Frank Grenville Beardsley delves into the life of Charles G. Finney, a prominent figure in American evangelism, who, despite not experiencing a religious revival himself, became a fervent preacher of the Gospel. From his humble beginnings on a farm to his ventures in law and eventual conversion, Finney's journey reflects a transformation akin to that of Saul of Tarsus. His encounters with different forms of religious teachings and his critical spirit towards theological doctrines led him on a path of spiritual awakening and deep reflection, ultimately leading to his profound conversion experience.

Frank Grenville Beardsley preaches about the profound conversion experience of Charles G. Finney, highlighting his journey from seeking peace with God through prayer and Scripture to the moment of complete surrender and acceptance of salvation by faith in Jesus Christ. Finney's struggle with pride and shame, his intense prayers in the woods, and the subsequent overwhelming encounter with the Holy Spirit are emphasized, leading to his transformation and commitment to preach the gospel. The impact of Finney's conversion on the community, including the revival that followed, and the ripple effect on individuals like Judge Wright, who also found peace through prayer, is a testament to the power of genuine repentance and submission to God.

Professor G. Frederick Wright discusses the mysterious first year and a half of Charles G. Finney's life after his conversion, paralleling it to the Apostle Paul's renewed life. Despite having a promising legal career ahead, Finney felt called to preach the Gospel, turning down lucrative opportunities in law to pursue ministry. He faced opposition and criticism for his theological views, which he developed through prayerful study of the Scriptures and independent thinking. Finney's unique preaching style, characterized by logical arguments and simplicity, aimed at persuading souls to accept salvation through Jesus Christ.

Frank Grenville Beardsley preaches about the powerful impact of Charles G. Finney's home missionary work in northern New York, where he faced initial rejection but eventually sparked a powerful revival through his bold preaching and unwavering faith. Despite facing threats and opposition, Finney's perseverance and reliance on prayer led to numerous conversions and transformed communities, even reaching a village nicknamed 'Sodom.' His revival work extended to various towns, leading to emotional outbursts, miraculous conversions, and lasting spiritual transformations. Finney's compelling will and dedication to preaching in unconventional places, like schoolhouses and barns, resulted in widespread revival, demonstrating the unexpected ways God uses individuals for His purposes.

Frank Grenville Beardsley preaches about the challenges and opposition faced by Charles Finney in his revival work, including false accusations and exaggerated statements about his methods. Despite the opposition, Finney continued his work and witnessed triumphs in his revival labors. The accusations against Finney were proven to be mostly untrue, and his friends defended him against the attacks. The New Lebanon convention was held to address differences of opinion regarding revivals of religion, where resolutions were passed to rebuke the spirit of opposition and clarify misconceptions about Finney's work.

Frank Grenville Beardsley preaches about the remarkable revivals led by Charles G. Finney in various cities, including New Lebanon, Stephentown, Philadelphia, Rochester, Boston, and more. Despite initial challenges and opposition, Finney's powerful preaching and prayerful approach led to extensive conversions and spiritual awakenings, transforming communities and individuals across the nation. The revivals in Rochester, Boston, and other cities saw significant societal changes, with businesses transformed, crime rates dropping, and influential individuals embracing Christianity. Finney's emphasis on prevailing prayer, his confrontations with theological opponents like Theodore Parker, and his dedication to reaching all classes of society were key aspects of his impactful ministry.

Frank Grenville Beardsley preaches about Charles G. Finney's impactful ministry in New York City, where he faced challenges but successfully established the Chatham Street Chapel, transforming a former theatre into a church and leading numerous revival meetings. Finney's dedication to evangelism and his emphasis on reaching the ungodly resulted in many conversions and the establishment of several free churches in New York. Despite facing opposition and health challenges, Finney's commitment to spreading the Gospel and promoting revivals led to significant spiritual growth and the foundation of educational institutions like Oberlin College.

Frank Grenville Beardsley preaches about Charles G. Finney's journey of sacrifice and dedication to preach the Gospel, from renouncing a legal career to accepting a professorship at Oberlin despite challenges. Finney's influential teaching role at Oberlin, amidst a small student body and forest surroundings, showcased his commitment to shaping young minds and spreading the Gospel. Despite initial challenges and opposition, Finney's leadership at Oberlin led to growth, financial struggles, and the establishment of theological views emphasizing faith, sanctification, and the necessity of independent thought. His legacy as a teacher, president, and pastor at Oberlin College left a lasting impact on students and the community.

Frank Grenville Beardsley preaches about Charles G. Finney's extensive revivals in various cities in America and England, highlighting his fearlessness in calling sinners to publicly consecrate themselves to Christ, leading to numerous conversions and spiritual awakenings. Finney's impactful labors in London, Hartford, Syracuse, and other cities resulted in unity among ministers, conversions among church members, and a deepening of spiritual life in communities. His powerful preaching style, marked by logical arguments and boldness in exposing sin, led to many conversions, restorations, and instances of restitution, impacting both the rich and the poor. Despite facing opposition and denominational prejudices, Finney's revivals left a lasting legacy of spiritual transformation and unity.

Frank Grenville Beardsley discusses the impact of evangelists like WHITEFIELD, the Wesleys, Dwight L. Moody, and B. Fay Mills in preparing the way for the modern evangelistic campaigns. He highlights the techniques and innovations introduced by these evangelists, such as union evangelistic campaigns, singing evangelists, and organized committees for effective revival planning. Beardsley contrasts the methods of Charles G. Finney, emphasizing Finney's focus on personal responsibility, the need for immediate repentance, and the effectiveness of preaching to convert souls. He explores Finney's teachings on human nature, sin, and the role of the Holy Spirit in bringing sinners to repentance.

Frank Grenville Beardsley preaches about the life and character of President Finney, highlighting his traits, characteristics, and the impact of his prayers. President Finney was known for his profound conviction in the efficacy of prayer, believing in God's ability to exceed all expectations. His prayers, although unique, were deeply reverent and intimate, as if conversing face to face with God. President Finney's practical approach to prayer was demonstrated in his fervent plea for rain during a severe drought, resulting in immediate downpour. His direct and pointed sermons, coupled with personal appeals, had a profound impact on his listeners, leading to transformative actions and reflections.