
Over the next 22 years Moody would preach all over the country and world. During that time he
established two schools, including the Moody Bible Institute, published several works including a
hymnal and wordless bible for the illiterate, and a Mission house in England which still stands today
and is now called the Carrubbers Christian Centre.
Moody passed away on December 2, 1899 after preaching his final sermon a month earlier in
Kansas City. Some of Moody’s most famous sermons were titled; What Must I Do To Be
Saved?, Tomorrow May Be Too Late, The Reward Of The Faithful, and The Seven "I Will’s"
of Christ.
Although Jonathan Edwards can claim no fame for being
the most popular “Hell fire and brimstone� preacher
in American history, he can claim the most popular
sermon, titled “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.â
€� Edwards was born in East Windsor, Connecticut on
October 5, 1703. He was the grandson of Solomon
Stoddard, a minister in the Northampton, Massachusetts
area. Edwards received a well rounded education from his
father, who made his living tutoring young boys, and
entered Yale College in the fall of 1716 at the age of 13.
Upon graduation, Edwards spent two years studying
theology in New Haven, and accepted an interim
Pastoralship position at a small Presbyterian Church in
New York City.
After only two months, Edwards returned to Yale where
the most popular “Hell fire and brimstone� preacher
in American history, he can claim the most popular
sermon, titled “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.â
€� Edwards was born in East Windsor, Connecticut on
October 5, 1703. He was the grandson of Solomon
Stoddard, a minister in the Northampton, Massachusetts
area. Edwards received a well rounded education from his
father, who made his living tutoring young boys, and
entered Yale College in the fall of 1716 at the age of 13.
Upon graduation, Edwards spent two years studying
theology in New Haven, and accepted an interim
Pastoralship position at a small Presbyterian Church in
New York City.
After only two months, Edwards returned to Yale where
| Jonathan Edwards (1703 ~ 1758) |
he took up the same occupation of his father. After studying the Bible for five more years, it
became apparent that Edwards was struggling within himself about the doctrine of predestination.
This did not stop Edwards from being ordained however when in 1727 he became the Assistant
Pastor for his Grandfather. Two years later, Stoddard past away and Edwards became the Pastor
of one of the largest congregations in the entire colony.
Four years into his pastoralship, revival broke out in the colonies like this country had never seen
before. Edwards quickly began to study what God was doing in the hearts and lives of the sinners
in his area that were being converted. Finally after two years, the revival began to subside, but was
followed by a much larger and famous revival, which has become known as the Great Awakening.
At the forefront of this new and much more intense revival was Edwards and another much similar
minister, George Whitefield who was a minister from England who made missionary trips to the
United States.
It was during this time period that both ministers saw an enormous amount of conversions and
baptisms. It was also during this time that Edwards began preaching in a much more intrusive
fashion, which later became know as “hell fire and brimstone preaching.� Together the two
minister’s, one a Congregationalist, the other a Methodist, took the country by storm, preaching
in churches or in the open air, all for the cause of Christ and for the sake of seeing the lost saved.
This behavior was very troubling to denominational leaders who viewed such preaching as more â
€œArmenianâ€� than “Calvinisticâ€� in doctrine.
Although Edwards popularity as a minister grew during this time period, his popularity with his own
congregation did not, and because of a disagreement on whether or not taking the Lord’s
Supper was an adequate means of church membership, Edwards was asked to leave the
Congregationalist Denomination. Edwards continued to preach as n Evangelist until in 1757 he
accepted the position of College President at Princeton University. Unfortunately his Presidency
was cut short when he contracted smallpox. The great hell fire and brimstone preached went on to
be with the Lord on March 22, 1758.
became apparent that Edwards was struggling within himself about the doctrine of predestination.
This did not stop Edwards from being ordained however when in 1727 he became the Assistant
Pastor for his Grandfather. Two years later, Stoddard past away and Edwards became the Pastor
of one of the largest congregations in the entire colony.
Four years into his pastoralship, revival broke out in the colonies like this country had never seen
before. Edwards quickly began to study what God was doing in the hearts and lives of the sinners
in his area that were being converted. Finally after two years, the revival began to subside, but was
followed by a much larger and famous revival, which has become known as the Great Awakening.
At the forefront of this new and much more intense revival was Edwards and another much similar
minister, George Whitefield who was a minister from England who made missionary trips to the
United States.
It was during this time period that both ministers saw an enormous amount of conversions and
baptisms. It was also during this time that Edwards began preaching in a much more intrusive
fashion, which later became know as “hell fire and brimstone preaching.� Together the two
minister’s, one a Congregationalist, the other a Methodist, took the country by storm, preaching
in churches or in the open air, all for the cause of Christ and for the sake of seeing the lost saved.
This behavior was very troubling to denominational leaders who viewed such preaching as more â
€œArmenianâ€� than “Calvinisticâ€� in doctrine.
