George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist of the Eighteenth-Century Revival - Volume I

George Whitefield #1

by Arnold A. Dallimore

Volume 1 brings the story of Whitefield's life and of the evangelical revival up to the end of the year 1740. Volume 2 follows events onwards until his death in 1770. An outstanding biography, popularly written, and with an urgent message for the present day.

Genres: Biography, History, Christian, Church History, Christianity, Theology, Nonfiction

598 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1970

About the author

Arnold A. Dallimore (1911-1998) was born in Canada of British parents. He was pastor of the Baptist Church at Cottam, Ontario, for almost twenty-four years. During his studies at Central Baptist Seminary, Toronto, he was awakened to a life-long interest in the great evangelist George Whitefield, whose biography he was to write (2 volumes, published by the Trust). He also wrote biographies of Edward Irving, the forerunner of the charismatic movement, Susannah Wesley and C. H. Spurgeon, whose preaching at the Metropolitan Tabernacle was frequently attended by his maternal grandfather and his mother (as a small child).

Reviews

[Blue Morse · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you asked any 21st Century American who the most famous household name in 18th Century North America was, a name whom over half the colonialists heard personally speak in public, and who had the initials G.W. with the first name "George" ... most would obviously answer: George Washington.
They would be incorrect...
After hearing the correct answer was George Whitefield many would unfortunately follow up with the question: "Who is Whitefield?"

BLUF: The church in America desperately needs to 1. Rediscover who George Whitefield was and 2. Needs more preachers and leaders of the "Whitefield class".

Dallimore beautifully describes this "Whitefield class" in his introduction when he describes these type of men as...

"Men mighty in the Scriptures, their lives dominated by a sense of the greatness, the majesty and holiness of God, and their minds and hearts aglow with the great truths of the doctrines of grace. They will be men who have learned what it is to die to self, to human aims and personal ambitions; men who are willing to be 'fools for Christ's sake', who will bear reproach and falsehood, who will labour and suffer, and whose supreme desire will be, not to gain earth's accolades, but to win the Master's approbation when they appear before His awesome judgment seat. They will be men who will preach with broken hearts and tear-filled eyes, and upon whose ministries God will grant extraordinary effusion of the Holy Spirit, and who will witness 'signs and wonders following' in the transformation of multitudes of human lives."

Once my body lies silent in the grave, if the above description accurately defined my life, I will then be living my best life now with the Lord! Father let it be...

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderfully objective view of an interesting and influential man. I heartily recommend this biography! I can't wait to read vol. 2!

[Michael Abraham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dallimore's biography of Whitefield was excellent. To read the intimate details of Whitefield's life was fascinating. Dallimore presents Whitefield in all his strengths and weaknesses. It was particularly interesting to read about his friendship with Wesley. I originally purchased this book per the recommendation of Tim Keller and D.A. Carson on TGC... can't wait to read the second volume.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is surely the epitome of a biographical work. Dallimore brings the reader to know intimately Whitefield and his life. So much is covered, explained, and analyzed that this is much more than a retelling of Whitefield's life. Additionally, Dallimore's writing is engaging and compelling. And to think, this is only volume one.

[Josiah Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a phenomenal biography of a man used by God to spread the gospel on multiple continents. Dallimore takes us on a journey that chronicles the life and theology of George Whitefield (as one would expect on a biography of the man) but also covers important figures that either crossed the path of Whitefield or were instrumental in his life.

We see both the Wesley brothers, Benjamin Franklin, judges, pastors, and laymen be transformed by Whitefield’s life and preaching. There is American and European history here too, which adds a layer of important contextual depth to all that Whitefield encountered. This is by no means a hagiography though - we see the weaknesses and failures of Whitefield, of which there are plenty.

Still, this was such an impactful work for me and I am looking forward to the next volume.

[Cale Fauver · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best biographies I’ve ever read. The pace, the stops along the way (short bios on central characters were very well done), and the desire to paint Whitefield in truth.

Simply put, Whitefield was almost an unbelievable man…stunningly real in God’s history of redemption.

