Customer Reviews

The Heritage of American Methodism

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This is an incredible book by one of the foremost teachers and authors of the history of American Methodism. Dr. Kinghorn has gone above and beyond the norm by including virtually a complete second book. The text of the book is very easy to read and informative, but the bonus comes in the illustrations. The captions for the mostly color pictures constitute almost a book in themselves. On initial perusal, just looking at the hundreds of full color images with their people-centered information made me want to go back and more carefully read the text. And it was worth it! Also, when I first saw the book in the bookstore, I put it down figuring that it would cost upwards of $50 just because of the quality and the color, but fortunately I looked first and found it more than affordable too. I am not a Methodist, but as a pastor-to-be, I gained a great deal of useful information about the Methodist church, it's beginnings, and where it's gone since the first preachers landed on the American shores. Take a chance! It will be more than worth your money and time!

This book covers the basics from various perspectives. The multitudes of glossy photos add a touch of realism that is very helpful while you accumulate information. In fact, this is the major strength of the work. The topic becomes more inviting to younger readers, while the historical accounts are given serious attention. The author, Dr. Kinghorn, is a well-known and current authority on the topic, with much information and many original resources at his disposal. For someone who wishes to begin their study of American Methodism, or someone who appreciates appropriately placed photos of pertinent buildings, portraits, documents, etc. to further enlighten their understanding, this book is unparalleled. It is an easy and enjoyable read. After reading, this book properly belongs on a coffee table, because of its size and fetching quality.

"What is United Methodism? Where did it come from? How to develop? What is its mission? What has It accomplished? What are Its beliefs? These are the questions which this book seeks to answer, both in compelling words and superb illustrations. The advanced color printing technology used in this volume enables us not only to read history, but also to see it.

The story of United Methodism in America is complex. It involves the twists and turns we would expect of a denomination which began as a small movement in colonial America and steadily grew into the largest Protestant church in the land the 19th century. The generous use of life stories and historical accounts on here illustrates how and why our troops grew as it did".



Contents

The British legacy to American Methodism

Methodism comes to America

American Methodism becomes a church

From small beginnings to national prominence

Nurturing the Saints

The Evangelical United Brethren in legacy

Methodism and the black experience

Knowledge and vital piety

Worship in the Wesleyan way

The heritage of hymns

Offering them Christ

The whole Gospel for the whole world