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George Whitefield: God's Anointed Servant in the Great Revival of the Eighteenth Century
God's accomplishments through George Whitefield are to this day virtually unparalleled. Even during his lifetime Whitefield was considered "the most brilliant and popular preacher the modern world has ever known." In the wake of his fearless preaching, revival swept across the British Isles, and the Great Awakening transformed the American colonies. When Whitefield died at age 55, he had preached 30,000 sermons. His hearers included not only the poor and the uneducated, but prominent English aristocrats and American statesmen such as David Hume and Benjamin Franklin. Christians today continue to take courage from Whitefield's humility and deep spirituality. A founder of Methodism, he yielded his leadership to John Wesley rather than risk splitting the movement, thus revealing his fervent commitment to the gospel of Christ rather than to personal plans or hopes. The previous two-volume work, receiving critical praise and popular acceptance, is here condensed into one magnificent volume. A great inspiration to the followers of Jesus Christ in today's pressured world. "Perhaps the single most inspiring biography published in English in the 20th century. A masterful work." --Sherwood Eliot Wirt, founding editor, Decision magazine "I feel a permanent debt of gratitude to Dr. Dallimore. His wonderful two-volume study of Whitefield is one of the great biographies of the Christian Church. I share his hope that many more Christians will find this shorter version as enjoyable and stimulating!" --Sinclair B. Ferguson, Westminster Theological Seminary "This condensation of the author's classic two-volume edition contains 23 fast-moving chapters of highly interesting material. A powerful rendering of a life wholly consecrated to God." --G.A. Adams, Principal, Toronto Baptist Seminary
224 pages, Paperback
First published March 20, 1990
104 people are currently reading
606 people want to read
About the author
Arnold A. Dallimore
20 books29 followersArnold A. Dallimore (1911-1998) was born in Canada of British parents. He was pastor of the Baptist Church at Cottam, Ontario, for almost twenty-four years. During his studies at Central Baptist Seminary, Toronto, he was awakened to a life-long interest in the great evangelist George Whitefield, whose biography he was to write (2 volumes, published by the Trust). He also wrote biographies of Edward Irving, the forerunner of the charismatic movement, Susannah Wesley and C. H. Spurgeon, whose preaching at the Metropolitan Tabernacle was frequently attended by his maternal grandfather and his mother (as a small child).
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January 29, 2013
The 18th Century produced evangelicalism’s greatest theologian (Jonathan Edwards), evangelist (George Whitefield), organizer (John Wesley), and songwriter (Charles Wesley). These four represent evangelicalism at its best: trans-Atlantic cooperation across theological lines, a burning zeal for evangelism, and a concomitant commitment to social reform (especially in John Wesley’s case). But they also evince the deepest theological fault line within evangelicalism, between Calvinists and Arminians, and demonstrate the ongoing tensions between the church and parachurch ministries.
Edwards, being dead, still speaks through reprints of his works and the veritable cottage industry of explaining and applying them to today’s concerns. John Wesley lives on through numerous denominations—Methodist, Wesleyan, Holiness—that trace their origins, in one way or another, to his labors, and through Christian small groups that, wittingly or not, perpetuate aspects of his societies, bands, and classes. And we sing Charles Wesley’s hymns, though not often enough—at least for my taste.
Whitefield, on the other hand, has been largely neglected. This is odd, for Whitefield arguably did more to promote trans-Atlantic evangelicalism than any of his peers, working with an ecumenical cast of Anglicans, Baptists, Congregationalists, Independents, and Presbyterians. Though a Calvinist—and for a period of time in deep dispute with the Wesleys over their Arminianism—he worked with Arminian evangelicals. He preached as often—if not more often—than John Wesley, and to larger crowds. He pioneered many of the techniques that Wesley perfected—e.g., open-air preaching, circuit riding, religious societies. Indeed, in his own time, he was often referred to as “the Founder of Methodism.”
Over the course of three decades, Arnold A. Dallimore sought to rectify this neglect of Whitefield. In 1970, he published the first volume of George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist of the Eighteenth Century (Banner of Truth). He published the second volume in 1980. In 1990, Crossway published the one-volume abridgement of the biography under review here. It was reprinted in 2010 with a new cover. Crossway also published The Sermons of George Whitefield in 2012.
I hope to review The Sermons soon, but for now let me say something about Dallimore’s abridged biography. It is a self-conscious hagiography of the great evangelist. I use the word hagiography literally, for after reviewing Whitefield’s life and labors, Dallimore writes: “George Whitefield was a holy man” (p. 200). A Christian reader of George Whitefield—at least an evangelical Protestant reader—will likely come to the same conclusion. Whitefield’s zeal for evangelism, concern for the poor, personal philanthropy, and courage in the face of mobs mark him out as a deeply Christian man. By outlining the course of his life and ministry, Dallimore has performed a signal service for evangelical readers.
By nature, hagiographies are not critical biographies, however. They describe a life in order to inspire emulation. But this description has an apologetic cast to it. Throughout this book, for example, Dallimore compares and contrasts Whitefield and John Wesley, often to the latter’s detriment. (Charles Wesley comes out better because he was personally closer to Whitefield than his brother John.) His treatment of Whitefield is defensive, as if he mourns the spotlight historians have shown on John rather than George. He sees faults in Whitefield: emotionalism in his early ministry, not to mention a critique of Christian ministers whom he felt were not personally born again or whose ministries were insufficiently evangelical. “His chief fault,” Dallimore avers, “was his condoning the practice of slavery, the one dark blot on his otherwise spotless record.” A critical biography would examine these topics in more detail. If Dallimore does examine them more closely in his two-volume biography, he has chosen not to include the results of that examination here.
