The Gospel for All

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”—Galatians 3:28 NASB

Life was rough for Sojourner Truth. Born into a family of slaves in a Dutch settlement in upstate New York, she was sold several times. After she was whipped with rods by one master, she started seriously seeking God for help. This was a turning point. In 1827, she escaped to a nearby abolitionist family. After New York abolished slavery, she moved to New York City and felt a call to preach.

Her name at birth was Isabella Baumfree, but she felt everything was new when she became a Christian. She “left everything behind” when she “left the house of bondage” and asked the Lord, “give me a new name.” She became Sojourner Truth. She had a real burden to evangelize. She once described how her singing attracted crowds then she would tell them about Jesus.

Although unable to read or write, she gave speeches that dazzled audiences. In her most famous speech given in 1851, “Ain’t I a Woman?” she told of crying as her children were sold into slavery. “None but Jesus heard me.”

She used her influence to help former and current slaves and bring attention to the plight of women. She stressed that God loves everyone and wants everyone to be saved. Jesus died to save people of all races.

Remember that everyone needs the Gospel—every race, every country. Ask God to give you a hunger to share the Gospel. Be an ambassador for truth.

Reflection Question: How can you be an ambassador for truth in your sphere of influence?