[Caleb Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Whitefield also extended the open-air ministry, holding meetings in several locations. The Bowling Green became his regular Sunday morning appointment with seven or eight thousand always present at 6 o'clock. Being told of a rough section of the city where 'many dwelt who neither feared God nor regarded man', he went into it and, taking his stand in an industrial yard, preached to thousands." - Arnold Dallimore

Hard to know where to start describing this one. A gripping, doxological biography. Dallimore's mastery of the primary sources is on full display as he weaves through the incredible to believe at times life of George Whitefield. I mean, it simply is hard to picture a man open-air preaching to upwards of twenty, thirty, or forty thousand people. Dallimore also does a great job not just giving the facts of history, but also giving the theological commentary and analysis of Whitefield's life and doctrine. He also helpfully spills much ink on the controversy between Whitefield and John Wesley (more to come in Vol. 2). It's hard to find a defect with this book. Dallimore's storytelling is just so great: you'll read a chapter on Whitefield raising funds for the orphanage in Georgia or preaching to soldiers on their boat on the way to America and go: "Wow, that was amazing!" And the more amazing thing is you end Vol. 1 and Whitefield is only 26 years old.

Can't wait to read Vol. 2 next. Highly recommended. May the Lord raise up more George Whitefields who joyfully thunder forth the grace of God in the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

[Joshua Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I’ve ever read to date. I was very much enriched. This covers Whitefield’s life up until he was 26 years old. This book brought me great encouragement and conviction. It is difficult to read this book and not be humbled.

When I first began reading for the sake of gaining understanding and drawing nearer to the Lord Jesus Christ, I kept mainly to doctrinal books and practical books. The thought of reading biographies was far from my mind. I didn’t think of them as books that could enrich me so much. Knowing what I know now, I wish I would have started reading biographies of the great men the Lord has raised up for His glory, the Church’s good, and the salvation of the lost.

Thanks to biographies, I have been enriched doctrinally, and have been moved to better live out the doctrines I am convinced of.

Read this book. Make sure to get the 2 volume set. The abridged version is excellent, I’m sure, but the 2 volume set is most worthy. I have about 10 books in rotation at the moment, and I set aside all the other books, except for one or two days, in order to read only this one. It demanded my full attention. I am eager to read the 2nd Volume.

George Whitefield was a mighty man of God, manifesting traits of our Savior is great measure. He was an amazing preacher, but what stands out mostly is his godliness.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. This is a book that I am sure that I will come back to read years from now, God willing.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had really never read about George Whitefield. It taught me about him being a great preacher/evangelist and organizer of the Methodist Societies in England with John Wesley. He did lot's of work in America just before the Revoutionary War. The book talked about the doctrinal rif that he and John Wesley had over predestination.
I thought this was a good imformative book. It also should that these men recognized their need for the gospel and the great need to reach others with the gosepl. It also showed me that most of these great men did menial tasks to make money to get through college.

[Nelleke Plouffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this biography. It is highly readable -I was so absorbed that I finished its 600 pages in a little over a week. It is sympathetic to Whitefield's character and views, yet not to an extreme. Almost everything ever written about Whitefield seems to have been carefully examined in light of the evidence, and the record is set straight in several places. I would have found it interesting to see both sides of some of the correspondence (particularly with the Wesleys), but perhaps it was not available. I can't wait to read the second volume!

[Aardvark · Rating 5 out of 5]

for a well-articulated review that sums up my own thoughts, read tim challies' review on this book : https://www.challies.com/book-reviews...