And there are topics that might interest modern readers. In The Divine Dramatist, Harry S. Stout explores Whitefield’s self-promotion and theatricality. In The Accidental Revolutionary, Jerome Dean Mahaffey explores the political effects of Whitefield’s ministry in the American colonies. How Whitefield innovated the practice of evangelism and what effect those innovations have on contemporary evangelicals is interesting to me, as a church leader. And as an American, I’m interested in the ways religion influenced the cause of revolution. But these topics go unremarked upon (at least in the abridgement).
I make these critical remarks of George Whitefield not because I didn’t enjoy the book or wouldn’t recommend it. I did, and I would. Rather, I make them because readers should know what to expect from Dallimore’s work. It will give them a good outline of the chronology and major events in Whitefield’s life. And it should inspire readers—at least if they are evangelical—to greater personal holiness, zeal for the lost, and desire to do as much good in this life as God enables one to do. If you profit from this book, by all means read the two-volume version, which explores issues in greater depth. Nonetheless, Dallimore’s biography is not the whole picture. If your interest is more broadly historical, you’ll need to supplement your reading with critical biographies such as the ones I’ve mentioned above.
Edwards, being dead, still speaks through reprints of his works and the veritable cottage industry of explaining and applying them to today’s concerns. John Wesley lives on through numerous denominations—Methodist, Wesleyan, Holiness—that trace their origins, in one way or another, to his labors, and through Christian small groups that, wittingly or not, perpetuate aspects of his societies, bands, and classes. And we sing Charles Wesley’s hymns, though not often enough—at least for my taste.
Whitefield, on the other hand, has been largely neglected. This is odd, for Whitefield arguably did more to promote trans-Atlantic evangelicalism than any of his peers, working with an ecumenical cast of Anglicans, Baptists, Congregationalists, Independents, and Presbyterians. Though a Calvinist—and for a period of time in deep dispute with the Wesleys over their Arminianism—he worked with Arminian evangelicals. He preached as often—if not more often—than John Wesley, and to larger crowds. He pioneered many of the techniques that Wesley perfected—e.g., open-air preaching, circuit riding, religious societies. Indeed, in his own time, he was often referred to as “the Founder of Methodism.”
Over the course of three decades, Arnold A. Dallimore sought to rectify this neglect of Whitefield. In 1970, he published the first volume of George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist of the Eighteenth Century (Banner of Truth). He published the second volume in 1980. In 1990, Crossway published the one-volume abridgement of the biography under review here. It was reprinted in 2010 with a new cover. Crossway also published The Sermons of George Whitefield in 2012.
I hope to review The Sermons soon, but for now let me say something about Dallimore’s abridged biography. It is a self-conscious hagiography of the great evangelist. I use the word hagiography literally, for after reviewing Whitefield’s life and labors, Dallimore writes: “George Whitefield was a holy man” (p. 200). A Christian reader of George Whitefield—at least an evangelical Protestant reader—will likely come to the same conclusion. Whitefield’s zeal for evangelism, concern for the poor, personal philanthropy, and courage in the face of mobs mark him out as a deeply Christian man. By outlining the course of his life and ministry, Dallimore has performed a signal service for evangelical readers.
By nature, hagiographies are not critical biographies, however. They describe a life in order to inspire emulation. But this description has an apologetic cast to it. Throughout this book, for example, Dallimore compares and contrasts Whitefield and John Wesley, often to the latter’s detriment. (Charles Wesley comes out better because he was personally closer to Whitefield than his brother John.) His treatment of Whitefield is defensive, as if he mourns the spotlight historians have shown on John rather than George. He sees faults in Whitefield: emotionalism in his early ministry, not to mention a critique of Christian ministers whom he felt were not personally born again or whose ministries were insufficiently evangelical. “His chief fault,” Dallimore avers, “was his condoning the practice of slavery, the one dark blot on his otherwise spotless record.” A critical biography would examine these topics in more detail. If Dallimore does examine them more closely in his two-volume biography, he has chosen not to include the results of that examination here.
And there are topics that might interest modern readers. In The Divine Dramatist, Harry S. Stout explores Whitefield’s self-promotion and theatricality. In The Accidental Revolutionary, Jerome Dean Mahaffey explores the political effects of Whitefield’s ministry in the American colonies. How Whitefield innovated the practice of evangelism and what effect those innovations have on contemporary evangelicals is interesting to me, as a church leader. And as an American, I’m interested in the ways religion influenced the cause of revolution. But these topics go unremarked upon (at least in the abridgement).
I make these critical remarks of George Whitefield not because I didn’t enjoy the book or wouldn’t recommend it. I did, and I would. Rather, I make them because readers should know what to expect from Dallimore’s work. It will give them a good outline of the chronology and major events in Whitefield’s life. And it should inspire readers—at least if they are evangelical—to greater personal holiness, zeal for the lost, and desire to do as much good in this life as God enables one to do. If you profit from this book, by all means read the two-volume version, which explores issues in greater depth. Nonetheless, Dallimore’s biography is not the whole picture. If your interest is more broadly historical, you’ll need to supplement your reading with critical biographies such as the ones I’ve mentioned above.
July 13, 2024
My pastor once recommended that every third book that I read be one written outside of our generation. This biography of George Whitfield illustrates why that is.
The character of this man is an inspiration to those who live in our current day. He faces the same challenges that we face, most urgently, a world in need of a Savior. His life was lived transparently and this biography is no different. It shows some of the mistakes he made that are common to many.
George Whitfield was a man with a passion for the supremacy of God and lived it every day of his life. It can help awaken you to a life filled with purpose.
I recommend this book to all who love Jesus.
