Elijah Hedding (Christian Biographies Adapted for Children) -- Santosh Poonen -- February 26, 2025

Santosh PoonenFebruary 27, 202531mWatch on YouTube

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Audiobook Live recordings from RLCF Family Prayer Meetings during which Santosh Poonen shares Christian biographies adapted for children Based loosely on the chapter from the book, "They Knew Their God" by Harvey, Harvey & Hey ----- http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA

Summary

This biography recounts the life of Elijah Hedding, detailing his spiritual journey from a man initially uncommitted to Christ to a devoted preacher. His conversion was marked by deep conviction, profound weeping, and the clear witness of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, God called him to full-time ministry, where he dedicated his life to proclaiming the gospel.

Outline

The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.

Early life and upbringingElijah Hedding was born in New York in 1780 to a God-fearing mother who taught him Christian principles.

Conviction of sinA traveling Methodist preacher named Benjamin Abbott visited the area, sparking a revival and confronting young Elijah about being a sinner.

Preserved from deathGod miraculously preserved Elijah's life when a yoke of oxen and a heavy cart trampled over him, filling him with the fear of eternity.

Finding peace in ChristAfter enduring months of deep conviction and weeping over his soul, the light of the Spirit finally broke into Elijah's mind at age 18, filling him with joy.

Yielding to the call to preachDespite hesitating due to dangers and feelings of unworthiness, Elijah yielded to the call at age 20 and was later licensed to preach in 1800.

Hardships of a traveling preacherElijah faced severe physical hardships, sleeping in exposed log cabins, crossing overflowing rivers, and enduring extreme testings.

Severe illness and demonic temptationStricken with dysentery and rheumatism at age 23, Elijah was bedridden for weeks while enduring intense physical pain and direct temptations from Satan.

Returning to the workDespite having deformed hands and lingering injuries that required him to hold reins in his teeth or sit while preaching, Elijah resumed his taxing ministry schedule.

Reflecting on a decade of sacrificeAfter ten years of traveling 3,000 miles a year and preaching almost daily on meager financial support, Elijah remained completely devoted to the work.

Uncompromising standardsWhen a wealthy young woman wanted to join his church, Elijah firmly insisted that she lay aside her expensive, fashionable clothing to match the simple discipline of the Methodists.

Appointed as a bishopAt age 44, despite his poor health and initial reluctance, Elijah was nominated and accepted the call to serve as a Methodist bishop.

Preaching on perfect loveElijah emphasized that experiencing the holy work of becoming like Christ is just as important as the initial conversion of sinners.

No regrets after fifty yearsLooking back after more than fifty years in the ministry, Elijah stated that if he had fifty lives, he would cheerfully spend them all suffering for the same blessed cause.

Final days and testimonyConfined at home for months before his death due to physical decline, Elijah used his remaining strength to urge others to preach Christ and trust in Him.

Entering restElijah Hedding reached the end of his long, tiring journey and entered into the eternal rest prepared by God, glorying In Christ alone.

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Elijah Hedding (Christian Biographies Adapted for Children) -- Santosh Poonen -- February 26, 2025

Santosh Poonen · February 27, 2025 · 31m

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