Andrew Fuller turns 268 today.
In recent years there has been a growing interest in Andrew Fuller’s lasting impact upon Baptist theology, spirituality, and identity, yet this interest is, in the words of John Ryland, “in no degree attributable to adventitious aids of birth or education.” While his pedigree included those who had suffered for the cause of Christ, the opportunities afforded to him were no more “than [what was] open to the son of any farmer in the middle of the [eighteenth century].”
Given the humbleness of his earthly origins, there is much to be admired about Andrew Fuller. And beyond the nourishment that one will most certainly derive from reading his biblical expositions, ordination sermons, and affectionate correspondence, Andrew Fuller continues be an exemplar to those who faithfully seek to advance the cause of the gospel amidst the difficulties of their own age.
Irrespective of background, the details of Fuller’s beginnings juxtaposed to the size his impact remind those entrusted with the apostolic message that faithfulness has rippling effects through the centuries—whether or not one’s name receives birthday wishes when they turn 268.