“Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.”

(2 Corinthians 5:20 KJV)

Dwight Lyman Moody, known simply as D.L. Moody, was one of the most influential evangelists of the 19th century. Born in 1837 in Northfield, Massachusetts, Moody grew up in poverty. His father passed away when he was just four, leaving his mother to raise nine children alone. Despite these hardships, Moody’s early life foreshadowed his relentless determination and unshakable faith in God’s power to transform lives.

At 17, Moody moved to Boston to work as a shoe salesman. There, his Sunday school teacher, Edward Kimball, took a personal interest in him and shared the Gospel with him. Moody later recalled how Kimball spoke with tears in his eyes, pleading with him to surrender to Christ. That day, Moody gave his life to the Lord, and everything changed.

Moody soon felt a deep burden for souls and a desire to serve God. He began leading Sunday school classes, ministering to street children, and sharing the Gospel wherever he could. Though he lacked formal education and polished speaking skills, his passion for Christ and his love for people were undeniable.

In the 1870s, Moody’s ministry exploded in scope. He conducted evangelistic campaigns across the United States and Great Britain, drawing massive crowds wherever he preached. Known for his simple yet powerful messages, Moody relied heavily on the Word of God and the work of the Holy Spirit. He often quoted John 3:16, saying it encapsulated the heart of his message:
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (KJV)

Moody also prioritized equipping others for ministry. He founded schools such as the Moody Bible Institute and the Northfield Schools, which continue to impact generations of Christians. His philosophy was simple: “It is better to put ten men to work than to do the work of ten men.”

Despite achieving international fame, Moody remained humble. He once said, “The world has yet to see what God can do with a man fully consecrated to Him. By God’s help, I aim to be that man.”

D.L. Moody’s life reminds us that God uses willing hearts more than polished talents. His legacy calls us to surrender fully to Christ and reach the world with the Gospel.

Darrell Stetler II is a 20 year pastor and creator of a mentoring guide for disciple-makers.