Revival History
Course Description
This course explores the sweeping movements of revival that have shaped the landscape of Christianity in the United States. From the early awakenings that shook colonial churches to the Spirit-empowered revivals of the 20th century, students will examine the cultural, theological, and supernatural forces that fueled these awakenings. Each session provides historical insight, spiritual reflection, and practical lessons for leaders hungry to see a move of God in their own generation.
The course consists of 8 sessions, each session including a video and corresponding course notes. After each session the student will complete a 15 question quiz. Each quiz must be completed before moving onto the next session.
Recommended Reading
Trail of Fire, Danielle K. Norris
Session Overview
Lesson 1: What is Revival?
Defining revival biblically and historically. We’ll explore the nature of revival, how it differs from evangelism or spiritual renewal, and how God uses it to awaken His Church and reach the lost.
Lesson 2: The First Great Awakening
An in-depth look at the revival that swept through colonial America in the 1730s–1740s, with figures like Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield. We’ll study its theological emphases, emotional responses, and long-term impact.
Lesson 3: The Second Great Awakening
Spanning the early 1800s, this revival reshaped frontier Christianity and birthed powerful new movements. We’ll examine leaders like Charles Finney and the rise of camp meetings, abolitionism, and societal reform.
Lesson 4: The Prayer Revival of 1857
A quiet movement that started with no preaching—just prayer. Students will learn how Jeremiah Lanphier’s noonday prayer meeting in New York became a national call to repentance and revival through lay leadership.
Lesson 5: Azusa Street and the Pentecostal Outpouring
The early 20th-century revival that launched the global Pentecostal movement. We’ll explore how a humble prayer meeting in Los Angeles ignited a worldwide renewal marked by tongues, healing, and racial reconciliation.
Lesson 6: The Healing Revivals and the Voice of Healing Movement
This lesson covers the dramatic post-WWII revival era, with miracle ministries like William Branham, Oral Roberts, and A.A. Allen. We’ll evaluate both the power and the pitfalls of mass evangelistic healing campaigns.
Lesson 7: The Jesus People and the Charismatic Renewal
In the 1960s and 70s, revival came to the counterculture and mainline denominations. We’ll discuss how hippies met the Holy Spirit and how spiritual gifts spread through unexpected places—from Catholic churches to coffee houses.
Lesson 8: The Brownsville Revival and Toronto Blessing
A study of late 20th-century revivals, including the manifestations of the Spirit in Pensacola and Toronto. What are the signs of true revival? How do we discern excess from encounter—and what lasting fruit remains?
Â
