Customer Reviews

Statesman and Saint: The Principled Politics of William Wilberforce (Leaders in Action)

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The strength of this biography is its coverage of Wilberforce's means of greatness, namely his deeply held personal faith. Wilberforce is most famous for his tireless work to end the British slave trade, which he accomplished, but should also be remembered for persevering another 25 years for the full emancipation of all British slaves. In addition, his monumental work on the reformation of manners still remains a classic treatment of living a life of faith in every facet of life. Wilberforce maintained that it was not enough to act like a Christian on Sunday and to keep up appearances of morality; instead, he believed that one's faith must permeate every area of life and that faith preceded great deeds and sustained a humble spirit in the face of success. In addition, this biography deals with areas of personal struggle and criticism as faced by Wilberforce and how he overcame them with humility and determination. All in all, this is a fine biography and is also a shorter read than several other Wilberforce biographies on the market. The reader interested in Wilberforce may also like Kevin Belmonte's book, Hero for Humanity, since it is written in a more narrative style and reads like a story of Wilberforce's life. For a technical treatment of Wilberforce, one may want to consult John Pollock's, Wilberforce.

Modern Americans often wonder if it is possible for a politician to remain a strong Christian after being elected to office and subjected to political havoc. The life of William Wilberforce proves it is not only possible, but also very good for the country. Interest catching and capably written, Statesman and Saint presents this biography in a clear-cut, triumphant manner. No punches are pulled, no whitewashing, and all glory given to the Lord. Adding to the interest are Vaughan's descriptions of life in England, especially in English politics in the 18th century. The alcoholism, immorality, and extreme self-interest of that era sound very similar to our era. Little tidbits relating to the American colonies add interest, such as Wilberforce' belief that the English were waging the revolutionary war in a "cruel, bloody and impractical manner" (p. 43).

By the year 1784, Wilberforce, then 24, was popular with society and a rising star in the political arena. Then in 1785, the Lord took over Wilberforce' life and thence forward many of the problems in London, pre-eminently the question of the legality of slavery. History buffs will meet many 18th century friends, including John Newton and William Pitt. Part 1 of Statesman and Saint presents Wilberforce' life, while Part 2 takes a candid look at his character. Part 3 considers the benefits humanity has reaped from Wilberforce' work and Part 4 draws lessons for our Christian growth.

Statesman and Saint is one of the volumes of the Leaders in Action series - just imagine, a whole group of Christian statesmen to encourage us! Statesman and Saint is as interesting as a novel. Well worth reading for enjoyment, this book will also provide devotional material and Christian life lessons. I recommend it for all readers middle school through adult, who are interested in history and/or Christian heroes, or just a good story. This volume will be useful for Christian schools, homeschoolers, and church groups. - Donna Eggett, Christian Book Previews.com

Wilberforce is a monumental figure. Vaughan does a good job of portraying many of the qualities that made Wilberforce the moral giant that he was. However, I would have appreciated a more straightforward biography than a thematic approach based on Wilberforce's virtues and leadership skills.