Aspire to Serve

Charles Simeon

A Life of Faithful Ministry and Lasting Influence

Charles Simeon (1759–1836) stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of the Evangelical movement within the Church of England. Known for his unwavering commitment to expository preaching, mentoring young clergy, and advancing global missions, Simeon’s legacy extends far beyond his lifetime. His influence reached some of the greatest Christian leaders, including the “Prince of Preachers,” Charles Spurgeon, who admired Simeon for his faithful ministry and passionate proclamation of the Gospel.

1. A Life of Faith and Perseverance

Born into a wealthy family in Reading, England, Charles Simeon attended Eton College and later King’s College, Cambridge. His spiritual transformation occurred at Cambridge in 1779 when he was preparing for Holy Communion. Simeon wrestled deeply with feelings of guilt and unworthiness, but he found peace in Christ through studying Scripture and meditating on the atonement. This experience ignited a lifelong passion for the Gospel.

In 1782, Simeon was appointed vicar of Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge. His early years were marked by intense opposition from his congregation, who were resistant to his Evangelical preaching and pastoral leadership. Despite this hostility, Simeon remained steadfast, preaching Christ with boldness and ministering with humility and perseverance. Over time, his faithful ministry won over his congregation, and Holy Trinity became a hub of vibrant spiritual life.

2. Expository Preaching and the Horae Homileticae

Simeon’s hallmark was his commitment to expository preaching—carefully expounding Scripture and applying its truths to everyday life. His belief in the sufficiency of Scripture led him to systematically preach through the Bible. His monumental work, Horae Homileticae (a 21-volume collection of sermon outlines), remains a treasure trove for preachers and theologians.

Simeon viewed preaching not merely as a platform for eloquence but as a sacred responsibility to reveal Christ in all of Scripture. He famously said:

“My endeavor is to bring out of Scripture what is there, and not to thrust in what I think might be there.”

3. Mentoring and Missions

Simeon was deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of clergy. At Cambridge, he led weekly meetings with students and young ministers, emphasizing the importance of personal holiness, pastoral care, and faithfulness in preaching. He founded the Simeon Trust, which purchased church patronages to ensure the appointment of Evangelical clergy.

His passion for missions was equally profound. Simeon was instrumental in the early years of the Church Missionary Society and supported missionaries like Henry Martyn, who carried the Gospel to India and Persia. Through his influence, Simeon inspired a generation to see the global scope of the Great Commission.

4. Charles Simeon’s Influence on Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892), one of the most celebrated preachers in Christian history, held Simeon in high regard. Though their ministries were separated by decades, Spurgeon admired Simeon’s steadfast faith, expository method, and pastoral heart.

Spurgeon once remarked on Simeon’s ability to persevere through opposition, calling him a model of endurance and faithfulness. Spurgeon noted:

“His life teaches us how one man, by consecrating all his powers to the service of God, may produce lasting results for the Church and the world.”

Spurgeon’s own commitment to expository preaching and Gospel-centered ministry echoed Simeon’s approach. Both men shared a passion for making Christ the center of their sermons, believing that the preacher’s role was to magnify Christ rather than draw attention to themselves. Spurgeon often referred to Simeon’s writings, particularly Horae Homileticae, as a source of inspiration and practical guidance for his own ministry.

5. Lessons from Simeon’s Legacy

Charles Simeon’s life offers timeless lessons for believers today:

• Perseverance in Ministry: Simeon endured years of opposition with patience and grace, trusting in God to change hearts. His example reminds us that faithfulness often precedes fruitfulness.

• Christ-Centered Preaching: Simeon’s expository approach emphasizes the importance of preaching Christ in every sermon, drawing directly from Scripture.

• Mentorship and Discipleship: Simeon’s investment in the next generation highlights the transformative power of equipping others for ministry.

• Global Vision: His commitment to missions calls us to lift our eyes beyond local concerns to the worldwide need for the Gospel.

6. Conclusion: A Legacy That Endures

Charles Simeon’s ministry at Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge, his expository preaching, and his mentoring of young leaders continue to inspire Christians nearly two centuries later. His influence on Charles Spurgeon underscores the enduring impact of a life wholly devoted to Christ. Simeon’s story reminds us that a faithful, Christ-centered ministry leaves a legacy that echoes far beyond our own generation.

In Simeon’s own words:

“To serve the Lord is not merely a duty which we cannot decline, but a privilege to which we should eagerly aspire.”

May we, like Simeon, aspire to serve God with unwavering faith, unshakable trust, and a heart devoted to His glory.

Soli Deo Gloria

Sharing Jesus in Spirit and Truth

Called to Proclaim 

Sowing Seeds of Faith

Faith Without Coercion

Sharing the Authentic Jesus with a Seeking World

Evangelism Rooted in Love and Truth

Scripture: Romans 10:14-21

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” – Romans 10:14

In Paul’s letter to the Romans, he unfolds the heartbeat of evangelism, asking four key questions in Romans 10:14-15 that resonate through the ages. Each question challenges us to consider how the message of salvation reaches the world. But Paul’s message is more than a call to share the gospel—it’s an invitation to embody Christ in a way that draws people to the authentic Jesus.

What is Evangelism?

