If there’s one bloke who knew how to share the Gospel with passion, it was Dwight L. Moody. He wasn’t a polished preacher or a scholar—he was a simple shoe salesman who let God use him in mighty ways.
Born in 1837 in America, Moody left school early and never had a formal theological education. But that didn’t stop him from becoming one of the most influential evangelists of all time. His life was proof that God can use anyone who’s willing to step out in faith.
Moody’s Ministry: Reaching the Masses
Moody’s evangelistic style was different. He didn’t complicate things—he spoke in a way that ordinary people could understand. He travelled across the United States and Britain, drawing huge crowds with his heartfelt preaching. He wasn’t afraid to call people to repentance, but he did it with love and urgency.
One of his most famous crusades was in 1873 when he preached in the UK. The meetings exploded in popularity, and thousands came to Christ. His passion for the lost was undeniable. He once said, “The world does not understand theology or dogma, but it understands love and sympathy.”
Moody also believed in training others. He established the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, ensuring that the next generation would be equipped to spread the Gospel.
Lessons on Evangelism from Moody’s Life
1. Be Available, and God Will Use You
Moody didn’t start out as a preacher. He simply had a heart for sharing Jesus. One day, his Sunday school teacher, Edward Kimball, led him to Christ, and that decision changed everything. You don’t need to be perfect—just willing.
📖 Isaiah 6:8 – “Here am I. Send me!”
2. Keep It Simple and Real
Moody believed in preaching the Gospel in a way that everyone could grasp. He avoided complex theological debates and focused on Jesus’ love and sacrifice. He’d tell stories and use simple illustrations, like comparing faith to a chair: you can believe a chair will hold you up, but you have to sit in it to prove it.
📖 1 Corinthians 2:2 – “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.”
3. Act with Urgency
Moody once held a meeting where he told the crowd to go home and think about accepting Christ. That very night, the Great Chicago Fire broke out, and many who had been there lost their lives. He vowed never again to delay an invitation to accept Jesus.
📖 2 Corinthians 6:2 – “Now is the day of salvation.”
4. Rely on God’s Power, Not Your Own
Moody knew that it wasn’t his words that changed people’s hearts—it was the Holy Spirit. He prayed constantly and leaned on God’s strength rather than his own ability.
📖 Zechariah 4:6 – “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord Almighty.”
Moody’s Legacy: Keep the Fire Burning
Moody’s life shows us that evangelism isn’t about being the smartest or most gifted—it’s about stepping out in faith and trusting God to do the rest. His passion for souls, his simple yet powerful message, and his deep reliance on God are all things we can learn from today.
So, what’s stopping you from sharing your faith? Be bold, be real, and trust God to work through you—just like He did with Moody! 🔥
Share your stories of evangelism on our social media (Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn), listen to The WIN WIN Evangelism Podcast, or email us at team@evangelisminaustralia.com.
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