Date of Birth: November 18, 1800
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Date of Death: April 29, 1882
Biography
John Nelson Darby was a prominent 19th-century Anglo-Irish clergyman, known as the father of modern Dispensationalism and a significant figure in the Plymouth Brethren movement. Born into a wealthy family in London, Darby was educated at Westminster School and then at Trinity College, Dublin, where he excelled in his studies and graduated with high honors in 1819. Initially pursuing a career in law, Darby soon felt a spiritual calling and was ordained as a deacon in the Church of Ireland in 1825 and as a priest in 1826. Disillusioned with the state church’s hierarchy and doctrines, Darby became a leading figure in the Plymouth Brethren, advocating for a return to early Christian practices with no formal clergy or liturgy. His theological contributions, particularly the concept of the Rapture and the dispensation of human history, have had a lasting impact on evangelical Christianity, particularly in the United States. Darby was also a prolific writer and translator, producing a vast array of theological works and a new translation of the Bible, the “Darby Bible.” He traveled extensively, teaching and establishing Brethren assemblies across Europe and North America, and his writings continue to influence Christian thought today.
5 Interesting Facts about John Nelson Darby
1. John Nelson Darby is often credited with the popularization of the Pre-Tribulation Rapture doctrine within Evangelical Christianity.
2. He was a skilled linguist, translating the Bible into French, German, and English.
3. Darby was originally trained as a lawyer before turning to a religious vocation.
4. His influence extended beyond theology; he was a notable hymn writer and composed several hymns still sung today.
5. Darby was a founding member of the Plymouth Brethren, a movement that emphasized simplicity and a return to New Testament church practices.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Nelson Darby
1. “The presence of the Lord is the joy of His people.”
2. “The Christian is not of the world; his citizenship is in heaven.”
3. “Christ is the root and foundation of the Church.”
4. “It is God’s rest, and not our own, we are to find.”
5. “The knowledge of God’s love is the only thing that can set the heart at liberty.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Not applicable; Darby was known for his modest lifestyle and did not accumulate significant personal wealth.
Children
John Nelson Darby did not marry and had no children. He dedicated his life entirely to his religious work and theological studies.
Relevant Links
1. [Biography of John Nelson Darby](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Nelson_Darby
2. [The Plymouth Brethren](https://www.britannica.com/topic/Plymouth-Brethren
3. [Darby Bible Translation](https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/Darby-Translation-DBY-Bible/
5. [Hymns by John Nelson Darby](https://hymnary.org/person/Darby_JN
