Kidology Lab Notes: D.L. Moody – A Life Devoted to Reaching the Lost, Starting with Children
Dwight L. Moody is a name that stands tall in the history of evangelism. Known for leading immense revival meetings on both sides of the Atlantic, Moody brought tens of thousands to faith in Christ during the 19th century. His legacy includes the founding of significant institutions like the YMCA, Moody Church, Moody Bible Institute, and Moody Press, each a testament to his tireless devotion to spreading the Gospel. Yet, despite all his remarkable achievements, at the end of his life, Moody reflected with profound clarity: “If I had my life to live over, I would devote it entirely to the evangelization of children.”
This statement holds an extraordinary challenge for children’s ministry leaders. Moody’s wisdom stems from both his personal experience and his understanding of the potential within a child’s life. Reaching children is not a steppingstone for ministry—it is the ministry.
A Humble Beginning
Born on February 5th, in 1837 in Northfield, Massachusetts, Moody’s childhood was marked by tragedy and hardship. His father passed away when he was just four years old, leaving the family in dire financial straits. To help support his mother and siblings, Moody worked odd jobs from a young age, leaving little time for formal education. By his teenage years, he found himself employed in a shoe store in Boston.
It was during this time that Edward Kimball, Moody’s Sunday school teacher, changed the trajectory of his life. Despite Moody’s initial lack of spiritual interest, Kimball felt a burden for the young man’s soul. One day, Kimball went to the shoe shop and, with trembling hands, shared the Gospel with Moody. In that quiet moment, surrounded by shoes and leather, Moody gave his life to Christ.
Little did Kimball know that the boy he thought least likely to succeed in the kingdom of God would go on to become one of the greatest evangelists in history. This story reminds children’s ministry leaders of the profound impact they can have when they persevere in sharing Christ’s love—even with the least likely candidates.
The Sunday School Revolution
Moody’s ministry began with a burden for the street kids of Chicago. He invited these children, often poor and uneducated, to church. When the congregation expressed discomfort with their presence, Moody was undeterred. Instead, he rented a space and started his own Sunday School. His vision was simple yet transformative: teach children practical skills using the Bible as a textbook.
The Sunday School grew rapidly, soon exceeding 500 children. Its success captured national attention, even drawing a visit from President Abraham Lincoln, who commended it as a model for what could be done nationwide. Moody’s passion and creativity were evident—when one door closed, he found another way to reach the lost.
This adaptability is a hallmark of effective children’s ministry. Just as Moody refused to take “no” for an answer, children’s ministry leaders today must find innovative ways to engage children and overcome obstacles. Whether it’s using technology, hosting creative events, or meeting kids where they are, the goal remains the same: bringing children to Jesus.
The Value of a Child’s Soul
Moody’s perspective on the importance of reaching children is perhaps best illustrated by a simple yet powerful object lesson he often used. Holding two candles—one tall and one short—he would ask which represented a child and which an adult. Most assumed the short candle symbolized a child, but Moody would correct them: “No, the short one is the adult—its life is almost over. The tall one is the child, with its entire life ahead of it. If you reach a child, you influence an entire life that can be lived for Christ.”
Children have a lifetime to grow, learn, and share their faith with others. Investing in them yields a multiplied impact. For children’s ministry leaders, this means that their work is not just about today; it’s about shaping the future of the Church.
Lessons from Edward Kimball and D.L. Moody
- Every Child Matters: Edward Kimball’s perseverance in reaching Moody reminds us never to underestimate the potential of a single child. The child who seems least interested might be the one God uses most powerfully in the future.
- Creative Persistence: Moody’s refusal to give up when he was told not to bring children to church is a lesson in finding new pathways for ministry. Obstacles are opportunities for innovation.
- Prayerful Dependence: Moody was a man of prayer, always seeking God’s guidance and strength. As ministry leaders, prayer should undergird every effort, acknowledging that the work of transformation belongs to God.
- Passion for Souls: Moody’s zeal for evangelism is a challenge to all of us. He never lost sight of the eternal value of a soul. This same passion should drive children’s ministry leaders to give their best effort every day.
- Focus on the Big Picture: Moody’s candle analogy highlights the long-term impact of reaching children. By investing in young lives, we are shaping the Church’s future and advancing God’s kingdom.
My Personal Connection
My own journey in children’s ministry began in the very place that bears D.L. Moody’s name: the Moody Church in Chicago. It was my first role as a Children’s Pastor after graduating from Moody Bible Institute—the very institution where my parents met. It was at Moody Bible Institute that I learned about D.L. Moody, his calling to reach kids, and his challenge to devote one’s life to their evangelization. While I had received my call to ministry as a child, it was at Moody’s church that I made the determination to fully embrace his challenge and dedicate my life to reaching kids.
This personal connection to Moody’s legacy has fueled my passion for children’s ministry and solidified my belief in its eternal significance. His life and example inspire me daily to persevere in this calling, knowing that the seeds planted in young hearts will bear fruit for generations to come.
A Challenge to Children’s Ministry Leaders
D.L. Moody’s words resonate deeply: “If I had my life to live over, I would devote it entirely to the evangelization of children.” His challenge is clear: devote your life to reaching kids for Christ.
Many see children’s ministry as preparation for “real ministry” with adults. But as someone who has devoted my life to teaching children, I’ve often encountered these misconceptions. When I was a young children’s pastor, people would tell me, “You’ll make a great pastor someday,” not realizing I had already arrived at my calling. Others, after hearing me preach in an adult service, would say, “You should preach more often!” But what they didn’t understand is that I preach every Sunday to the most receptive audience—young hearts and minds who have their whole lives ahead of them to live for Christ.
Children’s ministry is not a steppingstone; it is the cornerstone. It is the greatest investment of time, energy, and resources because the returns are eternal. As Moody’s life demonstrates, reaching children is not just about filling Sunday school rooms. It’s about equipping young lives to shine for Jesus in a dark world.
Take Up Moody’s Challenge
Imagine what could happen if every children’s ministry leader embraced Moody’s vision. Imagine the impact of ministries that see every child as a potential world-changer. Imagine churches that prioritize children’s evangelism not as an afterthought but as a core mission.
D.L. Moody’s life is a testament to what God can do through one person who refuses to say no to His calling. Let us follow his example, dedicating ourselves wholeheartedly to the evangelization of children. As we do, we not only honor Moody’s legacy but, more importantly, fulfill the great commission to make disciples of all nations—starting with the youngest among us.
Because Jesus Loves Children,
Pastor Karl Bastian
Founder, Kidology.org