Although Edwards popularity as a minister grew during this time period, his popularity with his own
congregation did not, and because of a disagreement on whether or not taking the Lord’s
Supper was an adequate means of church membership, Edwards was asked to leave the
Congregationalist Denomination. Edwards continued to preach as n Evangelist until in 1757 he
accepted the position of College President at Princeton University. Unfortunately his Presidency
was cut short when he contracted smallpox. The great hell fire and brimstone preached went on to
be with the Lord on March 22, 1758.
| Billy Sunday (1862 ~ 1935) |
There never was, nor never will there be, an evangelist who preached
against the sin of alcohol as hard or as much as the famous Billy
Sunday. Sunday was born on November 19, 1862, the youngest son
of Union Soldier William Sunday, who died only five weeks after his
birth. Sunday’s mother was forced to send Billy and his brothers
to an orphanage due to poverty, where Billy received his education,
orderly habits, and the realization that he was athletically gifted.
Sunday continued schooling through 1880 as well as playing baseball
in the town of Marshalltown, Iowa, where he was noticed and signed
to play professionally by the Chicago White Stockings in 1883.
Sunday was never the best of hitters, but was known for his
outstanding speed both on the base paths as well as in right field.
Sunday was then sent to play in Pittsburgh, then to Philadelphia
where after one season he retired from baseball.
Before Sunday left Chicago for Pittsburgh, he came in contact with
against the sin of alcohol as hard or as much as the famous Billy
Sunday. Sunday was born on November 19, 1862, the youngest son
of Union Soldier William Sunday, who died only five weeks after his
birth. Sunday’s mother was forced to send Billy and his brothers
to an orphanage due to poverty, where Billy received his education,
orderly habits, and the realization that he was athletically gifted.
Sunday continued schooling through 1880 as well as playing baseball
in the town of Marshalltown, Iowa, where he was noticed and signed
to play professionally by the Chicago White Stockings in 1883.
Sunday was never the best of hitters, but was known for his
outstanding speed both on the base paths as well as in right field.
Sunday was then sent to play in Pittsburgh, then to Philadelphia
where after one season he retired from baseball.
Before Sunday left Chicago for Pittsburgh, he came in contact with
a street preacher. His mother would often sing gospel songs to him when he was a child, and this
preacher hit a note in Billy’s conscience that reminded him of the songs. He soon thereafter
began attending the Jefferson Park Presbyterian Church in Chicago, where he accepted the Lord.
As soon as people learned that the famous right fielder from the Chicago White Stockings was a
Christian, he began receiving invitations for speaking engagements.
While attending the Presbyterian Church, Sunday met his future wife, Helen Amelia Thompson,
whom he married on September 5, 1888. Follow his final year in Philadelphia, the Sunday’s
returned home to Chicago where Billy accepted a position with the Chicago YMCA, where he
began working on preparing for the life of an evangelist without realizing it. Many of the duties
Sunday accepted at YMCA included praying the sick, troubled, suicidal, as well as visiting saloons
to invite the patrons to evangelistic meetings. Sunday’s next position was that of full-time
assistant to Evangelist J. Wilbur Chapman. The two would often spend long nights discussing
sermon preparation, doctrine, and theology.
When Chapman returned to the pastorate in 1896, Sunday accepted the calling of the Lord to
preach his gospel, and began by preaching in small Iowa and Illinois communities, which Sunday
referred to as the “Kerosene Circuit,� because many of the communities did not have
electricity. Sunday quickly began to grow in popularity and in the early 1900’s, he had reached
high enough popularity that towns would construct large makeshift tabernacles for the meetings, a
symbol only used for the most popular of evangelists. By 1915, Sunday had become so famous
that he was being invited to preach at large cities all across the United States. Over the next 10 to
12 years, Sunday was in the prime of his ministry, preaching 42 sermons a month with countless
conversions taking place.
In the early 1930’s, Sunday health began to fail, and following the end of World War I, so did
his popularity, but he continued to preach as long as he was invited. Sunday suffered a heart attack
early in 1935, but yet he continued preaching even though the doctor advised him to stay out of the
pulpit. Sunday preached his last sermon on October 31, 1935 which was titled, What Must I Do
To Be Saved? He passed away on November 6th due to heart complications but fighting sin with
every breath in his body until the end.
preacher hit a note in Billy’s conscience that reminded him of the songs. He soon thereafter
began attending the Jefferson Park Presbyterian Church in Chicago, where he accepted the Lord.
As soon as people learned that the famous right fielder from the Chicago White Stockings was a
Christian, he began receiving invitations for speaking engagements.
While attending the Presbyterian Church, Sunday met his future wife, Helen Amelia Thompson,
whom he married on September 5, 1888. Follow his final year in Philadelphia, the Sunday’s
returned home to Chicago where Billy accepted a position with the Chicago YMCA, where he
began working on preparing for the life of an evangelist without realizing it. Many of the duties
Sunday accepted at YMCA included praying the sick, troubled, suicidal, as well as visiting saloons
to invite the patrons to evangelistic meetings. Sunday’s next position was that of full-time
assistant to Evangelist J. Wilbur Chapman. The two would often spend long nights discussing
sermon preparation, doctrine, and theology.
