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C. H. Spurgeon's Autobiography: The Early Years, 1834-1859, The Life of the Great Baptist Preacher Compiled from his diary, letters, records and sermons
As one of the most revered Baptist preachers of his time, Charles Haddon Spurgeon's eventful and prolific life and career offer outstanding inspiration for all Christians to this day. In the first volume of Spurgeon's autobiography, we witness his rise from modest obscurity, embarking on a long road toward fame and admiration as a representative of God on Earth. A lengthy, lively and detailed biography is helped by the fact that Spurgeon was an effusive and prolific talker and author of many documents: he would recount incidents of his life on paper and in speeches regularly. We find in this volume the famous instance in which the young Spurgeon encountered his call from God. When Spurgeon was aged fifteen, a violent snowstorm forced him from his route into a Methodist church where he felt the Lord beckon him to service. After this, he undertook parochial study with great fervor, and quickly became a respected teacher in his local Sunday School, gaining the nickname 'the boy-preacher of the Fens'.
278 pages, Paperback
Published August 7, 2018
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563 people want to read
About the author
Charles Haddon Spurgeon
5,680 books1,626 followersCharles Haddon Spurgeon (1834-1892) was England's best-known preacher for most of the second half of the nineteenth century. In 1854, just four years after his conversion, Spurgeon, then only 20, became pastor of London's famed New Park Street Church (formerly pastored by the famous Baptist theologian, John Gill). The congregation quickly outgrew their building, moved to Exeter Hall, then to Surrey Music Hall. In these venues, Spurgeon frequently preached to audiences numbering more than 10,000—all in the days before electronic amplification. In 1861, the congregation moved permanently to the newly constructed Metropolitan Tabernacle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 27, 2025
This book was always going to be 5 stars.
“The doctrine of the atonement is to my mind one of the surest proofs of the Divine inspiration of Holy Scripture. Who would or could have thought of the just Ruler dying for the unjust rebel? This is no teaching of human mythology, or dream of poetical imagination. This method of expiation is only known among men because it is a fact: fiction could not have devised it. God Himself ordained it; it is not a matter which could have been imagined.”
“The doctrine of the atonement is to my mind one of the surest proofs of the Divine inspiration of Holy Scripture. Who would or could have thought of the just Ruler dying for the unjust rebel? This is no teaching of human mythology, or dream of poetical imagination. This method of expiation is only known among men because it is a fact: fiction could not have devised it. God Himself ordained it; it is not a matter which could have been imagined.”
April 24, 2013
This book isn't a typical autobiography of Spurgeon's life, as many autobiographies would be. Instead, it is more like a spiritual journal and/or a devotional of Spurgeon's earlier life. Still, it is a fascinating collection of Spurgeon's thoughts near the beginning of his ministry. The book is rather lengthy, but the tone and British accent of the reader make the words come to life, as if Spurgeon himself was speaking them. Spurgeon is excellent material to consume, and this book gives verbal snapshots of his life. I'm eager to read the second one in a few weeks.
August 26, 2018
What a life. Love this man.
May 10, 2017
I love reading good biography and given Spurgeon's greatness I had high expectations for this one. It did not disappoint. Well, it did at first. Generally I do not enjoy the earliest parts of biographies that cover the period before the person's life work begins. As a result I found the first parts of Lloyd-Jones' biography (by Murray) and Truman's biography (by McCullough) fairly boring, but well worth wading through once the book really got going. This autobiography turned out to be the same. Early on I was prepared to give it 3 stars (can you give Spurgeon a mere 3 stars?!), but by the conclusion I was ready to give it all 5. Hence 4 stars for an excellent book with a slow beginning.
It should be noted (since I picked up this book unaware, and others may too) that though it is autobiography it was not ultimately completed by Spurgeon himself. He died before it could be completed and so his wife and his assistant finished compiling it (into four volumes!) and then when the Banner of Truth published this edition they condensed it into two volumes (though I think with little or no abridgment of Spurgeon's own words). This 'unfinished collection of portions' approach threw me off early on, and seemed like a weakness, but seemed to fade from view as the end approached, possibly because the earlier chapters had received less attention, but probably because I began to appreciate the anecdotal style rather than begrudging the lack of a consistent narrative.
That being said, Spurgeon's life is nothing short of amazing and this work captures it well. I believe I have heard a well-known pastor say that he is sort of always reading Spurgeon's autobiography, and I can see why. It is full of anectdotes about astounding conversions and providences, incredible blessings and trials, and this is only the first half!
