Alexander Moody Stuart: A Memoir

by Kenneth Moody Stuart

Many are familiar with the likes of Robert Murray M'Cheyne and the Bonar brothers. Fewer are aware of their mutual friend and colleague, Alexander Moody Stuart (1809-1898), who was nonetheless an esteemed and influential minister, standing firmly, like his friends, in the Reformed tradition of his forebears. He was, among other - a pioneer rural missioner; - a clear and searching preacher; - a capable church planter; - a much-loved pastor; - a caring husband and father; - a committed advocate for overseas missionary endeavour Born in Paisley on the west coast of Scotland in 1809, and living until the age of eighty-nine, Alexander Moody Stuart's life and ministry encompassed many of the defining events and debates in the Scottish Church in the middle and later nineteenth century. But far from being defined by these important debates, his ministry was principally marked by contemporaries for its overarching spirituality. He was, according to Principal John Macleod, 'an expert in case divinity, and the experimental and searching element entered largely into his message.' This well-paced and engaging memoir, partly autobiographical and completed by his son, covers the life, work, friendships, and challenges of one who was fully engaged with the people under his spiritual care, and also a willing defender of orthodox belief in an age of rapid change in approaches to Scripture. Moody Stuart is here presented by his son as a man of his times, and yet as one whose diligence, spiritual maturity, and pastoral wisdom has much to say to today's Christians. Pastors will especially benefit from reflecting on Moody Stuart's approach to ministry. First published in 1899, and not reprinted in the meantime, this fresh edition of the Memoir includes a new Introduction, and an appendix containing several of Moody Stuart's sermons and addresses.

Genres: Biography

448 pages, Hardcover

Published May 22, 2023

Reviews

[Jimmy Reagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have long loved these gorgeous Banner of Truth biographies and this one stands out. Spurgeon spoke highly of Stuart and I can see why. I’ve even used a few of his commentaries and they strike the perfect balance between being weighty and warm. This humble servant of Christ is worth knowing.

The biographer is the subject’s son. Often that is a disaster. He, however, never allowed the hyperbole to start rolling. His respect is through the roof, but this isn’t a work of hagiography. Though Stuart lived an exceptional Christian life, his weaknesses though not serious were clear to me in this work. He was gentle and I don’t think he enjoyed conflict even if he got drawn in to it. He never completely dodged anything, but he didn’t perhaps dig in his heels like some of his contemporaries did.

His early life is brief and the story really takes off in his college days. His conversion wasn’t spectacular, but incredibly interesting to read. Quickly, he jumps into serving the Lord. He begins his ministry in Edinburgh and marries. A love of missions soon takes shape. Later he becomes passionate for mission to Jewish people. Along the way, there’s thrilling exposure to revival.

You’ll cross other names as his life seemed to intersect with other awesome servants of Christ regularly. There’s devotion throughout as well as he is an encouragement toward prayer, service, impact and holiness. He is the kind of man I’d like to be.

Banner publishes or reprints one or more biographies a year. Making them part of my reading for the year has richly blessed me over several years. Count this one in that exalted company!

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Timothy Denning · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an interesting read. Preached during revival times, went on missionary tours of the promised land and Hungry. Was a man of prayer, constantly praying. Was an author, too. Praise the Lord he uses means to achieve his purposes.