Re: how to treat historical figures who supported slavery (GWhitefield & his self-examination questions). 1st-dont overly lionize any figure from the past. Whitefield had terrible weaknesses but he also did many things that changed history & we should learn what we can from him.
A good book comes from Bruce Hindmarsh who explores GW’s spirituality
in The Spirit of Early Evangelicalism. Second, therefore be selective. If they are deadly wrong about one thing, does it mean they are wrong about everything & can never be quoted? No-Think David & the Psalms.
in The Spirit of Early Evangelicalism. Second, therefore be selective. If they are deadly wrong about one thing, does it mean they are wrong about everything & can never be quoted? No-Think David & the Psalms.
Third, remember the complications of context. Whitefield, a student at the time,
basically got the diary Qs from JWesley, who later taught slavery was a sin. Must we still not cite them because Whitefield, who years later supported slavery, used them? Again, No.
basically got the diary Qs from JWesley, who later taught slavery was a sin. Must we still not cite them because Whitefield, who years later supported slavery, used them? Again, No.
Fourth, remember our own blind spots. We must assume that our own blind spots are just as big as Christians’ in the past. It is arrogant to think that 200 years from now our ancestors won’t see us making mistakes just as large and heinous.
BTW--I'm referring to this and some of the comments on it.