It would be hard to imagine anyone reading this book without profiting from it spiritually. It is autobiographical but also theological and devotional. It is full of God and the gospel and cannot be anything but recommended to all who might be interested.
It should be noted (since I picked up this book unaware, and others may too) that though it is autobiography it was not ultimately completed by Spurgeon himself. He died before it could be completed and so his wife and his assistant finished compiling it (into four volumes!) and then when the Banner of Truth published this edition they condensed it into two volumes (though I think with little or no abridgment of Spurgeon's own words). This 'unfinished collection of portions' approach threw me off early on, and seemed like a weakness, but seemed to fade from view as the end approached, possibly because the earlier chapters had received less attention, but probably because I began to appreciate the anecdotal style rather than begrudging the lack of a consistent narrative.
That being said, Spurgeon's life is nothing short of amazing and this work captures it well. I believe I have heard a well-known pastor say that he is sort of always reading Spurgeon's autobiography, and I can see why. It is full of anectdotes about astounding conversions and providences, incredible blessings and trials, and this is only the first half!
It would be hard to imagine anyone reading this book without profiting from it spiritually. It is autobiographical but also theological and devotional. It is full of God and the gospel and cannot be anything but recommended to all who might be interested.
June 7, 2024
Phew a marathon, but a very worthwhile one. Interspersed with his writings, letters, sermon excerpts, and notes from his family and friends, I so enjoyed reading about Charles Spurgeon's early life and boyhood and the beginning of his ministry in his teens (TEENS) and 20's.
Highly encouraging and inspiring, in addition to being informative on his life.
A couple of slow chapters here or there, but overall it maintained my interest and taught me much not only about Spurgeon's life, but truth about Scripture and my own spiritual struggles as well.
Fully recommend ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One of my all-time favorite biographical reads
Highly encouraging and inspiring, in addition to being informative on his life.
A couple of slow chapters here or there, but overall it maintained my interest and taught me much not only about Spurgeon's life, but truth about Scripture and my own spiritual struggles as well.
Fully recommend ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One of my all-time favorite biographical reads
August 10, 2021
The imperfections of Charles Spurgeon’s autobiography (e.g., the disjointed feel since it was published posthumously with Mrs. Spurgeon’s and others’ insertions, the mixture of Spurgeon’s prose and then clippings from his journal earlier in life, or even the author’s personal eccentricities) are easy to overlook because of the larger than life presence of the man. It’s not so much the human gifting from an early age—though that spectacle is mesmerizing—but it is Spurgeon’s sheer delight in God himself that makes this such a stirring read, even for those not in full-time gospel ministry.
July 3, 2019
Filled with the most quoted anecdotes from his life, this is a very intriguing account of half of Spurgeon's years. It is rather long, but not with burdensome information. I now have a better yet surely inadequate idea of what an extraordinary man he was.
November 7, 2023
Excellent read for any fan of Spurgeon and desiring to learn intimately of the Lord’s leading of his life and ministry
February 4, 2022
Oh Lord I pray that men are raised to preach the Word like Spurgeon🙏
April 21, 2016
Charles Spurgeon has to be one of my favorite historical figures of all time. I just love the guy. Such a fascinating personality, and a uniquely gifted preacher. Oh, how I would LOVE to go back in time and listen to this man preach. Such a booming voice. So eloquent, with one of the most legitimate hearts for the Lord you'll ever know.
I learned a lot from this collection. This didn't seem like an autobiography, per se, as much as a menagerie of journal entries, newspaper clippings, and letters from Spurgeon, his wife, and his friends. For a while there I began to weary of the layout. Letter after letter... how many letters must I endure? And the language, eloquent though it may be, was a bit sugary sweet. I thought, oh boy, was this going to be a hagiography of the great St. Charles? And then, things began to turn. Letters from detractors started to roll in and things started getting interesting. And then some of his weaknesses began to emerge, even some of his frailties. And then disaster hit. Seven people perished at the Surrey Gardens Music Hall. And I was silenced. Poor ole Spurgeon had to be carried out of the building, stricken with an emotional collapse. And some claim Spurgeon never really recovered from this event. Even the sight of a Bible, for a time, would make him weep. But he soldiered on through a life of fruitful ministry. I loved seeing the humanity of the preacher emerge over the course of this narrative. His greatness took on new context and my respect for him only grew.
