Marx and Moody: Two Contemporaries. Two Gospels. Two Tombstones. One Choice.

by Erwin W Lutzer, Gregg Quiggle

Two lives. Two legacies. Two world views at battle today.

Karl Marx and D. L. Moody. The contrast between these men could not be greater. They made similar promises—promises of freedom and a better world. Yet the lessons they left behind are as divergent as night and day. One sought to liberate people but ultimately enslaved them. The other preached forgiveness from sin and set people free.

These two men represent opposing worldviews that have competed throughout history—views that are very much alive today. Marxist ideas are surfacing all over the world, infiltrating even the most unlikely places here in America. Pastor emeritus of The Moody Church Erwin Lutzer, along with historian Dr. Gregg Quiggle, reveals the seduction and impact of Marxist ideology. Marx and Moody showcases the difference between a man-centered worldview and a God-centered worldview, critiquing Marxism through the lens of the Bible while exploring the nature of God, humanity, and the consequences of ideas.

In this in-depth analysis, this book compares the impact of Karl Marx with D. L. Moody’s ministry and highlights what our lives should be centered on during these turbulent times in history—the joy of sharing the good news of the gospel.

Two different belief systems. Two different legacies. Two different destinies. Two very different eternities. Marx and Moody is an essential book for our time—contrasting the danger and destruction of Marxism with the power, salvation, and true freedom found in Jesus Christ.

288 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2026

Reviews

[Cole Feix]

Put this one on your radar. Lutzer and Quiggle tell the stories of two of the 19th century’s most impactful men: Karl Marx and D. L. Moody. Born less than two decades apart, these men preached two different gospels that have shaped our world today. Marxism has led to revolutions in the 19th century, destruction in the 20th century, and yet still surfaces in the critical theories and socialist economic platforms of the 21st century. Marx’s downstream impact is rivaled only by Darwin from his own century. Moody, however, preached the Gospel that has transformed the world. Speaking to maybe 100 million people during his lifetime, he presented an alternative to Marx’s vision by offering abundant life, freedom, and true reconciliation. The contrast is striking, and this book is perfectly timed to remind us how our culture came to be.

[Tatiana Haynam]

Phenomenal. Absolutely phenomenal. Everyone should read this book to understand the demonic influence behind socialism.

[Amar Peterman]

review forthcoming in Sojourners.