George Liele: Part 2
"I have a great desire to preach Christ
where He has not been named."
- George Liele
Introduction
George Liele's incredible life story shows us the amazing things faith and determination can achieve, even in the face of significant challenges. Born into slavery in 1750, his journey is a powerful example of how one person's dedication to spreading the message of God can leave a lasting mark on Christian missions. While many know names like William Carey and Adoniram Judson in the world of missions, George Liele was a pioneer before them. This essay will tell the story of George Liele, from being a slave in Virginia to a free man in Jamaica, and highlight his essential contributions to missions.
Early Life and Conversion
Born in 1750 to enslaved parents in Burke County, Virginia, George Liele's life began in the shadows of oppression. His father, though an enslaved person himself, instilled a deep faith in God in young Liele. This foundation played a pivotal role in shaping his spiritual journey. Liele's conversion in 1773, under the influence of preached sermons, marked a profound turning point in his life. He embraced Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, setting the stage for a lifetime of devoted service.
Church Planting in the USA
George Liele's newfound faith lit a fire in him to share the good news of Jesus with others. Before the Revolutionary War, he founded the first African-American church in Silver Bluff, South Carolina. He became an ordained Baptist pastor and never wavered in his mission to reach African Americans. His ministry touched the lives of fellow enslaved people and influenced important figures like David George and Andrew Bryan, who led successful congregations.
Church Planting in Jamaica
In 1784, George Liele traveled to Jamaica, a British colony with a large population of enslaved Africans. He faced challenges from the government and even formed alliances with British soldiers to keep spreading his message. Because of his dedication, he was accused of preaching Liberation Theology, which led to three years in prison. But despite this challenging time, George's faithful ministry sparked a spiritual awakening among the enslaved, and it eventually played a part in essential changes regarding slavery in Great Britain.
Legacy
George Liele's legacy is profound and wide-reaching. His influence wasn't just spiritual; it directly affected the eventual end of slavery in Jamaica by the British Empire in 1838. His disciples, David George and Andrew Bryan, took the Gospel to faraway places, creating churches worldwide.
Conclusion
George Liele's life teaches us that our beginnings don't determine the impact we can make. His journey from slavery to becoming a free man, completely dedicated to God's call, inspires us all. George's unwavering faithfulness in even the most minor tasks he was given eventually led to even greater responsibilities from God. His story encourages us to live with purpose and commitment, knowing that our actions, no matter how small, can profoundly impact the world.
Sources
Shannon, David T. "George Liele's Life and Legacy: an Unsung Hero."
Holmes, E.A, “George Liele; Negro Slavery’s Prophet of Deliverance”