No doubt, Spurgeon was a rock star. He could show up to a town and, at the mere mention of his name, have a crowd of 10,000 assembled in the space of 24 hours. His preaching was bold, clear, and concise, gospel saturated, chock full of wit and imagery, and extremely relevant to the everyday person. But, to know of the man's personal struggles added to my admiration a great deal of love. And I'll have to say that to hear from his wife that his preparation was "painstaking" was a relief to know his mastery was, at least in part, due to an incredible amount of labor. He wasn't a ready-made man. It took work. I think this gives the rest of us something to shoot for, though I don't expect anybody to ever be another Spurgeon. We can only be what God has called us to be, and I think Spurgeon, through his life and wisdom, makes for a great conversation partner in the process. God bless his soul.
I learned a lot from this collection. This didn't seem like an autobiography, per se, as much as a menagerie of journal entries, newspaper clippings, and letters from Spurgeon, his wife, and his friends. For a while there I began to weary of the layout. Letter after letter... how many letters must I endure? And the language, eloquent though it may be, was a bit sugary sweet. I thought, oh boy, was this going to be a hagiography of the great St. Charles? And then, things began to turn. Letters from detractors started to roll in and things started getting interesting. And then some of his weaknesses began to emerge, even some of his frailties. And then disaster hit. Seven people perished at the Surrey Gardens Music Hall. And I was silenced. Poor ole Spurgeon had to be carried out of the building, stricken with an emotional collapse. And some claim Spurgeon never really recovered from this event. Even the sight of a Bible, for a time, would make him weep. But he soldiered on through a life of fruitful ministry. I loved seeing the humanity of the preacher emerge over the course of this narrative. His greatness took on new context and my respect for him only grew.
No doubt, Spurgeon was a rock star. He could show up to a town and, at the mere mention of his name, have a crowd of 10,000 assembled in the space of 24 hours. His preaching was bold, clear, and concise, gospel saturated, chock full of wit and imagery, and extremely relevant to the everyday person. But, to know of the man's personal struggles added to my admiration a great deal of love. And I'll have to say that to hear from his wife that his preparation was "painstaking" was a relief to know his mastery was, at least in part, due to an incredible amount of labor. He wasn't a ready-made man. It took work. I think this gives the rest of us something to shoot for, though I don't expect anybody to ever be another Spurgeon. We can only be what God has called us to be, and I think Spurgeon, through his life and wisdom, makes for a great conversation partner in the process. God bless his soul.
April 4, 2017
I listened to this on audiobook-I think I would have found this a difficult book to read. Rather than a continuous narrative from Spurgeon himself, it is a bringing together of many of his letters, articles about him and a large section from his wife who he affectionately called "wifey." I was challenged spiritually. Even in these early years before the "Downgrade Controversy," there was much opposition. We so easily look at people abundantly blessed with fruit through utopian eyes, when in fact even as the Lord produced a greater degree of fruit through them than most, He also brought them through a greater degree of suffering on that path of greater fruitfulness.
Read
July 24, 2011This is an enthralling picture of the man and his times, and most of his passionate walk with Christ. The newspaper accounts about Spurgeon got to be dull compared to the man himself, but even they show that when a man is sold out to his faith, the world will listen.
February 26, 2019
"Let [the world] sneer, let them rave, let them curse, let them lie, God will answer them. It is ours in the Spirit of God to keep on preaching Christ and glorifying the Saviour."
"[T]here is no time for serving the Lord like the very earliest days of youth."
Once I adjusted to the organization of this book (sometimes non-linear because of how it had to be written and compiled), I found it an interesting, readable account of the first couple decades of Spurgeon's life. I especially enjoyed the chapters dealing with Spurgeon's conversion.
Although I do not share Spurgeon's ardent admiration of Calvinism, I admire his passionate commitment to preaching the gospel and ministering to others. It's also been a good challenge to me to read about Spurgeon when he was close to my age, and to consider how he used his youth to glorify God.
"[T]here is no time for serving the Lord like the very earliest days of youth."
Once I adjusted to the organization of this book (sometimes non-linear because of how it had to be written and compiled), I found it an interesting, readable account of the first couple decades of Spurgeon's life. I especially enjoyed the chapters dealing with Spurgeon's conversion.
Although I do not share Spurgeon's ardent admiration of Calvinism, I admire his passionate commitment to preaching the gospel and ministering to others. It's also been a good challenge to me to read about Spurgeon when he was close to my age, and to consider how he used his youth to glorify God.
March 31, 2017
Excellent!
March 22, 2018
Really really good and so devotionally rich.
Helped me love Jesus more!
Helped me love Jesus more!
