This Is That: The Experiences, Sermons and Writings of Aimee Semple McPherson

by Aimee Semple McPherson, Douglas Harrolf (Editor)

Preacher, mother and founder of the Foresquare Church in Los Angeles, Aimee Semple McPherson is one of the world's most revered evangelists ever to have lived. A pioneer of the modern-day Pentecostal movement, she preached a gospel of love for Jesus and an openess to the Holy Spirit; the manifestations of which were clearly visible in her ministry. Everywhere she went the sick were healed, sinners saved and backsliders came running down the aisles re-commiting their lives to God. Such was the attention that she picked up from this, both within the Christian community and through the media - something she cleverly used to her advantage - that in every meeting there would be standing room only. At one point when crowds reached 30,000 people, the National Guard were called in to retain order. This is that is Aimee Semple McPherson's own book; her words carrying on her ministry even to this day. It tells of her personal conversion, her baptism in the Holy Spirit and her calling to the ministry. Aimee then provides her teaching on all things spiritual, particularly those relating to the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues. Finally the book closes with testimonies from those touched by her and a few prophetic words. Originally published in 1919, this edition has been edited and re-formatted.

520 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1923

About the author

Aimee Elizabeth Semple McPherson (née Kennedy; October 9, 1890 – September 27, 1944), also known as Sister Aimee or Sister, was a Canadian-born American Pentecostal evangelist and media celebrity in the 1920s and 1930s, famous for founding the Foursquare Church. McPherson pioneered the use of broadcast mass media for wider dissemination of both religious services and appeals for donations, using radio to draw both audience and revenue with the growing appeal of popular entertainment and incorporating stage techniques into her weekly sermons at Angelus Temple, an early megachurch.

In her time, she was the most publicized Protestant evangelist, surpassing Billy Sunday and other predecessors. She conducted public faith healing demonstrations involving tens of thousands of participants. McPherson's view of the United States as a nation founded and sustained by divine inspiration influenced later pastors.

National news coverage focused on events surrounding her family and church members, including accusations that she fabricated her reported kidnapping. McPherson's preaching style, extensive charity work, and ecumenical contributions were major influences on 20th-century Charismatic Christianity.

[Excerpted from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aimee_S...]

Reviews

[Ken Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Comprehensive record of the life and ministry of Aimee Semple McPherson. Details how she literally laid down her life to bring as many as possible the life-saving gospel of Jesus Christ. Includes a record of a number of her sermons that reflect her unique view of the world of the time. Any reader who is devoted to preaching the gospel will find an encouragement from one who made it her life's work.

[Caitlin Streit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book

This is one of the most inspiring books I have read. Powerful ministry and work. Simple yet profound . I quite enjoyed it.

[Heather Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book! It is the autobiography of Aimee Semple McPherson. The book is over 500 pgs. but definately worth the read. The first half of her book is her story. She has a fantastic testamony. Her words resinate with me even now in modern day. The last half of the book are considered her best sermons and the very end of her book has prophecies, words of knowledge, prayers, poems, songs, etc. that were given to her by the Holy Spirit. It is by far her best copolation of her life story and ministry within one book. If there are any women out there searching for their place in ministry, her book will definately be an encouragement to you. It was a blessing to me.

[Ken Kuhlken · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aimee Semple McPherson is one of the most fascinating characters I have encountered, either in person or in books. In this huge volume, she tells the story of her youth. She published the book in 1923, when she was in her early thirties and had already gathered together legions of followers, and before the "kidnapping" of 1926 that would haunt the rest of her career.

She's a bombastic, passionate, often florid writer. But those who can read while suspending critical judgment will find her charming, and unique. I especially enjoy her delightfully quirky sermons.