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An Eighteenth Century Couple's Spiritual Journey in the Atlantic World

Natsume Sōseki

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Two Troubled Souls: An Eighteenth-Century Couple's Spiritual Journey in the Atlantic World

by Aaron Spencer Fogleman

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8042 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	324 pages

In the 18th century, the Atlantic World was a place of great religious upheaval. The Protestant Reformation had divided Europe into warring factions, and the Enlightenment was challenging traditional beliefs. In this tumultuous time, one couple embarked on a remarkable spiritual journey that would take them from the shores of England to the bustling streets of New York City.

John and Susanna Wesley were born into a devout Anglican family in England. John was a precocious child who showed a talent for learning and writing. Susanna was a gentle and pious girl who loved to read and spend time in prayer.

As the Wesleys grew older, they became increasingly dissatisfied with the state of the Church of England. They felt that the Church was too focused on outward forms and rituals, and not enough on the inward experience of faith.

In 1735, John Wesley had a profound religious experience that changed his life forever. He realized that he was not saved by his own good works, but by the grace of God. This experience led him to become a Methodist preacher, and he began to travel throughout England and Ireland, preaching the gospel of salvation by faith.

Susanna Wesley was also deeply affected by her husband's conversion. She began to preach and teach in her own right, and she became one of the most influential women in the Methodist movement.

In 1736, the Wesleys decided to leave England and travel to America. They believed that the New World offered a more tolerant religious environment, and they hoped to spread the Methodist message to the American colonies.

The Wesleys' journey to America was not easy. They faced storms, illness, and persecution. But they never gave up on their mission. They preached in churches, homes, and fields, and they helped to establish Methodist societies throughout the colonies.

The Wesleys' spiritual journey had a profound impact on the Atlantic World. They helped to spread the Methodist message of salvation by faith, and they played a key role in the development of Methodism in America.

Today, the Wesleys are remembered as two of the most influential religious leaders of the 18th century. Their writings and sermons continue to inspire Christians around the world.

The Wesleys' Spiritual Journey in the Atlantic World

1703: John Wesley is born in Epworth, England.
1714: Susanna Wesley is born in London, England.
1735: John Wesley has a profound religious experience that changes his life forever.
1736: The Wesleys leave England and travel to America.
1738: The Wesleys establish the first Methodist society in America.
1740: The Wesleys return to England.
1751: The Wesleys return to America for the second time.
1760: The Wesleys return to England for the last time.
1791: John Wesley dies in London, England.
1822: Susanna Wesley dies in London, England.

The Wesleys' Legacy

The Wesleys left behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire Christians around the world. Their writings and sermons are still widely read, and their hymns are still sung in churches around the world.

The Wesleys' emphasis on personal piety and social justice has had a profound impact on the development of Christianity in the Atlantic World. They helped to create a more tolerant and inclusive Christian community, and they inspired people to work for social change.

The Wesleys' spiritual journey is a reminder that the Christian faith is a journey, not a destination. It is a journey of growth, discovery, and transformation. The Wesleys' journey is an inspiration to us all to follow in their footsteps and to seek a deeper relationship with God.

Two Troubled Souls: An Eighteenth-Century Couple's Spiritual Journey in the Atlantic World

by Aaron Spencer Fogleman

5 out of 5