Noble American Lives: Biographies of America’s Religious Thinkers and Believers
William H. Benson
This show is about the lives of certain individuals from America's past, who participated in America's religious journey over the past five centuries. Some thou...
In Episode 84 of the Noble American Lives Podcast, William H. Benson continues to explore the lives and contrasts of Thomas Paine, an influential political writer, and George Whitefield, a powerful Methodist evangelist. Benson delves into Paine's financial struggles, health problems, and critical relationships with figures like Benjamin Franklin. Similarly, the episode examines Whitefield's financial issues, chronic illnesses, and his friendships, mixing these insights with thoughtful comparisons of their talents and beliefs. Listeners will gain a deep understanding of how these two prominent figures made their marks on history, despite facing numerous personal challenges. (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (01:14) Overview of Previous Episodes (03:07) Thomas Paine's Biography (03:27) George Whitefield's Biography (03:45) Comparison of Paine and Whitefield (04:43) Episode 84: Paine's Financial Struggles (08:05) Paine's Health Issues (13:14) Whitefield's Health Struggles (19:00) Franklin's Relationship with Paine and Whitefield (30:09) Paine and Whitefield's Talents
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35:54
Thomas Paine vs. George Whitfield, Part 2
In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, William H. Benson continues his comparison and contrast of Thomas Paine and George Whitefield, following the biographical readings from his book series, 'The Parallel Lives of the Noble American Religious Thinkers and Believers'. The episode features detailed accounts of George Whitefield's personal correspondence and interactions, specifically regarding his wife Elizabeth, and insights into the family arrangements, personal journeys, and financial issues experienced by both men. The discussion highlights stark differences in their approaches to family life and professional commitments while drawing parallels in their lifelong journeys and views on financial compensation for their work. (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:26) Overview of the Books and Notable Figures (01:04) Subscription and Newsletter Information (01:18) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:41) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (04:46) George Whitefield's Personal Life (11:11) Thomas Paine's Personal Life (13:01) Comparing Family Structures (17:59) Journeys and Travels (30:07) Financial Struggles and Attitudes
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32:40
Thomas Paine vs. George Whitfield, First Section: Lives
In episode 82 of the Noble American Lives podcast, host William H. Benson delves into the lives and legacies of Thomas Paine and George Whitefield. This episode begins with a comparison and contrast of these two historical figures, both born in England and later influential in America. Benson explores their early lives, education, religious influences, and careers. Paine's transition from a staymaker and excise official in England to a renowned writer and pamphleteer in America contrasts sharply with Whitefield's consistent success as a Methodist evangelist. Additionally, the episode touches on their family lives, marriages, and differing attitudes toward religion and society. (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:48) Overview of the Books and Subscription Information (01:14) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:40) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (03:05) Biographies of Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (03:42) Comparison and Contrast of Paine and Whitefield (04:32) Detailed Lives of Paine and Whitefield (05:34) Family Backgrounds (07:14) Educational Journeys (09:50) Religious Education and Beliefs (13:44) Career Paths (20:12) Marriages and Personal Lives
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30:12
George Whitefield: Seventh Journey to America and Final Days
In this episode of the Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson narrates Chapter 19 from his book on George Whitefield, detailing Whitefield's seventh and final journey to America during the Great Awakening. The episode spans Whitefield's arrival in Savannah in December 1769 to his passing in September 1770. Highlights include Whitefield's contributions to the Bethesda Orphanage, his extensive preaching tours across New York and New England, and his deteriorating health. Insights from contemporaries such as John Wesley, Cornelius Winter, and Benjamin Franklin shed light on Whitefield's profound impact and legacy in religious history. (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (01:09)Overview of Previous Episodes (03:20) George Whitefield's Seventh Journey to America (08:00) Final Days and Reflections (18:36) Legacy and Posthumous Events
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29:07
George Whitefield's Three Voyages to America, Part 2
In this episode of Noble American Lives Podcast, host Bill Benson reads the second half of chapter 18 from his book on George Whitefield, focusing on Whitefield's three voyages to America. The episode details Whitefield's expansion of his congregation at Tottenham Court Road, his struggles to find clergymen for his churches, the brutal persecution he faced in Ireland, and his attempts to establish a college at the orphanage in Bethesda. It also highlights his health struggles, his impact on the American colonies through his preaching tours, and his collaborations with other evangelical leaders. George Whitefield's resilience and dedication amid challenges paint a vivid picture of his immense influence during the Great Awakening. (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (00:21) Overview of the Series (01:13) Roger Williams and Cotton Mather (02:42) Thomas Paine and George Whitefield (03:30) George Whitefield's Ministry (04:32) Challenges and Triumphs (07:11) Persecution in Dublin (14:23) Health Struggles and Continued Preaching (21:56) Final Years and Legacy
About Noble American Lives: Biographies of America’s Religious Thinkers and Believers
This show is about the lives of certain individuals from America's past, who participated in America's religious journey over the past five centuries. Some thought more deeply than did others. Some believed in new ways. Some believed in old ways, but promoted an existing religion in a new way.
Each episode covers a chapter from a biography from twelve individuals: Roger Williams, Cotton Mather, Thomas Paine, George Whitefield, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Joseph Smith, William James, Mary Baker Eddy, Mark Twain, Billy Graham, H. L. Mencken, and Jim Bakker.
In addition, other episodes will include comparisons and contrasts between the individuals.
Listen to Noble American Lives: Biographies of America’s Religious Thinkers and Believers, The Rest Is History and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
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