christian biography

John Bunyan

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Biography

Full Name: John Bunyan
Birth Place: Bedford, England
Parents: Thomas Bunyan and Margaret Bentley
Wife: Mary
Born: November 1628
Died: August 31, 1688
Salvation Experience: At 25 years of age
Famous Work: “The Pilgrim’s Progress” — one of the most popular books after the Bible.

Life Story

John Bunyan was born in Bedford, England, into a poor family. His father was a tinker who repaired pots and pans. John grew up as a naughty and careless boy, used to lying and stealing. He didn’t study much but learned to read and write.

In 1644, his mother and sister died, and soon after, his father remarried. Feeling lonely and hurt, John became bitter and turned away from God. Later, he joined the army and served for two years. Once, when another soldier took John’s place in battle, that soldier was killed. John realized that God had saved his life for a purpose.

After leaving the army, he started working as a tinker like his father. He married a poor but godly woman named Mary. They were poor but faithful to attend church. John read many Christian books and began to think deeply about sin, judgment, and salvation.

Through the help of some Christian women and Pastor Gifford, John came to know the truth of the Gospel. He confessed his sins and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. His life completely changed. Even in suffering, he trusted God and continued to preach about Christ.

Ministry and Imprisonment

John’s daughter was born blind, and soon after, his wife died. Even then, he never lost faith. During that time, England had a law that only licensed ministers could preach. But John boldly declared, “Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!”

He preached to large crowds with great power. Because of his preaching, he was arrested and put in prison. The officials told him he could be free if he promised not to preach again — but John refused. He said, “If you release me today, I will preach again tomorrow.”

He spent 12 years in prison, yet used that time to pray, teach other prisoners, and write. During that period, he wrote “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” one of the greatest Christian books ever written — now translated into more than 100 languages.

Later Years

After his release at age 43, John continued preaching and wrote another great book called “The Holy War.” He became a pastor of the Baptist Church in Bedford and helped many people grow in faith.

He wrote more than 20 books in total. On August 31, 1688, John Bunyan went to be with the Lord, faithful till his last breath.

Famous Quote

“It is better to obey God than men.”

Message from His Life

John Bunyan’s story teaches us:

  • God can change any sinner into His servant.
  • Obedience to God is more important than pleasing people.
  • Even in suffering, God can use us for His glory.

Mary Slessor Biography 

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Mary Slessor Biography

Early Life and Family Background

Mary Slessor was born on December 2, 1848, in Aberdeen, Scotland. She came from a very poor family. Her father, Robert Slessor, was a shoemaker, but he struggled with alcohol. Her mother, also named Mary, worked in a textile mill to support the family. Mary was the second daughter among seven children.

At the young age of 11, she had to work in a factory to help the family. Her education was very limited, but she loved reading, especially the Bible and missionary stories. At a Christian meeting, she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and decided to live her life for Him.

Inspiration from Missionary Stories

Mary was deeply touched by the life of David Livingstone, the great missionary to Africa. Reading his story gave her the desire to go to the people who had never heard the gospel. She first served in her own community by teaching in Sunday school, visiting the poor, and sharing Christ with them.

In 1873, when news came that David Livingstone had died, Mary was only 24 years old. Yet, she felt strongly that she should follow his path and serve in Africa.

Journey to Africa

With the support of the United Presbyterian Church, Mary sailed for Africa on August 5, 1876. She reached Calabar (in present-day Nigeria), a region feared for diseases, violence, and spiritual darkness.

She began to learn the local Efik language, lived among the people, and showed kindness to women and children. Instead of living apart, she chose to stay with the villagers, eat their food, and share their daily life.

Challenges and Courage

Mary faced extreme difficulties. Africa was full of deadly diseases, dangerous animals, and hostile tribes. But her faith in Christ gave her courage.

The tribes practiced human sacrifices, killing of twins, and cruel rituals. When twins were born, they believed it was a curse and killed both the babies and their mother. Mary rescued such babies, gave them shelter, and taught that all life is valuable to God.