The character of this man is an inspiration to those who live in our current day. He faces the same challenges that we face, most urgently, a world in need of a Savior. His life was lived transparently and this biography is no different. It shows some of the mistakes he made that are common to many.
George Whitfield was a man with a passion for the supremacy of God and lived it every day of his life. It can help awaken you to a life filled with purpose.
I recommend this book to all who love Jesus.
June 24, 2021
Amazing life of a godly man who displayed incredible intensity and zeal for God and His glory. I enjoyed learning too about the other people surrounding this preacher, and the times in which he lived.
October 10, 2021
I was rather disappointed with this. There appears to be no audiobook available of the full two-volume work, and this felt too skimpy (yet somehow too repetitive). I know Whitefield better (since I was starting pretty much from baseline zero), but I don't know him well. I expected to be enthralled and inspired, but I'm more kinda meh. I think what was missing was more of Whitefield's words. I don't think we can begin to grasp his remarkableness without a good dose of what made him so remarkable—his gifted preaching. Even so, it occurred to me as I read that the powerful effects of Whitefield's sermons were perhaps less the result of the hortatory gifts God gave him than of the receptivity He gave his listeners. Not that anything is easier or more difficult for Him, but from our perspective, the gifting of the one is less remarkable than the gifting of the thousands.
The reader was OK, but someone needs to pull him aside and explain the thorn to him.
The reader was OK, but someone needs to pull him aside and explain the thorn to him.
August 12, 2015
There may be no person who spoke directly in person to more people in the history of the world as George Whitefield. If just for this single fact, a biography of his would be a must read. However, during the 40 years of his preaching ministry, the western world (and by its effects the entire globe) changed immensely during the movement known now as the Great Awakening. This period has wide ranging effects including the establishment of major denominations, the push for the abolishment of slavery, the development of media, the rise of democracy, and the establishment of the United States. The central figure of this time was George Whitefield.
This volume by Arnold Dallimore is an abridgment of his much longer comprehensive biography of Whitefield. I highly encourage you to read the unabridged version if you want a full perspective on the evangelist’s life. But, if you need a quick yet substantive overview of the man’s life, this book will fill your needs perfectly.
Whitefield was converted in his early college years, and from a short time afterwards, he began preaching evangelistic messages in England. His eloquence and power displayed in his sermons quickly had many flocking to hear him. Seeking to maximize hearers for the gospel of Christ, he turned to “field preaching” in London parks. Tens of thousands began to turn out to hear his messages. There may never have been larger crowds that have ever been able to hear a single man unamplified. The force of his message to turn to Jesus and to follow His will quickly began to have great effects in reforming London society. But only after a few weeks, Whitefield left on his first of 13 Atlantic crossings to take the good news to America.
His life is filled with many ups and downs. The love of America for him, his support of orphans, the influence he had on British nobility contrasted with his constant illness, his skewering by the press, his troubles with the Wesleys. Through it all, he kept a singlemindedness that nothing could make him stop from extending the invitation of Christ’s love for sinners. The relating of his climbing out of bed to preach from a balcony to eager listeners the night of his death shows the power Whitefield had 40 years after he spoke for the first time.
Revival literature should encourage and strengthen the seeking heart. This book does both. Whitefield’s life is a testimony of God’s keeping grace even in light of extremely difficult pressure. If men thought he was too proud, he humbled himself further; if others wanted control, he submitted to them; if though completely spent of all strength a one would ask for a word about the Living God, he would share and not rest. He talked to millions 300 years ago. A man used by God can change the world, and George Whitefield is the proof.
7.5 stars out of 10
Red Eagle's Legacy
This volume by Arnold Dallimore is an abridgment of his much longer comprehensive biography of Whitefield. I highly encourage you to read the unabridged version if you want a full perspective on the evangelist’s life. But, if you need a quick yet substantive overview of the man’s life, this book will fill your needs perfectly.
Whitefield was converted in his early college years, and from a short time afterwards, he began preaching evangelistic messages in England. His eloquence and power displayed in his sermons quickly had many flocking to hear him. Seeking to maximize hearers for the gospel of Christ, he turned to “field preaching” in London parks. Tens of thousands began to turn out to hear his messages. There may never have been larger crowds that have ever been able to hear a single man unamplified. The force of his message to turn to Jesus and to follow His will quickly began to have great effects in reforming London society. But only after a few weeks, Whitefield left on his first of 13 Atlantic crossings to take the good news to America.
His life is filled with many ups and downs. The love of America for him, his support of orphans, the influence he had on British nobility contrasted with his constant illness, his skewering by the press, his troubles with the Wesleys. Through it all, he kept a singlemindedness that nothing could make him stop from extending the invitation of Christ’s love for sinners. The relating of his climbing out of bed to preach from a balcony to eager listeners the night of his death shows the power Whitefield had 40 years after he spoke for the first time.
Revival literature should encourage and strengthen the seeking heart. This book does both. Whitefield’s life is a testimony of God’s keeping grace even in light of extremely difficult pressure. If men thought he was too proud, he humbled himself further; if others wanted control, he submitted to them; if though completely spent of all strength a one would ask for a word about the Living God, he would share and not rest. He talked to millions 300 years ago. A man used by God can change the world, and George Whitefield is the proof.
7.5 stars out of 10
Red Eagle's Legacy
September 12, 2016
This quick read of George Whitefield's life is useful in that it gives us a basic overview. Whitefield's holiness, his quickness to forgive, his willingness to let offenses go, and his desire to always preach that others might be saved is remarkable. I am grateful for George Whitefield's life and I am humbled by him. This book caused me to pray that others would be raised up like him.
Still, I have heard so many wonderful things about Arnold Dallimore's two volume biography that I can't help but think that much of the heart was taken out by this abridgment. I hope that I can find time to read the two volume version at some point in the coming years.
Still, I have heard so many wonderful things about Arnold Dallimore's two volume biography that I can't help but think that much of the heart was taken out by this abridgment. I hope that I can find time to read the two volume version at some point in the coming years.
August 31, 2011
An abridgement of the highly-acclaimed two-volume biography by the same author. Heart-stirring; whets your appetite for the larger work.
February 28, 2025
A great one volume edition of Dallimore’s excellent two volume edition. Whitefield’s amazing story should be known.
November 12, 2016
Many these days have heard and read of some of the great saints who have gone before us - Owen, Edwards, Taylor, Wesley, to mention a few. But George Whitefield, seems to me, to have often been overlooked. This book left me with the impression that he was just a great a saint as the aforementioned Protestant pillars.
This easy to read book gives an overview of his life and ministry and speaks to some misinformation about Whitefield that is often associated with him.
I found the man's life inspiring and there is no doubt that he played a key role in the Great Revival, most commonly associated with John Edwards. The man was a trail blazing evangelist who moved the Western world for Christ and brought many into the kingdom of God, even in the midst of great adversity and persecution.
Here's what one contemporary said of Whitefield in a poem entitled, "Hope" that reflected on Whitefield's response to a hostile world -
"He loved the world that hated him;
the tear that dropped upon his bible was sincere.
Assailed by scandal and the tongue of strife,
his only answer was a blameless life." - William Cooper
A quote from the author -
"Whitefield also taught the evangelical world a new manner of preaching, in a day when ministers in general were lacking in zeal and were apologetic in preaching he preached the gospel with aggressive zeal and undaunted courage. He set mankind on fire wherever he went and numerous men learning from his example, began to preach after his manner. For a hundred years his style of direct application was practiced in the overwhelming majority of protestant pulpits. He likewise held to the fundamentals of the faith. He believed in the inerrancy of the Bible, the Deity, the virgin birth, the atoning death and literal resurrection of Jesus Christ, and that salvation is not by works but by grace. These truths he declares so consistently that they gradually filtered into a vast multitude of consciences and for at least a century after his death they were preached in the greater number of churches in both Britain and America."
This easy to read book gives an overview of his life and ministry and speaks to some misinformation about Whitefield that is often associated with him.
I found the man's life inspiring and there is no doubt that he played a key role in the Great Revival, most commonly associated with John Edwards. The man was a trail blazing evangelist who moved the Western world for Christ and brought many into the kingdom of God, even in the midst of great adversity and persecution.
Here's what one contemporary said of Whitefield in a poem entitled, "Hope" that reflected on Whitefield's response to a hostile world -
"He loved the world that hated him;
the tear that dropped upon his bible was sincere.
Assailed by scandal and the tongue of strife,
his only answer was a blameless life." - William Cooper
A quote from the author -
"Whitefield also taught the evangelical world a new manner of preaching, in a day when ministers in general were lacking in zeal and were apologetic in preaching he preached the gospel with aggressive zeal and undaunted courage. He set mankind on fire wherever he went and numerous men learning from his example, began to preach after his manner. For a hundred years his style of direct application was practiced in the overwhelming majority of protestant pulpits. He likewise held to the fundamentals of the faith. He believed in the inerrancy of the Bible, the Deity, the virgin birth, the atoning death and literal resurrection of Jesus Christ, and that salvation is not by works but by grace. These truths he declares so consistently that they gradually filtered into a vast multitude of consciences and for at least a century after his death they were preached in the greater number of churches in both Britain and America."
September 21, 2022
George’s Whitefield’s life and ministry were a definite work of God. As a preacher of the Great Awakening on two continents, Whitefield’s example as a preacher-evangelist shines as a bright and burning light.
In this one volume edition, Dallimore combines his masterful two-volume work into one.
Highly recommended for all Christians. You will enjoy this book. For those desiring (or are already in) pastoral ministry, this is a must read! Then after reading it, go deeper with Dallimore’s the two volume work published by Banner of Truth.
In this one volume edition, Dallimore combines his masterful two-volume work into one.
Highly recommended for all Christians. You will enjoy this book. For those desiring (or are already in) pastoral ministry, this is a must read! Then after reading it, go deeper with Dallimore’s the two volume work published by Banner of Truth.
Want to read
January 17, 2015Don Carson said that this book made him weep.
May 13, 2021
The first book I read by Dallimore, a short biography of Charles Spurgeon, was one of if not the most impactful and important book I have ever read apart from Scripture itself. It genuinely shaped me.
I have been meaning to read Dallimore's two-volume work on Whitefield for some time, but maybe the size of the two volumes has deterred me. However, it turns out that Dallimore foresaw my objection and also produced an abridged version, which shrinks more than a thousand pages into about two hundred.
Van Til said of the two-volume version that it changed him and that, at the time of his writing, he was still changed. I feel the same. What stands out in my mind above all else is Whitefield's complete consecration of himself to Christ and his work. God took his legalistic, unconverted days at Oxford, when he was part of the exacting "Holy Club" with the Wesley brothers, and forced them to serve a good purpose--they seem to have instilled in Whitefield a habitual self-mastery. When this was finally joined by true grace in the heart, the combination shook the world.
Whitefield, like Spurgeon, burned the candle of his life without seasons of slack. When he drew near his end a crowd gathered outside where he was staying and begged him to preach to them. Though sickly and frail, he preached from the top of the stairs into the evening, a candle in his hand. When the candle burned down and went out, he retired into his room and passed away early the next day. The scene was historical but also symbolic.
May Christ give all his ministers, even all his people, a heart as singular and driven as Whitefield's.