When Chapman returned to the pastorate in 1896, Sunday accepted the calling of the Lord to
preach his gospel, and began by preaching in small Iowa and Illinois communities, which Sunday
referred to as the “Kerosene Circuit,� because many of the communities did not have
electricity. Sunday quickly began to grow in popularity and in the early 1900’s, he had reached
high enough popularity that towns would construct large makeshift tabernacles for the meetings, a
symbol only used for the most popular of evangelists. By 1915, Sunday had become so famous
that he was being invited to preach at large cities all across the United States. Over the next 10 to
12 years, Sunday was in the prime of his ministry, preaching 42 sermons a month with countless
conversions taking place.
In the early 1930’s, Sunday health began to fail, and following the end of World War I, so did
his popularity, but he continued to preach as long as he was invited. Sunday suffered a heart attack
early in 1935, but yet he continued preaching even though the doctor advised him to stay out of the
pulpit. Sunday preached his last sermon on October 31, 1935 which was titled, What Must I Do
To Be Saved? He passed away on November 6th due to heart complications but fighting sin with
every breath in his body until the end.
There may not be another historical preaching character more
debated than that of the founding father of the Methodist
Denomination, John Wesley. Wesley, whose open air
preaching style was strikingly similar to that of George
Whitefield, was much different than the typical preacher of his
time period who was instructed to stand firmly on the beliefs
of Calvinism. Instead, it was Wesley’s unusual trip to the
American Colonies that led him down a path to buck that trend
and preach a doctrine that would give birth to many hell fire
and brimstone preachers in the next decade.
Born in 1703, the grandson of Dr. Samuel Annesley, a Puritan
pastor, Wesley had many experiences in his childhood that
would later cause him to reverence the Lord, including being
rescued from a burning building at the tender age of five.
Although he received a good education at home, he was sent
to a school in London were he quickly became distant from his
debated than that of the founding father of the Methodist
Denomination, John Wesley. Wesley, whose open air
preaching style was strikingly similar to that of George
Whitefield, was much different than the typical preacher of his
time period who was instructed to stand firmly on the beliefs
of Calvinism. Instead, it was Wesley’s unusual trip to the
American Colonies that led him down a path to buck that trend
and preach a doctrine that would give birth to many hell fire
and brimstone preachers in the next decade.
Born in 1703, the grandson of Dr. Samuel Annesley, a Puritan
pastor, Wesley had many experiences in his childhood that
would later cause him to reverence the Lord, including being
rescued from a burning building at the tender age of five.
Although he received a good education at home, he was sent
to a school in London were he quickly became distant from his
| John Wesley (1703 ~ 1791) |
peers, society, and even the God of his upbringing. Despite his poor educational experiences,
Wesley’s mother convinced him to attend Oxford, where he once again found his love for Godâ
€™s Word, salvation, and the call to carry that word in the form of preaching. Two years
following his graduation in 1728, at the age of only 25, John Wesley was ordained and began his
long and dangerous journey down the road of giving birth to a new denomination.
After preaching in small congregations and leading several men’s Bible groups, Wesley was
ready to try his hand at missionary work accepting an offer to travel to the American colonies. On
the voyage Wesley was introduced to Moravian settlers who influenced him by their tremendous
faith, holy living, and separated life styles. Wesley’s abrasive style and call to true Christianity
was not popular, and after a problem with a churchgoer which was taken to the courts, Wesley
return to England with a tarnished reputation and wounds of distrust among his brethren and sisters
within the church.
Upon arriving back in England Wesley continued his pursuit in understanding the Moravian doctrine
and began preaching salvation through faith for all who believe with more boldness than ever.
Because of this boldness Wesley was excommunicated from many churches who viewed his views
as heretical. This caught the eye of another bold preacher by the name of George Whitefield, who
was preaching in both England and the United States and seeing tremendous success. The two
great preachers met, and although they had differing views about predestination, they never let their
different views steal their fellowship. Whitefield introduced Wesley to open air preaching, and
through this new style Wesley was able to see many conversions and a small following of believers
who enjoyed his sermons. It was from this group that in 1739 at the age of 36, John Wesley gave
birth to the Methodist Church.
Wesley soon began ordaining other men to preach seeing the need to reach sinners who the
Anglican Church in England was ignoring. Wesley, his followers, and the newly ordained ministers
received much persecution but the spark of revival in England had already begun. Wesley continued
to preach, sometimes as much as three times a day, riding on horseback from one location to the
next. The Methodists quickly grew and his relationship with Whitefield also continued to grow.
