Rowland Hill (1744-1833) was one of the most intriguing and astonishing characters of early evangelicalism. As an independent preacher, he was admired by those who knew him, but ridiculed and criticized by his opponents, especially at Cambridge; he had connections with the General Evangelical Society, and helped spread the gospel across Britain. Touted as ‘the second Whitefield' by contemporaries such as Lady Huntingdon, Hill's preaching spread evangelical feeling in an age when rationalism, deism, and enlightenment philosophies were sweeping the nation.
Through careful research and with an objectivity that is often missing in evangelical biographies, Tim Shenton has produced a definitive biography of this complex evangelical leader. This massive and extensive work will introduce Hill to a new generation of readers.
Written in a lively and engaging style, The Life of Rowland Hill makes a vital contribution to the study of English society in the eighteenth century. Shenton transports the reader back to a dramatic age of conflict and upheaval. Published at a time when interest in the origins of evangelicalism, its spread, progress and decline, has gained impetus, this biography will reinstate Hill as a central and compelling figure in the progress of evangelicalism in the age of reason.
From the Foreword:
‘Here is biography at its best. Shenton marvellously brings Rowland Hill to life in a balanced and objective way, neither minimizing his remarkable set of gifts nor hiding his destructive blemishes... You will find no dull pages in this book.'
Dr Joel R. Beeke - President and Professor of Systematic Theology and Homiletics, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan
‘This new book by Tim Shenton is a delight. We are given an excellent portrayal of Rowland Hill, the man, his times and his achievements under God, as well as fresh incentive for praise to God and prayer that he might raise up like men in our day of small things.'
Dr Michael A. G. Haykin - Principal and Professor of Church History and Reformed Spirituality, Toronto Baptist Seminary, Toronto
‘An exceptional biography-a must for the library of every serious Christian.'
Brian H. Edwards - Christian author, lecturer and teacher
