the promise

The proto-feminist theology of Phoebe Palmer remains a valuable milestone in advancing the role of women in Christianity and wider society, while also serving as a review upon goodly Christian principles.

Advancing the doctrine of Christian perfection, Palmer aims to set readers down the path of attaining spiritual maturity and a strong connection with the Lord. She embarks on various examinations, such as the attributes of prophecy, of heroism and its connection to holiness, of the place of the church in the life of believers. The final chapters of the book contain testimony of one of Palmer’s treasured acquaintances and a Congregational minister. Discussions of baptism - firstly with water and latterly with the fire of the Holy Spirit - also serve to distinguish the author’s theology.

Writing at a time of Christian revivalism in the United States, Palmer was a devout Methodist who was born to a privileged family. She sought to use her position to advance the ideas of Christianity as a spiritual discipline, converting many to the cause, whilst founding the Holiness movement which substantially realigned Methodism.