Podcasts about Second Great Awakening

Get the free eBook – Revival Starts Here: https://discipleship.org/shop/revival-starts-here-primer/  Today's episode will help us recognize the historical patterns of revival, awaken a deeper hunger for God, and take practical steps to spiritually prepare for a movement of disciple-making in our time. Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/  The Deeper Walk Experience | Franklin, TN | Aug. 15-16, 2025: https://deeperwalk.com/sp/dw-experience-franklin/  Discipling Men | Dallas, TX | Sept. 11, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/dallas-2025-regional/  The Discipleship Gospel | Oceanside, CA | Oct. 9, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/2025-west-coast-conference/  Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr The Next Great Revival: How to Prepare for God's Powerful Move In this episode of The Disciple Maker Podcast, hosts Josh and Jason dive deep into the topic of revival. They explore historical revivals in America, discuss the cyclical pattern of these spiritual awakenings every 50 years, and dream about the possibility of a new revival in 2025. Through lively discussion and passionate storytelling, they emphasize the importance of prayer, fasting, and repentance as essential preparations for a mighty move of God. Join them as they call believers to wage war on lukewarm Christianity and become disciples who make disciples in anticipation of a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Welcome Back, Disciple Makers! 00:45 Introduction to Revival 01:56 Historical Revivals in America 04:44 The Pattern of Revival 06:38 Preparing for the Next Revival 07:21 Skepticism and Faith 10:11 Current Signs of Revival 11:19 Revival Ready: A Call to Action 15:00 The Power of Persistent Prayer 15:57 The Role of the Pastor in Revival 16:28 Stories of Revival and Conviction 19:07 Practical Steps for Church Leaders 20:13 Counting the Cost of Revival 25:14 The Importance of Repentance 26:34 Waging War on Lukewarm Christianity 31:24 A Call to Action for Revival Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/    Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  See Below for a longer description: In this episode, Josh H and Jason I dive into revival—what it means, where we've seen it in history, and what it could look like today. Josh kicks things off by noting that listeners had asked for this topic, and he's eager to unpack it. They trace the major revival movements in American history, starting with the First Great Awakening around 300 years ago, led by Jonathan Edwards. They walk through the Second Great Awakening with Charles Finney and his intercessor Nash, and the revivals led by D.L. Moody and Billy Graham, all of which were marked by repentance and spiritual renewal. They land on the 1970s Jesus Revolution, which they say might be the last nationwide revival—exactly 50 years ago. Josh and Jason suggest this 50-year pattern may signal another wave is coming. While not predicting anything specific, they urge listeners to stay spiritually alert and ready. They share powerful stories, like two elderly sisters who prayed revival into their community during the Hebrides Revival—where even ships passing by felt the weight of God's presence. Jason emphasizes the need to be structurally and spiritually prepared for revival, drawing from Jesus' teaching about counting the cost before building. Both hosts agree: revival won't come without prayer, repentance, fasting, and a willingness to sacrifice. They also stress that revival must lead to disciple-making—not just emotional experiences, but long-term transformation. True revival, they argue, involves everyone, not just a few leaders. The episode ends with a challenge: join the growing movement of prayer and fasting through Discipleship.org and prepare your heart and community for what God might do next.

Even when our faith as a nation grows cold and indifferent, God keeps raising up those who will proclaim the gospel and bring us back to himself.

On todays Show Jimmy, James, Chris and Glenn talk about the historical and spiritual significance of the Great Awakenings, particularly the Second Great Awakening and its impact on evangelism and the Methodist Protestant Church. Key points included the role of Jonathan Edwards in the First Great Awakening, the evolution of Methodism from a high church to a more evangelical movement, and the influence of the Pentecostal movement. The conversation emphasized the importance of personal holiness, the balance between emotionalism and spiritual maturity, and the need for pastors to be equipped for counseling and teaching. The speakers also highlighted the transformative power of prayer and the Holy Spirit in revival movements. The discussion centered on the importance of new teachings in the church to foster growth, the necessity of personal faith and prayer, and the role of the Holy Spirit. Glenn Cox highlighted the commonalities in Christian beliefs despite denominational differences, emphasizing the core tenets of faith in Jesus, the Holy Trinity, and the Holy Spirit. The conversation also touched on the historical context of church awakenings, the impact of denominational splits, and the need for unity in faith. The speakers agreed on the importance of intellectual study and the diverse roles within the church, advocating for mutual respect and understanding among believers. Don't miss it!

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts U-Arkansas Prof. Albert Cheng and Alisha Searcy interview Margaret Washington, the esteemed historian and author of Sojourner Truth's America. Prof. Washington delves into Truth's remarkable life, from her early years in slavery in New York to her transformation into a powerful abolitionist, women's rights advocate, and religiously driven reformer. She explores Northern slavery, the Second Great Awakening, her famous “Ain't I a Woman?” speech, and her Civil War-era activism. Prof. Washington also reflects on Truth's enduring legacy as a symbol of justice, equality, and resilience in American history. In closing, Prof. Washington reads a passage from her book, Sojourner Truth's America.