Together the two great Evangelists witnessed an innumerable amount of conversions, and it was
Wesley who was asked to preach the memorial sermon for Whitefield in 1770. Wesley continued
preaching despite losing his good friend for another 21 years when in 1791, at the ripe age of 88,
Wesley finally laid his old work book down and went on to be with the Lord, leaving in the hearts
and minds of all preachers who care for sinners everywhere that “God willeth all men to be
saved.�
Wesley’s mother convinced him to attend Oxford, where he once again found his love for Godâ
€™s Word, salvation, and the call to carry that word in the form of preaching. Two years
following his graduation in 1728, at the age of only 25, John Wesley was ordained and began his
long and dangerous journey down the road of giving birth to a new denomination.
After preaching in small congregations and leading several men’s Bible groups, Wesley was
ready to try his hand at missionary work accepting an offer to travel to the American colonies. On
the voyage Wesley was introduced to Moravian settlers who influenced him by their tremendous
faith, holy living, and separated life styles. Wesley’s abrasive style and call to true Christianity
was not popular, and after a problem with a churchgoer which was taken to the courts, Wesley
return to England with a tarnished reputation and wounds of distrust among his brethren and sisters
within the church.
Upon arriving back in England Wesley continued his pursuit in understanding the Moravian doctrine
and began preaching salvation through faith for all who believe with more boldness than ever.
Because of this boldness Wesley was excommunicated from many churches who viewed his views
as heretical. This caught the eye of another bold preacher by the name of George Whitefield, who
was preaching in both England and the United States and seeing tremendous success. The two
great preachers met, and although they had differing views about predestination, they never let their
different views steal their fellowship. Whitefield introduced Wesley to open air preaching, and
through this new style Wesley was able to see many conversions and a small following of believers
who enjoyed his sermons. It was from this group that in 1739 at the age of 36, John Wesley gave
birth to the Methodist Church.
Wesley soon began ordaining other men to preach seeing the need to reach sinners who the
Anglican Church in England was ignoring. Wesley, his followers, and the newly ordained ministers
received much persecution but the spark of revival in England had already begun. Wesley continued
to preach, sometimes as much as three times a day, riding on horseback from one location to the
next. The Methodists quickly grew and his relationship with Whitefield also continued to grow.
Together the two great Evangelists witnessed an innumerable amount of conversions, and it was
Wesley who was asked to preach the memorial sermon for Whitefield in 1770. Wesley continued
preaching despite losing his good friend for another 21 years when in 1791, at the ripe age of 88,
Wesley finally laid his old work book down and went on to be with the Lord, leaving in the hearts
and minds of all preachers who care for sinners everywhere that “God willeth all men to be
saved.�
| Barton Stone (1772 ~ 1844) |
Certain people were meant for certain time periods. This is certainly
true of one Barton Stone. Born in Port Tobacco, Maryland in 1772,
Stone would later become one of the more prominent figures in our
Nation’s religious history, helping to bring about the Second
Great Awakening and influencing many individuals in the state of
Kentucky in one of the most famous revivals of all time.
During Stone’s childhood there were multiple denominational
influences including: Baptist, Methodist, Episcopal, and Presbyterian
which Stone first joined and was ordained through following his
studies in the Guilford Academy in North Carolina. Stone didn’t
remain in the Presbyterian denomination for long however, finding
himself entrenched in controversy following messages that the
Presbytery found “too Armenian� for their liking. Stone
wouldn’t fold however, remaining true to his convictions and
preaching the word of God without compromise. Following his
departure from the Presbytery, he only took the label of Christian and
set out to preach the gospel with pure conviction.
true of one Barton Stone. Born in Port Tobacco, Maryland in 1772,
Stone would later become one of the more prominent figures in our
Nation’s religious history, helping to bring about the Second
Great Awakening and influencing many individuals in the state of
Kentucky in one of the most famous revivals of all time.
During Stone’s childhood there were multiple denominational
influences including: Baptist, Methodist, Episcopal, and Presbyterian
which Stone first joined and was ordained through following his
studies in the Guilford Academy in North Carolina. Stone didn’t
remain in the Presbyterian denomination for long however, finding
himself entrenched in controversy following messages that the
Presbytery found “too Armenian� for their liking. Stone
wouldn’t fold however, remaining true to his convictions and
preaching the word of God without compromise. Following his
departure from the Presbytery, he only took the label of Christian and
set out to preach the gospel with pure conviction.
His travels brought him to the state of Kentucky, where with five other close associates, published
the “Last Will and Testament of the Springfield Presbytery,� Hoping that this document
would shed light on his Presbyterian brothers and bring them to a better understanding of the
gospel. It did not unfortunately, and thus a new movement had begun. Stone preached against
infant baptism, and full immersion as the only acceptable form following salvation. Many began to
see the truth in which Stone was preaching and accepted this call to salvation and baptism. It was
in 1801 at the age of 29 that Stone would make his mark as a preacher. In Cane Ridge, Kentucky
Stone and other ministers held a Camp Meeting that attracted over 20,000 people and witnessed
hundreds of conversions. This Camp meeting was one of the landmarks of what would later
become known as the Second Great Awakening, and no minister was more loved by those who
attended than Stone, who brought revival to the state of Kentucky through his hell fire and
brimstone preaching.
