George Whitefield - Philip - VII - Chapter 7

Required reading
Life and times of George Whitefield by Robert Philip (available from Amazon or free on the internet, here for example) - Read Chapter Seven up to the paragraph that begins 'When Whitefield saw the first-fruits of this harvest, he wisely pressed into the field, as his successor, Gilbert Tennent' (page 156 in the Banner of Truth edition).

My summary
Today's reading is the beginning of a chapter on Whitefield's work in America again.

Most of the first part of the Chapter is concerned with giving a 'brief sktech of the character and principles of the founders of the first American churches'.  This sketch includes some of the work of Jonathan Edwards and his encounters with revival.  This then leads into an account of Whitefield's experience of revival in America as well.

What grabbed me
Wonderful description of the revival under Edwards: 'The chief characteristics of this work, at its commencement, were, - a melting down of all classes and ages in overwhelming solicitude about salvation; an absorbing sense of eternal realities, which banished all vain and useless conversation; a self-abasement and self-condemnation, which acquitted God of all severity, whatever he might do; a spirit of secret and social prayer, which redeemed time for itself under all circumstances; and a concern for the souls of others, which watched for all opportunities of doing good.'

Now that's what I want in my suburb!

Next week's reading
Continue reading Chapter Seven up to the paragraph 'After visiting various places, and producing every where a great impression, Whitefield arrived at New York...' (top of page 175 in Banner of Truth edition).

Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.