Charles Spurgeon
From a Teenage Convert to the Prince of Preachers
Charles Haddon Spurgeon, often called the Prince of Preachers, was born on June 19, 1834, into a family legacy of pastors. Though raised by godly parents and grandparents who nurtured his faith, Spurgeon resisted the work of God in his heart. Despite hearing countless Bible lessons and family prayers, he once admitted, "I rebelled and struggled against God for as long as I could."
At the age of 16, during a snowstorm that prevented him from attending his usual church, Spurgeon wandered into a small Methodist chapel. The pastor wasn’t present, so an untrained layman took the pulpit. His simple message from Isaiah 45:22, Look unto Me, and be ye saved, was all it took. That day, Charles Spurgeon looked to Christ and was saved.
Within a year, he was preaching to small groups of villagers, and soon his ministry expanded. By the age of 19, Spurgeon had accepted the call to pastor a declining London church, and under his leadership, it grew rapidly. His powerful sermons, filled with biblical truth, practical wisdom, and unexpected humor, drew thousands.
Despite physical ailments and seasons of deep personal suffering, Spurgeon’s devotion to preaching never wavered. His impact still resonates today, with his sermons and writings continuing to inspire countless believers. This episode uncovers Spurgeon's journey from a rebellious youth to one of the most significant voices in Christian history, pointing to his unshakable message: "Look to Christ and be saved."
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 45:22