Her boldness and love impressed the chiefs and the people. She often mediated in disputes and became trusted as a woman of peace.

The Okoiyang Mission

After some years in Calabar, Mary felt God calling her to an even more dangerous tribe — the Okoiyang people. They were known for cannibalism and violence. No missionary had gone there before.

In August 1888, she moved into their land, built a small hut, and began her work. At first the people were suspicious, but her love and patience slowly won their hearts. She rescued children, cared for the sick, and taught about Christ.

Within ten years, the entire community changed. Cruel practices stopped, schools and churches were built, and people began to live in peace.

Her Ministry Style

Mary lived very simply. She never sought comfort. She chose to share the struggles of the people she served. She often walked miles through jungles, facing wild animals and sickness, just to preach the gospel in villages.

Even when she suffered from rheumatism and could not walk properly, she continued her ministry while sitting in a wheelchair.

Her humility, sacrifice, and dependence on God made her life a living sermon.

Later Years and Sacrifice

Mary served in Africa for 40 years without ever returning to live in Scotland. Even when her health was failing, she refused to leave. She said her life belonged to the African people.

In her final years, she became very weak. Yet, she kept teaching, praying, and encouraging others. On January 13, 1915, at the age of 66, she passed away in Calabar. The local people mourned her deeply, as they loved her like a mother.

Legacy of Mary Slessor

Mary Slessor is remembered as the “White Queen of Calabar,” not because of power, but because of her faith and love.

Her legacy includes:

  • Saving countless children’s lives.
  • Transforming tribes through the gospel.
  • Establishing schools and churches.
  • Acting as a mediator and peacemaker.
  • Living as a shining example of Christ’s love.

Her life continues to inspire Christians and missionaries around the world.

Famous Quote

“These people are not my work. It is not my wisdom or strength. It is the grace of God alone that has made them disciples of Christ.”

Conclusion

The story of Mary Slessor is a testimony of faith and sacrifice. She came from poverty, but God used her to bring transformation to entire communities in Africa. For 40 years, she lived a life of courage, love, and service, showing that one person fully dedicated to God can change the world.

 

D.L. Moody Biography 

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D.L. Moody Biography

 

Early Life and Family

Dwight Lyman Moody, known as D.L. Moody, was born on February 5, 1837, in Northfield, Massachusetts, USA. He belonged to a simple farming family. His father, Edwin Moody, died suddenly when Dwight was only four years old. His mother was left to raise nine children alone. The family lived in poverty and struggled for survival.

Because of these hardships, young Dwight could not get much formal education. Instead, he worked in the fields and later took a job as a shoe salesman. His main desire was to earn money and build a better life. But God was preparing him for something greater.

Salvation Experience

At the age of 17, D.L. Moody came to know Christ in a personal way. He was invited to a Sunday School class by Edward Kimball, a faithful teacher. Kimball later visited the shoe shop where Moody worked and shared the Gospel with him. That day, Dwight accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior.

Moody later described that day:
“The morning I was saved, everything looked new. The sun was brighter, the birds seemed to sing sweeter, and I felt as if the whole world was rejoicing with me.”

This moment changed his life forever.

Early Ministry Work

After his conversion, Moody began to share the Gospel with others immediately. He focused especially on children living in poor neighborhoods. He would gather them every Sunday and take them to church.

He also reached out to drunkards, gamblers, and broken families, telling them about Jesus and praying for them. Within three years, Moody gathered over one thousand children into Sunday School.

Finally, he left his shoe business and gave his whole life to ministry.

Marriage and Family

In 1862, Dwight Moody married Emma Revell. She was a strong supporter of his ministry. God blessed them with three children. Even though Moody traveled often, he never neglected his family.

Spiritual Growth and Revival Ministry

Moody was a man of prayer. He spent many hours in God’s presence, asking for wisdom and strength. In 1871, he began praying for the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Soon, he received a powerful touch from God that transformed his ministry.

He started preaching with great boldness. Thousands of people came to his revival meetings. In some gatherings, more than 50,000 people attended.

