Searching for Truth
Born on September 5, 1909, at Entumeni Mission Station in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, Nicholas Bhengu grew up in a Christian home yet wandered through various denominations and ideologies, including communism, searching for spiritual fulfillment. In 1929, at age 21, he attended a Full Gospel revival in Kimberley, which became the turning point in his life.
The Turning Point
Gripped by the preaching of Isaiah 53, Nicholas wrestled internally, torn between his political loyalties and the call to follow Jesus. As he later recounted, 'From that time faith came into my heart. I did not wait for feelings of any kind, but took the word of God and thanked him in prayer.' This newfound faith immediately transformed him, as he found himself unable to drink alcohol the following morning, a testament to the change Jesus brought into his life.
Back to God Crusade
Nicholas's conversion set him on a path of passionate ministry. Initially excommunicated by his Lutheran church for his testimony, he joined the Assemblies of God in 1938 and launched the 'Back to God Crusade' in the 1950s. His message, "Africa must turn back to God," resonated deeply, drawing crowds of up to 7,000 people. His crusades saw remarkable instances of divine intervention, such as the healing of a crippled man who ran without crutches and the protection from gangsters who planned to kill him.
A Transformative Legacy
By 1959, Nicholas had established 50 autonomous and self-governing churches. His influence brought peace to troubled townships, significantly reducing crime rates. Known as 'The Black Billy Graham of Africa,' he ministered internationally, always emphasizing the cross of Jesus as the starting point for transformation.
Through Nicholas Bhengu's unwavering dedication to spreading the Gospel, countless lives were changed, and entire communities were transformed. His story stands as a testament to the power of Jesus to save and heal, and Nicholas gave all glory to God for the impact of his ministry.