Just in time for Black History Month, we share an episode we've been excitedly working on for a number of months now. Ethnomusicologist Maya Cunningham brings us “The Sound World of Harriet Tubman.” Maya Cunningham is an activist and jazz singer currently completing a Ph.D. at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in Afro-American studies with a concentration in ethnomusicology.  We first came across Maya's work last year as part of The Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Project, an online initiative from Ms. magazine honoring the 200th anniversary of Harriet Tubman's birth in 1822. It's a remarkable package that adds many dimensions of understanding of the underground railroad conductor and feminist icon: Her experience of disability due to a blow to the head by a white overseer; her creation of a home for the aged; her love of the natural world; and much more. And to us, the richest of these essays was Maya's the “Sound World of Harriet Tubman,” which used field recordings, historical research, and ethnomusicological research to explore the roles of sound and music, and voice in Tubman's life and leadership. The piece included a Spotify playlist so you could listen as you read.  Today, we're thrilled to bring you what we hope will be an even more immersive experience: Maya Cunningham reading her essay, and thanks to the editing and mixing skills of Phantom Power producer Ravi Krishnaswami, her field recordings and playlist selections are mixed into the story.  And just a quick note, you're going to hear about the American Christian revival known as the Second Great Awakening, which stirred both Black and white people from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. You'll also hear about the Invisible Church, where enslaved African Americans were able to worship secretly and autonomously and through the singing of folk spirituals, which differed greatly from white religious music at the time, but would go on to influence not only gospel music but pretty much every form of popular music we know today. If you want to learn more about this history, a great place to start is a book edited by two professors Mack studied with at Indiana University, Drs. Mellonee V. Burnim and Portia K. Maultsby. It's called African American Music: An Introduction.  And today, we share our Patrons-only segment, “What's Good,” in our main feed. Maya will recommend something good to read, listen to, and do.  Today's musical selections and soundscapes are by Maya Cunningham. The show was mixed and edited by Ravi Krishnaswami. The Harriet Tubman image was created by Maddie Haynes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-american-studies

Just in time for Black History Month, we share an episode we've been excitedly working on for a number of months now. Ethnomusicologist Maya Cunningham brings us “The Sound World of Harriet Tubman.” Maya Cunningham is an activist and jazz singer currently completing a Ph.D. at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in Afro-American studies with a concentration in ethnomusicology.  We first came across Maya's work last year as part of The Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Project, an online initiative from Ms. magazine honoring the 200th anniversary of Harriet Tubman's birth in 1822. It's a remarkable package that adds many dimensions of understanding of the underground railroad conductor and feminist icon: Her experience of disability due to a blow to the head by a white overseer; her creation of a home for the aged; her love of the natural world; and much more. And to us, the richest of these essays was Maya's the “Sound World of Harriet Tubman,” which used field recordings, historical research, and ethnomusicological research to explore the roles of sound and music, and voice in Tubman's life and leadership. The piece included a Spotify playlist so you could listen as you read.  Today, we're thrilled to bring you what we hope will be an even more immersive experience: Maya Cunningham reading her essay, and thanks to the editing and mixing skills of Phantom Power producer Ravi Krishnaswami, her field recordings and playlist selections are mixed into the story.  And just a quick note, you're going to hear about the American Christian revival known as the Second Great Awakening, which stirred both Black and white people from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. You'll also hear about the Invisible Church, where enslaved African Americans were able to worship secretly and autonomously and through the singing of folk spirituals, which differed greatly from white religious music at the time, but would go on to influence not only gospel music but pretty much every form of popular music we know today. If you want to learn more about this history, a great place to start is a book edited by two professors Mack studied with at Indiana University, Drs. Mellonee V. Burnim and Portia K. Maultsby. It's called African American Music: An Introduction.  And today, we share our Patrons-only segment, “What's Good,” in our main feed. Maya will recommend something good to read, listen to, and do.  Today's musical selections and soundscapes are by Maya Cunningham. The show was mixed and edited by Ravi Krishnaswami. The Harriet Tubman image was created by Maddie Haynes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Just in time for Black History Month, we share an episode we've been excitedly working on for a number of months now. Ethnomusicologist Maya Cunningham brings us “The Sound World of Harriet Tubman.” Maya Cunningham is an activist and jazz singer currently completing a Ph.D. at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in Afro-American studies with a concentration in ethnomusicology.  We first came across Maya's work last year as part of The Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Project, an online initiative from Ms. magazine honoring the 200th anniversary of Harriet Tubman's birth in 1822. It's a remarkable package that adds many dimensions of understanding of the underground railroad conductor and feminist icon: Her experience of disability due to a blow to the head by a white overseer; her creation of a home for the aged; her love of the natural world; and much more. And to us, the richest of these essays was Maya's the “Sound World of Harriet Tubman,” which used field recordings, historical research, and ethnomusicological research to explore the roles of sound and music, and voice in Tubman's life and leadership. The piece included a Spotify playlist so you could listen as you read.  Today, we're thrilled to bring you what we hope will be an even more immersive experience: Maya Cunningham reading her essay, and thanks to the editing and mixing skills of Phantom Power producer Ravi Krishnaswami, her field recordings and playlist selections are mixed into the story.  And just a quick note, you're going to hear about the American Christian revival known as the Second Great Awakening, which stirred both Black and white people from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. You'll also hear about the Invisible Church, where enslaved African Americans were able to worship secretly and autonomously and through the singing of folk spirituals, which differed greatly from white religious music at the time, but would go on to influence not only gospel music but pretty much every form of popular music we know today. If you want to learn more about this history, a great place to start is a book edited by two professors Mack studied with at Indiana University, Drs. Mellonee V. Burnim and Portia K. Maultsby. It's called African American Music: An Introduction.  And today, we share our Patrons-only segment, “What's Good,” in our main feed. Maya will recommend something good to read, listen to, and do.  Today's musical selections and soundscapes are by Maya Cunningham. The show was mixed and edited by Ravi Krishnaswami. The Harriet Tubman image was created by Maddie Haynes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Just in time for Black History Month, we share an episode we've been excitedly working on for a number of months now. Ethnomusicologist Maya Cunningham brings us “The Sound World of Harriet Tubman.” Maya Cunningham is an activist and jazz singer currently completing a Ph.D. at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in Afro-American studies with a concentration in ethnomusicology.  We first came across Maya's work last year as part of The Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Project, an online initiative from Ms. magazine honoring the 200th anniversary of Harriet Tubman's birth in 1822. It's a remarkable package that adds many dimensions of understanding of the underground railroad conductor and feminist icon: Her experience of disability due to a blow to the head by a white overseer; her creation of a home for the aged; her love of the natural world; and much more. And to us, the richest of these essays was Maya's the “Sound World of Harriet Tubman,” which used field recordings, historical research, and ethnomusicological research to explore the roles of sound and music, and voice in Tubman's life and leadership. The piece included a Spotify playlist so you could listen as you read.  Today, we're thrilled to bring you what we hope will be an even more immersive experience: Maya Cunningham reading her essay, and thanks to the editing and mixing skills of Phantom Power producer Ravi Krishnaswami, her field recordings and playlist selections are mixed into the story.  And just a quick note, you're going to hear about the American Christian revival known as the Second Great Awakening, which stirred both Black and white people from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. You'll also hear about the Invisible Church, where enslaved African Americans were able to worship secretly and autonomously and through the singing of folk spirituals, which differed greatly from white religious music at the time, but would go on to influence not only gospel music but pretty much every form of popular music we know today. If you want to learn more about this history, a great place to start is a book edited by two professors Mack studied with at Indiana University, Drs. Mellonee V. Burnim and Portia K. Maultsby. It's called African American Music: An Introduction.  And today, we share our Patrons-only segment, “What's Good,” in our main feed. Maya will recommend something good to read, listen to, and do.  Today's musical selections and soundscapes are by Maya Cunningham. The show was mixed and edited by Ravi Krishnaswami. The Harriet Tubman image was created by Maddie Haynes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

