Maria Woodworth-Etter was a spiritual pioneer, a bold preacher, and a mighty evangelist in a time when women were rarely seen in pulpits. Born in 1844 in Ohio, she rose from a life marked by tragedy to become one of the most anointed and controversial revivalists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Often referred to as a “woman of signs and wonders,” her ministry laid the foundation for what would later become known as Pentecostalism.
Breaking Barriers with Bold Faith
At a time when the idea of a woman preaching was not only controversial but considered unscriptural by many, Maria Woodworth-Etter stepped into her calling with divine boldness. After a series of personal losses, including the deaths of several of her children and a troubled marriage, she turned wholeheartedly to God and began preaching at revival meetings.
Her meetings were known for deep conviction, repentance, physical healings, and the supernatural manifestations of the Holy Spirit. Thousands came to Christ through her ministry. People would fall under the power of God, have visions, speak in tongues, and report miraculous healings.
A Forerunner of the Pentecostal Movement
Maria was known for her unshakable faith and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Long before the Azusa Street Revival, she was holding massive tent revivals across the Midwest and South. She authored several books and published a regular newsletter titled Signs and Wonders, which chronicled the miraculous testimonies from her ministry.
Famous Quotes from Maria Woodworth-Etter
Here are some of her most powerful and timeless quotes:
“Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. What He did when He was on earth, He is doing today through the Holy Ghost.”
“The Holy Ghost will give power to speak as well as to work. The tongue is an unruly member, but the Spirit can bring it under control.”
“When the fire of God falls, there will be manifestations, but they will be holy, not fleshly.”
“The Lord is pouring out His Spirit upon all flesh. We are living in the last days and must be filled with the Holy Ghost for service.”
“Faith is the key to the storehouse of God’s power.”
Her Legacy Lives On
Though often overlooked in history books, Maria Woodworth-Etter’s impact on the modern church is undeniable. She paved the way for generations of women in ministry and inspired many early Pentecostal leaders. Her life was a demonstration of what God can do through a yielded vessel—regardless of gender or social expectation.
Today, many still read her sermons, study her life, and seek the same Spirit-filled fire that defined her ministry. She remains a beacon of revival power, uncompromising faith, and fearless obedience to God’s call.
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