June 22, 2023
A fascinating account of Spurgeon's early years. One cannot help but come away with a greater love for Spurgeon's Savior and a greater gratitude for God's grace toward undeserving sinners.
January 2, 2025
Impressive life lived before God
September 25, 2015
Amazing! The man was just a man like you and I. Amazing was his God who used him to do amazing things because he made the Lord his hearts & life's pursuit. Yes, we may fairly consider CH Spurgeon great, but that's just because he wanted to stand for God with all he had in him. And today,... it's the same God. And someone still can do the same. It's up to me.
If you think you've got it hard standing for God preacher/Christian, listen to this book. You'll find help.
A very long book with not a moment uninteresting.
If you think you've got it hard standing for God preacher/Christian, listen to this book. You'll find help.
A very long book with not a moment uninteresting.
June 21, 2014
Read this in Seminary but wanted to listen to it again. Today many think of the ministry God has given Billy Graham
as the most unique of our time. But in many ways the way God used Charles Spurgeon in his day was even more amazing.
He pastored probably history's first mega-church in London. However that he could be so popular and have the depth
of preaching and theology that he did is totally unique. An incredible story of perseverance, courage and
most of all God's sovereign grace.
as the most unique of our time. But in many ways the way God used Charles Spurgeon in his day was even more amazing.
He pastored probably history's first mega-church in London. However that he could be so popular and have the depth
of preaching and theology that he did is totally unique. An incredible story of perseverance, courage and
most of all God's sovereign grace.
Read
March 17, 2008Spurgeon is a very entertaining author apart from spiritual writing. His descriptions of events in his childhood and his Godly heritage and conversion are not only inspiring, but fun to listen to. He can even be quite humorous at times...my boys really enjoy listening to this one also.
March 8, 2016
This is my first attempt at reading more Christian biographies. I really enjoyed this book. I loved Spurgeon's emphasis on the gospel and the cross of Jesus Christ. I also appreciated his humorous, and sometimes brash, personality. I do plan on reading the second volume: The Full Harvest.
August 14, 2015
Would have been better autobiography if it didn't contain so many newspaper articles and sermons. The stories from Spurgeon's early ministry were encouraging and well work the read.
December 24, 2015
Loved this book! It was so interesting to read the development of Charles Spurgeons life and the development of the preacher's college.
April 22, 2016
Charles Spurgeon is phenomenal. His brilliance just amazes me and his commitment to the cause of Christ is so inspirational and convicting!
May 4, 2019
Just fabulous!!! Thank you Ashley for the recommendation!
July 9, 2019
I must confess, when I first purchased the Spurgeon autobiography set, I was a bit tentative. I'm not a huge autobiography fan, by their very nature. I don't want to read what someone writes about themselves. I love history and biographies, but I usually like reading those produced by scholarly, unbiased (relatively) authors. Autobiographies just give off the odor of self-promotion and barely subdued pride. And...I'm not about that. But apparently I need to reconsider my stance. I picked this up because I have been hearing fairly good things about the Spurgeon autobiography so I thought I'd give it a try. And oh am I most glad I did. This book was phenomenal. Yes, I've only read the first volume, so maybe I'll reconsider after I read the second, but you know what? The first volume is worth the price of admission all on its own. Is this book a sleek, cohesive work? No, absolutely not. While much of the book (especially the first half) is written by Spurgeon's own hand, there are multiple chapters written by his wife (much appreciated!) and also there are a lot of editorial comments and many excerpts from letters, journals and articles. And so...no, it doesn't flow as well as some biographies - definitely not as enjoyable to read as an Iain Murray penned biography. But you know what? That's ok. This book greatly increased my knowledge of Spurgeon as a man. But even more so? It pointed me to Spurgeon's Saviour - and my own. Reading this book caused me to think more of my own relationship with God. Reading this book increased my desire to know Christ more. Reading this book enlivened my heart as I pondered the deeds of the Lord in the days of Spurgeon. Reading this book stoked my passions for the glories of the gospel. And you know what I said about autobiographies having that tinge of self-promotion and pride? I saw none of that here. Honestly, while Spurgeon did of course talk about himself, the parts he penned felt so pastoral and God-glorifying, I couldn't help but smile - even Spurgeon's talk about his life was leavened with sentences pointing the reader to God. The chapters about Spurgeon's conversion were especially encouraging and uplifting and I definitely need to reread at some point. Spurgeon knew he was a desperate sinner and knew he needed to be saved but he just didn't know how. Reading about his struggle and subsequent coming to Christ was ever so joyful - is there anything more beautiful than reading of one's salvation?? I say there is not. Also - I enjoyed seeing Spurgeon's sense of humour peek through the pages here and there. I had to stifle a laugh a few times - Spurgeon is quite funny and I love seeing that side of him!! I've mentioned this before, but again - Spurgeon's words in this book felt very pastoral. He wants the reader to come to know Christ like he knows Christ. This book isn't for the glory of Spurgeon, it is for the glory of God. And as that was its purpose, I cannot deny that it mightily succeeded. The chapters by Susie Spurgeon on their marriage and early married life were a delight to read (and I loved seeing the depths of Susie Spurgeon's love for the Lord and passion for His glory - what a power couple!!) and I also greatly enjoyed reading all the contemporary accounts of Spurgeon, the good and the bad! Yes, as said before, the flow of the book isn't entirely even, but aside from that, this book is nigh on perfect. It spurs me on to a greater love of my Lord. It fills my heart with thanksgiving and joy as I consider the deeds of the Lord and of His great lovingkindnesses. I can't wait for Volume 2.