Just in time for Black History Month, we share an episode we've been excitedly working on for a number of months now. Ethnomusicologist Maya Cunningham brings us “The Sound World of Harriet Tubman.” Maya Cunningham is an activist and jazz singer currently completing a Ph.D. at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in Afro-American studies with a concentration in ethnomusicology.  We first came across Maya's work last year as part of The Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Project, an online initiative from Ms. magazine honoring the 200th anniversary of Harriet Tubman's birth in 1822. It's a remarkable package that adds many dimensions of understanding of the underground railroad conductor and feminist icon: Her experience of disability due to a blow to the head by a white overseer; her creation of a home for the aged; her love of the natural world; and much more. And to us, the richest of these essays was Maya's the “Sound World of Harriet Tubman,” which used field recordings, historical research, and ethnomusicological research to explore the roles of sound and music, and voice in Tubman's life and leadership. The piece included a Spotify playlist so you could listen as you read.  Today, we're thrilled to bring you what we hope will be an even more immersive experience: Maya Cunningham reading her essay, and thanks to the editing and mixing skills of Phantom Power producer Ravi Krishnaswami, her field recordings and playlist selections are mixed into the story.  And just a quick note, you're going to hear about the American Christian revival known as the Second Great Awakening, which stirred both Black and white people from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. You'll also hear about the Invisible Church, where enslaved African Americans were able to worship secretly and autonomously and through the singing of folk spirituals, which differed greatly from white religious music at the time, but would go on to influence not only gospel music but pretty much every form of popular music we know today. If you want to learn more about this history, a great place to start is a book edited by two professors Mack studied with at Indiana University, Drs. Mellonee V. Burnim and Portia K. Maultsby. It's called African American Music: An Introduction.  And today, we share our Patrons-only segment, “What's Good,” in our main feed. Maya will recommend something good to read, listen to, and do.  Today's musical selections and soundscapes are by Maya Cunningham. The show was mixed and edited by Ravi Krishnaswami. The Harriet Tubman image was created by Maddie Haynes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/music

Just in time for Black History Month, we share an episode we've been excitedly working on for a number of months now. Ethnomusicologist Maya Cunningham brings us “The Sound World of Harriet Tubman.” Maya Cunningham is an activist and jazz singer currently completing a Ph.D. at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in Afro-American studies with a concentration in ethnomusicology.  We first came across Maya's work last year as part of The Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Project, an online initiative from Ms. magazine honoring the 200th anniversary of Harriet Tubman's birth in 1822. It's a remarkable package that adds many dimensions of understanding of the underground railroad conductor and feminist icon: Her experience of disability due to a blow to the head by a white overseer; her creation of a home for the aged; her love of the natural world; and much more. And to us, the richest of these essays was Maya's the “Sound World of Harriet Tubman,” which used field recordings, historical research, and ethnomusicological research to explore the roles of sound and music, and voice in Tubman's life and leadership. The piece included a Spotify playlist so you could listen as you read.  Today, we're thrilled to bring you what we hope will be an even more immersive experience: Maya Cunningham reading her essay, and thanks to the editing and mixing skills of Phantom Power producer Ravi Krishnaswami, her field recordings and playlist selections are mixed into the story.  And just a quick note, you're going to hear about the American Christian revival known as the Second Great Awakening, which stirred both Black and white people from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. You'll also hear about the Invisible Church, where enslaved African Americans were able to worship secretly and autonomously and through the singing of folk spirituals, which differed greatly from white religious music at the time, but would go on to influence not only gospel music but pretty much every form of popular music we know today. If you want to learn more about this history, a great place to start is a book edited by two professors Mack studied with at Indiana University, Drs. Mellonee V. Burnim and Portia K. Maultsby. It's called African American Music: An Introduction.  And today, we share our Patrons-only segment, “What's Good,” in our main feed. Maya will recommend something good to read, listen to, and do.  Today's musical selections and soundscapes are by Maya Cunningham. The show was mixed and edited by Ravi Krishnaswami. The Harriet Tubman image was created by Maddie Haynes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sound-studies