I have been meaning to read Dallimore's two-volume work on Whitefield for some time, but maybe the size of the two volumes has deterred me. However, it turns out that Dallimore foresaw my objection and also produced an abridged version, which shrinks more than a thousand pages into about two hundred.
Van Til said of the two-volume version that it changed him and that, at the time of his writing, he was still changed. I feel the same. What stands out in my mind above all else is Whitefield's complete consecration of himself to Christ and his work. God took his legalistic, unconverted days at Oxford, when he was part of the exacting "Holy Club" with the Wesley brothers, and forced them to serve a good purpose--they seem to have instilled in Whitefield a habitual self-mastery. When this was finally joined by true grace in the heart, the combination shook the world.
Whitefield, like Spurgeon, burned the candle of his life without seasons of slack. When he drew near his end a crowd gathered outside where he was staying and begged him to preach to them. Though sickly and frail, he preached from the top of the stairs into the evening, a candle in his hand. When the candle burned down and went out, he retired into his room and passed away early the next day. The scene was historical but also symbolic.
May Christ give all his ministers, even all his people, a heart as singular and driven as Whitefield's.
December 2, 2021
Audible.com 5 hour and 55 min. Narrated by Bob Sauer (A)
Arnold Dallimore pastored a small church in Canada and wrote a number of successful biographies of Christian leaders including Charles Wesley, Charles Spurgeon, and Susanna Wesley, mother of Charles and John, which I finished yesterday. Dallimore's greatest effort was the completion of a two-volume biography of George Whitefield (pronounced Whitfield.) Later he condensed Whitefield's biography for those unable to dedicate the time to read the complete work. This is the edition I have available. George Whitefield's life was the first spark of the 18th century spiritual revival in England, Scotland, Wales, the American colonies, and Ireland. This book was very good and only makes me want to listen to the complete biography.
Arnold Dallimore pastored a small church in Canada and wrote a number of successful biographies of Christian leaders including Charles Wesley, Charles Spurgeon, and Susanna Wesley, mother of Charles and John, which I finished yesterday. Dallimore's greatest effort was the completion of a two-volume biography of George Whitefield (pronounced Whitfield.) Later he condensed Whitefield's biography for those unable to dedicate the time to read the complete work. This is the edition I have available. George Whitefield's life was the first spark of the 18th century spiritual revival in England, Scotland, Wales, the American colonies, and Ireland. This book was very good and only makes me want to listen to the complete biography.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2023
Biographies of past “great” Christian saints is always inspiring to me. They encourage me to be stronger in my own faith. I also love that while Whitefield was a Calvinist, he didn’t make it a condition of true, saving faith. I also don’t believe this is a point that Christian’s should be dividing over (though I myself am not a Calvinist).
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December 19, 2023When I hear a great preacher’s sermon, no pursuit could fill me with more excitement.
But when I read of a great preacher’s life, no vocation could seem as treacherous.
A sobering read that begets ambition and courage of another kind.
But when I read of a great preacher’s life, no vocation could seem as treacherous.
A sobering read that begets ambition and courage of another kind.
April 13, 2015
As close to an Apostle Paul as I have heard in a more modern time, the Lord used this man wholly given to Him, because he wholly loved Him.
Having not a friend save Jesus, was a friend to all. Seemingly rewarded upon this earth just enough to sustain him, and perform his ministry.
George Whitefield lived a life that seemed the spark that became the revival that changed the whole world and history itself, affecting millions individually, and whole continents.
Seems the more knowledge of history I acquire, the more I wish to know, but the history of the men who lived for Christ in the past, I am sadly lacking knowledge of.
Would recommend this book to anyone who who thinks they "know the story" or has any curiosity. It will satisfy.
Whitefield was a direct influence on Christian Giants of the Faith, including William Wilberforce whom God used to bring about the end of that horrible institution of slavery, thereby distinguishing western civilization apart from the rest of the world.
Having not a friend save Jesus, was a friend to all. Seemingly rewarded upon this earth just enough to sustain him, and perform his ministry.
George Whitefield lived a life that seemed the spark that became the revival that changed the whole world and history itself, affecting millions individually, and whole continents.
Seems the more knowledge of history I acquire, the more I wish to know, but the history of the men who lived for Christ in the past, I am sadly lacking knowledge of.
Would recommend this book to anyone who who thinks they "know the story" or has any curiosity. It will satisfy.
Whitefield was a direct influence on Christian Giants of the Faith, including William Wilberforce whom God used to bring about the end of that horrible institution of slavery, thereby distinguishing western civilization apart from the rest of the world.
September 6, 2014
This abridged biography on the life of George Whitefield was very enlightening and gave a great overview of his life as one of England's greatest evangelists. I always enjoy hearing about Whitefield's life, and this was no exception. After listening to this audiobook, I intend to buy both complete volumes on his life and read about him in more detail. His life was fascinating and he did many great works for God; if only men lived like this today! Highly recommended reading for any student of Christian history or evangelism.
April 7, 2018
Reasonably thorough and well written overview of Whitefield's life and ministry. because it is adapted from Dallimore's two-volume set, there are some gaps you will notice. Dallimire doesn't try to make excuses for Whitefield buying and keeping maintained a plantation with slaves while he travelled over the country and back and forth across the Atlantic, proclaiming the good news of Christ in ways that can only be described as supernatural. Highly recommended for those seeking an inspiring biography.
November 13, 2018
Towards the end of his life, Whitefield, after waking with sweats said “A good pulpit sweat today, may give me relief, i shall feel better after preaching.” Then when recommended that he should rest and not preach, he replied “I had rather wear out than rust out.” Thinking of John Piper’s Don’t Waste Your Life, i think it’s safe to say that George Whitefield did not waste his life, nor at the end of his life, did he rust out, but wore out.”
