Charles Finney (1792-1875)

A character sketch of Charles Finney

Born in Connecticut, Charles Grandison Finney was a Presbyterian and Congregationalist revival preacher.

He served as president of Oberlin (Ohio) College from 1851 to 1866.

Finney was a lawyer before he became a revivalist, and his preaching was logical and direct, free from pulpit mannerisms.

He invited converts to come forward to an "anxious bench."

Finney emphasized human free will, and taught that it is possible for people, with God's help, to live perfect lives free from sin.

His preaching helped reforming crusades, including the antislavery and temperance movements.

Life Highlights:

The Broadway Tabernacle in New York City was built for him.

He made two preaching tours of Britain.

He wrote Lectures on Revivals and Lectures on Systematic Theology.

He also founded and edited the Oberlin Evangelist.

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