Moody also traveled to England, where he met great preachers like Charles Spurgeon and George Müller. His simple but powerful messages touched hearts, and many came to Christ.

Character and Humility

Even though D.L.Moody became one of the most famous evangelists of his time, he remained humble. Once, someone asked him how many people were saved through his preaching. Moody smiled and said:
“I don’t know. The Lamb’s Book of Life is not in my keeping.”

His humility and sincerity made him a respected leader around the world.

Educational Institutions and Social Work

D.L. Moody strongly believed in training future leaders. In 1879, he opened a Bible College for women. In 1881, he started Mount Hermon School for Boys. In 1894, he launched a Christian magazine.

He personally helped poor students by paying their school fees. He also cared for the sick and the needy. His ministry touched not only spiritual lives but also social needs.

Faith During Difficult Times

D.L . Moody’s faith remained strong during crises. Once, he was traveling on a ship with 700 people when it faced a serious accident. While everyone was afraid, Moody prayed and encouraged them. Soon, another ship came and rescued them safely.

Final Years and Death

Moody continued preaching until the last years of his life. His ministry brought revival to America, England, and many other countries. Thousands of churches were strengthened. Millions heard the Gospel through his work.

On December 22, 1899, Dwight Lyman Moody passed away at the age of 62. His final words showed his strong faith and love for heaven.

Famous Quote

Moody once said:
“If God offered me the whole world, I would reject it and choose to be filled with the Holy Spirit.”

This statement reveals his heart and priorities.

Legacy

D.L. Moody’s life is a testimony of God’s power. From a poor farm boy, he became one of the greatest evangelists of the 19th century. His schools, writings, and ministry still influence millions today.

His life reminds us that God can use ordinary people to do extraordinary things if they surrender completely to Him.

 

Volbrecht Nagel Biography

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Volbrecht Nagel Biography

Volbrecht Nagel (1867–1921) was a German missionary, church pioneer, and hymn writer who deeply influenced Christian life on the Malabar Coast, especially among Malayalam-speaking believers. His story brings valuable lessons for Christian communities and churches seeking authentic outreach and worship.

Early Life and Calling

Born on November 3, 1867, in Stammheim, Germany, Nagel grew up in a Christian family but lost both parents by age eight. At eighteen, he heard the gospel from a humble cobbler turned preacher, and this moved him to accept Jesus Christ and dedicate his life to serving others. His conversion was marked by a deep personal faith and a passion for sharing God’s love with different cultures.

Missionary Training: Preparation for Service

Nagel attended the Basel Mission Training Institute in Switzerland from 1886 and graduated six years later. He was ordained as a pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Mission. Motivated by the verse 1 Chronicles 16:24—“Declare His glory among the nations”—Nagel was ready to travel far and declare God’s glory, a desire that resonates with every Christian longing to reach more people with the gospel.

Ministry in Kerala: Church Planting and Selfless Service

Nagel arrived in Kerala, India, in December 1893 as a Basel Missionary, taking charge of the mission center in Vaniankulam. Realizing that administrative work did not fulfill his calling, Nagel left the Basel Mission in 1896, risking his livelihood for the sake of authentic ministry. He moved to Kunnamkulam, where he became deeply involved in building up the local church. By learning Malayalam, Nagel broke barriers and connected with believers at a personal level, an approach essential for churches today when engaging with their communities.

Key Achievements: Worship, Teaching, and Social Outreach

  • Hymn Writing: Nagel composed many beloved hymns in Malayalam, such as “Snehathin Idayanam Yesuway” and “Jayam Jayam Kollum Naam.” These songs brought hope and encouragement, and are still sung in congregations throughout Kerala, uplifting church gatherings and home fellowships.

  • Church Planting: He founded new churches and facilitated undenominational worship, stressing simplicity and unity. His teachings on believer’s baptism transformed local faith practices.

  • Orphanage and Humanitarian Service: Nagel established the Rehoboth Girls’ Orphanage in Nellikunnu, offering care, education, and shelter to hundreds of children. This legacy of compassion remains a model for present-day church outreach programs.

