What is revivalism?
Revivalism: A Theological and Historical Perspective
Revivalism refers to a movement within Christianity characterized by a series of meetings, often called revivals, aimed at evangelism, spiritual renewal, and the deepening of faith. It centers on the necessity of conversion, a personal decision to follow Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and often includes a call for repentance and a commitment to living a life transformed by the gospel. Revivalism seeks to "revive" individuals and communities, moving them from cultural or nominal Christianity to a vibrant, active faith.
At its core, revivalism reflects the biblical plea for God to renew His people and bring about spiritual awakening. The psalmist cries, “Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?” (Psalm 85:6, NKJV). Similarly, Isaiah declares, “For thus says the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones’” (Isaiah 57:15, NKJV). Revivalism echoes this longing for God to move powerfully among His people, renewing their hearts and igniting their passion for holiness and evangelism.
The Foundations of Revivalism: A Historical Overview
Revivalism emerged as a significant movement in the history of the church, particularly in the context of the First Great Awakening (1730s–1740s) and the Second Great Awakening (1790s–1840s). These periods of spiritual awakening were marked by powerful preaching, large gatherings, and widespread conversions.
The First Great Awakening
The First Great Awakening was deeply rooted in Calvinistic theology, emphasizing the sovereignty of God in salvation. Preachers like Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield proclaimed the necessity of new birth, as Jesus taught in John 3:3: “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (NKJV). Edwards' famous sermon, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, underscored the reality of God’s judgment against sin and the need for repentance. This awakening emphasized the convicting work of the Holy Spirit, as described in John 16:8: “And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (NKJV).
In this Calvinistic framework, conversion was seen as a work of God’s grace, whereby the sinner, drawn by the Spirit, responds in faith and repentance (Ephesians 2:8–9). The First Great Awakening largely remained within the established church, calling nominal Christians to a genuine, personal faith in Christ.
The Second Great Awakening
The Second Great Awakening, associated with figures like Charles Finney, took a more Arminian approach, emphasizing human responsibility in responding to God’s call. Finney introduced innovative methods, including extended meetings, emotional appeals, and the use of the “anxious bench,” where individuals could come forward to indicate their decision for Christ. This period emphasized the immediacy of personal conversion and the urgency of repentance, echoing 2 Corinthians 6:2: “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (NKJV).
Revivalist preachers often went to areas with little or no established church presence, such as the American frontier, where they challenged cultural Christianity and called for authentic faith. They preached the necessity of repentance, as Jesus Himself declared: “Unless you repent you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3, NKJV). Revivalists sought to awaken the spiritually dead and renew the church’s commitment to evangelism and holy living.
Key Characteristics of Revivalism
Revivalism is defined by several distinct characteristics, including its emphasis on:
The Necessity of Conversion:
Revivalism teaches that salvation requires a personal decision to trust in Jesus Christ. It affirms the biblical truth of John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (NKJV). Conversion is not inherited or achieved through ritual but is a conscious turning from sin and placing faith in Christ.The Preaching of the Word:
Revivalism relies on the proclamation of God’s Word as the means by which sinners are convicted and brought to faith. Romans 10:14 asks, “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” (NKJV). Revival preaching is often direct, urgent, and aimed at the heart.Public Responses:
Many revivals include altar calls or invitations for individuals to respond publicly to the gospel message. This practice, while not explicitly found in Scripture, is rooted in the desire to provide a clear opportunity for people to declare their faith in Christ. Revivalists often point to Matthew 10:32: “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven” (NKJV).Emotional Appeals:
Revivalist preaching often engages both the mind and the emotions, seeking to awaken sinners to the reality of their condition and their need for Christ. Paul himself wrote of preaching “in demonstration of the Spirit and of power” so that faith would rest not in human wisdom but in God (1 Corinthians 2:4–5, NKJV).Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit:
Revivalism emphasizes prayer as a vital part of spiritual awakening. Psalm 80:18–19 cries out, “Revive us, and we will call upon Your name. Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; cause Your face to shine, and we shall be saved!” (NKJV). Revival is seen as a sovereign work of God, brought about by His Spirit in answer to fervent prayer.
Revivalism’s Legacy and Contemporary Relevance
Revivalism continued into the 19th and 20th centuries with leaders like D. L. Moody, Billy Sunday, and Billy Graham, who held large-scale evangelistic crusades. These revivals often included dynamic preaching, heartfelt worship, and a strong focus on personal conversion and discipleship.
Today, while revivalism as a formal movement has waned, its principles continue to influence modern evangelicalism. Many churches still hold revival meetings, emphasizing the need for spiritual renewal and evangelistic outreach. The emphasis on personal conversion, the preaching of the gospel, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit remains central to the mission of the church.
Conclusion: Revivalism and Baptist Theology
From a Baptist theological perspective, revivalism aligns with key biblical principles. Baptists emphasize regenerate church membership, meaning that only those who have been born again should be members of the church. This conviction underscores the importance of personal conversion and aligns with the revivalist call to repentance and faith in Christ.
Revivalism also reflects the Great Commission, as Jesus commanded His followers: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19, NKJV). It seeks to bring the gospel to all people and to awaken the church to its mission.
Ultimately, revivalism is not about emotionalism or mere outward responses but about the genuine work of God’s Spirit in bringing sinners to salvation and reviving the hearts of His people. True revival results in transformed lives, renewed commitment to holiness, and a fresh passion for the glory of God. “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6, NKJV).
