Godly Dead Guys: More than the Abolition of Slavery

In William Wilberforce's diary, his account of April 21, 1803, states:
" A few of us met together at Mr Hardcastle's counting house, at a later hour than suited city habits out of regard for my convenience, and yet on so dark a morning that we discussed by candle-light, while we resolved upon the establishment of the Bible Society."

Originally sought out for counsel and advice as an influential Christian leader, Wilberforce joined those whose aim it was to form an organisation dedicated to printing and distributing the Bible -- in foreign languages as well as English -- to readers who would otherwise go without. Along with other Christian anti-slavery advocates and social reformers such as Granville Sharp and Zachary Macaulay, Wilberforce believed in making the Bible available across society including to the poor.

In a letter written on May 1, 1804, he said "The Scriptures, prayer, with humble reliance on our Redeemer and on the aids of His promised Spirit -- these are the sure means of progress."

The next day, he spoke at the first General Meeting of the Bible Society. He is listed as one of the first Committee members appointed that day and in July of the following year (1805) he was appointed a Vice-President of the Bible Society.

The Bible Society became the largest of the 8 great societies inspired and organised by evangelical Christians associated with the Clapham era and reform movements.

See the Movie "Amazing Grace" portraying William Wilberforces involvement in the Abolition of Slavery from the British Empire