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T. Austin-Sparks

T. Austin-Sparks (1888 - 1971). British Christian evangelist, author, and preacher born in London, England. Converted at 17 in 1905 in Glasgow through street preaching, he joined the Baptist church and was ordained in 1912, pastoring West Norwood, Dunoon, and Honor Oak in London until 1926. Following a crisis of faith, he left denominational ministry to found the Honor Oak Christian Fellowship Centre, focusing on non-denominational teaching. From 1923 to 1971, he edited A Witness and a Testimony magazine, circulating it freely worldwide, and authored over 100 books and pamphlets, including The School of Christ and The Centrality of Jesus Christ. He held conferences in the UK, USA, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the Philippines, influencing leaders like Watchman Nee, whose books he published in English. Married to Florence Cowlishaw in 1916, they had four daughters and one son. Sparks’ ministry emphasized spiritual revelation and Christ-centered living, impacting the Keswick Convention and missionary networks. His works, preserved online, remain influential despite his rejection of institutional church structures. His health declined after a stroke in 1969, and he died in London.
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T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the urgent need for men and women of stature in the Church, individuals transformed by the Cross who prioritize glorifying God above self-interest. These individuals are not merely focused on preaching doctrines but embody a life that reflects Christ's influence. Their responses to life's challenges are guided by the question of whether it glorifies God and contributes to the increase of Christ. Sparks calls for a deep, personal relationship with the Lord, urging believers to seek Him in the Secret Place, as outlined in Romans chapter 6.
Urgently Needed!
Men (and women) of stature (Isaiah 45:14; Ephesians 4:13) In whom the Cross has done a deep work as to self-interest. Who are not so concerned to preach, or to try and influence others to a doctrine or theory, but whose main influence will be one of LIFE. Who have come to know the Lord in a way of proving. Whose reaction to every situation, circumstance, and proposition is: Does it glorify God? And whose Touchstone by which all things are tested and determined is: Can it work out to an increase of Christ? For such there is a pressing need, in the Church, in the Lord's work, and in all the nations. Enquire in the Secret Place. Basis of consideration Romans chapter 6. Published in "A Witness and A Testimony" magazines Volume 21-3 & Volume 49-4
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T. Austin-Sparks (1888 - 1971). British Christian evangelist, author, and preacher born in London, England. Converted at 17 in 1905 in Glasgow through street preaching, he joined the Baptist church and was ordained in 1912, pastoring West Norwood, Dunoon, and Honor Oak in London until 1926. Following a crisis of faith, he left denominational ministry to found the Honor Oak Christian Fellowship Centre, focusing on non-denominational teaching. From 1923 to 1971, he edited A Witness and a Testimony magazine, circulating it freely worldwide, and authored over 100 books and pamphlets, including The School of Christ and The Centrality of Jesus Christ. He held conferences in the UK, USA, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the Philippines, influencing leaders like Watchman Nee, whose books he published in English. Married to Florence Cowlishaw in 1916, they had four daughters and one son. Sparks’ ministry emphasized spiritual revelation and Christ-centered living, impacting the Keswick Convention and missionary networks. His works, preserved online, remain influential despite his rejection of institutional church structures. His health declined after a stroke in 1969, and he died in London.