While Stone was enjoying this new found revival spirit in Kentucky and southern Ohio, there was
another gentleman by the name of Alexander Campbell who God was using in the states of
Virginia, Pennsylvania, and eastern Ohio in the same manor at the same exact time. Their paths
would cross in Georgetown Kentucky in 1824. Their Godly convictions and spirit filled preaching
was very similar, and their hearts quickly became united in the same cause. After preaching and
working together for 8 years it was finally time to complete the union. These two men along with
those who were associated to them joined in fellowship and began working together under a
permanent union.
A couple years following the union, God called Stone further west taking the gospel to the states of
Illinois and Missouri. He wouldn’t enjoy long success in these new regions however, going on
to be with the Lord in November of 1844. His body was taken back to the area of his great revival
in Cane Ridge, Kentucky where he was buried. One of the congregations he helped start, known as
the Church of Christ, donated the funds for a monument which still stands to this day.
the “Last Will and Testament of the Springfield Presbytery,� Hoping that this document
would shed light on his Presbyterian brothers and bring them to a better understanding of the
gospel. It did not unfortunately, and thus a new movement had begun. Stone preached against
infant baptism, and full immersion as the only acceptable form following salvation. Many began to
see the truth in which Stone was preaching and accepted this call to salvation and baptism. It was
in 1801 at the age of 29 that Stone would make his mark as a preacher. In Cane Ridge, Kentucky
Stone and other ministers held a Camp Meeting that attracted over 20,000 people and witnessed
hundreds of conversions. This Camp meeting was one of the landmarks of what would later
become known as the Second Great Awakening, and no minister was more loved by those who
attended than Stone, who brought revival to the state of Kentucky through his hell fire and
brimstone preaching.
While Stone was enjoying this new found revival spirit in Kentucky and southern Ohio, there was
another gentleman by the name of Alexander Campbell who God was using in the states of
Virginia, Pennsylvania, and eastern Ohio in the same manor at the same exact time. Their paths
would cross in Georgetown Kentucky in 1824. Their Godly convictions and spirit filled preaching
was very similar, and their hearts quickly became united in the same cause. After preaching and
working together for 8 years it was finally time to complete the union. These two men along with
those who were associated to them joined in fellowship and began working together under a
permanent union.
A couple years following the union, God called Stone further west taking the gospel to the states of
Illinois and Missouri. He wouldn’t enjoy long success in these new regions however, going on
to be with the Lord in November of 1844. His body was taken back to the area of his great revival
in Cane Ridge, Kentucky where he was buried. One of the congregations he helped start, known as
the Church of Christ, donated the funds for a monument which still stands to this day.
Very few founding fathers are as loved within their own
organization as that as one Benjamin Randall is to his Free Will
Baptist Brethren. Born on February 7, 1749 in Portsmouth,
New Hampshire, Randall learned the life of dedication from his
father, who captained a fishing outfit on the New Hampshire
coast. Benjamin’s love for the sea was great, but greater
was his love for the Bible, which was read to him by his
mother from a young age. He was taught strict dedication to
biblical study at a youthful age. Having been raised a
Congregationalist, Randall had strong religious and moral
convictions not shared by his youthful peers.
He often found himself questioning his denominational
doctrine in his teenage years. This was brought on by
studying the scriptures and observing the actions of those
associated with the Congregational Church. He stayed in
school until the age of 18 and working with his father at sea
until he could
organization as that as one Benjamin Randall is to his Free Will
Baptist Brethren. Born on February 7, 1749 in Portsmouth,
New Hampshire, Randall learned the life of dedication from his
father, who captained a fishing outfit on the New Hampshire
coast. Benjamin’s love for the sea was great, but greater
was his love for the Bible, which was read to him by his
mother from a young age. He was taught strict dedication to
biblical study at a youthful age. Having been raised a
Congregationalist, Randall had strong religious and moral
convictions not shared by his youthful peers.
He often found himself questioning his denominational
doctrine in his teenage years. This was brought on by
studying the scriptures and observing the actions of those
associated with the Congregational Church. He stayed in
school until the age of 18 and working with his father at sea
until he could
| Benjamin Randall (1749 ~ 1808) |
afford the opportunity to attend Dartmouth College, which he did until the age of 21. That was the
year of a divine appointment.
The year was 1770, and the great evangelist from England was coming to town. George Whitefield
was well known, but in the New England colonies, his outward and boisterous approach wasn’t
welcomed among many of the congregations. That didn’t stop Whitefield, nor did it stop many
from attending his revival meetings. Randall was one of those who were moved to attend a meeting
that Whitefield was holding despite his pastor’s advice to the congregation to stay away. Randall
came to the meeting expecting to hear an unanointed man, but instead, his heart was pricked and
his conscience was troubled. Randall was raised, taught, and for the most part, believed in
predestination. However, upon further studying of the scriptures, as well as a movement from the
Holy Spirit, confirmed by the message of Whitefield, Randall began to question his doctrine,
sprinkling baptism, and even his salvation. When news came in September that Whitefield had
passed, it seemed like God pored it on even heaver. Two weeks later on October 15, Randall found
himself in the middle of a field sitting on a rock, crying out to God for forgiveness and true
salvation.
