The Secret Place of Charles G. Finney

Charles Grandison Finney was born on August 29, 1792, in Warren, Connecticut, and raised in frontier New York. His early life was marked by intellectual promise and spiritual searching. Trained as a lawyer, he was logical, forceful, and persuasive in argument. Yet at twenty-nine, while studying law, he was struck by deep conviction of sin that would not let him rest.

In October 1821, Finney experienced a dramatic conversion that would change the course of American Christianity. He later wrote that he was overwhelmed with 'waves of liquid love' as the Spirit of God fell upon him. This encounter was so powerful that he immediately abandoned his law practice and devoted himself entirely to preaching the gospel.

Finney's revivals spread like fire across upstate New York, later called the 'Burned-over District' because of the intensity of spiritual awakening. His preaching was direct, urgent, and uncompromising. He introduced what he called 'new measures' such as the anxious bench, public prayer for individuals by name, and calls for immediate decision. These methods were controversial but undeniably effective.

Critics accused him of manipulation and emotionalism, but thousands were converted, and whole communities were transformed. Finney's theology emphasized human responsibility and the possibility of immediate revival through repentance, prayer, and faith. He believed revival was not a miracle but the right use of means under the Spirit's power.

His sermons thundered against sin and called men to holiness. He preached with such authority that listeners often fell under conviction before he finished speaking. The power of his ministry was not in eloquence alone but in the anointing that came from his secret life of prayer.

Later in life, Finney became professor and president of Oberlin College, where he promoted abolition, social reform, and holiness of life. His influence extended far beyond the pulpit as he shaped the course of American evangelicalism and social reform movements.