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C. H. Spurgeon Autobiography: The Early Years, 1834-1859 (Charles Haddon Spurgeon - Autobiography) (Charles Haddon Spurgeon - Autobiography)

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Banner of Truth Trust released this revised edition of Spurgeon's Autobiography, which originally appeared in four volumes. Having completed volume one of the now two volume set, I can say without hesitation that my respect and admiration of this great man of God has grown even greater. While any autobiography lacks the continuity of a well-researched biography, there is a freshness to it that is endearing. Spurgeon relates anecdote-like memories, along with detailed descriptions of some of the more pertinent events of his life. The chapters dealing with his conviction of sin and subsequent conversion are especially enlightening. Susannah Spurgeon wrote several chapters that are also included - mostly about their courtship and early wedded life. This volume deals mainly with Spurgeon's childhood and early ministry with the New Park Street Baptist Church, and it is not without some of Spurgeon's own humor. Very good indeed!

Spurgeon was called "The Prince of Preachers" for his fantastic oratorical skill and his incredible fidelity to the gospel-both of these elements come through vividly in this autobiography. Spurgeon's gift for words is evident, as he writes extremely well; and his obvious passion for gospel preaching and the glory of God is challenging and inspiring. Definitely worth the read.

Charles Spurgeon is known as the Prince of Preachers, and not without good reason. He pastured a megachuch in London before people knew what a megachurch was, and his oratory skills were incredible. However, as his autobiography continuously stresses, it was God, not the man Spurgeon, who was ultimately responsible for all of Spurgeon's successes. Reading this book on his early life, it became apparent to me how God was working in Spurgeon's life at an early age, and how He works in the lives of other ordinary people. The humility, devotion, and servanthood of Charles Spurgeon comes out clearly and strongly in this work. It has made me admire the man more, and has made me draw closer to God. Any biography of a Christian servant should not only be a story about the person, but should bring one closer to God. This first volume of the autobiography does just that. Even after 150 years, this work is a pleasure to read, very inspirational, and teaches the reader about Christ and how He works in our lives. The book is filled with anecdote, examples, sermons, and theology. His Defense of Calvinism included in this volume is still a classic. For an in-depth study of the early life and maturation of Charles Spurgeon, I highly recommend this first volume.

I was not surprised to find that Charles' autobiography is less about himself and more about his LORD.... just as he lived his life. Input from Ms. Spurgeon is very tender. Section on newspaper critics I attempted to read but their comments were so caustic that I chose to skip over the section entirely and went on the following chapter to once again enjoy delight in Brother Charles lifting up his SAVIOUR as the focus in his life. Highly recommended for pastors... especially the young.

This book is not just for those aspiring to be clergypersons; it is a must-read for any evangelical Christian. For Spurgeon, the Gospel of Christ is center and all-essential. In this autobiography, the reader will find a searching young Spurgeon hungry for the word of God, not afraid to stand on the word even when it conflicts with parents' beliefs... However, how humble, obedient and loving he was toward his parents (in his letters to them)!! The life of this Pillar of faith is full of lessons and examples for those of us who want to serve God wholeheartedly as well as for the skeptics who are sincerely searching. Go read it for yourself and change your world for the better.