Description
Book SynopsisThe relationship between John Wesley and George Whitefield has often been viewed as suffering from irreconcilable theological differences. In fact, for several years, the relationship between these two leaders of the revival of the Christian faith in eighteenth-century England was strained almost to the breaking point. Whitefield, a Calvinist, believed that each individual who ever lived was either destined for the glories of heaven or the horrors of hell due to an irrevocable decree of God. Wesley on the other hand argued that each person has placed before them two options: either to accept God''s forgiveness or to reject it in favor of following one''s own way. Most books in the past have focused on these John Wesley''s and George Whitefield''s differences, but what has been overlooked is the lasting friendship between these two men, which, after a brief period of separation, was restored for the sake of the continuation of the revival movement on two continents. Catholic Spirit: W
Trade ReviewVery well researched.... Researchers of Methodism, the Church of England in this period, and of the two preachers will find this volume to be valuable. * American Reference Books Annual *
In Catholic Spirit, James L. Schwenk provides a thoughtful and accessible reevaluation of the relationship between the two leading lights of eighteenth century British Methodism, John Wesley and George Whitefield…. This brief work offers some valuable insights for those interested in this significant period of early Methodism…. His account illuminates one example of a recurring theme in evangelical history that requires further analysis, perhaps using approaches from sociology and psychology: the tendency for a strong commitment to the notion of unity to be accompanied by extremely bitter divisions. * Wesley and Methodist Studies *
Table of ContentsPart 1 Foreword Part 2 Editor's Preface Part 3 Acknowledgments Chapter 4 1. Catholic Spirit in a Time of Change Chapter 5 2. Catholic Spirit: The Quest for Common Ground Chapter 6 3. The Quest for Common Ground Outside Methodism Chapter 7 4. The Quest for Common Ground Within Methodism Part 8 List of Sources Part 9 Index Part 10 About the Author