Just in time for Black History Month, we share an episode we've been excitedly working on for a number of months now. Ethnomusicologist Maya Cunningham brings us “The Sound World of Harriet Tubman.” Maya Cunningham is an activist and jazz singer currently completing a Ph.D. at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in Afro-American studies with a concentration in ethnomusicology.  We first came across Maya's work last year as part of The Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Project, an online initiative from Ms. magazine honoring the 200th anniversary of Harriet Tubman's birth in 1822. It's a remarkable package that adds many dimensions of understanding of the underground railroad conductor and feminist icon: Her experience of disability due to a blow to the head by a white overseer; her creation of a home for the aged; her love of the natural world; and much more. And to us, the richest of these essays was Maya's the “Sound World of Harriet Tubman,” which used field recordings, historical research, and ethnomusicological research to explore the roles of sound and music, and voice in Tubman's life and leadership. The piece included a Spotify playlist so you could listen as you read.  Today, we're thrilled to bring you what we hope will be an even more immersive experience: Maya Cunningham reading her essay, and thanks to the editing and mixing skills of Phantom Power producer Ravi Krishnaswami, her field recordings and playlist selections are mixed into the story.  And just a quick note, you're going to hear about the American Christian revival known as the Second Great Awakening, which stirred both Black and white people from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. You'll also hear about the Invisible Church, where enslaved African Americans were able to worship secretly and autonomously and through the singing of folk spirituals, which differed greatly from white religious music at the time, but would go on to influence not only gospel music but pretty much every form of popular music we know today. If you want to learn more about this history, a great place to start is a book edited by two professors Mack studied with at Indiana University, Drs. Mellonee V. Burnim and Portia K. Maultsby. It's called African American Music: An Introduction.  And today, we share our Patrons-only segment, “What's Good,” in our main feed. Maya will recommend something good to read, listen to, and do.  Today's musical selections and soundscapes are by Maya Cunningham. The show was mixed and edited by Ravi Krishnaswami. The Harriet Tubman image was created by Maddie Haynes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-south

In this episode, Nicole and Diana discuss Joseph Lee Robinson and the Book of Covenants. Joseph Lee Robinson was Nicole's husband's 4th-great-grandfather, who joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1836. He wrote an autobiography in 1883, where he described his conversion and testimony. The hosts explain the religious fervor in the United States during that time, known as the Second Great Awakening. They discuss Joseph's conversion experience, his brother Ebenezer's role in introducing him to the Church, and Joseph receiving a copy of the Book of Covenants. The podcast then explores the history of the Book of Covenants, its original name, and the process of its compilation and publication. Listeners will learn about the early history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the significance of the Book of Covenants, and gain insights into the personal experiences of one of their early converts. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Joseph Lee Robinson and the Book of Covenants - https://familylocket.com/joseph-lee-robinson-and-the-book-of-covenants/ Joseph Smith Papers - https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/ Church History Catalog - https://catalog.churchofjesuschrist.org/ Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code “FamilyLocket” at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series 2024 - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-webinar-series-2024/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

DEVOTED Vision Sunday 1.26.25 “The danger is not that the church becomes irrelevant to the world; it's that the church becomes indistinguishable from the world.” – Mark Sayers, Reappearing Church Force #1: A society that has become increasingly individualistic • The Enlightenment (17th-18th century) • Protestant Reformation (16th century) • Capitalism and the Industrial Revolution • Urbanization and Modernization • Postmodernism and Secularization (20th century) • Technological advancements, Human Rights movements, a culture of consumerism Summary: All of these forces collectively shifted values from communal interdependence to personal freedoms and self-expression. Force #2: A church shaped by a culture of consumerism • Post-Reformation changes • First and Second Great Awakening (18th-19th century) • Urbanization • The Evangelical Movement (mid 20th century) • The Megachurch movement - celebrity culture – production-oriented churches Summary: The evangelical church in America has prioritized attraction and accessibility, played to the consumer mindset, and embraced shallow commitment over deep spiritual formation and communal discipleship. Acts 2:41-47 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Jesus' Paradigm for Discipleship: 1) INVITATION • Come and see 2) CHALLENGE • Take up your cross 3) TRANSFORMATION • Abide in me 4) MULTIPLICATION • Go and make disciples In the early church, baptism symbolized a covenant with one another—a commitment to live in fellowship, share mutual accountability, and embody love within the Christian community. How can we restore what has been lost and realign the church with God's heart and vision? 1. A commitment to Christ-centered living 2. A commitment to the way of sacrifice 3. A commitment to intentional community

Pastor Jeremy expands on the theme of the Second Great Awakening– true salvation should lead to a transformed life, which, in turn, should inspire social change. As God changes you, that change changes the world around you!

Pastor Jeremy expands on the theme of the Second Great Awakening– true salvation should lead to a transformed life, which, in turn, should inspire social change. As God changes you, that change changes the world around you!

Some modern day religions claim to be Christians...but are they really? Go through this series with a small group or mentor, and let's take a closer look at some religions that may actually be cultish.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --In this series: The Big Three Christian Cults (disclaimer #2)Mormonism (17 million)Jehovah's Witnesses (8 million)Seventh Day Adventists (22 million) - Is it or is it not a cult? Debated for 70 yearsWhat is a Cult?A Clear Explanation of the Term "Cult"Define "cult" in a religious context:Groups that claim to be Christian but deviate significantly from core biblical doctrine.Disclaimer: Not every person who is in these groups aligns with everything we are going to coverHow do cults start?“Many cults begin with a charismatic leader or group claiming special revelation or insight that goes beyond or distorts the Bible. They often address unmet spiritual or emotional needs, offering certainty in confusing times or claiming to restore ‘lost truths.' Over time, they develop exclusive doctrines, emphasize obedience to their authority, and create a sense of dependency by isolating followers from outside perspectives. The common thread is a departure from the core gospel of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, replacing it with human authority, works-based salvation, or extra-biblical teachings.”Second Great Awakening, burnt over district, restorationismCane ridge revival 1801Back to basic ChristianityEnd Times fervor1844If not careful we see this happening on YouTube today. Signs You're in a Cult (Allen Asks)Explain that any deviation from these essentials leads to a distorted or false version of Christianity. So what are some of the essentials?Distortion of Scripture & Sound DoctrineSufficiency of Scripture (Sola Scriptura): The group uses its own interpretation of the Bible or an altered version of Scripture to fit its teachings.The authority and sufficiency of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17).Extra-biblical writings or revelations are often elevated to the same level as, or higher than, the Bible.Example: Jehovah's Witnesses' New World Translation and Mormonism's Book of Mormon.Deity of ChristThe group teaches a view of the deity of Christ that diverges from the traditional Christian view of Jesus being fully human and fully divineSalvation by WorksThe group teaches that salvation is earned through strict adherence to their specific rules, laws, or practices.Grace and faith in Christ alone are downplayed or...