Randall had a born-again experience that day, and for the rest of his life, God took Randall on a path
that was much different than the one had been walking for the first 21 years. Randall married in
1771, and in 1772 they joined the Congregationalist Church in New Castle, New Hampshire. Randall
was so excited about his relationship with Christ that it deeply saddened him to watch others live by
no moral code or conviction in the church. This caused Randall to explore the opportunity of
leading a group within the church to meet on Thursday to read the scriptures in an attempt to help
others mark up to the Word of God. Randall also began visiting other churches, and upon visiting
one in Portsmouth, he received the call by God to preach His Word. Like most, Randall ran from
his calling. He ran by joining the army.
While in the army Randall continued to study the scriptures, and upon being released of duty
decided he couldn’t run from the Lord any longer. He also realized he could no longer agree
with the Congregationalists. He was baptized (full immersion) by Rev. William Hooper and was
ordained to preach by the Baptist Church in Berwick. God’s hand was on Randall from the
beginning, taking to the open air or preaching in church’s that would let him. In his hometown
of New Castle, 30 people were converted under his ministry and his reputation began to grow. He
settled in the town of New Durham, New Hampshire where a good size congregation was gathering
to hear Randall preach often. On March 26, 1778 the first Free Will Baptist Church was established,
and although it did not carry this name at that time, it would become the very first and the mother
church of a new and developing denomination.
Randall, who was small in stature, was known for his booming voice and exciting style of
preaching. He quickly began to fellowship with and help establish other new congregations near
New Durham. By 1780 there were 5 Baptist Church’s in fellowship with the free will doctrine
being taught and preached. Randall continued this feverish pace for another 24 years before
becoming ill in 1804 after preaching for several months in Maine. Although Randall would rebound
from the illness, he would never be the same again. He slowly continued to help grow the new
denomination and would visit with younger ministers, mentoring them and helping them with issues
in the young church. Finally, at the age of 59, Randall passed away on October 22, 1808. Randallâ
€™s understanding of scripture, spirit led sermons, and brotherly love won the hearts of his fellow
man. It also planted the seeds for continued success. To this day what he preached, what he
believed, and how he lived his life is celebrated by many who feel led to preach, believe, and live the
same way under the banner of God’s love and Holy Spirit.
year of a divine appointment.
The year was 1770, and the great evangelist from England was coming to town. George Whitefield
was well known, but in the New England colonies, his outward and boisterous approach wasn’t
welcomed among many of the congregations. That didn’t stop Whitefield, nor did it stop many
from attending his revival meetings. Randall was one of those who were moved to attend a meeting
that Whitefield was holding despite his pastor’s advice to the congregation to stay away. Randall
came to the meeting expecting to hear an unanointed man, but instead, his heart was pricked and
his conscience was troubled. Randall was raised, taught, and for the most part, believed in
predestination. However, upon further studying of the scriptures, as well as a movement from the
Holy Spirit, confirmed by the message of Whitefield, Randall began to question his doctrine,
sprinkling baptism, and even his salvation. When news came in September that Whitefield had
passed, it seemed like God pored it on even heaver. Two weeks later on October 15, Randall found
himself in the middle of a field sitting on a rock, crying out to God for forgiveness and true
salvation.
Randall had a born-again experience that day, and for the rest of his life, God took Randall on a path
that was much different than the one had been walking for the first 21 years. Randall married in
1771, and in 1772 they joined the Congregationalist Church in New Castle, New Hampshire. Randall
was so excited about his relationship with Christ that it deeply saddened him to watch others live by
no moral code or conviction in the church. This caused Randall to explore the opportunity of
leading a group within the church to meet on Thursday to read the scriptures in an attempt to help
others mark up to the Word of God. Randall also began visiting other churches, and upon visiting
one in Portsmouth, he received the call by God to preach His Word. Like most, Randall ran from
his calling. He ran by joining the army.
While in the army Randall continued to study the scriptures, and upon being released of duty
decided he couldn’t run from the Lord any longer. He also realized he could no longer agree
with the Congregationalists. He was baptized (full immersion) by Rev. William Hooper and was
ordained to preach by the Baptist Church in Berwick. God’s hand was on Randall from the
beginning, taking to the open air or preaching in church’s that would let him. In his hometown
of New Castle, 30 people were converted under his ministry and his reputation began to grow. He
settled in the town of New Durham, New Hampshire where a good size congregation was gathering
to hear Randall preach often. On March 26, 1778 the first Free Will Baptist Church was established,
and although it did not carry this name at that time, it would become the very first and the mother
church of a new and developing denomination.