this book was intimidating to read because of its length (in two volumes), as well as its hype. though i admittedly did not experience the same wonders that many, far godlier, smarter, wiser, more mature saints have seen in this book, it was nonetheless a fantastic read.
dallimore gives an honest, interesting, and engaging view of the great george whitefield, and even goes to paint his flaws as objectively as one could.
my favorite thing about this half of a biography was that it not only took me through the narrative of george whitefield's life, growing me in my knowledge of one of the great men of church history, but it was profoundly theological, as well as practical. many reformed doctrines were taught throughout this book. but also, i really felt like i stepped into whitefield's shoes. i was able to benefit by being confronted by his challenges in the present, while also seeing the implications of his choices, with the benefit of having hindsight. though hard to articulate how exactly this happened through the narrative of this book, i was extremely convicted by whitefield's zeal and passion to serve the Lord Christ, to be utterly mastered by Him, to avoid dissension and division as much as possible, and to walk near to God in prayer and in Word. on top of this, i was challenged to weigh the different issues that whitefield faced such as how to balance work and rest, marriage and service to God in celibacy, contending for truth and preserving unity, etc.

in short, this was the best biography (or half a biography) i have read. my only issue is that i am too poor of a reader to have enjoyed it and gleaned from it as much as i believe i could have. perhaps, the single volume version would have been more edifying for where i am at currently in my reading proficiency, but i will definitely revisit this book in the future. excited for volume 2!

one of my fav passages from the intro:
yea, this book is written in the desire-- perhaps in a measure of inner certainty-- that we shall see the great Head of the Church once more bring into being His special instruments of revival, that He will again raise up unto Himself certain young men whom He may use in this glorious employ. and what manner of men will they be? men mighty in the Scriptures, their lives dominated by a sense of the greatness, the majesty and holiness of God, and their minds and hearts aglow with the great truths of the doctrines of grace. they will be men who have learned what it is to die to self, to human aims and personal ambitions; men who are willing to be 'fools for Christ's sake', who will bear reproach and falsehood, who will labour and suffer, and whose supreme desire will be, not to gain earth's accolades, but to win the Master's approbation when they appear before His awesome judgment seat. they will be men who will preach with broken hearts and tear-filled eyes, and upon whose ministries God will grant an extraordinary effusion of the Holy Spirit, and who will witness 'signs and wonders following' in the transformation of multitudes of human lives.

excerpt from lloyd-jones' foreword:
to read the wonderful story of his life is to be reminded again of what is possible to a truly consecrated Christian, and how even in the darkest and most sinful ages God in His sovereign power is able to revive His work and shower blessings upon His people.
may the reading of this book produce in us the same spirit of utter submission, ready obedience, and unshakeable reliance upon the power of the Holy Spirit that characterized his life and ministry. whitefield never drew attention to himself but always pointed people to his God and exalted his Lord and Saviour. may he, though now dead for nearly 200 years, do the same for countless thousands through the reading of this book!

amen. amen. amen.

[Parker Bentley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arnold Dallimore’s biography on George Whitefield is the epitome of biography. It’s crazy that Dallimore spent 20 years doing research on his subject, but the historical data is incredible. This first volume is extremely informative, well-researched, and balanced in its analysis and review of the first half of the life of the great evangelist that the Lord used in a mighty way. Readers will learn in great detail who and what had an impact on George Whitefield’s life. It’s incredible to see the relentless zeal GW had despite the troubling circumstances with the Wesley’s and many in the Church of England. This was such an edifying read, and I’m excited for volume 2.

[Tanner Baumgart · Rating 5 out of 5]

1 down, 1 to go.

Dallimore poured his life into studying this great man and this work is incredible. It is fascinating to read about the proto-American evangelical scene, but to look at Whitefield’s life! You see an imperfect man striving with all of his energy to serve the Lord with every waking minute he has. The church has been greatly blessed by his gospel labor.

[Jared Mcnabb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good. While Dallimore obviously adores Whitfield, and writes to explain and exonerate Whitfield from unfair criticisms throughout history, he is also willing to offer criticisms when it is necessary.

[Travis Daggett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic

[Joel Davison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read so it was

[Demetrius Rogers · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a well researched and engagingly written biography of George Whitefield's life. It's truly amazing to see how gifted a man Whitefield was. What I would give to hear this man preach! Apparently he had this rich, clear, resonate voice, that thundered, flashed, and boomed. This guy could be heard by crowds of up to 80,000. Is that crazy, or what! A group of 2,000 was considered to be one of his smaller gatherings. And before the day of stadiums and amplification... that is nothing short of stupendous. He was an out-and-out celebrity of his day. And all of this (volume 1) took place before his 26th year. Crazy, crazy stuff.