Some modern day religions claim to be Christians...but are they really? Go through this series with a small group or mentor, and let's take a closer look at some religions that may actually be cultish.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --In this series: The Big Three Christian Cults (disclaimer #2)Mormonism (17 million)Jehovah's Witnesses (8 million)Seventh Day Adventists (22 million) - Is it or is it not a cult? Debated for 70 yearsWhat is a Cult?A Clear Explanation of the Term "Cult"Define "cult" in a religious context:Groups that claim to be Christian but deviate significantly from core biblical doctrine.Disclaimer: Not every person who is in these groups aligns with everything we are going to coverHow do cults start?“Many cults begin with a charismatic leader or group claiming special revelation or insight that goes beyond or distorts the Bible. They often address unmet spiritual or emotional needs, offering certainty in confusing times or claiming to restore ‘lost truths.' Over time, they develop exclusive doctrines, emphasize obedience to their authority, and create a sense of dependency by isolating followers from outside perspectives. The common thread is a departure from the core gospel of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, replacing it with human authority, works-based salvation, or extra-biblical teachings.”Second Great Awakening, burnt over district, restorationismCane ridge revival 1801Back to basic ChristianityEnd Times fervor1844If not careful we see this happening on YouTube today. Signs You're in a Cult (Allen Asks)Explain that any deviation from these essentials leads to a distorted or false version of Christianity. So what are some of the essentials?Distortion of Scripture & Sound DoctrineSufficiency of Scripture (Sola Scriptura): The group uses its own interpretation of the Bible or an altered version of Scripture to fit its teachings.The authority and sufficiency of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17).Extra-biblical writings or revelations are often elevated to the same level as, or higher than, the Bible.Example: Jehovah's Witnesses' New World Translation and Mormonism's Book of Mormon.Deity of ChristThe group teaches a view of the deity of Christ that diverges from the traditional Christian view of Jesus being fully human and fully divineSalvation by WorksThe group teaches that salvation is earned through strict adherence to their specific rules, laws, or practices.Grace and faith in Christ alone are downplayed or...

How Slaves Were Freed This is my final video using the Second Great Awakening in England to demonstrate how prayer can lead to Revival which leads to Jesus distributing destinies which leads to the transformation of a whole society, which can lead to world transformation. Here I conclude the story of how England managed to […]

In this episode Pastor Bryan does a deep dive on the historical context in which Mormonism was born. --The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --The Cane Ridge Revival of 1801 (Smith was born in 1805) was one of the most significant events of the Second Great Awakening, attracting thousands of people to the rural meeting grounds near Cane Ridge, Kentucky. Often described as America's first "camp meeting," it became a powerful symbol of the evangelical fervor and transformative social energy characteristic of the revivalist movement. Organized by Presbyterian minister Barton W. Stone, the Cane Ridge Revival ultimately became a catalyst for the Restoration Movement and helped shape the trajectory of American evangelical Christianity in the 19th century.Key Aspects of the Cane Ridge RevivalThe Setting and Attendance:Cane Ridge was a small frontier settlement with a simple log church, yet the revival attracted an astonishing 10,000–20,000 people over the course of several days in August 1801. This was unprecedented for the time, especially in such a remote area. Attendees came from multiple states and diverse denominations, including Presbyterians, Methodists, and Baptists, drawn by word-of-mouth and the promise of a powerful religious experience.Camp Meeting Format:The revival used the camp meeting format, which would become a hallmark of the Second Great Awakening. People set up tents and stayed on the grounds for days, worshiping and participating in continuous services. Multiple preachers spoke simultaneously from different locations, allowing crowds to move from one sermon to another and creating an immersive, 24/7 environment of worship, singing, and prayer.Emotional and Physical Reactions:Attendees reported a wide range of intense physical and emotional responses to the preaching, which were often seen as signs of divine presence. People fainted, trembled, shouted, spoke in tongues, and even went into "fits." Some fell into trances, while others cried out in repentance or sang with ecstatic fervor. These manifestations were controversial but contributed to the atmosphere of awe and fervor, as many saw them as evidence of the Holy Spirit's power.Emphasis on Personal Conversion:The revival centered on personal conversion experiences and repentance, stressing a direct relationship with God that didn't depend on church tradition or hierarchy. The Cane Ridge preachers, including Stone, called people to experience a "new birth" and a deep personal commitment to Christ. This call for individual faith resonated strongly with the democratic and egalitarian ideals of the early American frontier, where settlers sought new spiritual freedoms along with their new...

