Biography of E. W. Kenyon

E.W. Kenyon, a prominent figure in the early 20th-century Christian movement, was a man of deep faith and profound insight. His teachings, particularly on the power of positive confession, have impacted countless individuals and denominations.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

Born in 1867 in Hadley, New York, Kenyon’s spiritual journey began at the tender age of 17. A transformative experience in a Methodist prayer meeting ignited a fervent desire to deepen his relationship with God. His early twenties marked a significant milestone as he became a church member and delivered his inaugural sermon.

However, spiritual doubt and disillusionment followed, leading him away from the faith for two and a half years. In 1893, a profound spiritual awakening restored his faith, setting the stage for a remarkable ministry.

A Passion for Teaching and Ministry

Kenyon’s initial aspirations were in acting, and he pursued training at the Emerson School of Oratory in Boston. Yet, his true calling emerged as he dedicated his life to teaching and preaching the Word of God.

In 1898, he founded Bethel Bible Institute in Spencer, Massachusetts, where he served as president for 25 years. This institution became a beacon of spiritual enlightenment, nurturing countless individuals and shaping the course of Christian thought.

Download: E. W. Kenyon Books PDF

Published Works

Some of his published books are:

• The Father and His Family: The Story of Man’s Redemption (1916)
• The Wonderful Name of Jesus (1927)
• Kenyon’s Living Poems (1935)
• Signposts on the Road to Success (1938)
• The Two Kinds of Knowledge (1938)
• Jesus the Healer (1940)
• Identification: A Romance in Redemption (1941)
• New Kind of Love (1942)
• The Two Kinds of Faith (1942)
• The Two Kinds of Righteousness (1942)
• The Two Kinds of Life (1943)
• In His Presence: The Secret of Prayer (1944)
• New Creation Realities (1945)
• What Happened: From the Cross to the Throne (1945)
• The Blood Covenant (1949)
• The Hidden Man: The New Self: An Unveiling of the Unconscious Mind (1951)
• Basic Bible Course: The Bible in the Light of our Redemption (1969)
• Advanced Bible Course: Studies in the Deeper Life (1970)
• Personal Evangelism Course (2012)
• What We are in Christ (2013) Compiled and Edited by Joe McIntyre

Reprints:

• A New Type of Christianity (CrossReach Publications, 2016)
• Claiming Our Rights (CrossReach Publications, 2015)

The Power of Positive Confession

Kenyon’s most enduring legacy lies in his teachings on the power of positive confession. This doctrine, rooted in the Bible, emphasizes the transformative potential of speaking God’s Word into one’s life. By declaring God’s promises and aligning thoughts with His divine will, believers can experience miraculous transformations in their circumstances.

While some have attributed Kenyon’s teachings to the New Thought Movement, it is essential to note that his theology was firmly grounded in biblical principles. He drew inspiration from the Holiness Movement, Faith Cure, and Higher Life movements, which emphasized the importance of faith, healing, and spiritual growth.

A Controversial Legacy

Kenyon’s teachings have been both celebrated and criticized. Some have questioned the extent of his influence on the modern Word of Faith movement, particularly about the concept of positive confession. While it is clear that Kenyon was a significant figure in the development of this theology, the precise nature of his impact remains a subject of debate.

A Lasting Impact

Despite the controversies surrounding his legacy, E.W. Kenyon’s teachings continue to inspire and empower believers worldwide. His emphasis on the power of God’s Word and the importance of a positive, faith-filled mindset has left an indelible mark on the Christian church.

As we reflect on the life and ministry of E.W. Kenyon, we are reminded of the transformative power of faith and the enduring nature of God’s Word. His teachings serve as a timeless reminder that through faith and positive confession, we can experience the fullness of God’s blessings.