A Practical View of the Prevailing Religious System of Professed Christians, in the Higher and Middle Classes in This Country, Contrasted With Real Christianity (Classic Reprint) - Softcover

William Wilberforce

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1333165358 ISBN 13: 9781333165352

Publisher: Forgotten Books, 2018

Synopsis

This book delves into a thought-provoking critique of contemporary Christian faith, contrasting it with the author's understanding of authentic Christianity. The author expresses concern over the superficiality of religious practice, highlighting the lack of genuine understanding and application of Christian principles in everyday life. Set against the backdrop of Enlightenment skepticism and critiques of religion, the book argues for a deeper engagement with scripture and a more profound understanding of core Christian doctrines such as human depravity, redemption, and the role of emotions in faith. The author challenges prevailing notions of sincerity and good works, contending that true Christian faith should manifest in transformed hearts and lives, evidenced by love for Christ and a commitment to serving others. Exploring themes of gratitude, humility, and self-examination, this book invites readers to move beyond complacency and embrace a more vibrant and transformative faith experience. By delving into the complexities of human nature and the profound implications of Christ's teachings, the book offers timeless insights that continue to resonate with readers seeking a more meaningful and authentic expression of Christian faith.

About this title

About the Author

William Wilberforce (1759–1833) was an English politician, philanthropist, and a leader of the movement to abolish the slave trade. A native of Kingston upon Hull, Yorkshire, he began his political career in 1780, eventually becoming the independent Member of Parliament for Yorkshire. In 1785, he underwent a conversion experience and became an evangelical Christian, which resulted in major changes to his lifestyle and a lifelong concern for reform. In 1787, he came into contact with Thomas Clarkson and a group of anti-slave-trade activists, including Granville Sharp, Hannah More and Charles Middleton. They persuaded Wilberforce to take on the cause of abolition, and he soon became one of the leading English abolitionists. He headed the parliamentary campaign against the British slave trade for twenty-six years until the passage of the Slave Trade Act of 1807. Wilberforce was convinced of the importance of religion, morality and education. He championed causes and campaigns such as the Society for the Suppression of Vice, British missionary work in India, the creation of a free colony in Sierra Leone, the foundation of the Church Mission Society, and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. His underlying conservatism led him to support politically and socially repressive legislation, and resulted in criticism that he was ignoring injustices at home while campaigning for the enslaved abroad. In later years, Wilberforce supported the campaign for the complete abolition of slavery, and continued his involvement after 1826, when he resigned from Parliament because of his failing health. That campaign led to the Slavery Abolition Act 1833, which abolished slavery in most of the British Empire; Wilberforce died just three days after hearing that the passage of the Act through Parliament was assured. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, close to his friend William Pitt.

Edition details

• Publisher: Forgotten Books
• Publication date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1333165358
• ISBN 13: 9781333165352
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 322