Evangelism is sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, embodying God’s grace and truth to others. John Stott defines evangelism as “spreading the good news with the intention of making converts,” while Eugene Peterson describes it as “a lifelong project of listening, inviting, and loving.” Evangelism isn’t about forcing belief; it’s about living and speaking in a way that reveals Jesus authentically, relying on the Holy Spirit to draw people’s hearts.

God’s Commission to Evangelize

In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gave us the Great Commission, sending us into the world to make disciples. Evangelism is an act of obedience to God’s love. William Barclay observed, “No one is truly a Christian unless they wish others to be a Christian too.” Sharing our faith is an expression of God’s heart for all people, and Paul emphasizes that sharing is essential, for “how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?”

Why So Many Jews Rejected Jesus

Paul’s pain over Israel’s unbelief runs deep. Many Jews of Paul’s day expected a messiah who would liberate them politically, not spiritually. Their misunderstanding of Jesus’ mission led to disappointment and rejection. N.T. Wright explains, “Israel was looking for a conqueror, but instead they were given a Savior.” This discrepancy reveals how expectations shape receptivity. Paul’s message is a reminder to present the authentic Jesus—a Savior who liberates from sin and calls us into a transformed life.

The Authentic Jesus to Present

To be effective witnesses, we must present the true Jesus. Philip Yancey writes, “Jesus met each person at their level of need, without trying to fit them into a mold.” The Jesus we share must be one who meets people in their struggles, loves without judgment, and offers grace and truth. The gospel isn’t a sales pitch; it’s an invitation into a relationship with a Savior who knows us deeply and loves us unconditionally.

The Holy Spirit’s Role in Evangelism

Evangelism relies on the mysterious work of the Holy Spirit. We plant seeds, but only God makes them grow. Charles Spurgeon reminds us, “Without the Spirit of God, we can do nothing. We are as ships without wind.” When we share the gospel, the Holy Spirit stirs hearts, opens minds, and draws souls to Christ. Paul knew that while he could preach and persuade, only the Spirit could transform a heart.

Paul’s Four Questions: The Duties of Evangelism

Paul’s four questions in Romans 10:14-15 are like a road map for evangelism:

1. “How can they call on the one they have not believed in?” Evangelism calls us to make God known.

2. “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” Our mission is to share God’s Word with those who have yet to hear it.

3. “How can they hear without someone preaching to them?” We are each called to proclaim.

4. “How can anyone preach unless they are sent?” Evangelism begins with a heart obedient to God’s call.

 

A Call to Share the Living Word

Paul’s words remind us that our call to evangelism isn’t about perfecting a formula; it’s about presenting the Word and allowing God to work. William Barclay noted, “Christianity must always be transmitted by man to man. It’s a faith that speaks.” As we go out to share the gospel, let us trust that the power lies not in us but in the Word we carry. Whether people accept or reject, our duty is to proclaim faithfully and leave the rest to God.

“So Faith Comes from Hearing” – Romans 10:17

In Romans 10:17, Paul emphasizes that “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Here, he shows us that faith is a gift sparked by the gospel. Alexander Maclaren puts it well: “The gospel is not a thing of mere words, but of power.” When we share the Word, we invite the Holy Spirit to soften hearts and create the miracle of belief.

This hearing isn’t just listening to sounds; it’s truly encountering Christ. Eugene Peterson described this hearing as “paying reverent attention to what God has done.” Through the gospel, listeners encounter the Jesus who walked among us, healed, forgave, and sacrificed Himself in love. This encounter allows faith to blossom. We can share testimonies and embody Christ’s love, but ultimately, it’s hearing God’s Word that takes root. Faith doesn’t come by our strength; it comes through “the word of Christ,” awakening belief in the heart.

Evangelism Without Coercion

Authentic evangelism respects freedom. John Bunyan captures this spirit in The Pilgrim’s Progress, where Christian’s journey unfolds with grace and conviction, but not coercion. Faith cannot be forced; it must be freely chosen. Alexander Maclaren warns, “Compulsion in religion is just as impious as indifference.” Our task is to speak truth, not to control or manipulate; the Spirit does the convincing.

The Balance: Avoiding Inactivity and Overactivity

There’s a balance in evangelism between inactivity and overactivity. Some of us hesitate to share out of fear, while others become overly zealous. Matthew Henry encourages, “Do not neglect the call of Christ to go and make disciples, but remember it is the Holy Spirit who will empower you.” God invites us to a pace that’s steady, loving, and Spirit-led, where we avoid burnout and stay sensitive to His leading.

Conclusion: Called to Be Messengers

Paul’s call to evangelize is a summons to love deeply and speak faithfully. We share not because we must, but because the love of Christ compels us. As John Stott writes, “The greatest gift we can give someone is Jesus.” May we carry the gospel with humility and boldness, trusting the Holy Spirit to work in ways we cannot see, and may we join in the Great Commission with a heart that rejoices when others come to know the Savior we cherish.

Prayer:

Lord, fill our hearts with a love for others that reflects Your love for us. Help us to be faithful messengers, sharing the truth of Jesus with humility and grace. Guide our words and actions by Your Spirit, that we may reflect the authentic Jesus and draw people closer to You. Strengthen us to share without fear, trusting that You are the one who transforms hearts. 

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria