Charles G. Finney
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[edit] Charles G. Finney
[edit] His Life
Born August 29, 1792 in Warren, Connecticut, USA
About 1812 he came to New Jersey to teach school and to continue his studies. He became quite proficient in Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, and in other college studies.
He studied as an apprentice to become a lawyer in Adams 1818-21
Conversion 1821 in Adams
1824 He became a minister of the Presbyterian Church
1832 move to New York City
1835 he moved to Ohio, where became a professor of the Oberlin College
1851-1866 president of the Oberlin College
Died August 16, 1875
[edit] His Ministry
He is often called "America's foremost revivalist," was a major leader of the Second Great Awakening in America, which had a great impact on the social history of the United States. Finney's logical, clear presentation of his Gospel message reached thousands and promised renewing power and the love of Jesus. Some estimates are that his preaching led to the conversion of over 500,000 people.
Finney was known for his innovations in preaching and conducting religious meetings, such as allowing women to pray in public and the development of the "anxious bench," a place where those considering becoming Christians could come to receive prayer.
[edit] Books
He has written many books, the best known and very influently book is LECTURES ON REVIVALS OF RELIGION, this book can be read online:
- [1].
His MEMOIRS of Revivals most frequently referred to as his "AUTOBIOGRAPHY" had a big influence in Europe, as it was read widely and Christian leader started to start campagnes to preach the Gospel to the masses. Thsi book can be read on-line: *[2]
A list of books written by Charles G. Finney can be found under: *[3]
[edit] Abolitionist Movement
In addition to being a successful Christian evangelist, Finney was involved with the abolitionist movement and frequently denounced slavery from the pulpit. Beginning in the 1830s, he denied communion to slaveholders in his churches. The Oberlin College was a major cultivation ground for the early movement to end slavery. Oberlin was also the first American college to allow blacks and women into the same classrooms as white men.
