Charles G. Finney: Revivalistic Rhetoric

by David B. Chesebrough, Ronald D. Rietveld

Though much has been written about Charles Finney, The Father of Modern Revivalism, most works have concentrated on his roles as an educator and political reformer. In this new study, Chesebrough examines the rhetorical skills and techniques that made Finney the first contemporary evangelist, one whose methods are still practiced today. A major force in many social reform movements of his time, most notably abolitionism, Finney introduced techniques to revivalist preaching that he used toward politically sophisticated ends. Chesebrough explores both his rhetoric and the effect it had on Finney's audiences, as well as the controversy this major figure often provoked.

Following a survey of Finney's life, with special attention given to those aspects pertaining to the development of his oratory, Chesebrough considers the themes of Finney's sermons and lectures on both religious and political subjects. A third section details the rhetorical devices he introduced and employed, and the volume concludes with three of Finney's actual sermons, which reveal the ways in which this speaker commanded the attention of his audiences.

204 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Nelson Banuchi · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the forward, Professor of History in California State University Ronald D. Rietveld comments, "Cheesebrough has clearly demonstrated that Finney, the Father of Modern Revivalism, was more than an 'hellfire orator,' but rather a preacher whose sermons and writings demonstrate great breadth and depth."

I could not agree more. Cheesebrough convincing discussion on Finney's preaching shows how deeply Finney thought of the issues in his day and the clarity in which he both presented the specific problems and the clear solutions to them. While Finney never had a formal education, nevertheless, he demonstrated a sharp and penetrating mind that so bore upon the consciences of his hearers that they were unable to do anything but agree to his claims against them and to submit to the God of whom Finney came as ambassador.

In each chapter, Cheesebrough covers:
1 – Finney's life.
2 – His "Sermon Themes"
3 – His "Rhetorical Techniques"
And Finally...
4 – Three examples of 3 of his Sermons

If you want better understand Finney's preaching method, this is the book (more than likely, the only one) to get it.