Northwestern Bible School - Scroll Yearbook (Minneapolis, MN)

Page 24 text:

STATESMAN WILLIAM EWART GLADSTONE 18-09—1898 LOVINGLY called ' The Grand Old Man, William Ewart Gladstone is uni¬ versally acknowledged, not only as a great statesman, an accomplished writer, and an outstanding theologian, but also as one of the most conse- crated of Christian leaders. Born in Liverpool, England, he attended Eton College and Christ Church, Oxford, where his brilliance in politics and oratory was recognized, and from which he graduated with high honors. A leader of the liberal party, he sat in Parliament for many years, and held the office of Prime Minister three times. He defended the Irish Church and State and became the author of many bills in their behalf. One who knew him writes: Christian faith was the sublimest of the elements that entered into the man. In it is found the climax of his character, the secret of his conduct, the surety of his temporal and eternal success. When ques¬ tioned about the condition of the age, Gladstone said: Talk about questions of the day; there is but one question, and that is the Gospel. It can, and will correct anything that needs correction. The only hope for the world is in bringing the human mind into contact with divine revelation. In all of his associations and administrations, he was essentially Christian, and he was loved for his kindness to the common people. His housekeeper had a son who was a cause of heartbreak and worry to his mother because of his waywardness. She timidly asked Mr. Gladstone if he could do something, for she felt his advice would be heeded. In an¬ swer to her request, he admonished the young man, knelt and prayed with him, committing him to the Lord, who will save those who come unto Him ' As he grew older, he was asked if his faith ever wavered. He replied, The longer 1 live, the stronger grows my faith in God. Mr. Gladstone was dearly beloved of all the people who knew him. His spiritual life was known to every one, and his influence was felt throughout the country. The world lost not only a great statesman, but also a con¬ secrated Christian, when Mr. Gladstone passed into the presence of the Lord, whom he loved so dearly.