Spurgeon and the Poor

In the past century, one question has constantly plagued the church: How should the people of God respond to social issues? Rather than buying in to the “social gospel,” Alex DiPrima looks back to an unexpected source for biblical clarity: Charles Haddon Spurgeon. Part theology and part biography, Spurgeon and the Poor examines how the Prince of Preachers’ belief that gospel preaching and soul-winning should be the church’s primary mission informed his commendable benevolence and mercy ministry.

248 pages.

Contents

Part 1: Spurgeon’s Teaching

1. The Prince of Preachers
2. The Grace Effect
3. Followers of Christ, Lovers of Men
4. Gospel Proclamation and Social Ministry
5. A City on a Hill
6. Political Preaching

Part 2: Spurgeon’s Practice

1. The Priority of Soul-Winning
2. The Pastor’s College
3. A Benevolent Ministry
4. The Metropolitan Tabernacle
5. The Good Samaritan in London
6. Social and Political Activism

Conclusion

Appendix: Spurgeon and Social Ministry in Historical Perspective

“DiPrima’s work is a timely reminder that for the church, there should be no artificial separation between the proclamation of the gospel and Christlike works of mercy.” —Thomas Kidd, research professor of church history, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

“This well-researched book brings to light an oft-neglected aspect of C. H. Spurgeon’s life and work. A welcome addition to Spurgeon studies.” —Timothy George, distinguished professor at Beeson Divinity School of Samford University

“In an age of fierce and ongoing debate in Christian circles about the relationship between the gospel and mercy ministry, this book helps us to see how Spurgeon cut across the divide and lived a life fully devoted to the gospel of Christ, with a heart fully devoted to relieving the suffering of, quite literally, thousands of lost and needy souls. Truly inspirational.” —Mez McConnell, founder and director of 20schemes

“Read this book and see how the gospel Spurgeon preached fired his heart with loving zeal for the poor and needy in his own day.” —Conrad Mbewe, founding chancellor of the African Christian University in Lusaka, Zambia

“As Christians and church leaders navigate the challenges of our day, this book provides us with a mentor who will help us both guard the gospel and live out its implications.” —Geoff Chang, curator of the Spurgeon Library, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary