Country served:

South Africa

Dates:

1795-1883

Famous Quote:

“I have seen in the morning sun the smoke of a 1000 villages where no

 missionary has ever been.”

Major Influence:

  The most vicious “heathen can be wonderfully transformed by the Holy Spirit. Brought an end to the myth that the wild tribal people of Africa could not have a life-changing conversion.

Short Story:

      Africa! Just the thought of it brings all sorts of visions of adventures to one’s mind. Long known as “Black Africa,” it took its share of some of God’s choicest servants. In the past missionaries have referred to Africa as the “White mans graveyard.” Africa has claimed the lives of more missionaries than an other country. Some were killed, some grew sick as a result of the culture and the jungle atmosphere.

      A little boy was born in Edinberg who you would not have thought could possibly have been a missionary, his name was Robert Moffat. He grew up in a large home, and as a result was very poor. Because his family was poor, they could not give him much of an education. When he was just a little older he decided God wanted to use him as a missionary. However, in those first days he was refused by the London Missionary Society because of his lack of education.

      Finally after much studying so he could be accepted and go as a missionary, he left for Africa in 1812. Moffat saw many tribal people that were known for their cruelty and fierceness come to a knowledge of Christ. Once they were saved these people were transformed in their actions. Not only that, but Moffat even had to teach some of these people how to wash themselves and take care of themselves physically.

      Moffat labored many years among these Africans, translating the Bible, books and an hymn book into their native tongue. Moffat had a great influence in missions. It was he who influenced David Livingstone the great pioneer in Africa.

Send forth thy herald, Lord, to call

The thoughtless young, the hardened old,

A scattered, homeless flock, till all

Be gathered to Thy peaceful fold.

 Written and Prepared by Jon Allinson 2001