This book had a bunch of valuable American history. I got a nice sense of the religious milieu of the day. And Whitefield's effect on the African American held special interest for me. Apparently, for the first time, the black man had a preacher who, for one, was interested in him, and then two, someone he could actually emulate. Much of the preaching of the day was Anglican liturgy, and the slave wasn't culturally attuned to such an stolid approach. But, then Whitefield came on the scene with his dramatic and rhythmic style, and the slave's imagination ignited to flame. Apparently the negro would come away from his sermons with a few choice phrases, and repeat them so many times that the "repetition became rhythmic... And thus was born the Negro Spiritual" (508). So in many ways Whitefield was, not only the father of evangelicalism, but of African American preaching as well.

As much as I gained from this work, I still had some reservations with how Dallimore presented his subject. For one, Whitefield felt somewhat like a life-sized celebrity cutout. Large, looming, but fairly flat, and one dimensional. He was just always on the move, preaching to the masses, all through the book. Sure, he had disappointments, and suffered his fatigues, but after nearly 600 pages I still didn't feel like I knew the man. The portrayal, to me, seemed fairly fawning and superficial.

And the thing I found extremely troubling was Dallimore's insistence on canonizing Whitefield, and villainizing John Wesley. In his introduction, Dallimore even stated (in so many words) his goal was to even the score between the two men (10, 12). Dallimore felt, that up to the time of his writing (1970), that Wesley had had his hay day in the public eye, and now it was Whitefield's time to receive his due. And this pitting the two men against each other (and Wesley coming out looking like the bad guy) was a constant theme throughout the entire book (150-1, 162, 179, 192, 264, 277, 313, 325, 389, 409, 473, 571). This reminds me of the admonition in 2 Cor. 10:12- "But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." All this does, in my mind, is stir up a spirit of faction in the body. The very thing Whitefield was careful to avoid. Dallimore shares the story where Whitefield was asked, "Do you think we shall see Mr. Wesley in heaven?" "No," he answered, "I do not. I think he will be so near the Throne, and you and I so far away, that we shall not get within sight of him." Whitefield spoke well of Wesley. I was disappointed to find Dallimore didn't try to do the same.

All in all, this was a worthy read of an important man in American church history. It is well researched, and engaging. At some point, I'd like to try volume II.

[R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Astonishingly good. The author appears to approach Whitefield with reason and balance, supported by a wide array of quotes and passages from correspondence of Whitefield's and many people who entered his life at different times. The research that must have gone into this book is rather remarkable, and the author is engaging and organized in his approach.

To speak of the subject matter of the book. I knew virtually nothing about Whitefield before I read this book, or the Wesleys for that matter. His ministry, especially at such a young age, can be characterized by nothing by the incredible outpouring of the Holy Spirit. His gifts of oratory obviously cannot be overstated, but no oratorical gifts could inspire the immediate (and lasting) effects that Whitefield's preaching engendered wherever he went. It is quite astonishing actually, and a humbling reminder of the true sovereignty of God in men's lives.

I could speak at length regarding Whitefield and marvel at a multitude of incredible gifts and a life characterized by total dedication to the work of the Lord, but for the purposes of brevity, will leave those be. I did find the different issues and controversies of great interest, for most, if not all, are still present today. The matter of unconverted men preaching was shocking to me, but a sobering reminder when thinking of the state of the "church" today and many of its so-called preachers. Highly recommend reading, even if it is a lengthy account, and only part one of two.

[Joe Cassada · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb! Dallimore heaps on the information, yet keeps the narrative moving in such a way that the reader is always looking forward to another chapter. Not only is this a detailed account of Whitefield's early life and ministry, it's a great history of the spiritual condition of England and the American colonies in the 18th century.