Family and Personal Life

Nagel married Harriet Mitchell, an Anglo-Indian teacher, in 1897. Together, they raised five sons and two daughters, though they endured the pain of losing two children in infancy. Harriet was a driving force alongside Nagel, supporting his dedication to mission and ministry.

Challenges: Faith Amid Difficult Times

After World War I began, Nagel was unable to return to India from Germany. Despite being separated from the community he loved, Nagel continued encouraging the Kerala believers through letters, expressing his deep longing for them and for his mission. His heart always remained with the people of Kerala, an attitude familiar to church leaders and members who serve faithfully even during challenges.

Lasting Legacy

Nagel passed away in 1921 after a life of service, leaving an indelible legacy in Kerala. His hymns echo in church services, his orphanage continues to bless children, and his story inspires many believers to live with love, humility, and faith.

Why Does Nagel’s Life Matter for Us Today?

  • Worship Unity: His hymns connect generations and denominations in worship.

  • Selfless Service: Nagel’s decision to prioritize mission work over security encourages us to serve sacrificially.

  • Community Focus: The orphanage and his advocacy for inclusive local ministry demonstrate how churches impact lives.

  • Faithful Leadership: Nagel’s life reminds leaders and pastors to remain faithful, even when separated from their work by obstacles—trusting God with every step.

Quick Facts

Fact Details
Birth Date November 3, 1867
Birth Place Stammheim, Germany
Mission Field Kerala, India
Main Languages German, Malayalam
Major Hymns Malayalam praise songs
Church Impact Kerala Brethren movement
Orphanage Built Rehoboth Girls’ Orphanage
Died May 12, 1921

Conclusion

Volbrecht Nagel’s passion for Jesus, creativity in worship, and years of service show how one person can inspire generations. His story teaches the power of faith-driven outreach, music, and humility in leadership. May his legacy encourage all to care for others and lift each other in prayer and song, just as Nagel did for Kerala.

CT Studd Biography

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CT Studd Biography

Early Life and Family

Charles Thomas Studd, known around the world as C.T. Studd, was born on December 2, 1860, in Wiltshire, England. He was the son of Edward Studd, a wealthy landowner. Charles grew up in comfort, surrounded by luxury, sports, and the privileges that came with wealth.

From a young age, Charles had a strong interest in sports. He became an expert in cricket, hunting, and horse riding. By the age of sixteen, he was already recognized as a skilled cricketer. With his tall and handsome figure, he quickly gained fame and admiration. Many hours of his youth were spent in front of a mirror, proud of his strength and appearance.

Influence of His Father’s Conversion

Charles’ father, Edward, was a wealthy man but did not know Christ personally. This changed when he attended revival meetings led by the great evangelist D.L. Moody. Edward gave his life to Jesus, and this decision transformed his home. From that point on, Edward began to pray earnestly that his sons too would follow Christ.

Though Charles listened to the gospel through Moody’s preaching, he hesitated to fully surrender his life to Jesus. His heart was divided between worldly fame and eternal truth.

A Turning Point: His Brother’s Illness

The real breakthrough came when Charles’ brother George became seriously ill and nearly died. Watching his brother suffer deeply shook Charles. He began to realize that wealth, beauty, and worldly pleasures were temporary, but spiritual life and eternity were far more valuable. This event opened his eyes and prepared his heart to receive God.

Full Surrender to Christ

Later, when Charles attended one of D.L. Moody’s student meetings, he was moved to give his life completely to God. He stopped chasing personal dreams of becoming a successful lawyer. Instead, he decided to dedicate himself to spreading the gospel.

Charles often said to himself:
“How can I waste my life chasing fame, when thousands of souls are perishing without Christ?”

At that point, he made the courageous choice to leave behind cricket, his education plans, and even the comfort of his family, in order to follow Jesus.

Fame as a Cricketer

Before leaving everything, Charles was already a famous cricketer in England. Many people admired him for his sports skills. His decision to give up cricket for Christ shocked the public. He became a living testimony of how Jesus could transform even the most ambitious and proud young man. Wherever Charles went, people wanted to hear his story of how Christ had captured his heart.