September 16, 2018
Very encouraging read!
April 7, 2020
This abridgment of the author’s original two volume, 1000-plus page biography is an aerial survey of George Whitefield’s experiences and exploits. Despite its condensed form, it gives the reader a sense of Whitefield’s epic level accomplishments.
Whitefield preached to crowds at times estimated to be from 20,000 to 30,000 people. This was when London only had a population of 700,000, amplification systems didn’t exist, and people generally only knew through word of mouth when he was to preach .
Riveted into absolute silence, huge audiences of men and women stood shoulder to shoulder as Whitefield spoke for nearly an hour. It wasn’t because they were accustomed to such a practice. Open-air preaching was obsolete before Whitefield reintroduced it. And it wasn’t because they were interested--at least not intitially. Church attendance had reached historic lows in the 18th century.
Whitefield possessed a rare gift of oratorical prowess. Simply put, he was a captivating communicator. Even the notoriously agnostic Ben Franklin, a contemporary and friend, wrote of Whitefield’s eloquence and “wonderful power over the hearts...of his hearers.”
But the primary factor in Whitefield’s influence was his abandonment to the will of God. He famously said, “The whole world is now my parish. Wheresoever my Master calls me I am ready to go and preach the everlasting Gospel.” And go he went. For over thirty years Whitefield traveled constantly throughout England, Wales and Scotland, preaching an average of 40 hours a week.
He also managed to sail seven times across the Atlantic to the American colonies. Whitefield’s preaching in America, alongside that of Jonathan Edwards, ignited the First Great Awakening. And his influence on John and Charles Wesley, who followed his example of open-air preaching, transformed the moral fabric of English society in a generation.
I appreciated the view Dallimore offered from the “other side” of the Wesley-Whitefield divide. I’ve read more on John Wesley, the result being that I’m better acquainted with the Arminian-sympatheic perspective on the disagreement.
According to Dallimore, Whitefield graciously pulled away from the controversy, not by altering his Calvinistic views, but by essentially handing John Wesley the administrative oversight of Methodism. Whitefield wasn’t concerned with fame, recognition, or titles. He eventually even resigned from leadership over his own wing, the Calvinistic Methodist Association, to devote more time to his passion, itinerant preaching.
Whitefield knew where his own gifts lay. Yet he consistently promoted others ahead over himself. John Wesley, with his obvious organizational gifts, was no exception. It broke Whitefield’s heart that he had a falling out with the Wesley brothers. The breach in the friendship was later to be mended, but of course, the two theological branches of Methodism never came back together. Today the Arminian brand is globally dominant.
An advantage of the author’s treatment of Whitefield’s influence is also a minor drawback. I understand the attempt to balance the historical record that has tended to highlight Wesley’s contributions over Whitefield's. Largely due to Dallimore’s efforts, this has been remedied.
But the author’s steady aggrandizement of Whitefield is a bit excessive. Still, for all of the accusations and slander that was heaped upon Whitefield and Wesley in their lifetimes, no credible criticism of their respective characters, to my knowledge, has ever emerged.
Dallimore does admit that Whitefield had his faults. He summarizes these in the last chapter. 1) “In his early twenties [Whitefield] placed too much emphasis on impressions rather than on the clear statements of Scripture.” 2) “He too easily accepted the criticisms made against certain ministers and repeated them.” And, 3) “His chief fault was his condoning of the practice of slavery, the one dark blot on his otherwise spotless record.”
Dexterity with words and clever turns of phrases could never explain the enormous effect Whitefield’s preaching had on all classes of people of entire nations. His effectiveness lay in his desire to please God alone, and in his evident love for people. Always one to rise above denominational differences, Whitefield did so without ever compromising his core evangelical beliefs.
Whitefield preached to crowds at times estimated to be from 20,000 to 30,000 people. This was when London only had a population of 700,000, amplification systems didn’t exist, and people generally only knew through word of mouth when he was to preach .
Riveted into absolute silence, huge audiences of men and women stood shoulder to shoulder as Whitefield spoke for nearly an hour. It wasn’t because they were accustomed to such a practice. Open-air preaching was obsolete before Whitefield reintroduced it. And it wasn’t because they were interested--at least not intitially. Church attendance had reached historic lows in the 18th century.
Whitefield possessed a rare gift of oratorical prowess. Simply put, he was a captivating communicator. Even the notoriously agnostic Ben Franklin, a contemporary and friend, wrote of Whitefield’s eloquence and “wonderful power over the hearts...of his hearers.”
But the primary factor in Whitefield’s influence was his abandonment to the will of God. He famously said, “The whole world is now my parish. Wheresoever my Master calls me I am ready to go and preach the everlasting Gospel.” And go he went. For over thirty years Whitefield traveled constantly throughout England, Wales and Scotland, preaching an average of 40 hours a week.
He also managed to sail seven times across the Atlantic to the American colonies. Whitefield’s preaching in America, alongside that of Jonathan Edwards, ignited the First Great Awakening. And his influence on John and Charles Wesley, who followed his example of open-air preaching, transformed the moral fabric of English society in a generation.
I appreciated the view Dallimore offered from the “other side” of the Wesley-Whitefield divide. I’ve read more on John Wesley, the result being that I’m better acquainted with the Arminian-sympatheic perspective on the disagreement.
According to Dallimore, Whitefield graciously pulled away from the controversy, not by altering his Calvinistic views, but by essentially handing John Wesley the administrative oversight of Methodism. Whitefield wasn’t concerned with fame, recognition, or titles. He eventually even resigned from leadership over his own wing, the Calvinistic Methodist Association, to devote more time to his passion, itinerant preaching.
