George Verwer (1938–2023) was one of the most influential mission leaders of the twentieth century. He founded Operation Mobilisation (OM), a movement that has sent thousands of missionaries across the globe. His life reminds us that God can take an ordinary young boy and set his heart aflame to touch the world.
Featured Image: George Verwer
A Young Man Searching #
George Verwer grew up in New Jersey, USA. As a teenager, he was restless and searching. The turning point came in 1955 when he attended a Billy Graham crusade at Madison Square Garden in New York. That night, he surrendered his life to Christ, marking the beginning of a radical journey of faith.
But assurance of salvation did not come immediately. A few days later, while walking across a field to catch a bus to school, he was gripped with the full assurance of salvation. This deep conviction came after reading George Cutting’s classic booklet, Safety, Certainty, and Enjoyment for the Christian. Shortly after, Verwer also read Billy Graham’s bestseller, Peace with God: The Secret of Happiness (1953).
These writings, along with Billy Graham’s sermons and publications, shaped much of Verwer’s theological foundations. From that moment, he knew his life was not his own—he belonged wholly to Christ.
Timeline of George Verwer’s Life #
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1938 | Born in New Jersey, USA. |
| 1955 | Attended the Billy Graham crusade at Madison Square Garden, surrendered his life to Christ. |
| 1955–56 | Assurance of salvation after reading Safety, Certainty, and Enjoyment and Billy Graham’s Peace with God. |
| 1957 | As a student, he began distributing Christian literature and Bibles in Mexico with friends. |
| 1960 | Founded Send the Light (precursor to OM) while still a student at Moody Bible Institute. |
| 1961 | Moved to India as a missionary; vision for global mobilisation took root. |
| 1963 | Founded Operation Mobilisation (OM), focusing on evangelism, literature distribution, and discipleship. |
| 1970 | OM expanded worldwide; the ships ministry began, eventually reaching millions with the gospel. |
| 2003 | Retired as International Director of OM, continued speaking and mentoring leaders globally. |
| 2023 | Passed into glory on 14 April 2023, leaving behind a lasting legacy. |
What We Can Learn from George Verwer’s Life #
- The Power of the Written Word
A simple gospel booklet (Safety, Certainty, and Enjoyment) and a book (Peace with God) shaped Verwer’s destiny. Never underestimate how God can use one tract, one book, or one message to awaken eternal faith. “So faith comes from hearing [what is told], and what is heard comes by the [preaching of the] message concerning Christ.”
— Romans 10:17 (AMP) - The Urgency of Mission
Verwer often said that the gospel is too precious to keep to ourselves. His passion was not just to preach but to mobilise others. His cry was: “Why should anyone hear the gospel twice when so many have never heard it once?” - Weakness and Grace
Unlike many who try to present a polished version of themselves, Verwer was radically transparent. He spoke openly of his weaknesses, sins, and struggles, pointing always to God’s grace. This authenticity made his life even more compelling. - Mobilising the Ordinary
OM was not built on celebrity Christians or great orators. It was built on ordinary young people willing to give their all. This reflects 1 Corinthians 1:27: “But God has selected [for His purpose] the foolish things of the world to shame the wise…” (AMP)
Reflections for Us Today #
- One person’s obedience can ignite a movement. George Verwer’s surrender led to thousands being sent.
- Books still matter. A short gospel booklet changed his destiny—what we read and share today can shape someone’s eternity.
- Mission is for all believers. We may not all travel, but we are all called to carry Christ’s fragrance wherever we are.
Closing Thought #
George Verwer’s life was marked by passion, authenticity, and global vision. His story tells us that God delights to use weak vessels filled with His Spirit to carry His glory to the nations.
May we, like Verwer, live in the assurance of salvation, burn with the fire of mission, and never despise small beginnings.
In Christ,
GSS.
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Note: this post contains affiliate links: Peace with God: The Secret of Happiness
