Charles Grandison Finney
Charles Grandison Finney (1792-1875) was a pivotal figure in the Second Great Awakening, often called the Father of Modern Revivalism.
Originally a lawyer, he became an innovative traveling evangelist who revolutionized preaching by using everyday language accessible to common people rather than elevated theological discourse.
He opposed Old School Presbyterian theology, advocated Christian perfectionism, and pioneered social reforms supporting abolition, women's rights, and equal education.
Finney served as president of Oberlin College and introduced controversial "new measures" in evangelism, including altar calls.
His influence fundamentally shaped American evangelical Christianity, though his theological positions, particularly regarding sin and human nature, remain controversial among theologians today.
