Methodism Empire of the Spirit David Hempton

This lively history of the rise of Methodism charts the development of the movement from its unpromising origins in England in the 1730s to its major international importance by the 1880s. The book explores Methodism's phenomenal growth in the British Isles, America, and around the globe, and the complex reasons for its wide-ranging appeal.
"This is an extraordinary book. It is jammed full of scintillating interpretations; it is beautifully written; and it conveys tremendous insight in a short compass. It will be recognized immediately as the classic work on the rise of Methodism."-- Mark Noll, Wheaton College
"Clear, concise, original and formidably learned."--Eugen Weber, "The Key Reporter
""Brilliantly provocative. . . . [A] masterful account."--Grant Wacker, "Christian Century"

David Hempton is University Professor at Boston University, where he directs the university's programme in the History of Christianity.

"Always readable and with a crisp turn of phrase... an admirable introduction to this extraordinary subject." Ferdinand Mount, Times Literary Supplement "This impressive book is one of the best - and certainly one of the most lively - books on Methodism to emerge in years." John Walsh, Oxford University "a sparkling, landmark study whose timely international approach lifts Methodist history to a new and exiciting level." Richard Carwardine, Rhodes Professor of American History, Oxford University "This is an extraordinary book. It is jammed full of scintillating interpretations; it is beautifully written; and it conveys tremendous insight in a short compass. It will be recognized immediately as the classic work on the rise of Methodism." Mark Noll, Wheaton College "Clear, concise, original and formidably learned." Eugen Weber, The Key Reporter "Brilliantly provocative... A masterful account." Grant Wacker, Christian Century"