In this episode Pastor Bryan does a deep dive on the historical context in which Mormonism was born. --The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --The Cane Ridge Revival of 1801 (Smith was born in 1805) was one of the most significant events of the Second Great Awakening, attracting thousands of people to the rural meeting grounds near Cane Ridge, Kentucky. Often described as America's first "camp meeting," it became a powerful symbol of the evangelical fervor and transformative social energy characteristic of the revivalist movement. Organized by Presbyterian minister Barton W. Stone, the Cane Ridge Revival ultimately became a catalyst for the Restoration Movement and helped shape the trajectory of American evangelical Christianity in the 19th century.Key Aspects of the Cane Ridge RevivalThe Setting and Attendance:Cane Ridge was a small frontier settlement with a simple log church, yet the revival attracted an astonishing 10,000–20,000 people over the course of several days in August 1801. This was unprecedented for the time, especially in such a remote area. Attendees came from multiple states and diverse denominations, including Presbyterians, Methodists, and Baptists, drawn by word-of-mouth and the promise of a powerful religious experience.Camp Meeting Format:The revival used the camp meeting format, which would become a hallmark of the Second Great Awakening. People set up tents and stayed on the grounds for days, worshiping and participating in continuous services. Multiple preachers spoke simultaneously from different locations, allowing crowds to move from one sermon to another and creating an immersive, 24/7 environment of worship, singing, and prayer.Emotional and Physical Reactions:Attendees reported a wide range of intense physical and emotional responses to the preaching, which were often seen as signs of divine presence. People fainted, trembled, shouted, spoke in tongues, and even went into "fits." Some fell into trances, while others cried out in repentance or sang with ecstatic fervor. These manifestations were controversial but contributed to the atmosphere of awe and fervor, as many saw them as evidence of the Holy Spirit's power.Emphasis on Personal Conversion:The revival centered on personal conversion experiences and repentance, stressing a direct relationship with God that didn't depend on church tradition or hierarchy. The Cane Ridge preachers, including Stone, called people to experience a "new birth" and a deep personal commitment to Christ. This call for individual faith resonated strongly with the democratic and egalitarian ideals of the early American frontier, where settlers sought new spiritual freedoms along with their new...

Credo | Week 5 | Preparing for Revival | Pastor Don Ross | Life Center Tacoma Isaiah 43:16-21 (NIV) Big Idea: We can awaken a hunger for the reality of God. 1. The Great Awakening, 1734-1743. “It pleased God to display his free and sovereign mercy in the conversion of a great multitude of souls in a short space of time, turning them from a formal, cold and careless profession of Christianity, to the lively exercise of every Christian grace, and the powerful practice of our holy religion.” -Jonathan Edwards 2. The Second Great Awakening, 1800-1840. 3. The Businessmen's Revival, 1857-1858. 4. The Civil War Revival, 1861-1865. 5. The Urban Revivals, 1875-1885. 6. The Revivals of 1905-1906. 7. The Azusa Street Revival, 1906. [Picture of Vereide half slide] 8. The Post-World War II Awakening. 9. The Charismatic Renewal and Jesus Movement. 10. The Mid-1990s Revivals. Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV) Isaiah 43:20-21 (NIV) Matthew 5:6 (NIV) 10 Characteristics of Spiritual Revival 1. Timing 2. Prayer 3. The Word 4. The Holy Spirit 5. Conviction 6. Glory for God 7. Reformation and Renewal 8. Manifestations 9. Messy 10. Cyclical Today, Christianity is PREVALENT but NOT POWERFUL. The solution is spiritual revival and awakening. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) [Picture of Finney half slide] 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) Questions for you... -Are you willing to humble yourself and pray? -Are there wicked ways you need to turn from? -Is there a sin you need to be forgiven? -Are you willing to hunger and thirst after righteousness?

400 episodes. Wow. We decided for this one to talk about something that has captured our interests since before Spirits was even the thing - the Oneida Community. We talk about the Second Great Awakening, the Burned Over District, and the result: A well-known silver company.   Content Warning: This episode contains conversations about or mentions of cults, explicit sex discussions, eugenics, sexual assault, rape, religious persecution, abuse, pregnancy, childbirth, child death, manipulation, and indoctrination.    Housekeeping - Recommendation: This week, Julia recommends going to a local drag show! - Books: Check out our previous book recommendations, guests' books, and more at https://spiritspodcast.com/books - Call to Action: Check out Big Game Hunger!   Sponsors - BetterHelp is an online therapy service. Get 10% off your first month at https://betterhelp.com/spirits   Find Us Online - Website & Transcripts: https://spiritspodcast.com - Patreon: https://patreon.com/spiritspodcast - Merch: https://spiritspodcast.com/merch - Instagram: https://instagram.com/spiritspodcast - Twitter: https://twitter.com/spiritspodcast - Tumblr: https://spiritspodcast.tumblr.com - Goodreads: https://goodreads.com/group/show/205387   Cast & Crew - Co-Hosts: Julia Schifini and Amanda McLoughlin - Editor: Bren Frederick - Music: Brandon Grugle, based on "Danger Storm" by Kevin MacLeod - Artwork: Allyson Wakeman - Multitude: https://multitude.productions   About Us Spirits is a boozy podcast about mythology, legends, and folklore. Every episode, co-hosts Julia and Amanda mix a drink and discuss a new story or character from a wide range of places, eras, and cultures. Learn brand-new stories and enjoy retellings of your favorite myths, served over ice every week, on Spirits.

413 Second Great Awakening by A history podcast from professor Stu Tully

If you've lived in the US for long, you've probably had members of the Jehovah's Witnesses come to your door at some point. How much do you know about them and what they believe? And what does their continued existence tell us about the world and the church today? Similar to the Mormons in that they are a cult formed in the wake of the Second Great Awakening, the Jehovah's Witnesses started in 1870. Today, they are mostly known for their door-to-door witnessing and their booklets and other publications distributed by the “Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania”, the parent organization of most Jehovah's Witness denominational ministries.In this episode, we want to talk about Jehovah's Witnesses, what they believe, and why they have continued to have some measure of success in the world. Joining us for this episode is Je'quan Underwood, a member of our church who has spent a fair bit of time talking to and witnessing to Jehovah's Witnesses. Similar to Mormons, it's easy to dismiss their claims as crazy, but the simple truth is that false religions exist because people are seeking to live in the world and to deal with their own sin and the sin of others without accepting the truth about Jesus Christ, Godhood, and the way of salvation. And while there are specific things that are useful to point out if you talk to a Jehovah's Witness, there is no magic phrase or piece of information that you can give them to cause them to turn away from their false religion. The issue is spiritual, not intellectual. But at the same time, it's useful to understand what they say they believe as false religions in each age of the church push against specific doctrines that offend the mind and heart of man. Please join us as we discuss this topic. . Production of Reformation Baptist Church of Youngsville, NCHosts - Dan Horn, Jonathan Sides, Charles Churchill and Joshua HornTechnical Director - Timothy KaiserTheme Music - Gabriel Hudelson

