George Whitfield: A Legacy of Faith and Transformation

 

Summary

George Whitfield's life and ministry offer a profound testament to the power of faith, eloquence, and the transformative message of the Gospel. Born in Gloucester in 1714, Whitfield's early life was marked by humble beginnings, serving in his mother's inn. Despite these modest origins, he possessed a remarkable gift for oratory, which would later define his ministry. His journey took a pivotal turn at Oxford, where he joined the "holy Club" led by Charles and John Wesley. This group emphasized living a holy life through good works, prayer, and fasting. However, Whitfield soon realized that true Christianity was not about self-justification through deeds but about a transformation of the heart, a realization sparked by reading Henry Scougal's "The Life of God in the Soul of Man."

Whitfield's ordination at 21 marked the beginning of a ministry that would see him preach approximately 18,000 sermons over 34 years. His approach was revolutionary; when church doors closed to him, he took to the open air, reaching thousands who would never step inside a church. His first open-air sermon in Kingswood, Bristol, drew a crowd of 200, which quickly grew to 20,000. His message was simple yet profound: the necessity of repentance and the new birth in the Spirit, a message delivered with such power and conviction that it moved audiences to tears.

Whitfield's influence extended beyond England to America, where he played a significant role in the Great Awakening. Despite not founding a denomination, his collaboration with the Countess of Huntingdon in building chapels, known as Tabernacles, left a lasting legacy. His ability to connect with both the common people and the elite, like the actor David Garrick and Lord Chesterfield, demonstrated the universal appeal of his message.

The essence of Whitfield's ministry was not in his eloquence or zeal alone but in the anointing of the Holy Spirit that accompanied his preaching. His message, rooted in the New Testament and the teachings of the Protestant fathers, remains relevant today. It challenges us to seek the same God with diligence, recognizing that the human condition and the need for divine grace remain unchanged.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Humble Beginnings: George Whitfield's life illustrates that one's origins do not determine their destiny. Despite starting in a humble inn, his gifts and calling led him to become one of the most influential preachers of his time. This reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their background, to accomplish great things. [00:18]

2. Transformation Over Works: Whitfield's realization that true Christianity is about heart transformation rather than self-justification through works is a powerful reminder. It challenges us to examine our own faith, ensuring it is rooted in a genuine relationship with God rather than mere religious activity. [02:04]

3. The Impact of Open-Air Preaching: Whitfield's decision to preach in the open air when church doors closed to him was revolutionary. It underscores the importance of taking the Gospel to where people are, rather than waiting for them to come to us, and adapting our methods to reach the unreached. [05:19]

4. Universal Appeal of the Gospel: Whitfield's ability to connect with both the common people and the elite highlights the universal appeal of the Gospel. It transcends social and economic barriers, offering hope and transformation to all who hear and receive it. [09:35]

5. The Anointing of the Holy Spirit: The extraordinary impact of Whitfield's ministry was due to the anointing of the Holy Spirit. This serves as a reminder that true effectiveness in ministry comes not from human effort alone but from the power and presence of God working through us. [13:14]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:18] - Early Life in Gloucester
- [01:04] - Oxford and the Holy Club
- [02:04] - Realization of True Christianity
- [02:55] - Ordination and First Sermon
- [05:19] - Open-Air Preaching Begins
- [06:47] - Challenges and Adaptations
- [07:32] - Preaching to Vast Congregations
- [08:18] - Influence in America and Beyond
- [09:19] - Collaboration with Countess of Huntingdon
- [10:10] - Eloquence and Influence
- [11:53] - Final Sermon and Legacy
- [12:42] - The Core Message
- [13:31] - Relevance for Today

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Life and Ministry of George Whitfield

Bible Reading:
- Matthew 5:1-3 (The Beatitudes, part of the Sermon on the Mount, which Whitfield used in his first open-air sermon)

Observation Questions:
1. What were the circumstances of George Whitfield's early life, and how did they shape his future ministry? [00:18]
2. How did Whitfield's time at Oxford and involvement with the "holy Club" influence his understanding of Christianity? [01:19]
3. Describe the impact of Whitfield's first open-air sermon in Kingswood. What was the initial response of the crowd? [06:11]
4. How did Whitfield's preaching style and message appeal to both common people and the elite? [09:35]

Interpretation Questions:
1. What does Whitfield's realization about heart transformation over works suggest about the nature of true Christianity? How might this understanding challenge common perceptions of religious practice? [02:04]
2. In what ways did Whitfield's decision to preach in the open air reflect a strategic approach to spreading the Gospel? How might this approach be relevant today? [05:19]
3. How did the anointing of the Holy Spirit contribute to the effectiveness of Whitfield's ministry, and what does this imply about the role of divine power in preaching? [13:14]
4. Considering Whitfield's ability to connect with diverse audiences, what does this reveal about the universal appeal of the Gospel message? [09:35]

