George Whitefield has had and continues to have an indelible influence as one of the premier evangelists in all of church history. His influence during his lifetime was felt on both sides of the Atlantic and God used him powerfully as a catalyst for revival. In his new book The Evangelistic Zeal of George Whitefield Dr. Steve Lawson continues his A Long Line of Godly Men Profile series designed to introduce giants of the Christian faith by showing how they used their particular spiritual gifts, personalities traits, or ministries abilities in serving Christ. The stated goal of this series is to set forth followers of Christ who are themselves worthy to be followed.
The book in chapter one looks at the time George Whitefield grew up in, how he was saved, traveled and ministered as an itinerant. In chapter two the author explores Whitefield’s singular devotion to Christ. Chapter three helps the reader understand the theology of George Whitefield by looking at the doctrines of grace. Chapter four looks at how Whitefield preached to expose sin, exalt the cross, for regeneration and pointing people to eternity. Chapter five examines Whitefield’s convictions, earnestness, zeal, and love of the gospel. Chapter seven explores what defined Whitefield ministry. The final chapter looks at how we can follow in the footsteps of Whitefield by preaching the gospel.
The best biographies are those that not only inform the mind but challenge the reader to consider the life of the one being looked at. In this case, Dr. Lawson has provided a genuine service to the Church in his book on Whitefield. This book not only examines the life and times of Whitefield but considers his theology, how he preached and lived. It is this trifecta that makes not only this book but this series so helpful. Anyone interested in learning more about the life, theology and influence of George Whitefield should read this book. I highly recommend not only this book but this series and pray the Lord will use these biographies powerful for His glory.
Title: The Evangelistic Zeal of George Whitefield
Author: Steve Lawson
Publisher: Reformation Trust (2013)
I received this book for free from Reformation Trust for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