If you've lived in the US for long, you've probably had members of the Jehovah's Witnesses come to your door at some point. How much do you know about them and what they believe? And what does their continued existence tell us about the world and the church today?Similar to the Mormons in that they are a cult formed in the wake of the Second Great Awakening, the Jehovah's Witnesses started in 1870. Today, they are mostly known for their door-to-door witnessing and their booklets and other publications distributed by the "Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania", the parent organization of most Jehovah's Witness denominational ministries.In this episode, we want to talk about Jehovah's Witnesses, what they believe, and why they have continued to have some measure of success in the world. Joining us for this episode is Je'quan Underwood, a member of our church who has spent a fair bit of time talking to and witnessing to Jehovah's Witnesses. Similar to Mormons, it's easy to dismiss their claims as crazy, but the simple truth is that false religions exist because people are seeking to live in the world and to deal with their own sin and the sin of others without accepting the truth about Jesus Christ, Godhood, and the way of salvation. And while there are specific things that are useful to point out if you talk to a Jehovah's Witness, there is no magic phrase or piece of information that you can give them to cause them to turn away from their false religion. The issue is spiritual, not intellectual. But at the same time, it's useful to understand what they say they believe as false religions in each age of the church push against specific doctr

If you've lived in the US for long, you've probably had members of the Jehovah's Witnesses come to your door at some point. How much do you know about them and what they believe-- And what does their continued existence tell us about the world and the church today---Similar to the Mormons in that they are a cult formed in the wake of the Second Great Awakening, the Jehovah's Witnesses started in 1870. Today, they are mostly known for their door-to-door witnessing and their booklets and other publications distributed by the -Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania-, the parent organization of most Jehovah's Witness denominational ministries.In this episode, we want to talk about Jehovah's Witnesses, what they believe, and why they have continued to have some measure of success in the world. Joining us for this episode is Je'quan Underwood, a member of our church who has spent a fair bit of time talking to and witnessing to Jehovah's Witnesses. Similar to Mormons, it's easy to dismiss their claims as crazy, but the simple truth is that false religions exist because people are seeking to live in the world and to deal with their own sin and the sin of others without accepting the truth about Jesus Christ, Godhood, and the way of salvation. And while there are specific things that are useful to point out if you talk to a Jehovah's Witness, there is no magic phrase or piece of information that you can give them to cause them to turn away from their false religion. The issue is spiritual, not intellectual. But at the same time, it's useful to understand what they say they believe as false religions in each age of the church push against specific doctr

If you've lived in the US for long, you've probably had members of the Jehovah's Witnesses come to your door at some point. How much do you know about them and what they believe-- And what does their continued existence tell us about the world and the church today---Similar to the Mormons in that they are a cult formed in the wake of the Second Great Awakening, the Jehovah's Witnesses started in 1870. Today, they are mostly known for their door-to-door witnessing and their booklets and other publications distributed by the -Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania-, the parent organization of most Jehovah's Witness denominational ministries.In this episode, we want to talk about Jehovah's Witnesses, what they believe, and why they have continued to have some measure of success in the world. Joining us for this episode is Je'quan Underwood, a member of our church who has spent a fair bit of time talking to and witnessing to Jehovah's Witnesses. Similar to Mormons, it's easy to dismiss their claims as crazy, but the simple truth is that false religions exist because people are seeking to live in the world and to deal with their own sin and the sin of others without accepting the truth about Jesus Christ, Godhood, and the way of salvation. And while there are specific things that are useful to point out if you talk to a Jehovah's Witness, there is no magic phrase or piece of information that you can give them to cause them to turn away from their false religion. The issue is spiritual, not intellectual. But at the same time, it's useful to understand what they say they believe as false religions in each age of the church push against specific doctr

The state of Louisiana has mandate the 10 commandments to be posted in all public school classrooms. The ACLU has already said it will take the state to court due to violation of the separation of church and state. As a parent, teacher, and Christian, what does Coach think about that? Find out. Coach also shares some of the Christian beliefs of the founding fathers and how they relate to not just our founding documents, but also to the abolition of slavery. If you never heard of the influence of the First and Second Great Awakening on the United States, shame on your history teachers. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ptcpodcast/message

Originally from Ripley, Ohio and currently residing in Lexington, Kentucky, Caleb Franz is the Program Manager for Young Voices and the author of The Conductor: The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism's Essential Founding Father. Caleb grew up in the town where John Rankin eventually died and was surrounded by stories of his role in history. He is now writing the authoritative biography on this forgotten founding father of the American abolition movement. He joins Garrett on the Forgotten America podcast to make sure we all remember this previously Forgotten American Hero. Caleb Franz's book, The Conductor: The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism's Essential Founding Father Coming Out October 15th! https://www.amazon.com/Conductor-Rankin-Abolitionisms-Essential-Founding/dp/1637589891 Follow Caleb's work at Young Voices here: https://www.joinyv.org/staff/caleb-franz De Tocqueville on Slavery along the Ohio River https://voegelinview.com/noble-savages-and-barbarized-slaves-tocqueville-on-native-americans-and-african-americans-in-democracy-in-america/ Beyond the River: The Untold Story of the Heroes of the Underground Railroad https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-River-Untold-Underground-Railroad/dp/0684870665 Read more about John Rankin https://rlo.acton.org/archives/125356-the-letters-that-inspired-the-american-abolition-movement.html Second Great Awakening: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Great_Awakening John Rankin House https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/browse-historical-sites/john-rankin-house/ John Rankin's burial place https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/8760833/john-rankin National Underground Railroad Freedom Center https://freedomcenter.org/ Buffalo Trace Bourbon: https://www.rarebourbonshop.com/products/buffalo-trace-bourbon-1-liter Elijah Craig Bourbon: https://www.rarebourbonshop.com/products/elijah-craig-small-batch-bourbon Twitter @CalebFranz       Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - @gballeng Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy   Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - @akieffer13  Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy   Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer - @Aviv5753   Follow: YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram Support: Patreon, Donate, Newsletter

