George Whitefield and the Great Awakening (1739)

On August 3, 1739, as revival preaching intensified across Britain and the American colonies, evangelist George Whitefield wrote with plain candor: “I am no friend to sinless perfection. I believe the existence (though not the dominion) of sin remains in the hearts of the greatest believers.” The remark came during the surge of preaching that would help spark the Great Awakening—an era marked by crowded fields, urgent sermons, and renewed concern for the new birth.

Whitefield (1714–1770), an Anglican preacher associated with early Methodism, was known for tireless travel and fearless proclamation. He preached in churches when welcomed, and outdoors when barred, addressing miners, merchants, and magistrates alike. His labors required a kind of steady heroism: enduring criticism, exhaustion, and misunderstanding for the sake of calling sinners to Christ and believers to deeper devotion.

Sin’s Presence, Grace’s Dominion

Whitefield’s statement guarded ordinary Christians from despair and pride alike. He affirmed real growth in holiness, yet refused the claim that believers reach a state beyond ongoing repentance in this life. His pastoral aim was to keep assurance anchored not in personal flawlessness, but in Christ’s righteousness received by faith. Scripture speaks with similar balance: “For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh” (Galatians 5:17). Yet the struggle is not meant to end in defeat: “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man… He will provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Watchfulness, Repentance, and True Assurance

In the revival context—where strong emotions and dramatic conversions were common—Whitefield urged sober watchfulness. He reminded believers that remaining sin does not cancel adoption, but calls for humble dependence on daily grace. Confidence grows as the heart looks outward to Christ: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). That freedom fuels courage, patience, and love, shaping Christians who fight sin honestly, forgive quickly, and persevere joyfully.

Whitefield’s August 1739 words still steady weary consciences: holiness is real, repentance is ongoing, and lasting joy is found where grace reigns and Christ alone is trusted.