Written by: Gillian Fraser
Article source: JOY! Magazine
Derek Prince, a humble yet world-class Bible teacher, left an indelible mark on Christian ministry around the world. His legacy is not only one of profound Biblical insight, but also a life characterised by unwavering faithfulness to God’s call. This month, we decided to honour this late missionary and theologian for the phenomenal work that he dedicated his life to. Prince’s influence transcended denominations, cultural boundaries, and decades, impacting millions of Christians worldwide with his clarity, simplicity, and deep understanding of scripture.
Early life and academic brilliance
Born in 1915 into a British military family in Bangalore, India, Prince’s life began in a context far removed from the ministry that would eventually define him. His brilliance was evident from an early age, winning him a scholarship to Eaton at just 14 years old and later earning him a prestigious position at Cambridge University. By the age of 24, Derek was the youngest person ever to be elected to a Fellowship in ancient and modern philosophy at King’s College, Cambridge. However, his academic pursuits were interrupted by the outbreak of World War II in 1940.
A life-altering encounter with God
Initially indifferent to religion, Derek joined the Royal Army Medical Corps as a non-combatant and took a Bible with him – merely as a philosophical text to study. In a barracks in Yorkshire in 1941, he experienced a life-altering encounter with God. Through the pages of the Bible, he heard the voice of Jesus speaking directly to him, leading to two profound revelations: that Jesus is alive, and the Bible is indeed the Word of God. These two truths would become the cornerstone of his ministry.
Ministry in Jerusalem
After his conversion, Prince was stationed in North Africa for three years, where he deepened his knowledge of the Bible. His time in Egypt, Libya, and Sudan served as a spiritual apprenticeship of sorts, setting the foundation for his future ministry. Upon discharge, he settled in Jerusalem, where he met and married Lydia Christensen, a Danish missionary. With this marriage, he became the father of eight girls (whom Lydia had adopted).
A passion for teaching and spiritual deliverance
Living in Jerusalem at the time of Israel’s founding in 1948, Derek felt a profound calling to pray for and support the Jewish people, a commitment that would remain central to his ministry. In late 1948, however, the Princes left Jerusalem and moved to London, where Derek pastored a small Pentecostal church. He later ministered in Kenya and the United States, consistently encouraging believers to pursue a closer relationship with God through Bible study and prayer.
The rise of Derek Prince’s global ministry
Derek Prince’s ministry began to gain momentum in the early 1960s. While pastoring in Seattle, a dramatic confrontation with demonic forces led him to explore the ministry of deliverance – a topic that would later become one of his signature teachings. His Bible teaching resonated with a wide audience, and soon the demand for his insights grew beyond the walls of the churches he pastored. In 1971, he founded Derek Prince Publications, with an office in Florida to distribute his teachings.
Grief, renewal, and the expansion of his work
Though tragedy struck in 1975 with the passing of his beloved wife Lydia, Derek’s ministry did not wane. In fact, it expanded. A few years later, he married Ruth Baker, and together they entered a new phase of ministry marked by the launch of the daily radio broadcast Today with Derek Prince, which began airing in 1978. The programme’s short, simple teachings on fundamental Biblical truths quickly gained popularity, and by the time of Derek’s passing in 2003, his broadcasts, books, and other materials were reaching millions in over 100 languages.
Lasting influence
Derek’s contributions to the global Christian community cannot be overstated. He authored over 50 books, recorded 600 audio teachings, and produced 100 video messages. He was a pioneer in teaching on groundbreaking topics such as generational curses, the significance of Israel in biblical prophecy, and spiritual deliverance. His influence extended to every corner of the globe, from the United States and the United Kingdom to Africa, Asia, and beyond.
His legacy in Bible teaching continues today
What set Derek apart was his unwavering dedication to making the deep truths of scripture accessible to all believers. Whether in person, over the radio, or through his writings, Derek had a unique ability to explain complex biblical concepts in a way that was clear, practical, and applicable to everyday life. He emphasised the importance of personal Bible study, encouraging Christians to go deeper in their relationship with God.
A lasting ministry and enduring legacy
Derek’s passion for ministry never faltered, even as he approached the end of his life. After Ruth passed away in 1998, he continued to serve faithfully, travelling and teaching until his health declined. Derek Prince passed away in 2003 at the age of 88, in Jerusalem, the city he had loved and prayed for over the years.
Carrying the vision
Today, Derek Prince Ministries continues his mission of equipping believers and church leaders around the world with sound biblical teaching. With offices in over 45 countries, including South Africa, the ministry remains dedicated to spreading the Gospel and providing resources to help Christians grow in their faith.
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Date published: 29/11/2024
Feature image: Derek Prince (1915 – 2003)
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