I had never known that Gutenberg’s dream for his moveable-type printing press was the spread of the gospel. In his words I can hear his heart for sharing the good news of Jesus with multitudes in darkness and ignorance.
Gutenberg’s passion stirs me. I want to increase in a burden to spread the gospel to more and more who have never heard of Jesus in whatever ways I can.
Gutenberg, Johannes (c.1400–February 3, 1468), was the German inventor of the moveable-type printing press, which helped revolutionize the western world. This invention prepared Europe for the rapid spread of ideas, making the Reformation possible. The first book of significance ever printed was the 42–line Gutenberg Bible, known as the Mazarin Bible, 1455.
Johannes Gutenberg wrote:
God suffers in the multitude of souls whom His word can not reach. Religious truth is imprisoned in a small number of manuscript books which confine instead of spread the public treasure.
Let us break the seal which seals up holy things and give wings to Truth in order that she may win every soul that comes into the world by her word no longer written at great expense by hands easily palsied, but multiplied like the wind by an untiring machine.
Yes, it is a press, certainly, but a press from which shall flow in inexhaustible streams the most abundant and most marvelous liquor that has ever flowed to relieve the thirst of men.
Through it, God will spread His word; a spring of pure truth shall flow from it; like a new star it shall scatter the darkness of ignorance, and cause a light hithertofore unknown to shine among men.” (Great Quotations)
I had never known that Gutenberg’s dream for his moveable-type printing press was the spread of the gospel. In his words I can hear his heart for sharing the good news of Jesus with multitudes in darkness and ignorance.
Gutenberg’s passion stirs me. I want to increase in a burden to spread the gospel to more and more who have never heard of Jesus in whatever ways I can. David Sacks, a friend of mine and fantastic professional photographer, used his gifts to spread the gospel and help poor children by taking regular trips to Africa and once a year donating beautiful photographs to Covenant Mercies, who would have a show and silently auction to raise funds. When David went home to be with the Lord a few months ago, I know Jesus welcomed him with “Well done, good and faithful servant!” for using his talents this way in addition to all the other the other ways David glorified Jesus.
Recently some folks in our church put together a luncheon, pie sale and pie eating contest to support a team going to serve an orphanage in Uganda. People donated all the food, including lots of pies, and gave of their time and energy and gave all the proceeds so orphans can be rescued from the streets of Kampala, Uganda, be cared for and hear the gospel as well.
Obviously, we can do all for the glory of God, whether eating a burger or changing a diaper. But can we become even more intentional? Here are a few ideas:
Pray for opportunities and boldness to share the gospel
When a neighbor, co-worker or non-Christian friend shares a challenge they are facing, offer to pray for them
Consider doing something occasionally to give the proceeds to the poor, like giving all or a portion of your yard sale profits to Compassion, World Vision or another charitable organization. Give anything you make working overtime some week to your church building fund.
Think of ways to use Facebook, tweeting, blogs and other social media to promote the gospel or encourage people.
If you’re an artist or photographer, think of ways you can occasionally raise money to give to the poor and to the advance of the gospel.
If you own a business, consider ways you can give extra from your profits to the kingdom.
If you are an inventor, geek or techno-savvy person, how can you use your invention/ideas/gifts to promote the gospel?
Thank you, Mr. Gutenberg, for inspiring me today!
Mark Altrogge works as a pastor at Sovereign Grace Church of Indiana, PA. This article first appeared on the website, The Blazing Center, and is used with permission.