Randall, who was small in stature, was known for his booming voice and exciting style of
preaching. He quickly began to fellowship with and help establish other new congregations near
New Durham. By 1780 there were 5 Baptist Church’s in fellowship with the free will doctrine
being taught and preached. Randall continued this feverish pace for another 24 years before
becoming ill in 1804 after preaching for several months in Maine. Although Randall would rebound
from the illness, he would never be the same again. He slowly continued to help grow the new
denomination and would visit with younger ministers, mentoring them and helping them with issues
in the young church. Finally, at the age of 59, Randall passed away on October 22, 1808. Randallâ
€™s understanding of scripture, spirit led sermons, and brotherly love won the hearts of his fellow
man. It also planted the seeds for continued success. To this day what he preached, what he
believed, and how he lived his life is celebrated by many who feel led to preach, believe, and live the
same way under the banner of God’s love and Holy Spirit.
| Charles Spurgeon (1772 ~ 1844) |
Known as the Prince of Preachers, Charles Spurgeon was one of the
most influential ministers since the Apostle Paul. His books, sermon
outlines, and commentaries are among some of the most read
material in today’s church world. It has been documented, that
no other author, Christian or secular, has more material in print than
Spurgeon, which is why his influence is still felt today from behind
many old fashion pulpits.
Born in Kelvedon, Essex, England, Spurgeon was born again early in
1850 at the age of only 15 in a Primitive Methodist service in which
Spurgeon wasn’t planning on attending. He had an appointment
elsewhere, but due to a snow storm ne sought shelter in the little
church building. It was there that the great preacher heard the gospel
message and received the Lord joyfully. He quickly looked for a
church to join so that he could continue to learn about this Savior
who had filled his soul with joy. He found such a place in a church at
Newmarket and was baptized on May 3, 1850. It wasn’t long
thereafter when God began to work on young Charles to preach the
most influential ministers since the Apostle Paul. His books, sermon
outlines, and commentaries are among some of the most read
material in today’s church world. It has been documented, that
no other author, Christian or secular, has more material in print than
Spurgeon, which is why his influence is still felt today from behind
many old fashion pulpits.
Born in Kelvedon, Essex, England, Spurgeon was born again early in
1850 at the age of only 15 in a Primitive Methodist service in which
Spurgeon wasn’t planning on attending. He had an appointment
elsewhere, but due to a snow storm ne sought shelter in the little
church building. It was there that the great preacher heard the gospel
message and received the Lord joyfully. He quickly looked for a
church to join so that he could continue to learn about this Savior
who had filled his soul with joy. He found such a place in a church at
Newmarket and was baptized on May 3, 1850. It wasn’t long
thereafter when God began to work on young Charles to preach the
gospel and in a small home service in Cambridge he did just that. He continued to do so, and the
young boy preacher from Cambridge quickly caught the attention of the locals. At the age of only
16, he was asked to pastor the small Baptist church at Waterbeach Cambridgeshire. He accepted
and there published his first literary work, a gospel tract in 1853.
Spurgeon’s preaching ability was considered well above average, and despite his youthfulness,
at only the age 19, he was asked by the New Park Street Chapel Baptist Church, the largest Baptist
church in London, to pastor their congregation. This was the most famous Baptist Church in
England. However, when Spurgeon arrived he found a church that had dwindled in numbers and in
spirit. The church didn’t remain as such however, and Spurgeon’s powerful preaching
soon brought him fame and a reviving spirit to the church. For the first year, his sermons were
published and many London residents were moved to come and hear this man of God preach. And
preach he did.
Due to his fame, his congregation quickly outgrew their current location on New Park Street. They
moved to Exeter Hall, and then to Surrey Music Hall. It was in these locations that Spurgeon was
able to preach to crowds numbering more than 10,000 people. In 1856 following the move to
Surrey Music Hall, Spurgeon enjoyed some of his best blessings, and also some of his worst
curses in his ministry. He married Susannah Thompson. Later that year they had twin boys.
However, that same year tragedy struck when while preaching someone in attendance yelled, â
€œFire!â€� In the panic of the 10,000 plus crowd trying to exit the building, several people were
trampled and killed. This trough Spurgeon into a battle with depression and emotional disorders that
haunted him for the remainder of his ministry.
Despite his personal mental battles, Spurgeon marched on and began work on founding a Pastors
College, which he did in 1857. This facility of higher learning was renamed Spurgeon’s College
in 1923. In that same year of 1857, Spurgeon preached to the largest crowd every – 23,654
people in the Crystal Palace in London. Having outgrown Surrey Music Hall, the congregation
moved once again, this time to a newly constructed building named the Metropolitan Tabernacle.
This move in 1861 brought with it a seating capacity of 5,000 and specially designed standing
room for an additional 1,000 people.
