MEMOIRS

of

REV. CHARLES G. FINNEY

WRITTEN BY HIMSELF

FLEMING H. REVELL COMPANY

New York Chicago Toronto

Publishers of Evangelical Literature

Copyright

the trustees of oberlin college

1876.

Preface

THE author of the following narrative sufficiently explains its origin and purpose, in the introductory pages. He left the manuscript at the disposal of his family, having never decided, in his own mind, that it was desirable to publish it. Many of his friends, becoming aware of its existence, have urged its publication; and his children, yielding to the general demand, have presented the manuscript to Oberlin College for this purpose.

In giving it to the public, it is manifestly necessary to present it essentially as we find it. No liberties can be taken with it, to modify views or statements which may sometimes seem extreme or partial, or even to subdue a style, which, though rugged at times, is always dramatic and forcible. Few men have better earned the right to utter their own thoughts, in their own words. These thoughts and words are what the many friends of Mr. Finney will desire. The only changes that seemed allowable, were occasional omissions, to avoid unnecessary repetition, or too minute detail, or, at times, references that might seem too distinctly personal. The narrative is, in its very nature, personal, involving the experiences both of the author and of those with whom he had to do; and to these personal experiences it, in great part, owes its interest and its value. As the narrative presents the memories and heart-yearnings of a veteran pastor, with a passion for winning souls, it is hoped and believed that, in its personal references, it will not be regarded as having transcended the limits of Christian propriety. For the most part, the lapse of time sets aside all question.

Here and there perhaps, the statements in the narrative may seem inadequate, as involving only a partial view of facts. It will be remembered that such partial views belong to all personal observation and opinion, and each one will naturally supply the correction that seems to be demanded.

J. H. F.

Oberlin College, January, 1976.

Contents

CHAPTER I

birth and early education

Purpose of the Author—Birth and early circumstances—Want of religious privileges—Entering upon the study of law—First interest in religion—Questionings on the subject of prayer

CHAPTER II

conversion to christ

Decision to attend to religion—Spiritual conflict, and the triumph—Baptism of the Spirit—Sense of justification

CHAPTER III

beginning of his work

A retainer from the Lord Jesus Christ—Call to preach—Conversation with neighbors—Evening meeting—Revival in the village—Visit at his father’s—Deacon M—— at the monthly concert—Conversion of Squire W——.—Morning prayer-meeting—Great light—Fasting and prayer—Experience of the burden of prayer

CHAPTER IV

his doctrinal education and other experiences at adams

Discussion on the atonement—Revival revived—Further discussion—Encouragement from Elder H——.—Lectures ...