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your own beginnings. How can Whitfield's story of humble origins inspire you to pursue your calling, regardless of your background? [00:18]
2. Examine your faith practices. Are there areas where you might be relying on works rather than seeking heart transformation? How can you shift your focus to a genuine relationship with God? [02:04]
3. Think about your community. Are there places or groups of people who might be unreached by traditional church methods? How can you adapt your approach to share the Gospel with them? [05:19]
4. Consider the people in your life from different social or economic backgrounds. How can you ensure that your message of faith is inclusive and appealing to all? [09:35]
5. Reflect on your ministry or personal influence. How can you seek the anointing of the Holy Spirit to enhance your effectiveness in sharing the Gospel? [13:14]
6. Identify a specific way you can demonstrate the universal appeal of the Gospel in your daily interactions. How can you bridge gaps and connect with others through your faith? [09:35]
7. How can you apply the lessons from Whitfield's life to overcome challenges in your own spiritual journey, especially when faced with closed doors or resistance? [06:47]

Devotional

Day 1: Humble Beginnings, Divine Destinies
George Whitfield's life is a testament to the fact that one's origins do not determine their destiny. Born in a humble inn in Gloucester, Whitfield's early life was far from extraordinary. Yet, his remarkable gift for oratory and his deep faith led him to become one of the most influential preachers of his time. This journey from modest beginnings to a powerful ministry reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their background, to accomplish great things. It challenges us to look beyond our circumstances and trust in God's plan for our lives. [00:18]

"But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are." (1 Corinthians 1:27-28, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel limited by your background or circumstances? How can you trust God to use you in that area today?


Day 2: Heart Transformation Over Self-Justification
Whitfield's realization that true Christianity is about heart transformation rather than self-justification through works is a powerful reminder. At Oxford, he joined the "holy Club" and initially believed that living a holy life through good works, prayer, and fasting was the essence of faith. However, his encounter with Henry Scougal's "The Life of God in the Soul of Man" led him to understand that true faith is about a transformation of the heart. This challenges us to examine our own faith, ensuring it is rooted in a genuine relationship with God rather than mere religious activity. [02:04]

"For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit." (Titus 3:3-5, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on your daily spiritual practices. Are they leading to a deeper relationship with God, or are they merely routine? How can you invite God to transform your heart today?


Day 3: Taking the Gospel Beyond Church Walls
Whitfield's decision to preach in the open air when church doors closed to him was revolutionary. His first open-air sermon in Kingswood, Bristol, drew a crowd of 200, which quickly grew to 20,000. This approach underscores the importance of taking the Gospel to where people are, rather than waiting for them to come to us. It challenges us to adapt our methods to reach the unreached and to be bold in sharing our faith in unconventional ways. [05:19]

"And he said to them, 'Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'" (Mark 16:15, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a place or a group of people in your community who may not have access to the Gospel. How can you creatively share the message of Christ with them this week?


Day 4: The Gospel's Universal Appeal
Whitfield's ability to connect with both the common people and the elite highlights the universal appeal of the Gospel. His message transcended social and economic barriers, offering hope and transformation to all who heard and received it. This reminds us that the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of their status or background. It challenges us to break down barriers and share the message of Christ with all people, recognizing the power of the Gospel to transform lives. [09:35]

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:28, ESV)

Reflection: Consider someone in your life who is different from you in terms of background or status. How can you reach out to them and share the love of Christ in a meaningful way?


Day 5: The Anointing of the Holy Spirit
The extraordinary impact of Whitfield's ministry was due to the anointing of the Holy Spirit. His eloquence and zeal were not enough on their own; it was the power and presence of God working through him that made his ministry effective. This serves as a reminder that true effectiveness in ministry comes not from human effort alone but from reliance on the Holy Spirit. It challenges us to seek the anointing of the Spirit in our own lives and ministries, recognizing that it is God who empowers us to fulfill His purposes. [13:14]

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8, ESV)

Reflection: In what areas of your life or ministry are you relying on your own strength? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to empower you and guide you in those areas today?

Quotes


George Whitfield was born in the city of Gloucester on December the 16th 1714 not in a Bishop's Palace not in a clergyman's rectory but in the Bell Inn the old Inn unfortunately has been demolished by now but it was very similar to this new in in which we are now standing which was contemporary with it his father died while he was quite to buy but his mother continued to keep the inn and there he would serve beer and various other drinks he was characterized from the beginning from by a kind of lovable character and also by his sharpness his intelligence but Above All by his gift of speech and of oratory his clear addiction and elocution were quite outstanding he could declaim Shakespeare and he take part in plays in school at 18 on a borrow 1010 he went up to pem College Oxford in exchange for free tuition he served as a Lackey to other more highly placed students but his residence here was to be the great turning point of his life. [00:00:06]

Whitfield tells us that at one period he fasted so rigorously that he could scarcely drag himself up stairs however he and the Wesley Brothers came to see subsequently that this was all wrong that they were trying to justify themselves by works and Good Deeds then having read a book called The Life of God in the soul of men by Henry skugal he realized that true Christianity was something in the heart and that he needed a new nature he he realized he'd never been a Christian at all so now he sought this with tears and prayers and eventually he was given a sense that his sins were forgiven indeed this was even sealed to him as he put it by the holy spirit in his heart. [00:01:53]