Some have accused Dallimore of speaking too glowingly of Whitefield. This is an unfortunate opinion. Dallimore's admiration of Whitefield is unabashed, yet he is honest about Whitefield's faults and mistakes and does a great service to all students of history by disproving many of the false charges against Whitefield's reputation. Dallimore frequently exposes the negative bias against Whitefield seen in other biographers (especially those who seem to side with John Wesley in their controversy), and even shows where some reports of Whitefield's defects were untrue, if not actual fabrications.

Great book! I am looking forward to volume 2.

[Matt Moran · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent.

Exceptionally well-researched work on a fascinating and inspiring evangelist.

When Whitefield visited Boston/New England in 1740 he created massive upheaval with his insistence that ministers need to be regenerate. Amazing to think that this was not self-evident to people 275 years ago, but challenging to think that the faithful church will always be fighting for truth which would be obvious to other generations.

Dallimore crushes the Wesley brothers, John in particular. You don't get this type of talk at Houghton College!

It isn't hagiography, but Dallimore has very few bad things to say about Whitefield. It wouldn't hurt to point out the obvious that the man caused himself undue problems with his lack of wisdom around money and his overly pious approach to marriage.

On to Volume 2!

[Kevin Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dallimore's style is remarkably clear and his writing enjoyable to read. He has a remarkable subject for this book, and he tells his story well. The events of Whitefield's life are simply amazing - his ministry and preaching may well have been used of God in a way not seen since the Apostle Paul. If you doubt it, read this book!

As a final note as to how riveting and well-written this story is, I think I finished both volumes in a little over a month (a month and a half tops). It would usually take me a month to get through an interesting biography the size of one of these volumes!

[Todd Miles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bravo, Bravo, Bravo! I have never enjoyed reading a biography more. Dallimore’s critical analysis of the times and the past Whitefield scholarship makes this volume invaluable. His engaging writing style makes the volume a treat. Whitefield’s compassionate, yet convicted, calvinistic methodism is attractive and convicting. I found Whitefield’s interaction with John Wesley especially intriguing. Whitefield’s interactions with the Church of England are also illuminating. He is a model for all those who are ministers of the gospel.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most people - including myself - pick up a large volume like this and worry: this is going to be dense and dull.

Far from it.

Dallimore has turned a biography into nearly a page-turner, assuming you have at least general interest in the topic. Chapters are balanced to pace out the dramas in Whitefield's life, including both the struggles of church and preaching - and the universal personal longings for love and relationship.

Already started on Volume2.

[Michael Philliber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dallimore (1911-1998), a Baptist minister, was clearly impressed with Whitefield. And yet, he is willing to address the faults of this phenomenal Church of England cleric. It was easy to read, and helpful in it's historic recountings. But the fact that Dallimore is willing to praise and challenge Whitefield made it even more valuable. I highly recommend this first volume as I now turn to the second.

[Ivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

God raises certain men through history to fulfill a special task. There’s no doubt that God raised Whitefield up in the 18th-century to be one of the greatest vehicles of awakening both in England and in the colonies. Dallimore’s two-volume biography is the most definitive. Time and again I found myself weeping as I read, praying, “Oh God, do it again!”

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written, interesting, and informative book. The research must have been extensive. I love the frequent quotes which makes the book come alive. I have read another biography on Whitefield, but this one fills in the many gaps the other omitted. Whitefield's life challenges me to study the Bible more earnestly and live my faith more intentionally.