September 10, 2018
What a mix of feelings I had as I read (listened to it read) this book! As an autobiography it was, of course, not free from bias - but is any book? It is in the vernacular of the late nineteenth century, yet has the simpler and more colloquial writing style of an autobiography rather than a teaching book, but there were many moments I loved and pressed repeat repeatedly! Others showed the self-consciousness of a teenager - which he was during much of this book's story, since it is "The Early Years."
I enjoyed Spurgeon's passion for the Bible, the pure and simple Gospel, and the plight of those who do not know a real peace with God. I delighted to learn how he handled denominational differences. It was encouraging to listen to him wrestle with the slanderous voices of those whose churches were dwindling and who seemed jealous that God was inexplicably promoting and profiting Spurgeon's ministry in jaw-dropping ways. It was good to see how he was effective in spite (or because of!) his lack of seminary training. It was inspiring to see his Godly response to the call to "go and tell." It was a bit grievous to realize how so many churches today, including my own, are focusing increasingly on self-help, relational issues, and peripheral subjects which are fine in themselves but not central, and not the "one thing needed." To see how focused Spurgeon was on the work of the Cross and the call to discipleship was so inspiring and flame-fanning! I also thoroughly enjoyed the examples he gave, the analogies he drew, the snippets of poems he quoted to help his listeners understand, while staying focused on the atoning work of Christ.
The last few chapters (of 39!) became a bit tedious, especially as they covered in depth a ministerial conflict with a pastor-turned-poet, but still contained merit; had that conflict been omitted I would probably have given it 5 stars. I look forward to Volume 2.
The trials of Spurgeon's day are much the same today, just in different clothes, and called by different names, so application of his words remains timely. Around the story itself, there is a lot of Chicken and not a lot of Bones! I recommend this book for pastors, Bible teachers, and those who would hope to have a more effective ministry to those who still need to know Jesus as their Savior as well as to those who have become complacent in their faith.
I enjoyed Spurgeon's passion for the Bible, the pure and simple Gospel, and the plight of those who do not know a real peace with God. I delighted to learn how he handled denominational differences. It was encouraging to listen to him wrestle with the slanderous voices of those whose churches were dwindling and who seemed jealous that God was inexplicably promoting and profiting Spurgeon's ministry in jaw-dropping ways. It was good to see how he was effective in spite (or because of!) his lack of seminary training. It was inspiring to see his Godly response to the call to "go and tell." It was a bit grievous to realize how so many churches today, including my own, are focusing increasingly on self-help, relational issues, and peripheral subjects which are fine in themselves but not central, and not the "one thing needed." To see how focused Spurgeon was on the work of the Cross and the call to discipleship was so inspiring and flame-fanning! I also thoroughly enjoyed the examples he gave, the analogies he drew, the snippets of poems he quoted to help his listeners understand, while staying focused on the atoning work of Christ.
The last few chapters (of 39!) became a bit tedious, especially as they covered in depth a ministerial conflict with a pastor-turned-poet, but still contained merit; had that conflict been omitted I would probably have given it 5 stars. I look forward to Volume 2.
The trials of Spurgeon's day are much the same today, just in different clothes, and called by different names, so application of his words remains timely. Around the story itself, there is a lot of Chicken and not a lot of Bones! I recommend this book for pastors, Bible teachers, and those who would hope to have a more effective ministry to those who still need to know Jesus as their Savior as well as to those who have become complacent in their faith.
