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Andrew Murray From spark to Flame A Biographical Novel
Did you know that Andrew Murray was not always loving, humble, and gentle, as most of his readers assume? But was once described as a Christian Minister whose pastoral visitation carried terror in the hearts of his parishioners. Why not accompany him on his journey of spiritual transformation?
In 1860, thirty-two-year-old Andrew Murray unexpectedly becomes the key leader in a revival that spreads throughout the Cape and beyond. But barely two years later, he discovers that he has lost the blessings gained during the revival, and has started to strive in his own strength again. Although he consecrates his life anew, the desired experience of the filling with the Holy Spirit fails to eventuate.
He nevertheless hangs on in faith through bitter court battles with liberals as well as notable missionary endeavors and educational projects, ever wondering when God will seal his consecration with the desired experience. But it is only when God finally intervenes by stopping him in his tracks that he is forced to confront the barriers that are blocking the blessing.
This is a true story of Andrew Murray’s spiritual journey between 1860 and 1882. You will learn about:
• His misconceptions regarding revival
• His desire to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to become loving and gentle
• His leadership skills when doing battle with the liberals
• His vision for missions and women’s education
• His dependence on God to open doors
• His approach to healing by building up his faith
• His realization that the vessel God has cleansed He will undoubtedly fill
In 1860, thirty-two-year-old Andrew Murray unexpectedly becomes the key leader in a revival that spreads throughout the Cape and beyond. But barely two years later, he discovers that he has lost the blessings gained during the revival, and has started to strive in his own strength again. Although he consecrates his life anew, the desired experience of the filling with the Holy Spirit fails to eventuate.
He nevertheless hangs on in faith through bitter court battles with liberals as well as notable missionary endeavors and educational projects, ever wondering when God will seal his consecration with the desired experience. But it is only when God finally intervenes by stopping him in his tracks that he is forced to confront the barriers that are blocking the blessing.
This is a true story of Andrew Murray’s spiritual journey between 1860 and 1882. You will learn about:
• His misconceptions regarding revival
• His desire to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to become loving and gentle
• His leadership skills when doing battle with the liberals
• His vision for missions and women’s education
• His dependence on God to open doors
• His approach to healing by building up his faith
• His realization that the vessel God has cleansed He will undoubtedly fill
330 pages, Paperback
Published April 27, 2021
4 people want to read
About the author
Olea Nel
11 books9 followers Olea Nel was born in Cape Town, South Africa. After completing her training as a teacher in Andrew Murray's heartland of Wellington, she relocated to Australia to further her studies.
Besides attaining a Ph.D. in Linguistics, she also has qualifications in Information Studies and Theology. She has taught at several tertiary institutions in Australia.
As an active Christian and a pastor’s wife, she is often called upon to speak at women’s groups.
Having recently retired from her secular position as a senior librarian at the National Library of Australia, she is now able to pursue her passion for research, especially within the fields of church history and biography. Her aim is to serve God by sharing her findings with other Christians. She is presently writing the first novel in a trilogy on the life of Andrew Murray.
Besides attaining a Ph.D. in Linguistics, she also has qualifications in Information Studies and Theology. She has taught at several tertiary institutions in Australia.
As an active Christian and a pastor’s wife, she is often called upon to speak at women’s groups.
Having recently retired from her secular position as a senior librarian at the National Library of Australia, she is now able to pursue her passion for research, especially within the fields of church history and biography. Her aim is to serve God by sharing her findings with other Christians. She is presently writing the first novel in a trilogy on the life of Andrew Murray.
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
May 4, 2021
I’ve just finished Olea Nel’s book a minute ago. It is brilliant! I truly mean it when I say that there was not one boring moment in her book. I have no idea how she managed to keep an upbeat pace throughout, while creating depth and substance at the same time. It is like a painting with colourful strokes and accents of light anchored in the depths of the background.
Not only has she introduced me to an energetic, self-assured and witty Andrew Murray, but she’s invited me into the more complex, uncertain and struggling heart of a faithful man.
This is not only a story about Andrew Murray’s accomplishments, but also about the substance of the man. Through his struggles, we obtain a picture of his honesty and longing to experience God’s closeness. It is this honesty that speaks to me. He was a preacher of great standing who didn’t give up until God had answered his deepest desire. What a call to come humbly before our God!
Olea Nel has also perfectly captured the softer side of Andrew Murray as a loving parent and one drawn to delight in his God-given purpose. Well done Olea Nel! May God bless your dedication and obedience.
Not only has she introduced me to an energetic, self-assured and witty Andrew Murray, but she’s invited me into the more complex, uncertain and struggling heart of a faithful man.
This is not only a story about Andrew Murray’s accomplishments, but also about the substance of the man. Through his struggles, we obtain a picture of his honesty and longing to experience God’s closeness. It is this honesty that speaks to me. He was a preacher of great standing who didn’t give up until God had answered his deepest desire. What a call to come humbly before our God!
Olea Nel has also perfectly captured the softer side of Andrew Murray as a loving parent and one drawn to delight in his God-given purpose. Well done Olea Nel! May God bless your dedication and obedience.
May 27, 2021
This book in the Series on the Life of Andrew Murray covers the time of the Spiritual Revival in South Africa and some of his own personal and church challenges. I really like the honesty with which Olea Nel writes about his health and spiritual struggles, which I am sure many will relate to. When the leader sees the blessings bestowed upon his congregants that he had not yet experienced himself causes a great deal of soul searching and anguish for Ds Murray. I enjoyed a glimpse into the inner workings of the Dutch Reformed Church being, at that time, a part of the State, which in itself caused conflicts. I think the lessons Ds. Murray learned in his search for The Blessing, and its resolution is a lesson for us all. Knowing the struggle that a renowned church leader has been through really helps in knowing you are not alone as you seek the whole experience of the Spirit of God. This book would be most helpful for church leaders today as the lessons learned then can be applied through all times.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews