Early Conversion
Born in 1745 in Hamstead Bridge, England, Francis Asbury grew up in a modest home. His early life was shaped by the Christian renewal his mother experienced following personal tragedy. Converted to Methodism at sixteen, Asbury was deeply moved by a sense of freedom and joy that came from his newfound faith. This transformation set him on a path of ministry, and by 21, he had committed to being an itinerant preacher.
Answering the Call to America
In 1771, Asbury answered John Wesley's call to bring Methodism to America. Before setting sail, he wrote to his family, acknowledging his doubts about his abilities, but expressing trust in God's power to work through him: 'I wonder sometimes how anyone will sit to hear me, but the Lord covers my weakness with his power.' Arriving in Philadelphia that September, he quickly began preaching, dedicating himself to spreading the Gospel across the colonies.
Tireless Ministry
Despite the challenges of the Revolutionary War, Francis Asbury remained in America, continuing his ministry. His commitment was unwavering as he traveled thousands of miles annually, preaching daily and building the Methodist Church from 1,200 to 214,000 members. His journey was not without hardship; he faced illness, suspicion, and spiritual discouragement, yet his reliance on God sustained him. He often declared, 'We live by faith in a prayer-hearing, soul-converting, soul-sanctifying, soul-restoring, soul-comforting God.'
Father of American Methodism
Elected as a bishop in 1784, Asbury's leadership was marked by his dedication to God and love for people. He was instrumental in ordaining Richard Allen, the first black Methodist minister, and consistently spoke against the injustices of slavery. His legacy as the 'Father of American Methodism' endures, with his tireless work having laid a strong foundation for the church in America. Francis Asbury's life was a testament to selfless devotion and the transformative power of faith. He attributed every success to God's intervention, living a life that sought nothing but God's glory. As he put it, 'I have nothing to seek but the glory of God; nothing to fear but his displeasure.'