Whitefield knew where his own gifts lay. Yet he consistently promoted others ahead over himself. John Wesley, with his obvious organizational gifts, was no exception. It broke Whitefield’s heart that he had a falling out with the Wesley brothers. The breach in the friendship was later to be mended, but of course, the two theological branches of Methodism never came back together. Today the Arminian brand is globally dominant.
An advantage of the author’s treatment of Whitefield’s influence is also a minor drawback. I understand the attempt to balance the historical record that has tended to highlight Wesley’s contributions over Whitefield's. Largely due to Dallimore’s efforts, this has been remedied.
But the author’s steady aggrandizement of Whitefield is a bit excessive. Still, for all of the accusations and slander that was heaped upon Whitefield and Wesley in their lifetimes, no credible criticism of their respective characters, to my knowledge, has ever emerged.
Dallimore does admit that Whitefield had his faults. He summarizes these in the last chapter. 1) “In his early twenties [Whitefield] placed too much emphasis on impressions rather than on the clear statements of Scripture.” 2) “He too easily accepted the criticisms made against certain ministers and repeated them.” And, 3) “His chief fault was his condoning of the practice of slavery, the one dark blot on his otherwise spotless record.”
Dexterity with words and clever turns of phrases could never explain the enormous effect Whitefield’s preaching had on all classes of people of entire nations. His effectiveness lay in his desire to please God alone, and in his evident love for people. Always one to rise above denominational differences, Whitefield did so without ever compromising his core evangelical beliefs.
June 26, 2023
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Whitefield was a man wholly employed unto the service of His beautiful Master. The grace that justified and sanctified His soul in the very same grace that is ours through faith in union with Christ alone. Just as he would pray, may our name perish in the dust as the name of Jesus Christ is glorified! For the glory of God, may all who read this book resolve to imitate such holiness and tender love for all mankind. “O, let me be but the servant of all!”
May 9, 2024
Succinct but when read concurrently with Thomas Kidd's account, some major abbreviations make you raise an eyebrow and wonder if the exclusion of certain details seem to favour a more biased view (Dallimore). Nevertheless, the points in this book are a sufficient survey of the contribution of Whitefield to Christendom during the Great Awakening. Each chapter was straight to the point, and not many "flashback" details were needed to create greater clarification.
Highly recommend to read this book before Kidd.
Highly recommend to read this book before Kidd.
January 26, 2022
Superb. Dallimore's work is carefully researched and splendid in his writing without compromising the historical integrity of Whitfield's life. Whitfield is much known for his evangelistic zeal, but this book highlights his humility more than anything else. Highly recommended.
August 11, 2021
Incredible biography on one of the most incredible men to ever live. Could hardly put it down. The pacing is so much faster than most biographies I've read, and that's just one of the reasons why this book was such a refresher compared to the dense tomes I often read.
Whitefield lived one of those lives that makes you look at your own and realize you're not all that hot. Just a few personal encouragements from this book: be zealous for the Lord, pursue holiness, have a heart for the wretched lost, do great things for the Lord, be content with suffering anything for the sake of service for the Lord, crave His presence, His power, and His Gospel.
This is a must read book.
Whitefield lived one of those lives that makes you look at your own and realize you're not all that hot. Just a few personal encouragements from this book: be zealous for the Lord, pursue holiness, have a heart for the wretched lost, do great things for the Lord, be content with suffering anything for the sake of service for the Lord, crave His presence, His power, and His Gospel.
This is a must read book.
October 14, 2022
Quite the man!
August 18, 2020
Tremendous.
May 12, 2022
The book starts with a braggadocious tone that is hard to muscle through until the reader can get to the actual history of Whitefield. He has the unfortunate (but too common) experience of being sent into ministry while still spiritually immature. He dies not claim a salvation experience or personal knowledge of God until AFTER his first mission trip--which begs the question, What was he preaching?
Even after his return to England, his spiritual life remains in question while he preaches to large crowds who are impressed with his oratory. He finally achieves the physical confirmation of a spiritual change and begins preaching salvation through "Christ alone."
The rest of the book evens out somewhat and becomes easier to read with only occasional bursts of flattery. High marks to the author for holding Mr. Whitefield responsible for his stance on slavery--seeing it as a mark on an otherwise unblemished record. There is also good information on the conflict between him and the Wesley brothers.
Even after his return to England, his spiritual life remains in question while he preaches to large crowds who are impressed with his oratory. He finally achieves the physical confirmation of a spiritual change and begins preaching salvation through "Christ alone."
The rest of the book evens out somewhat and becomes easier to read with only occasional bursts of flattery. High marks to the author for holding Mr. Whitefield responsible for his stance on slavery--seeing it as a mark on an otherwise unblemished record. There is also good information on the conflict between him and the Wesley brothers.
November 27, 2018
“Have we read or heard of any person, who called so many thousands, so many myriads of sinners to repentance?”(John Wesley concerning George Whitefield)
O how necessary it is to read biographies!
The Life of George Whitefield
But today is not that day. This post is designed to introduce you to a well-written biography of one of my favourite figures from evangelical history: George Whitefield. I firmly believe that this biography should make its way onto the bookshelf of every pastor.
The life of George Whitefield is a source of immense encouragement to me. His endurance in suffering, humility in discord, strength in persecutions, gentleness in turbulent situations, passion in boldly preaching the word of God, zeal to win thousands for Christ, and love for God is remarkably uplifting and refreshing.