March 14, 2022
This is not a traditional autobiography. Apparently, it was always an idea in Spurgeon's mind, especially in his latter years, that he desired to write an autobiography, having at various times written portions of it and given them to his wife and secretary to be assembled at some point. Thus, these two volumes are composed of pieces brought together with some portions written as direct autobiographical material, mixed with other pieces of Spurgeon's writings compiled and inserted so as to continue the autobiographical feel of his life, and still other portions which were written directly by either his wife or his secretary. Although at times, due to the way it was pieced together, it did feel a bit disjointed, the sheer delight of the life and character of Spurgeon made this more than forgivable, and, in the whole, was a delight to read.
Spurgeon was a special man; who lived a special life and is without a doubt one of the most beloved servants of Jesus Christ throughout the history of the church. He was certainly used by God in mighty ways. Not only was his doctrine and practice staunchly biblical, but he had rhetorical abilities, unsurpassed in the history of the church, which enabled him to spread these truths with the clearest and most compelling ability, never before or thereafter to be equaled. He was, without a doubt, the Prince of Preachers.
Although the book was long, it did not feel like it was. The only tedious sections, which could have been done better in my opinion, were the chapters which consisted almost entirely of letter after letter written either by Spurgeon himself or his associates. These felt lazily done and made it a little monotonous at times. Other than that, it read very quickly and was most edifying. Spurgeon was not only an excellent orator but a great writer as well; which was typified by his elegant Victorian prose and witty humor.
Spurgeon was a special man; who lived a special life and is without a doubt one of the most beloved servants of Jesus Christ throughout the history of the church. He was certainly used by God in mighty ways. Not only was his doctrine and practice staunchly biblical, but he had rhetorical abilities, unsurpassed in the history of the church, which enabled him to spread these truths with the clearest and most compelling ability, never before or thereafter to be equaled. He was, without a doubt, the Prince of Preachers.
Although the book was long, it did not feel like it was. The only tedious sections, which could have been done better in my opinion, were the chapters which consisted almost entirely of letter after letter written either by Spurgeon himself or his associates. These felt lazily done and made it a little monotonous at times. Other than that, it read very quickly and was most edifying. Spurgeon was not only an excellent orator but a great writer as well; which was typified by his elegant Victorian prose and witty humor.
May 14, 2018
Not a typical autobiography, but this collection of personal narratives/writings/reflections from the Prince of Preachers (along with annotated sections by Banner of Truth) is pure delight. One learns the account his childhood and conversion, as well as the events leading to his pastorate. But throughout Spurgeon remains radically focused on his chief end: to preach the gospel at all times. Along the way he delivers wit (several laugh out loud anecdotes), psychological insight ("Confuse not a whim for the inspiration of the Holy Ghost"), and practical theology. He labors to articulate his positions as rooted only in the bible ("My chief library was the word of God"). His defense of Calvinism in Chapter 13 is spectacular as a stand alone piece. I'm taking a break before completing the second volume in this series, but eagerly expect it will be just as fascinating and convicting.
February 17, 2020
Amazing. Just amazing.
A French pastor, Dr. Grandpierre, had this to say of Spurgeon’s preaching: “Mr. Spurgeon is a poet.” This sentiment extends to his writing. No one says it like Spurgeon. His pen is from the heavens, and the first 2/3 of this autobiography is full of expressions that make the reader’s heart swell with awe and wonder. Some parts of the latter third, detailing some complaints Spurgeon had to deal with as a pastor, or some events that lead up to his noted depression, are not as thrilling as his own words. However, what is included is necessary to understand the man, and I could not recommend it any higher. Most of what is included is autobiographical in nature. There are selections included from Mrs. Spurgeon, with newspaper articles written about him, and quotes in longform from other preachers, approving and disapproving alike.
A French pastor, Dr. Grandpierre, had this to say of Spurgeon’s preaching: “Mr. Spurgeon is a poet.” This sentiment extends to his writing. No one says it like Spurgeon. His pen is from the heavens, and the first 2/3 of this autobiography is full of expressions that make the reader’s heart swell with awe and wonder. Some parts of the latter third, detailing some complaints Spurgeon had to deal with as a pastor, or some events that lead up to his noted depression, are not as thrilling as his own words. However, what is included is necessary to understand the man, and I could not recommend it any higher. Most of what is included is autobiographical in nature. There are selections included from Mrs. Spurgeon, with newspaper articles written about him, and quotes in longform from other preachers, approving and disapproving alike.
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