In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson reads Chapter 15 from his book 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers,' focusing on George Whitefield's challenges with critics in New England during the Great Awakening. The episode covers Whitefield's initial illness upon arriving in the colonies, his interactions with prominent Boston ministers, and the controversies and divisions within New England churches. Benson also highlights Whitefield's encounters with extreme evangelists like James Davenport and the severe criticisms from institutions like Harvard College. The episode provides an in-depth look at Whitefield's efforts to mend his reputation and the impact of his evangelical mission.

(00:00) Introduction and Podcast Overview (00:30) Background on American Religious Thinkers (01:20) Previous Episodes Recap (02:48) Introduction to George Whitefield (04:37) George Whitefield's Challenges in New England (07:35) Criticism and Controversy (09:23) James Davenport's Influence (12:57) Whitefield's Response to Criticism (19:19) Harvard's Testimony Against Whitefield (26:44) Whitefield's Defense and Continued Preaching