Ted Engstrom Quotes

Powerful Ted Engstrom for Daily Growth

About Ted Engstrom

Ted Engstrom (1928-1992) was an influential American evangelist, author, and Christian apologist, known for his significant contributions to the field of evangelicalism. Born on February 4, 1928, in Portland, Oregon, Engstrom grew up in a devout Swedish-American family that instilled in him a deep love for God and the church. After graduating from Northwest Nazarene College (now University) with a degree in psychology, Engstrom went on to earn a Master of Divinity degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. His education laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to evangelism, discipleship, and Christian leadership. Engstrom's professional career began in 1956 when he joined the staff at Campus Crusade for Christ (now Cru). He quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the organization's international director. During his tenure, he helped expand Campus Crusade's reach and influence around the world. One of Engstrom's most notable works is "The Four Spiritual Laws," a Christian evangelism tract that has been translated into hundreds of languages. This simple yet powerful tool has been instrumental in introducing millions to the Gospel message. In addition to his work with Campus Crusade, Engstom wrote numerous books, including "Inductive Bible Study" and "The Barrier of Unbelief." These works have had a profound impact on evangelical thought and practice. Engstrom's influence extended beyond written words, as he was also an accomplished public speaker. His dynamic style and deep spiritual insights made him a sought-after figure in the evangelical world. Ted Engstrom passed away on January 20, 1992. However, his legacy continues to live on through his books, teachings, and the countless lives he touched during his lifetime. His work has left an indelible mark on evangelicalism and continues to inspire new generations of Christians around the world.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Evangelism is just one beggar telling another beggar where he found bread."

This quote by Ted Engstrom emphasizes that sharing faith (evangelism) arises out of a personal, genuine experience of finding "bread" or spiritual fulfillment. The speaker, like any other "beggar," is not in a position to give what they do not possess; hence, they can only share the source of their own sustenance. In essence, it's one person who has found hope and salvation telling another about where they too may find similar spiritual nourishment. The quote highlights the personal and relatable nature of evangelism, as both the sharer and receiver are in a state of spiritual need seeking satisfaction.


"The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed."

This quote by Ted Engstrom underscores the obligation and urgency that Christians feel in spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ, as instructed in the Bible's Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). In other words, it emphasizes that sharing the gospel message is not just a choice or an optional activity, but a crucial and binding command from God. It encourages believers to take action without hesitation or delay in fulfilling this divine mandate.


"If a person gets saved, everything about him gets saved - his mind, his attitude, his actions, and all of his relationships."

This quote by Ted Engstrom suggests that when an individual experiences salvation, it is not just a change in their spiritual life but also encompasses their entire being – their thoughts, feelings, behavior, and relationships with others. In other words, a transformed heart leads to a transformed life, impacting every aspect of the person's existence. This holistic transformation is a central belief in many faith traditions.


"Successful evangelism is not the result of the amount of work done, but of the reality of Christ in the life and ministry of the evangelist."

This quote by Ted Engstrom highlights that the key to successful evangelism (sharing the Christian faith) lies not in the amount of effort or work one puts in, but rather in the authenticity and depth of the personal relationship with Christ that the evangelist possesses. In other words, it suggests that a genuine, transformative encounter with Christ is what makes a person an effective evangelist, as opposed to relying solely on eloquence, persistence, or other external factors.


"Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength."

This quote emphasizes that excessive worrying does not solve future problems, but instead drains our energy and strength in the present moment. It encourages us to focus on the here and now, investing our resources in living fully and productively rather than dwelling on potential difficulties that lie ahead.


The rewards for those who persevere far exceed the pain that must precede the victory.

- Ted Engstrom

Pain, Persevere, Far, Exceed

Anything that is wasted effort represents wasted time. The best management of our time thus becomes linked inseparably with the best utilization of our efforts.

- Ted Engstrom

Best, Effort, Thus, Utilization

What do you want to get done? In what order of importance? Over what period of time? What is the time available? What is the best strategy for application of time to projects for the most effective results?

- Ted Engstrom

Over, Projects, Period, Strategy

We must expect to fail... but fail in a learning posture, determined no to repeat the mistakes, and to maximize the benefits from what is learned in the process.

- Ted Engstrom

Process, Benefits, Learned, Posture

Excellence is a process that should occupy all our days.

- Ted Engstrom

Excellence, Process, Should, Occupy

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