Crossway’s series of theologians on the Christian life (many of which are reviewed here) continues to be excellent with its recent addition of a book on George Whitefield. Like other preachers, Whitefield was not a systematic thinker. Which makes this book all the more impressive, since it presents Whitefield’s work in a far more orderly fashion than Whitefield himself did.
There is a lot in this book that’s worthwhile–it is well-written, careful with the source material, and interesting. If you’re familiar with Whitefield this is a good refresher, and if you’re not it’s a good place to start before picking up something bigger like Stout’s book.
As just one example, according to Whitefield, “the nature of a true Christian consists of four different marks of a faithful disciple.
First, a believer is someone who understands and cultivates true religion.
Second, Jesus’s disciples must be filled with the Holy Spirit; and,
third, they must seek to consistently deny themselves, take up their cross, and be Christ’s followers.
The fourth and most difficult indicator is persecution for the cause of Christ, or at least willingness to suffer for him if needed.” (39)
This is both a needed refresher on the nature of the faith and interesting to read by one of the historical founders of contemporary Evangelicalism.
Beyond the basics, the authors do excellent job outlining the strengths and the weaknesses of Whitefield’s ministry. His being on the wrong side of slavery is deftly and carefully explained, as is his intentional lack of focus on Christian institutions. But his strengths are there too–his irenicism, social concern, and of course most importantly his passionate preaching of the Gospel on both sides of the Atlantic are front and center.
Overall, we should all know more about George Whitefield, and Whitefield on the Christian Life is a great place to dive in to his life and thought.
Dr. Coyle Neal is co-host of the City of Man Podcast an Amazon Associate (which is linked in this blog), and teaches Political Science and History in Southwest Missouri.
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In