Country served:

North American Indians

Dates:

1718- 1747

Famous Quote:

“Oh, that I could dedicate my all to God!”

 Major Influence:

   An example of such love for a people group, that only sickness or death could deter him. Has been called the “Boy missionary among the Indians.”

Short Story:

       John Eliot who went to the N. American Indians died at an early age, but the missionary we will now look at died at a young age of 29. David Brainerd also went to the N. American Indians, however Mr. Brainerd worked among the Indians while John Eliot did many wonderful things but never worked among them.

      David Brainerd was born in Connecticut in 1718. By the age of 14 years old both of his parents had died and so he was a lonely orphan. As a young man he began to labor among the Indians in Massachusetts.

      The work of winning the Indians to Christ was slow, although they were very nice to him. After 2 years of ministry in Massachusetts he went to New Jersey to work among the Indians there. When he began working just southeast of Trenton, Nj his work finally became fruitful. Over the next 2 years he had a busy but fruitful time. He became their friend, helped them in many ways.

      Throughout his short life he experienced much sickness, which at the young age of 29 years of age took his life. However in this short life, he opened the way for others to work among the Indians. The story of his life, which Jonathan Edwards published influenced men for missions like, William Carey, Samuel Marsdon, and Henry Martyn.

“Soul, what return has God, thy Savior,

For all He gives thee day by day;

Or hast thou in thy gift a favor,

That can delight and please him? Say!

The best of offerings He requires,

Give him thy heart with its desires.”

 Written and Prepared by Jon Allinson 2001