Called to Africa Missionary Work
Reinhard Bonnke, born on April 19, 1940, in Königsberg, Germany, experienced a profound moment of faith at the tender age of nine. After a conversation with his mother, he embraced Christianity, and by age ten, he felt a divine call to Africa. This call would shape his life's mission. During his teenage years, Bonnke was baptized in the Holy Spirit, an event that deepened his resolve to serve God.
After studying at the Bible College of Wales, Bonnke pastored a church in Germany. However, his heart was set on Africa. In 1967, he moved to Lesotho, where he faced initial struggles with traditional missionary work. Despite limited success, Bonnke's faith remained unshaken. He prayed fervently, 'Lord, I also want to be a man of faith,' inspired by the stories of great faith he encountered.
Africa Shall Be Saved Vision
Bonnke's turning point came in 1974 with a recurring dream of Africa washed in the blood of Jesus, leading him to declare, 'Africa shall be saved!' He founded Christ for All Nations (CfaN) and began organizing large-scale evangelistic crusades. His first crusade took place in Botswana, marking the beginning of a ministry that would see millions hear the message of Jesus.
Lagos Nigeria Crusade Ministry
In November 2000, during the Millennium Crusade in Lagos, Nigeria, Bonnke spoke to an audience of over 1.6 million people. He often said, 'When you do business with God, you need faith. Faith is the currency of the Kingdom of God.' His message resonated, leading to countless conversions. While miraculous healings and even resurrections are claimed by many, Bonnke was always quick to credit God. 'In truth, I have done nothing alone. God has called me and has been my pilot,' he humbly stated.
Lives Transformed Through Gospel
Reinhard Bonnke's legacy is not just in the numbers but in the lives transformed by the Gospel. His final crusade in Lagos drew crowds of over two million, as he passed the torch to a new generation. Bonnke's unwavering faith and commitment to 'populate Heaven' through evangelism continue to inspire. His life exemplifies the power of faith in action, a testament to Jesus' transformative work on earth.