The shockwaves of his thunderous preaching were felt throughout the evangelical world. Bishop Ryle goes as far as to say that, “Whitefield was entirely chief and first among the English Reformers of the 18th century”. I think he is right. It is rightly claimed that Whitefield’s congregations were the largest ever reached by the human voice in the history of mankind. The Christ that Whitefield sweetly and passionately preached spoke to thousands through his ministry.
Dallimore’s Rich Portrait Of Whitefield
In this biography, Dallimore masterfully paints for us a rich, complex, and multi-faceted picture of Whitefield. He does so with honesty, beauty, elegance, integrity and theologically drenched eyes. But this biography is merely a ‘trailer’ of Dallimore’s mammoth two-volume work. So, for those of us who don’t yet have time to plunge into the 224-page version, this volume provides an excellent and enjoyable entry point into the life of Whitefield.
A unique feature of this biography is that it displays a slight hagiographical and apologetic edge. Hagiographical in the sense that the author presents Whitefield in a very sparkling light. His confession gives it away, “George Whitefield was a holy man” (p. 200). Apologetic in the sense that the author repeatedly defends Whitefield against unsubstantiated charges of both early and modern biographers. The author does so humbly and provides good reasons for his conclusions.
To sum up, this biography showcases Whitfield’s life with clarity and vibrancy. I would not be surprised if this became a classic introduction to the life of this evangelical giant for the next generation.
This review first appeared on my blog (https://thereadingrevd.com)
The Reading Revd
O how necessary it is to read biographies!
The Life of George Whitefield
But today is not that day. This post is designed to introduce you to a well-written biography of one of my favourite figures from evangelical history: George Whitefield. I firmly believe that this biography should make its way onto the bookshelf of every pastor.
The life of George Whitefield is a source of immense encouragement to me. His endurance in suffering, humility in discord, strength in persecutions, gentleness in turbulent situations, passion in boldly preaching the word of God, zeal to win thousands for Christ, and love for God is remarkably uplifting and refreshing.
The shockwaves of his thunderous preaching were felt throughout the evangelical world. Bishop Ryle goes as far as to say that, “Whitefield was entirely chief and first among the English Reformers of the 18th century”. I think he is right. It is rightly claimed that Whitefield’s congregations were the largest ever reached by the human voice in the history of mankind. The Christ that Whitefield sweetly and passionately preached spoke to thousands through his ministry.
Dallimore’s Rich Portrait Of Whitefield
In this biography, Dallimore masterfully paints for us a rich, complex, and multi-faceted picture of Whitefield. He does so with honesty, beauty, elegance, integrity and theologically drenched eyes. But this biography is merely a ‘trailer’ of Dallimore’s mammoth two-volume work. So, for those of us who don’t yet have time to plunge into the 224-page version, this volume provides an excellent and enjoyable entry point into the life of Whitefield.
A unique feature of this biography is that it displays a slight hagiographical and apologetic edge. Hagiographical in the sense that the author presents Whitefield in a very sparkling light. His confession gives it away, “George Whitefield was a holy man” (p. 200). Apologetic in the sense that the author repeatedly defends Whitefield against unsubstantiated charges of both early and modern biographers. The author does so humbly and provides good reasons for his conclusions.
To sum up, this biography showcases Whitfield’s life with clarity and vibrancy. I would not be surprised if this became a classic introduction to the life of this evangelical giant for the next generation.
This review first appeared on my blog (https://thereadingrevd.com)
The Reading Revd
May 5, 2018
An incredible life. I did a paper in college which focused just on Whitefield's ministry in the American colonies. Going back to read his whole life beginning to end showed me things I missed back then.
Whitefield's ministry was extensive. Indeed, the whole of Methodism could be credited to Whitefield's initiative. We read that John Wesley is remembered as its found because Whitefield handed his congregations over to the Wesleys' care so that he could travel to America.
There is also great perspective on Whitefield's marriage, work with orphans in Georgia, and his relationship with Benjamin Franklin in Philadelphia. We see that this man, deeply committed to the proclamation of the gospel, easily ministering amongst coal miners and society's highest offices. He spoke with children and the intellectual elite of his day, always bringing the gospel to anyone who would hear him.
Dallimore does a good job tracking the progress of Whitefield's contemporaries, most notably Charles & John Wesley. Whitefield very early on was convinced of the Doctrines of Grace, also known as Calvinism, while the Wesleys for years were very much opposed. The ongoing conflict revealed poor personal qualities of John Wesley, publishing at least one sermon deeply promoting divisiveness between himself and Whitefield. For years, we also see John Wesley's decision-making processes and doctrinal commitments illogical bordering on the foolish. However, we see also his maturation later on.
There is still much more to Whitefield's life than I've mentioned here. Well worth the read.
Whitefield's ministry was extensive. Indeed, the whole of Methodism could be credited to Whitefield's initiative. We read that John Wesley is remembered as its found because Whitefield handed his congregations over to the Wesleys' care so that he could travel to America.
There is also great perspective on Whitefield's marriage, work with orphans in Georgia, and his relationship with Benjamin Franklin in Philadelphia. We see that this man, deeply committed to the proclamation of the gospel, easily ministering amongst coal miners and society's highest offices. He spoke with children and the intellectual elite of his day, always bringing the gospel to anyone who would hear him.
Dallimore does a good job tracking the progress of Whitefield's contemporaries, most notably Charles & John Wesley. Whitefield very early on was convinced of the Doctrines of Grace, also known as Calvinism, while the Wesleys for years were very much opposed. The ongoing conflict revealed poor personal qualities of John Wesley, publishing at least one sermon deeply promoting divisiveness between himself and Whitefield. For years, we also see John Wesley's decision-making processes and doctrinal commitments illogical bordering on the foolish. However, we see also his maturation later on.
There is still much more to Whitefield's life than I've mentioned here. Well worth the read.
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