Whitefield on the Christian Life

Biography Explores the Life of George Whitefield, an Important Figure in the Early Evangelical Revival

George Whitefield's bold "born-again" theology and passionate sermons established him as a key figure during the 18th century. Many Christians are familiar with evangelists of this time including Jonathan Edwards and John Wesley, but Whitefield, arguably the most significant member of the trio, often goes unnoticed in the church today. 

After experiencing a profound encounter with Jesus during his time at Oxford, Whitefield dedicated his life to teaching the Scriptures to others and calling people to experience the joy of knowing and loving God. This biography aims to restore Whitefield as a prominent figure in the early evangelical revival while addressing the complexities of the time in an honest, historical, and balanced way. Authors Tom Schwanda and Ian Maddock invite readers to explore the life of George Whitefield and his commitment to guiding souls toward Jesus. 



- Part of the Theologians on the Christian Life Series: Provides accessible introductions to some of church history's greatest teachers

- Pastors, Interested Lay Readers, and Historians: Great for adult education, small groups, and college and seminary courses on evangelicalism

- Honest: A full chapter is devoted to Whitefield's relationship to slavery and his contribution to establishing black evangelicalism



Tom Schwanda (PhD, Durham University) is associate professor of Christian formation and ministry emeritus at Wheaton College and senior fellow for Christian spirituality for the C. S. Lewis Institute discipleship ministry. He is the author of The Emergence of Evangelical Spirituality: The Age of Edwards, Newton, and Whitefield and a fellow of the Royal Historical Society.

Ian Maddock (PhD, University of Aberdeen) serves as senior lecturer in Christian thought at Sydney Missionary and Bible College. He is author of Men of One Book: A Comparison of Two Methodist Preachers, John Wesley and George Whitefield and is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society.