“Very Tender and Earnest in Prayer”: Andrew Fuller, a Man of Prayer

Abstract

This dissertation argues that Andrew Fuller (1754–1815) serves as a model for spirituality, and particularly in the practice of prayer. His life as a husband, father, pastor, missionary society leader, and theologian brings together a valuable example to be retrieved for the contemporary church. This dissertation distinguishes itself in Fuller studies by being the first study of its kind to provide an inductive study of Fuller’s practice of prayer in all aspects of his life, relying on his published and yet-to-be published writings. Therefore, this dissertation does not impose contemporary, systematic categories onto Fuller’s life as a means of discerning his theology of prayer. This study displays Fuller as a man of prayer within his culture, context, and theological tradition.

Chapter 2 surveys the practice of prayer within the Particular Baptist tradition to provide context to Fuller’s background and heritage. Chapter 3 summarizes Fuller’s practice and theology of prayer displayed in his diary and his yet-to-be-published letters. Next, chapter 4 discusses the towering impact of Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) on both Fuller and the Particular Baptist tradition, particularly as it relates to corporate prayer. Then, in chapters 5 and 6, Fuller’s published writings are surveyed, first, by looking at some of his major theological works and then, his sermons, to show his practice and theology of prayer. Chapter 7 concludes bringing together the various aspects of Fuller’s life and ministry to show him to be a humble man of prayer and an example worth following.