Maria Woodworth-Etter (1844–1924) was an American Pentecostal evangelist, healing evangelist, and one of the most prominent figures in the early days of the Pentecostal movement. She is remembered for her powerful ministry, which combined divine healing, prophetic messages, and her intense spiritual experiences, including entering into trances. Here’s an overview of her life and ministry:
Trance and Spiritual Experiences:
Maria Woodworth-Etter is well-known for falling into a trance during her ministry. This trance-like state was often accompanied by visions, powerful spiritual revelations, and dramatic manifestations of the Holy Spirit. While in these trances, she would often have profound spiritual encounters, during which people would be healed, delivered from demonic oppression, and experience deep emotional breakthroughs. These experiences were part of her ministry that set her apart and helped solidify her reputation.
She would enter these trances in the midst of her preaching or praying, and her body would become immobile while her spirit seemed to be in direct contact with God. These trances were sometimes described as a manifestation of God’s power, and she believed they allowed her to communicate divine messages to the audience.
Famous Quotes:
Maria Woodworth-Etter was a fiery preacher, and she shared many profound statements that have stuck with her legacy. Here are some of her famous quotes:
-
“God wants to bring us into the same kind of anointing He brought to Jesus when He walked on the earth.”
-
“The power of God is still the same, and it will do today for the sick and the suffering what it did when Jesus was on the earth.”
-
“If you are willing to pay the price, God will use you mightily.”
-
“God has no favorites, He will do for you what He has done for others.”
Her words emphasized the powerful working of the Holy Spirit, the possibility of divine healing, and the importance of consecration and obedience to God.
Legacy and Influence:
Woodworth-Etter is considered one of the pioneers of the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements in the United States. Her ministry was marked by large-scale evangelistic meetings where people were healed of physical and spiritual ailments. Thousands of people were reportedly healed during her services. She had a significant impact on the early Pentecostal revival, and her influence can still be felt today, particularly in Pentecostal and Charismatic circles.
She was one of the first to teach about the manifestation of the gifts of the Spirit, particularly the gift of healing, in such a dynamic way. Her teachings laid a foundation for many of the Pentecostal practices that would later be central to the movement, including faith healing, prophecy, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
In addition to her healing services, Woodworth-Etter was a prominent figure in the early women’s ministry within the Pentecostal movement, breaking through gender barriers to become an authoritative voice in a largely male-dominated movement.
Healing Ministry:
Woodworth-Etter’s healing ministry was one of the cornerstones of her legacy. Her ministry was known for dramatic physical healings. People with all sorts of ailments, including blindness, paralysis, and even terminal illnesses, were reported to have been healed during her services. She would often lay hands on the sick, pray for them, and they would be miraculously healed.
Her healing ministry was not just about physical healing but also emotional and spiritual healing. She believed that faith and prayer could bring complete restoration to individuals—spirit, soul, and body.
Conclusion:
Maria Woodworth-Etter is remembered as a trailblazer in the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements. Her life was marked by supernatural experiences, powerful preaching, and a deep belief in God’s ability to heal and transform lives. She was a pivotal figure for women in ministry and one of the first to boldly proclaim the work of the Holy Spirit through healing and prophecy, leaving an enduring legacy in the Pentecostal church.
