Smith Wigglesworth: The Power of Faith
Smith Wigglesworth, born on June 10, 1859, in Menston, England, is often heralded as one of the most influential evangelists of the early 20th century. His remarkable journey from a humble plumber to a powerhouse of faith healing and revival exemplifies the transformative power of faith. Wigglesworth's life and ministry stand as a testament to the belief that faith can move mountains, heal the sick, and transform lives. This article delves into the life, teachings, and legacy of Smith Wigglesworth, highlighting the profound impact of faith in his ministry.
Early Life and Conversion
Wigglesworth was born into a poor family; he was the only son among five children. His early life was characterized by hardship, and he had little formal education. At the age of 23, Wigglesworth experienced a significant turning point when he converted to Christianity during a Methodist revival meeting. His encounter with faith ignited a passion for God and a desire to serve others.
Despite his limited education, Wigglesworth became an avid reader of the Bible. He would often spend hours studying scripture, which laid the foundation for his future ministry. His marriage to Polly, a strong Christian woman, further deepened his faith and commitment to the Christian life.
The Emergence of a Faith Healer
Wigglesworth's ministry began in earnest in the early 1900s. Initially, he worked as a plumber, but his growing faith compelled him to step into the role of an evangelist. He began holding meetings in local churches and community centers, where he preached with fervor and conviction.
His reputation as a faith healer began to spread when he started to pray for the sick. Many reported miraculous healings, which drew larger crowds to his meetings. Wigglesworth's healing ministry was marked by a few distinctive characteristics:
- Unwavering Faith: Wigglesworth believed that healing was a fundamental part of the Gospel. He often quoted scripture to emphasize that faith should be accompanied by action.
- Boldness: He would often pray for the sick in public, demonstrating an unshakeable belief in God's power to heal.
- Direct Approach: Wigglesworth was known for his straightforward approach, often saying, "If you want healing, you must believe.”
Key Teachings and Principles of Faith
Wigglesworth’s teachings centered around the theme of faith and its ability to transform lives. Here are some of the key principles that characterized his ministry:
1. The Authority of Scripture
Wigglesworth had an unwavering belief in the authority of the Bible. He often stated that the Word of God is the ultimate source of truth and power. He encouraged believers to immerse themselves in scripture, asserting that faith comes from hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
2. Faith as a Living Force
Wigglesworth taught that faith is not merely a mental assent but a living force that can bring about change. He believed that true faith produces action and must be coupled with works. This concept is echoed in James 2:26, which states that "faith without works is dead."
3. The Power of Prayer
Prayer was central to Wigglesworth’s ministry. He often emphasized the importance of a personal relationship with God and encouraged believers to pray fervently. He believed that prayer should be a conversation with God, where one expresses their needs, desires, and faith.
4. The Importance of Holiness
Wigglesworth stressed the significance of living a holy life. He believed that sin can hinder a believer's relationship with God and, consequently, their ability to receive healing or experience miracles. He encouraged Christians to seek purity and righteousness in their lives.
Miracles and Impact
Throughout his ministry, Smith Wigglesworth was known for numerous miraculous healings and supernatural occurrences. His meetings were often marked by powerful manifestations of God's presence, leading to profound transformations in individuals' lives. Some notable miracles attributed to him include:
- Healing the Sick: Many individuals suffering from diseases such as cancer, paralysis, and other ailments reported miraculous healings after receiving prayer from Wigglesworth.
- Raising the Dead: There are accounts of Wigglesworth raising several individuals from the dead, a testament to the extraordinary faith he possessed.
- Transforming Lives: Beyond physical healing, many testimonies recount emotional and spiritual transformations resulting from encounters with Wigglesworth.
His ministry extended beyond the borders of England, as he traveled extensively across Europe and the United States, preaching the Gospel and praying for the sick. The impact of his work can still be felt today, with many churches and ministries referencing his teachings and experiences.
Legacy and Influence
Smith Wigglesworth passed away on March 12, 1947, but his legacy continues to inspire countless believers around the world. His teachings on faith, healing, and holiness have been compiled into various books and resources, making his message accessible to new generations of Christians.
Wigglesworth's influence can be seen in several areas:
1. Healing Ministries
Many contemporary healing ministries trace their roots back to Wigglesworth’s teachings and practices. His emphasis on faith and prayer continues to shape the approach of modern faith healers.
2. Pentecostal Movement
Wigglesworth played a significant role in the early Pentecostal movement, and his ministry contributed to the acceptance of miraculous healing within this tradition. His life serves as an example for many Pentecostal leaders who seek to emulate his faith and boldness.
3. Christian Literature
Numerous books and articles have been written about Wigglesworth's life and ministry, ensuring that his teachings remain relevant in today's Christian discourse. His autobiography, "Smith Wigglesworth: Apostle of Faith," provides insight into his journey and the principles he lived by.
Conclusion
Smith Wigglesworth's life is a powerful illustration of the impact of unwavering faith. His journey from a humble plumber to a renowned evangelist is a testament to what can happen when one fully commits to God and the principles of the Gospel. His teachings on the authority of scripture, the power of prayer, and the necessity of holiness resonate with many believers today.
As people continue to seek healing, transformation, and a deeper relationship with God, Wigglesworth's legacy serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that with faith, all things are possible. Through his life and ministry, we are encouraged to embrace the power of faith and trust in God's ability to perform miracles in our lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Smith Wigglesworth?
Smith Wigglesworth was a British Evangelist and faith healer known for his charismatic preaching and emphasis on the power of faith in Jesus Christ.
What is the significance of Smith Wigglesworth's teachings on faith?
Smith Wigglesworth's teachings emphasized the importance of unwavering faith, healing, and the miraculous power of God, inspiring many in the Pentecostal movement.
How did Smith Wigglesworth demonstrate the power of faith in his ministry?
Wigglesworth demonstrated the power of faith through numerous recorded healings and miracles, often claiming that faith in God could overcome any physical ailment.
What are some key principles of faith taught by Smith Wigglesworth?
Key principles include believing without doubt, the necessity of prayer, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the importance of living a life aligned with God's Word.
How did Smith Wigglesworth's early life influence his later ministry?
Wigglesworth's early life was marked by poverty and hardship, which deepened his reliance on God and shaped his understanding of faith and healing.
What role did the Holy Spirit play in Smith Wigglesworth's faith?
Wigglesworth believed that the Holy Spirit was essential for empowering believers, guiding them in faith, and facilitating divine healing and miracles.
Can you provide an example of a miracle attributed to Smith Wigglesworth?
One notable miracle involved Wigglesworth raising a woman from the dead during a meeting, which he attributed to his unwavering faith and reliance on God's power.
How has Smith Wigglesworth's legacy influenced modern Christianity?
Wigglesworth's legacy continues to influence modern Christianity, particularly within Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, emphasizing faith, healing, and the miraculous.
What books did Smith Wigglesworth write or contribute to?
Smith Wigglesworth authored several books, including 'Ever Increasing Faith' and 'Smith Wigglesworth on Healing,' which compile his teachings and sermons on faith and healing.
What can contemporary believers learn from Smith Wigglesworth's life and teachings?
Contemporary believers can learn the importance of having a strong faith, the power of prayer, and the belief in God's ability to perform miracles in their lives today.
