Born Again in the Netherlands
Born on May 9, 1828, in Graaff Reinet, South Africa, Andrew Murray was the son of a Scottish missionary and a woman of Huguenot and German descent. From a young age, he was set on the path of ministry, but it wasn't until 1845, during his theological studies in Utrecht, Netherlands, that his life took a profound turn. Murray wrote to his parents, 'Your son has been born again. … I have cast myself on Christ.' This marked the beginning of a life wholly dedicated to Jesus.
Champion of the South African Revival
Ordained in The Hague in 1848, Murray began his ministry in the Orange River Sovereignty, eventually playing a pivotal role in the South African Revival of 1860. As a minister in Worcester at the time, he witnessed and championed the revival's spread, bringing countless souls to Christ. His faith journey was characterized by a deep commitment to prayer and surrender, as he expressed, 'May not a single moment of my life be spent outside the light, love, and joy of God's presence.'
Building Institutions for God's Kingdom
Murray's ministry extended beyond preaching; he founded institutions like the Institute for training missionaries in Wellington and the Huguenot Seminary for girls, emphasizing Christian education. His literary contributions, including 'Abide in Christ' and 'With Christ in the School of Prayer,' reflected his belief that 'the Christian life is an intimate, personal relationship with Jesus.'
A Legacy of Humility and Power
Throughout his life, Murray remained humble, asserting, 'Pride must die in you, or nothing of heaven can live in you.' His life and work were a testament to Jesus's transformative power, bringing revival and deepening faith wherever he went. Andrew Murray passed away in Wellington, Cape Town, on January 18, 1917, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire believers worldwide.
