Publisher's Synopsis
Billy Bray (1794-1868) was a lively and passionate Cornish preacher known for his dramatic conversion and joyful ministry. Born in Cornwall, England, into a poor mining family, Bray followed in his father's footsteps as a miner. In his early years, he lived a rough and worldly life, heavily influenced by drinking and carousing. However, in 1823, after reading John Bunyan's Visions of Heaven and Hell, he experienced a profound Christian conversion. This transformation led him to leave behind his former ways and dedicate his life to spreading the Gospel with fervent enthusiasm. He joined the Bible Christian Church (a Methodist movement), later affiliating with the Wesleyans, and began preaching among miners and villagers across Cornwall.
Billy Bray became widely known for his exuberant style of worship, often punctuated with shouts of "Glory!" and spontaneous dancing during sermons. Despite lacking formal education or ordination, his sincere faith and joy won him admiration throughout the region. He built several chapels with his own hands, adopted children, and tirelessly visited the sick, poor, and imprisoned, sharing a message of hope and salvation. Though often mocked in his early ministry, he remained humble and undeterred, living in poverty and giving freely of what little he had. Upon his death in 1868, he was remembered as "God's glad man," a title that reflected both his enduring cheerfulness and deep spiritual conviction.
First published in 1871, The King's Son became an instant hit. The first printing sold out immediately, and the book has endured for more than a century through more than fifty reprints and adaptations. Walking Together Press is pleased to bring this true Christian classic to a new generation.
