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Charles Finney
Charles Grandison Finney (1792–1875). Born on August 29, 1792, in Warren, Connecticut, Charles Finney was an American Presbyterian minister and a leading figure in the Second Great Awakening. Raised in a non-religious family, he studied law in Adams, New York, until a dramatic conversion in 1821, when he experienced a vision of Christ, abandoning law for ministry. Largely self-taught in theology, he was licensed by the Presbyterian Church in 1824 and began preaching in western New York, sparking revivals with his direct, emotional sermons and “new measures” like the anxious bench. His campaigns in cities like Rochester (1830–1831) led to thousands of conversions, influencing social reforms like abolitionism. In 1835, he joined Oberlin College as a theology professor, later serving as its president (1851–1866), promoting Christian perfectionism and co-educational, anti-slavery values. Finney authored Lectures on Revivals of Religion (1835) and Systematic Theology (1846), shaping evangelicalism. Married three times—Lydia Andrews (1824, died 1847), Elizabeth Atkinson (1848, died 1863), and Rebecca Rayl (1865)—he had six children. He died on August 16, 1875, in Oberlin, Ohio, saying, “The moral law of God is the only standard of holiness.”
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In his letter to George Whipple, Charles Finney expresses his weariness from the extensive work he has undertaken and mentions his need for rest. He introduces George Morris, a young man in need of assistance as he travels to America, emphasizing the importance of community support and compassion for those in need. Finney's message highlights the Christian duty to help others, especially those who are struggling and seeking employment. He also conveys his love and regards to Whipple and his wife, reinforcing the bonds of fellowship among believers.
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George Whipple, Secretary of the American Missionary Association
To George Whipple 12 September 1850 [MS in American Missionary Association Archives #F1-12377, Amistad Research Center, Tulane University] London 12th Sept 1850. Dear Br. Whipple. I am so weary that I am about to go over to the continent for a little rest. The work has been great & precious. I send brother Beecher the Banner of this week which contains Dr. C's valedictory. I write this note to introduce the bearer, George Morris. a poor young man who, like thousands here, is out of business. I have interested myself to get his expenses paid to America. He may need a friend to advise [page 2] him when he arrives as he will be nearly out of money. He will tell you his story & I think he will tell you the truth. He may or may not need your advice in regard to getting some employment until he can help himself. Wife goes with me to the continent & joins in much love to yourself & Mrs W. In great haste I am your Brother. C. G. Finney. P.S. Br. Weed is at chester very low. Footnotes: That is, Henry Ward Beecher, who was in New York and on the editorial staff of the Independent. John Campbell's report "Rev. C. G. Finney" was published in The British Banner (London) (11 September 1850), pages 617-618. Edward Weed.
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Charles Grandison Finney (1792–1875). Born on August 29, 1792, in Warren, Connecticut, Charles Finney was an American Presbyterian minister and a leading figure in the Second Great Awakening. Raised in a non-religious family, he studied law in Adams, New York, until a dramatic conversion in 1821, when he experienced a vision of Christ, abandoning law for ministry. Largely self-taught in theology, he was licensed by the Presbyterian Church in 1824 and began preaching in western New York, sparking revivals with his direct, emotional sermons and “new measures” like the anxious bench. His campaigns in cities like Rochester (1830–1831) led to thousands of conversions, influencing social reforms like abolitionism. In 1835, he joined Oberlin College as a theology professor, later serving as its president (1851–1866), promoting Christian perfectionism and co-educational, anti-slavery values. Finney authored Lectures on Revivals of Religion (1835) and Systematic Theology (1846), shaping evangelicalism. Married three times—Lydia Andrews (1824, died 1847), Elizabeth Atkinson (1848, died 1863), and Rebecca Rayl (1865)—he had six children. He died on August 16, 1875, in Oberlin, Ohio, saying, “The moral law of God is the only standard of holiness.”