E.W. Kenyon was an influential American pastor, Bible teacher, author, and theologian best known for shaping what later became the Word of Faith movement. His teachings on faith, confession, redemption, and the believer’s authority have impacted millions across generations. Through his books, sermons, and Bible institutes, Kenyon helped believers understand their identity in Christ and walk in practical, victorious Christian living.
Quick Facts about E.W. Kenyon
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Essek William Kenyon |
| Date of Birth | April 25, 1867 |
| Age at Death | 79 years old |
| Year of Death | 1948 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Bible Teacher, Evangelist |
| Ministry | New Covenant Baptist Church, Kenyon’s Gospel Publishing Society |
| Spouse | Evva Spurling Kenyon |
| Children | Ruth Kenyon |
| Known For | Teachings on faith, confession, redemption, new creation realities |
Early Life and Background
Childhood and Family Foundation
Essek William Kenyon was born on April 25, 1867, in Saratoga County, New York. Raised in a modest family environment, Kenyon developed an early curiosity for spiritual matters. Although he grew up with limited formal education, he possessed a remarkable intellectual curiosity that fueled his later theological influence.
Education and Personal Development
Kenyon attended school irregularly as a child, but his passion for learning pushed him to explore subjects like literature, philosophy, and Scripture. His early teenage years were marked by personal struggles, an interest in public speaking, and exposure to revivalist movements sweeping through America at the time.
Conversion and Call to Ministry
Encounter with Christ
At age 17, Kenyon experienced a life-changing conversion after attending a revival meeting. This spiritual encounter ignited a desire to preach the gospel and help others experience the transforming power of Christ.
Early Ministry
After his conversion, Kenyon began teaching and preaching within local churches. His passion for biblical understanding grew, leading him to study Scripture with unusual depth. He became known for his clarity, simplicity, and ability to break down complex theological ideas.
Ministry and Career
Pastoral Leadership
Kenyon pastored several congregations, including New Covenant Baptist Church in Seattle. His ministry centered on Bible teaching, discipleship, and the believer’s identity in Christ. Members admired his strong emphasis on faith, redemption, and spiritual authority.
Founding of Bible Institutes
Kenyon founded the Bethel Bible Institute in Spencer, Massachusetts. The institute trained Christians in evangelism, biblical studies, and Christian service. His teaching style combined theology with practical application, making his programs highly influential.
Kenyon’s Gospel Publishing Society
One of Kenyon’s greatest legacies is the publishing ministry he established to distribute his teachings. The organization continues to print and circulate his books worldwide to this day.
Writing Ministry
E.W. Kenyon was a prolific author. Some of his most influential books include:
- “The Authority of the Believer”
- “Two Kinds of Faith”
- “Two Kinds of Righteousness”
- “The New Creation Realities”
- “In His Presence”
- “The Hidden Man”
- “Signposts on the Road to Success”
These books shaped global Christian thought, laying the foundation for what later became the Word of Faith movement.
Teachings and Theological Emphasis
New Creation Realities
One of Kenyon’s greatest contributions is his teaching on the believer’s identity in Christ. He emphasized that Christians are spiritually renewed and empowered to live victorious lives.
Confession and Faith
Kenyon taught that believers should align their words with God’s Word. He believed confession activates faith and brings spiritual truth into daily experience.
Redemption and Christ’s Substitutionary Work
Kenyon consistently highlighted the finished work of Christ and the believer’s authority flowing from redemption.
Influence on Modern Ministries
Kenyon’s teachings later influenced major Christian leaders, including:
- Kenneth Hagin
- Kenneth Copeland
- Fred Price
- T.L. Osborn
Through them, Kenyon’s theological foundations spread across the world.
Family and Personal Life
Marriage
E.W. Kenyon married Evva Spurling Kenyon, a dedicated partner who supported his ministry and publishing work.
Children
The couple had one daughter, Ruth Kenyon, who later played a major role in managing his publication society after his death.
Personal Character
Kenyon was known for his gentle personality, intellectual depth, humility, and deep devotion to Scripture. His disciplined study habits shaped his ministry for decades.
Achievements and Legacy
Global Influence
Kenyon’s books continue to sell worldwide and are used in Bible schools, churches, and personal discipleship programs.
Doctrinal Impact
His teachings remain foundational in:
- Word of Faith churches
- Charismatic and Pentecostal ministries
- Healing and deliverance ministries
Continued Publishing
His publishing society still distributes his sermons and books globally, ensuring that generations continue to learn from his writings.
E.W. Kenyon Net Worth
At the time of his death in 1948, E.W. Kenyon’s financial wealth was modest. However, his intellectual and spiritual contributions have produced enormous impact worldwide. His income came mainly from pastoral work, Bible school leadership, and book publishing—not personal wealth accumulation.
Today, his books continue to generate revenue for his publishing ministry, but Kenyon himself lived a life primarily dedicated to ministry rather than financial gain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In this section, I will provide you with some FAQs and answers on E.W. Kenyon Biography. Keep on reading, friend!
1. Who was E.W. Kenyon?
E.W. Kenyon was an American pastor, author, evangelist, and Bible teacher known for shaping many foundational teachings of the Word of Faith movement.
2. When was E.W. Kenyon born?
He was born on April 25, 1867.
3. How old was E.W. Kenyon when he died?
He was 79 years old.
4. What is E.W. Kenyon known for?
He is known for teaching on faith, confession, redemption, and new creation realities.
5. Was E.W. Kenyon married?
Yes, he was married to Evva Spurling Kenyon.
6. Did he have children?
Yes, he had one daughter, Ruth Kenyon.
7. What is E.W. Kenyon’s net worth?
His net worth was modest; he lived primarily for ministry, writing, and gospel teaching rather than wealth accumulation.
8. What books did E.W. Kenyon write?
He authored several influential books, including “The Hidden Man,” “Two Kinds of Faith,” “The New Creation Realities,” and more.
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