Discussion Questions on Seven Men & the Secret to Their Greatness: Wilberforce

Some questions for discussion on Eric Metaxas’ chapter on William Wilberforce.

  1. What do you think of the role William Wilberforce’s wealthy aunt and uncle played in his life? What surprises you about it?
  2. Have you ever heard someone applying the phrase, “…taking things to far…” to one’s faith? The question, “where, exactly, must one draw the line?” is common. How do you answer it?
  3. Wilberforce’s parents were concerned that he would not become the person they hoped he would become. Do you think they were disappointed?

    WHM146809 Portrait of William Wilberforce (1759-1833), 1794 (oil on canvas) by Hickel, Anton (1745-98)
    oil on canvas
    © Wilberforce House, Hull City Museums and Art Galleries, UK
    German, out of copyright

  4. From where did Wilberforce feel his mission came? How would this help him overcome obstacles? Metaxas emphasize this again and again. Why?
  5. Where you surprised to read of the social ills of the late 1700’s in London? What evils might an Eric Metaxas of 200 years from now list?
  6. Metaxas says, “At it’s core, every battle worth fighting is a spiritual battle”. Do you agree with this? Why?
  7. Why do you think that Metaxas feels the most important thing Wilberforce was able to do was to have a personal relationship with God?