Call to China

While praying about where he should serve as a missionary, Charles often remembered the words from Psalm 2:8:
“Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.”

He felt a strong call from God to go to China, where millions had never heard the gospel. Though his parents and friends begged him to stay in England, Charles obeyed God’s call.

On April 1, 1885, Charles sailed to China. He landed in Shanghai and immediately began learning the Chinese language, working hard for many hours a day. He often walked nearly 40 miles daily to preach the gospel in villages, despite facing sickness, hardships, and opposition.

Giving Away His Wealth

While in China, Charles received news that his father had died and that he was entitled to inherit great wealth. But Charles had already decided that he would not let riches control his heart. Instead, he gave away his fortune.

  • A large portion went to D.L. Moody’s ministry.
  • Another part was given to George Müller, who ran orphanages.
  • Some went to William Booth’s Salvation Army, which served the poor.
  • The rest was distributed among other Christian workers.

Charles chose to live by faith, trusting that God would always provide for his needs. Remarkably, throughout his ministry, he never lacked anything necessary for the work of God.

Marriage and Family

During his time in China, Charles met Priscilla Stewart, an Irish missionary. They married, and God blessed them with five children. Together they endured many struggles but also saw the fruit of their labor. After seven years of service in China, around 800 people had come to know Christ through their efforts.

However, Charles’ health began to fail due to the harsh conditions. Weak and sick, he returned to England for six years, focusing on prayer and recovery.

Mission in India

Once his health improved, Charles traveled to South India as a missionary. There he preached the gospel with zeal. But again, opposition, challenges, and health struggles forced him to eventually return home.

The Call to Africa

Even while weak and sick, Charles never lost his passion for lost souls. One day he read about how many Europeans were going to Africa for business and government work, but very few were going there to preach the gospel. This deeply stirred his heart.

He prayed and once again heard God’s call:
“You must go to Africa.”

At first, Charles hesitated. He had been sick for nearly 15 years and felt unfit for such a journey. But God assured him: “I will heal you. You are the one who must go.”

Though he had no wealth left and his body was frail, Charles decided to give his life for Africa. He famously declared:
“If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.”

Service in Africa

Charles went to the dark continent of Africa and remained there for nearly 20 years. He preached the gospel tirelessly, winning many souls for Christ. His life was marked by sacrifice, endurance, and deep faith.

Even when his health was broken, his determination never weakened. He inspired countless others to follow his example of total surrender to Christ.

Death and Legacy

On July 16, 1931, at the age of 69, Charles Thomas Studd passed away in a small hut in Africa. He had given his entire life for the sake of the gospel.

Though he began life as a wealthy young man and a world-famous cricketer, he chose to lay down everything for Jesus. His story continues to inspire Christians around the world to live fully for Christ and to take the gospel to the nations.

His Famous Saying

Charles often said:
“Just as a gambler gives up everything for his game, so must we be willing to give up everything for Jesus.”

This simple yet powerful statement reflects the essence of his life: total surrender to Christ, no matter the cost.

Reflections on His Life

C.T. Studd’s story is not just about one man. It is about the call of God that can change any life. He was born into privilege, but he did not cling to it. He had fame, wealth, and success, but he counted all of it as loss compared to knowing Christ.

  1. His Sacrifice: He gave up sports, money, and comfort.
  2. His Faith: He trusted God completely for provision.
  3. His Passion: He cared deeply for lost souls in China, India, and Africa.
  4. His Legacy: His example continues to encourage Christians to live boldly for Jesus.

Conclusion

Charles Thomas Studd lived a life that looked foolish to the world but was precious in the eyes of God. He exchanged cricket fields for mission fields, earthly glory for eternal rewards, and wealth for spiritual riches.

He showed that true greatness is not found in fame or fortune, but in following Jesus Christ wholeheartedly.

His life can be summed up in one powerful truth:
When Christ is everything, nothing else matters.