As for the preacher himself, although Spurgeon wrote out every sermon, he only carried with him
to the pulpit a note card and his Bible. He also gave altar calls at the end of every sermon and an
invitation to personally meet with him on Monday morning if any individual needed additional
praying or counseling. Although Spurgeon was Baptist, he always tried his best to reach beyond
denominational lines for the sake of sinners. However, his stance on scripture led the Church of
England to cut all ties with Spurgeon. The biggest disagreement was on baptismal regeneration,
which Spurgeon preached against. Spurgeon was also one of the first ministers to financially
support missions and was a big supporter of the interdenominational China Inland Mission.
Spurgeon also created the wordless Bible, a tool to help reach illiterate people with the gospel. This
Bible is still used today for the same purpose. Spurgeon also founded the Stockwell Orphanage,
which was opened in 1867.
In 1887 Spurgeon took a stand against his Baptist Brethren, stating that the Baptist Union had
downgraded their stance toward the Bible. This led to the Metropolitan Tabernacle disaffiliating
themselves from the Baptist Union and becoming the world’s largest Independent Church.
Spurgeon stated that sinful theories such as Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural
selection had crept into Baptist pulpits and that he would not stand for such hypocrisy.
Following the disaffiliation with the Baptist Union, Charles and Susannah both became ill. This did
not stop Charles however, preaching for another five years despite battling a combination of
rheumatism, gout, and kidney disease, which claimed his life in 1892 at the age of only 57. He was
buried at West Norwood Cemetery in London where many admirers come and pay their last
respects even today showing that this powerful man of God is still effecting people even today.
young boy preacher from Cambridge quickly caught the attention of the locals. At the age of only
16, he was asked to pastor the small Baptist church at Waterbeach Cambridgeshire. He accepted
and there published his first literary work, a gospel tract in 1853.
Spurgeon’s preaching ability was considered well above average, and despite his youthfulness,
at only the age 19, he was asked by the New Park Street Chapel Baptist Church, the largest Baptist
church in London, to pastor their congregation. This was the most famous Baptist Church in
England. However, when Spurgeon arrived he found a church that had dwindled in numbers and in
spirit. The church didn’t remain as such however, and Spurgeon’s powerful preaching
soon brought him fame and a reviving spirit to the church. For the first year, his sermons were
published and many London residents were moved to come and hear this man of God preach. And
preach he did.
Due to his fame, his congregation quickly outgrew their current location on New Park Street. They
moved to Exeter Hall, and then to Surrey Music Hall. It was in these locations that Spurgeon was
able to preach to crowds numbering more than 10,000 people. In 1856 following the move to
Surrey Music Hall, Spurgeon enjoyed some of his best blessings, and also some of his worst
curses in his ministry. He married Susannah Thompson. Later that year they had twin boys.
However, that same year tragedy struck when while preaching someone in attendance yelled, â
€œFire!â€� In the panic of the 10,000 plus crowd trying to exit the building, several people were
trampled and killed. This trough Spurgeon into a battle with depression and emotional disorders that
haunted him for the remainder of his ministry.
Despite his personal mental battles, Spurgeon marched on and began work on founding a Pastors
College, which he did in 1857. This facility of higher learning was renamed Spurgeon’s College
in 1923. In that same year of 1857, Spurgeon preached to the largest crowd every – 23,654
people in the Crystal Palace in London. Having outgrown Surrey Music Hall, the congregation
moved once again, this time to a newly constructed building named the Metropolitan Tabernacle.
This move in 1861 brought with it a seating capacity of 5,000 and specially designed standing
room for an additional 1,000 people.
As for the preacher himself, although Spurgeon wrote out every sermon, he only carried with him
to the pulpit a note card and his Bible. He also gave altar calls at the end of every sermon and an
invitation to personally meet with him on Monday morning if any individual needed additional
praying or counseling. Although Spurgeon was Baptist, he always tried his best to reach beyond
denominational lines for the sake of sinners. However, his stance on scripture led the Church of
England to cut all ties with Spurgeon. The biggest disagreement was on baptismal regeneration,
which Spurgeon preached against. Spurgeon was also one of the first ministers to financially
support missions and was a big supporter of the interdenominational China Inland Mission.
Spurgeon also created the wordless Bible, a tool to help reach illiterate people with the gospel. This
Bible is still used today for the same purpose. Spurgeon also founded the Stockwell Orphanage,
which was opened in 1867.
In 1887 Spurgeon took a stand against his Baptist Brethren, stating that the Baptist Union had
downgraded their stance toward the Bible. This led to the Metropolitan Tabernacle disaffiliating
themselves from the Baptist Union and becoming the world’s largest Independent Church.
Spurgeon stated that sinful theories such as Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural
selection had crept into Baptist pulpits and that he would not stand for such hypocrisy.
Following the disaffiliation with the Baptist Union, Charles and Susannah both became ill. This did
not stop Charles however, preaching for another five years despite battling a combination of
rheumatism, gout, and kidney disease, which claimed his life in 1892 at the age of only 57. He was
buried at West Norwood Cemetery in London where many admirers come and pay their last
respects even today showing that this powerful man of God is still effecting people even today.