George Whitefield's Outdoor Preaching in 18th Century London In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, Bill Benson delves into his book series 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers', specifically focusing on George Whitefield, an influential Methodist evangelist during the Great Awakening. The narrative covers Whitefield's experiences preaching outside, beginning on April 27, 1739, in London, a practice that faced resistance yet attracted thousands. He preached in open spaces like Moorfields and Kennington Common, drawing enormous crowds, sometimes exceeding 60,000 people. The reading also details Whitefield's challenges, including criticism from fellow clergymen and public attacks, yet highlights his significant influence and the substantial funds he raised for social causes. Benson's historical analysis offers insight into the impact of open-air preaching and its effect on London's social and religious landscape. (00:18) Overview of the Books and Notable Figures (00:57) Subscription and Newsletter Information (01:12) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:36) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (03:25) George Whitefield's Outdoor Preaching (17:10) Challenges and Criticisms 30:56 Publications and Responses

The Spirit of Revival: George Whitefield's Bristol and Beyond In this episode of the Noble American Lives podcast, host Bill Benson delves into his book series 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers,' focusing on the lives and theological contributions of notable figures like Roger Williams, Cotton Mather, Thomas Paine, and George Whitefield. The discussion centers on George Whitefield's transformative preaching during the Great Awakening in Bristol, his impact on thousands through his open-air sermons, and his partnership with John Wesley. The narrative captures the emotional power of Whitefield's sermons, Wesley's differing theological views on predestination, and the broader influence of these revivalists on the religious landscape of 18th-century America. (00:18) Overview of the Books (07:31) Whitefield's Preaching Journey (11:15) John Wesley Joins the Revival (20:26) Wesley's Opposition to Calvinism (25:34) Whitefield's Calvinistic Views

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson continues reading from Part 3 of his second book, focusing on the biography of George Whitefield. The episode covers Whitefield's early preaching outside the traditional church setting in Bristol during the Great Awakening, highlighting his impactful sermons to thousands, the opposition he faced from church officials, and his perseverance in spreading his message. The episode also discusses Whitefield's significant moments, such as his first outdoor sermon and his contributions to the spiritual revival during that period. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

(03:31) Whitefield's Early Ministry in London (15:04) Whitefield's Open-Air Preaching in Bristol (17:50) Whitefield's Impact on the Kingswood Colliers (19:24) Challenges and Triumphs in Bristol

The Influence of the Moravians on John Wesley: A Journey of Faith and Self-Discovery In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson reads from Chapter 5, 'John Wesley Visits Hernhut,' of his book The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers: Thomas Paine vs. George Whitefield. The chapter details John Wesley's transformative experiences with the Moravians in London and Hernhut, Germany, in 1738, including his interactions with Peter Böhler and Count Nicholas Ludwig von Zinzendorf. Wesley's evolving spiritual journey and the impact of Moravian practices on him are highlighted. The episode concludes with Wesley's renewed ministry in London, where his dynamic preaching began to draw significant attention. (00:42) Overview of the First Book (01:10) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:40) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (04:30) John Wesley Visits Hernhut (06:32) Wesley's Spiritual Journey (11:18) The Moravian Influence 20:14 Wesley's Return to London

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson continues to read from his second book, 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers, Thomas Paine vs. George Whitefield.' Bill discusses George Whitefield's first journey to America, focusing on his experiences and challenges in Georgia starting May 8, 1738. The episode covers Whitefield's encounters with John Wesley, performances of religious duties, interactions with the local population, and his missionary work including his vision to build an orphan house. Concluding with Whitefield's departure from Savannah on August 28, 1738, listeners will gain deep insights into the life and struggles of one of America's most influential religious figures. (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:21) Overview of the Books and Thinkers (00:46) Subscription and Book Purchase Information (01:14) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:45) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (03:43) George Whitefield's First Journey to America (04:45) John Wesley's Reflections and Challenges (07:18) Whitefield's Ministry in Savannah (15:04) Whitefield's Broader Impact and Travels (21:33) Return to England and Reflections

The Noble Lives of George Whitefield and John Wesley In this episode of the 'Noble American Lives Podcast,' Bill Benson delves into the journey and ministry of George Whitefield, including his first voyage to America and various pivotal moments of his life. The episode also touches on John Wesley's time in Georgia, highlighting his struggles, interactions, and the ultimate fallout from his relationship with Sophie Hopke. (00:44) Overview of the Books and Subscription Information (01:18) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:18) Imaginary Group Discussion (02:50) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (04:39) George Whitefield's First Journey to America (10:59) John Wesley's Mission in Georgia (16:46) John Wesley's Romantic Struggles (24:31) Legal Troubles and Departure from Savannah

The Journey of George Whitefield: From England to Georgia In this episode of the Noble American Lives podcast, host Bill Benson continues his reading from 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers, Thomas Paine vs. George Whitefield.' Benson delves into the life of George Whitefield, focusing on his early career as a preacher in England, his growing popularity, and his eventual decision to join John Wesley in Georgia. The episode highlights Whitefield's impactful sermons, his struggle with the idea of traveling abroad, and his encounters with significant religious figures of his time. The narrative captures Whitefield's dedication to his faith, his influence on congregations, and the adversities he faced leading up to his departure for Georgia. (03:36) George Whitefield's Early Ministry (07:42) George Whitefield's Impact in London (08:42) George Whitefield's Call to Georgia (17:22) George Whitefield's Ministry in Stonehouse (23:05) George Whitefield's Final Days in England (30:13) George Whitefield's Departure to Georgia

The Journey of George Whitefield: From Ordination to First Sermon In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson continues reading from his book 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers, Thomas Paine vs. George Whitefield.' This episode delves into Chapter 2, detailing George Whitefield's ordination, his efforts to live a devout life, and his journey back to Gloucester where he preached his first sermon at the age of 21. Listeners will follow George through his intense religious studies, his impactful community work, and his early experiences as a preacher, culminating in his first sermon at St. Mary de Cript Cathedral. (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:49) Overview of the Books and Subscription Information (01:22) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:52) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (03:33) George Whitefield's Early Life and Ministry (12:51) George Whitefield's Ordination and First Sermon (18:25) Reflections and Future Plans

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, Bill Benson delves into Chapter 1 of George Whitefield's biography from his second book, 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers, Thomas Paine vs. George Whitefield.' The chapter, titled 'New Birth at Pembroke College, Oxford University,' discusses Whitefield's early life, his struggles with faith, and his profound spiritual awakening and commitment to a life of religious devotion. This episode provides a deep insight into Whitefield's journey from a young boy in Gloucester, England, to a renowned Methodist evangelist of the 18th century. (03:47) Introduction to George Whitefield (04:56) Early Life of George Whitefield (07:02) Education and Spiritual Awakening (15:44) Joining the Methodists (20:03) Struggles and Spiritual Trials (30:09) George Whitefield's New Birth (31:28) Conclusion and Legacy

In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson reads from his second book 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers, Thomas Paine vs. George Whitefield,' focusing on Chapter 23: Paine's Final Days. The episode covers Paine's final years, his diminishing health, financial struggles, and interactions with various figures. It delves into his critical views on Christianity and his writings against predestination. Paine's final moments, his refusal to recant his deism, and the controversies surrounding his death and burial are explored in detail. (00:47) Overview of the First Book (01:08) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:32) Introduction to the Second Book (03:25) Thomas Paine's Final Days (04:22) Paine's Critique of Religion (15:32) Paine's Last Moments and Legacy