The Struggle for Virtue Series

Are you seeking deeper intimacy with God? In Phoebe Palmer on Holiness, author Ruth Conlon insightfully explores the extraordinary life of 19th-century female religious pioneer Phoebe Palmer. With scholarly care and spiritual depth, Conlon chronicles Palmer's dramatic spiritual encounter in which she felt called "to relinquish everything to God in absolute surrender." This transformative personal breakthrough subsequently sparked a nationwide movement as Palmer began hosting small gatherings focused on promoting the theological concept of "entire sanctification."

Conlon closely analyses Palmer's seminal "Altar Theology", rooted in Methodist doctrine yet infused with her unique interpretation of "Christian perfection" as an instantaneously attainable state. The book traces Palmer's meteoric rise to leadership through her impassioned preaching, prolific writings, and ceaseless promotion of holiness despite facing barriers as a woman. It also explores controversies sparked by Palmer's countercultural activism expanding roles for female ministers.

Yet despite copious 19th-century limitations, Palmer emerges in this book as a singular model of surrendered faith, tenaciously walking out a sense of holy calling against all earthly opposition. Conlon aims to ignite modern listeners' desire for deeper intimacy with God in pursuing their own destinies by shining fresh light on this little-known spiritual mother.

In Phoebe Palmer on Holiness, Ruth Conlon helps listeners:

• Discern God's heart regarding intimacy with Christ through the Spirit's transforming work
• Find inspiration from Palmer's courageous example for their own sense of spiritual calling
• Carry the message of holiness and reform into church and society today