Listening to the Giants

Throughout this month, this blog will examine certain “snapshots” of George Whitefield, which I hope will bring a deeper appreciation for this servant and a greater love for the God whom he gave his life to. Until I read this biography about Whitefield I basically knew two things about the Methodist church, John Wesley and arminianism. And yet one of the “buried treasures” of church history is Whitefield’s discharge of his branch of Methodism (which was Calvinistic and more popular). The quote below frames this incredible event. “It is impossible to conceive what would have been the result if Whitefield and Harris had continued active chiefs of the Calvinistic Methodists. The plain facts are these: within two months after his return from America in 1748, Whitefield determined to put an end to his official relationship to Calvinistic Methodists: this determination was gradually carried out: and during the last twenty years of his life he occupied a new position.” (p. 150) So what ...

Throughout the next few weeks, this blog will examine certain “snapshots” of George Whitefield, which I hope will bring a deeper appreciation for this servant and a greater love for the God whom he gave his life to. Why should you care about the life and ministry of George Whitefield? 1)       He was one of the first in history to do open air preaching. 2)       He was part of the Holy Club (included John and Charles Wesley). 3)       He was arguably one of the greatest preachers in all of human history. 4)       His theological conflicts with John Wesley led to modern day Methodism. 5)       His perspective on denominational loyalty is balanced and refreshing. 6)       His choice of a spouse was unique and the events surrounding it even more noteworthy. 7)       His gifts as an evangelist d...