A week later Whitfield preached his first sermon in public here in the Church of St Mary decrypt perhaps we can do nothing better than read a letter which he himself wrote describing the occasion to a friend he said curiosity drew a large congregation together the sight at first a little AED me but I was comforted with a heartfelt sense of the divine presence and soon found unspeakable advantage of having been accustomed to public speaking as a boy at school and of exalting and teaching the prisoners while at the University as I progressed I perceived a fire kindled till at last though so young and amidst a crowd who knew me in my childish days I trust I was enable to speak with some degree of gospel Authority and I have since heard that a complaint has been made to the bishop that I drove 15 Med indeed such a complaint was made but the wise old Bishop Bishop Benson simply replied by saying that he wished and hoped very much that the madness would not be forgotten before the following Sunday. [00:02:38]

When Whitfield returned from America at the end of 1738 he found a great change in the attitude of the churches to him no longer was he received with open arms as he'd been in 1737 the pulpits were close to him this presented him with a problem in addition to that he had become am struck by the need of people like the bited cers in the Kingswood District outside Bristol they were living in debauchery and sin and and no one went to preach to them and they wouldn't enter the churches what could he do so in February 1739 he took one of the greatest decisions of his whole life it affected his entire future and that of the whole Methodist Revival he decided that he must take the gospel to the people so here on Hannah Mount at Kingswood outside Bristol he first preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the open air. [00:04:40]

Whitfield comments as follows on the response of his congregation the first discovery of there being affected was to see the white Cutters made by their tears which plentifully fell down their black cheeks as they came out of the cul pits at the end of this incident Whitfield wrote in his journal I believe I never was more acceptable to my master than when I was standing to teach those heras in the open air returning to London in April Whitfield found all the churches close to him apart from St Mary's parish Church in Islington he went there one Friday with intention of preaching but just as he was about to enter the pulpit the church Warden questioned his title rather than create a scene Whitfield decided to go out and preach in the churchard the congregation followed him and others joined them and this was the real beginning of his open air preaching in London. [00:06:11]

He wrote in his journal that night since the self-righteous men of this generation count themselves unworthy I go out to the highways and hedges and compel harlots publicans and sinners to come in that my Master's house may be filled another favorite spot of whitfield's for this field preaching was Minchin Hampton common in gluster where from this very spot which is still known as whitfield's tump he preached many times to vast congregations of 20 or 30,000 people some have queried this as to whether it was possible but there are contemporary records which assure us that people in stoud which is about a mile distant could frequently hear him quite distinctly when he preached here. [00:07:10]

Whitfield did not found a denomination and he was not an organizer like his friend John Wesley the nearest he came to founding a cause was that he cooperated with the Countess of Huntington in building chapels which were known as Tabernacles in various parts of the country we have here in what is known as the rodb Tabernacle a perfect example of one of these Chapel that were built by the counts of Huntington the mention of the name of Lady Huntington reminds us of another most important Point concerning George Whitfield and his preaching some would get the impression that he was just a mob aor appeal to drunken miners but this was far from being the case he was equally popular with the Gentry and the great in the land. [00:08:48]

Take for instance the well-known actor David Garrick Garrick said he could melt an audience from euphoric joy to tears merely by saying and pronouncing the word Mesopotamia in different ways Garrick also said that he would willingly part with 100 guins if he could only say the word oh with the same pthos and effect as Whitfield The Great Lord Chesterfield he frequently listened to the preaching in the home of the CEST of Huntington and The Story Goes that on one occasion Whitfield was using a great illustration to warn Sinners of their Peril in time and in eternity and it was a story of a blind beggar with a dog walking near the edge of of a cliff leading to a great precipice and Whitfield was describing this men and how suddenly the dog left him and there was the poor man stumbling along and not knowing where he was going and drawing nearer and nearer and nearer to the edge of the precipice and in danger of falling to destruction at any moment and he kept this up for such length of time and increased the tension to such an extent that Chesterfield was completely carried away and falling on his face to the floor cried out saying good God he's gone such was the moving eloquence of this men. [00:09:37]

What is the explanation of the of this remarkable story of this Apostolic and sfic Ministry it was certainly not advertising and organization it was not even his amazing eloquence and his indefatigable Zeal though they contributed he himself would have said that it was largely the message what was the message it was the old message of the New Testament of the Protestant fathers and the Puritans it was a declaration that we are all dead in trespasses and sins and under the wrath of God that we are to be called to repentance it was an emphasis on the ab abolute necessity of a new birth in the spirit the ultimate explanation of Whitfield is the extraordinary unction and anointing of the holy spirit that attended his preaching he himself was always conscious of this and always stressed that one should always preach a felt Christ to use the words of the Apostle Paul whitfield's gospel came to the people not in word only but also in power and in the Holy Ghost and with much Assurance. [00:12:17]

Has this anything to say to us today surely it has for men and the world are still the same as they were at the beginning of the 18th century still more important whitfield's God is still the same we honor his memory best of all by seeking with diligence that same God sought by him and his friends and contemporaries. [00:13:31]

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