Spanning some fifty-five years, John Wesley recorded his daily experiences in studying, teaching, preaching, and traveling throughout England and then America in the eighteenth century. These selections present an engrossing portrait of Wesley during the course of his travels and evangelistic activities, illuminating the preacher’s views and opinions on a host of contemporary matters.
Wesley’s eclectic interests and passion for rational analysis also make his journal a rich source for any reader interested in observing the conditions and values of society―particularly those of the lower classes―through the eyes of a well-educated and intelligent gentleman of the time.
John Wesley is recognized as the founder of Methodism. An acclaimed preacher, Wesley travelled extensively on horseback and drew large crowds for his outdoor sermons. A contemporary of William Wilberforce, Wesley was a strong voice opposing slavery in England and the United States. His influence upon modern Christianity can be seen by the large number of Methodist organizations in the Wesleyan tradition all over the world.
John Wesley's journal entries help the reader gain insight into the thoughts and emotions of a man, called by God to preach, write, evangelize and so much more. Nearly every waking moment was consumed by his effort to win lost souls for Jesus. That he was able to persevere the rigors and persecutions, and illnesses to travel and preach several times a day sometimes well into his 80s is a testimony of how God preserved this man Wesley. When his work was done, God called him home. Anyway, I found the book to be inspirational and a pleasant read. I would advise anyone entering the ministry to read and let this book feed your heart and encourage you.