A Movement of the Spirit?

The Airwaves have been awash in a phenomenon occurring in Wilmore, Kentucky. Seemingly, a Christian revival has broken out at Asbury University. What began as a chapel prayer meeting has blossomed into a contagious spiritual awakening of some sort. Even the national media is covering it!

Chapel service at Asbury University in Wilmore, Kentucky (Asbury University)

But even in the early weeks of this movement, some are questioning its legitimacy. There have been some false revivals in the past few decades. In places like Toronto and Pensacola, so-called revivals have disintegrated into buffoonery of epic proportions with attendants laughing hysterically, barking like dogs, and flopping around like a fish out of water. So, what is a person to make of this event? How can someone know whether this is the “real McCoy.”

The answer is complicated but must begin with a review of past revivals. History contains remarkable accounts of many Christian resurgences. For instance, in the Americas, The Great Awakenings of the 1700s marked a significant time of piety, church attendance, and growth. The effects of the revival were phenomenal. Tony Cauchi relates that while statistics are hard to find, we know that 150 new Congregational churches began in a 20-year period, and 30,000 were added to the church between 1740 and 1742, probably doubling its size. Moral results were equally profound. Nine university colleges were established in the colonies. A spiritual foundation was strengthened for the emerging nation.

It was during this time in 1741 that Jonathan Edwards famous sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God,” was preached in Enfield, Connecticut. So profound was the effect that it was said that congregants were holding on to the pillars and pews in terror. Others related that Edwards was often interrupted during the sermon by people moaning and crying out, "What shall I do to be saved?"

Likewise, in England, the prolific preaching of John Wesley and George Whitefield sparked much fruit from their evangelistic efforts. Churches were shaken and revitalized. People were drawn to outdoor gatherings by the thousands, and entire towns and hamlets were transformed.

Attendees from around the country have flocked to Asbury University's chapel to take participate in the revival. (Asbury University)

As one investigates these religious happenings, one must ask what are its hallmarks? Do simple enthusiasm and subjective response mark it? Certainly not! In these spiritual rejuvenations, we see the excitement in the church and transformation outside of the church. True, all revivals seem to begin within congregational walls, but they will spread beyond much like the proverbial leaven Jesus described (Matt 13:33). Historically, the series of revivals worldwide in previous centuries was denoted by powerful repentance, prolific preaching, and transforming evangelism.

Is there a revival happening in Kentucky? I sure hope so! However, only time will tell. Is the Gospel being preached? Are Repentance and faith being demanded? The proof will be in the pudding. After a tremendous evangelistic meeting, a man asked George Whitefield what he thought about the seemingly great harvest of souls observed. Whitefield replied that he should wait six months to see what lasting impact remained.

Most American believers are desperate for repair in the moral fabric of our land and a renewal of Christian values permeating society at large. The Christian faithful have been praying for such. It will only come from the Holy Spirit being married to the Gospel of Christ, which will provide lasting results. May He do a mighty work in our day!