Derek Prince, born in Bangalore, India, on August 14, 1915, was a man of great intellect. Educated at Eton College and King's College, Cambridge University, he pursued philosophy, believing it held the answers to life's profound questions. Yet, despite his scholarly pursuits, Derek found himself disillusioned and confused. "I knew a lot of long words and phrases, and had tried a lot of different things," he admitted, reflecting on his pre-conversion state.
Atheist Encounters Jesus Through Scripture
In July 1941, while serving in the Royal Army Medical Corps in Scarborough, Yorkshire, England, Derek's life took a transformative turn. Amidst the turmoil of World War II, he encountered Jesus in the most unexpected wayโthrough the Bible, a book he once approached as a mere philosophical text. "I heard the voice of Jesus, speaking very clearly through the scriptures," he recounted. From that day forward, Derek was certain of two things: Jesus was alive, and the Bible was indeed the Word of God.
From Philosophy to Global Ministry
This encounter marked the beginning of a new chapter in Derek's life. He moved from an atheistic worldview to a passionate pursuit of Jesus, dedicating himself to teaching and preaching the gospel worldwide. His ministry brought him to Jerusalem, Seattle, and eventually Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, where he founded Derek Prince Ministries.
Deliverance from Freemasonry and Occult
Derek also addressed the spiritual bondage that comes from associations with the occult and Freemasonry. He openly prayed, "If there is in my life, or in my family, the curse of Freemasonry, or any other cult, I ask You to release me and forgive me and break its power over me, right now, in Jesus' name." His teachings emphasized the need for deliverance from such influences, underscoring the transformative power of Christ's intervention.
Through his ministry, Derek Prince witnessed countless individuals find freedom from oppression and bondage. He continually gave glory to Jesus for the deliverance and healing experienced by many, including his own healing from cancer, which he attributed to prayer and the expulsion of a demonic spirit.
Derek Prince's life and ministry serve as a testament to the profound change Jesus can bring. From a man once lost in confusion, Derek became a beacon of clarity and truth, pointing others to the transformative love of Christ.