[James Hogan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a truly great book and one I would make you all read (if I could). It's been a good four to five years since I last read it, and after reading Lawson's mini-biography of Whitefield, my desire to re-read this was awakened, but I was slightly worried that it'd been too soon since I'd last read it and so that maybe I wouldn't enjoy it as much as I was hoping. I need not have feared. Reading about the life of George Whitefield is a profoundly convicting and encouraging experience. The two-volume biography by Dallimore is the definitive edition, in my (admittedly unstudied) opinion and this biography is either my favourite or second favourite biography of all time. Only Murray's biography of Edwards challenges it, and my opinion has been waffling in favour of this one during this present read. Why do I love it so? Well, Dallimore is a fine writer and researcher, which can almost go without saying. But it is more than the skill of the author that makes me love this book, it is the life of the subject. Whitefield was someone manifestly full of the Spirit of God, used by God to an extent that we have rarely seen in these past few thousand years. He preached the gospel to countless thousands of individuals who knew not God. Whitefield cared not for his own glory or pride, only that Christ crucified was preached. Yes, Whitefield was a man with flaws like we all have. And the author is not shy in pointing out his areas of weakness or lack of wisdom. Even so, Whitefield was a man that we could all (and should all) model ourselves on more, at least in terms of his desire to see God glorified and the gospel preached to all. He was a man of great humility, constantly trying to point to Christ not himself. He was acclaimed more than almost any man of his age, and pride would have been a natural sin for him...and while it assuredly was one that warred in his inner members, he did not let it master him, but sought to humble himself before others, but most of all...sought to humble Himself before His God, in adoration and continual submission to His will. Whitefield was someone that burned bright for God - no one could doubt His integrity or sincerity or the fact that He was driven by the love of Christ in all He did. May I have a small portion of the Spirit that was granted Whitefield, this I pray. This book contains so many epic, encouraging moments of Whitefield's life in service to God, I know not what more to say. You simply must read this book. What was the message that Whitefield preached? "You must be born again!" For Whitefield knew that we could not save ourselves. We are desperately wicked, our hearts black for true. Without Christ, we are rightly under the condemnation of a holy God and will suffer forever apart from Him, even if we exert all our strength to strive for Heaven. Only through Christ and His magnificent sacrifice for us are we saved, if only we place our faith in Him, repent of our sins and believe in Christ and His work that was performed oh so many years ago. Christ - very God in flesh - died upon a cross and three days later rose again, oh what a glorious thought is this. Believe ye in Him and ye shall be saved! Now I am a bit off the topic of Whitefield, for sure, but this is what Whitefield preached, and it is what drove his life. This book obviously also talked a good bit about Wesley and their friendship (and later on, growing divide due to doctrinal disagreements) and ministry together. While this book is obviously a bit biased, being about Whitefield, it still is striking to notice the humility and meekness and genuine charity exhibited by Whitefield in his interactions with Wesley. A true model for all of us, for when we may have severe differences with our fellow brothers and sisters...may we all treat them with such love and kindness as Whitefield does. Also! This book has one of my very favourite moments in history. You know how the question is asked if you could go back in time to spend a day with someone, who would you spend it with? Or what day in history would you love to be a part of? For me, I have always thought how wonderful it would be to spend a day with Whitefield during his visit in Northampton. He spends a few days visiting Jonathan Edwards and his church (and yes of course, preaching there as Edwards wept in the pew before him), and oh just think of being there in both of their presence! Whitefield spends an evening at the home of the Edwards family, and I would just love to have been with them all that evening, talking of the works of the Lord and encouraging one another in the power of the Spirit. I wonder if they drank coffee together and simply enjoyed being together, being with fellow workers for the Lord. I would have loved to be in that room with Whitefield, Jonathan and Sarah Edwards and their children...

And surely this is long enough of a review now (and pardon, it really isn't that good of a review is it, just my random thoughts!) Anyway, this is a wonderful book because it shows that God yet works upon this earth. His voice is not silent. His hand is not withdrawn. God works. Oh how I pray for His Spirit to work in our current day and age in such a fashion. This book makes my heart burn to see God glorified on this earth and for His gospel to be made known to all the nations.

[Ian Rees · Rating 5 out of 5]

A life-shaping account of the power of God in one man. I read this a a relatively young Christian and it opened my eyes to the grace of God and what he might do through the lives of those who give themselves to him.

[Matthew · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic work. Dallimore is an extremely capable writer, vividly and carefully reconstructing the amazing events of Whitefield's life. Inspiring, motivating, and faith-edifying stuff. Excited to dig into volume 2.

[Johnmark · Rating 5 out of 5]

A hefty undertaking to be sure (both volumes equal about 1400 pages) but worth the effort if you're not in a rush.