Trailblazers

George Whitefield’s voice was the envy of many a professional actor.  He could hold a crowd’s attention like no other. But although he had wanted to be an actor as a young boy George’s voice was used for greater things. After coming to know the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal saviour George went on to preach to many people in the United Kingdom, America and the world. He was the first to preach to the slaves of the United States. And it is estimated that he spoke more than 18,000 sermons during his life.

“No! No!” cried the little boy. “Please, no! I want to stay with my mother!” “Be quiet!” shouted the man, roughly pulling his mother away from him. This heartbreaking scene was the reality for thousands of women and children before slavery was abolished. One man dedicated his life to changing that — fighting for freedom and relief from the horrors of the slave trade. His name was William Wilberforce, and his mission took forty-five years. This is his inspiring story—a powerful example of how his faith in Christ and his love for people helped transform a nation.

Charles Spurgeon was a simple country lad who went on to become one of the best known preachers in London, Europe and the world. Caught in a snowstorm one day when he was a teenager, he crept into the back of a church and the words “Look unto Jesus and be saved!” changed his whole life. Charles spoke words that touched the hearts of rich and poor alike. His fame became so widespread that it is reputed that even Queen Victoria went to hear one of his sermons. Charles was more concerned about the King of Kings—Jesus Christ.