Was the Second Great Awakening helpful to the Christian cause? In this episode, Alex and Scott sit down with ABWE President Paul Davis to discuss the lasting effects of Charles Finney in the Second Great Awakening on the church today. As a former pastor and church leader, Paul explores the manipulative tactics in evangelicalism brought on by the Second Great Awakening and why it ultimately damages the Christian witness. In the discussion, we analyze the crucial importance of a proper biblical doctrine of conversion that takes both the head and heart into account—pursuing revival that brings lasting changes and not mere flash-in-the-pan experiences. Read more from Paul Davis at paulldavis.com. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Pastor Danny continues his new mini-series about spiritual awakenings throughout history, continuing on after the Second Great Awakening in the United States.

Are we prioritizing numbers over genuine conversions in our evangelistic efforts? Join Alex, Scott, and Paul Davis as they uncover the manipulative tactics of the Second Great Awakening and discuss how true revival demands a deeper, Spirit-led approach. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Pastor Danny continues his new mini-series about spiritual awakenings throughout history. This episode picks up where we left off with the Second Great Awakening in the United States.

Pastor Danny takes a break from the Life Principles series to share a special mini-series about spiritual awakenings throughout history. This episode gives an overview of the major post-Enlightenment spiritual awakenings and begins an in-depth discussion of the Second Great Awakening in the United States.

This brief sermon from evangelist and preacher Asahel Nettleton (1783-1844) is on Luke 19:10 and is entitled "Salvation for the Lost." It can be found in "Asahel Nettleton: Sermons from the Second Great Awakening," pages 445-450, published by International Outreach, Inc. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/antiochpca/message

I recently read a book that I absolutely could not put down. I've literally told almost everyone I know to go buy it and read it for themselves. That book is called The Great Dechurching"The current Great Dechurching ​is ​larger ​than ​the ​First ​Great ​Awakening, ​Second ​Great ​Awakening, ​and ​all ​the ​Billy ​Graham ​Crusades ​combined, ​just ​going ​the ​opposite ​direction.”Today, I have the honor of talking with one of the co-authors of this book, Jim Davis.Jim is the teaching pastor at a church in Orlando, Florida where he  had a hunch they were experiencing a large and fast religious shift for the worse but had no data to prove it. So, with the help of two sociologists, they commissioned the largest and most comprehensive study of dechurching (somebody ​who ​used ​to ​go ​to ​church ​at ​least ​monthly ​and ​now ​goes ​less ​than ​one ​time ​a ​year) in America. What they learned was fascinating.In this conversation, Jim and I talk about the different groups of people leaving the Church, why they are leaving and what we, as believers, can do about it. Grab a copy of Jim's incredible book The Great Dechurching here.Thanks to our amazing partners on this episode: Simple & Vern EideSimple provides an easy, secure way to make giving super user-friendly. If you are a church or lead a faith based nonprofit, you have to look into working with Simple. You won't regret it! For more info, check out their brand new website simpledonation.comVern Eide Motorcars is a growing employee-owned company that offers sales, service, and financing of automotive, motorcycle, and power sports lines, including Acura, Ford, Chevy, GMC, Honda, Hyundai and Mitsubishi brands. Whether you live locally or across the country, visit verneide.comSubscribe to The Conversation on YouTube: youtube.com/@adamaweber Sign up for The Crew: adamweber.com/thecrew

Questions Covered: 14:15 – Beside the ones mentioned in the bible, how much evidence do we find of the apostles preaching the resurrection? 21:43 – What’s the meaning of John 20:4; John outran Peter? 28:30 – All of Catholic traditions contradict the Bible 34:03 – What’s the best argument against Islam? 44:14 – How does the Catholic make sense of the First and Second Great Awakening? 51:55 – What’s the order of the hierarchy, pope, cardinal, bishop etc.? …

Two great periods of revivals saved the Christian religion from extinction in the United States. The Great Awakening, near the birth of our nation, and The Second Great Awakening that came along with the western expansion, the Civil War, and the end of slavery. Much of what modern American Christians think is a biblical faith is actually the echos of revivalist preaching based on a very poor reading of the writings of John Calvin.

In session 11, you will learn . . . - How the optimism of the Modern Age led to missions and social reforms—but also to false beliefs about God. - How William Carey became a missionary in India. - How camp meetings and revivals called people to repentance during the Second Great Awakening. - Why the 19th century became an era of social reforms. - How Pope Pius IX, Dwight Moody, B.B. Warfield, and the father of theological liberalism responded differently to the challenges of the Modern Age. In session 12 you will learn... - How Pentecostalism originated. - How neo-orthodox theologians and fundamentalists both reacted against theological liberalism. - How evangelicalism grew. - How the ecumenical movement has affected relations between Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestants.

This Week on America's Podcast, we're diving into a band that might be flying under the radar for many of you. The one and only Mooger Fooger has handpicked Fireball Ministry's “The Great Second Coming.” So, buckle up and get ready to expand your musical horizons! Who knows, this band might just become your new favorite, or maybe not. No spoilers here, but it's either going to awaken your senses or lull you right back to sleep. Now, let's talk about the tracks of the week. Jerry has chosen the classic “Sex Type Thing” by STP, a song that's sure to get your blood pumping. Marc brings us “Another Celebration at the End of the World” by Mammoth WVH, because who doesn't love a good end-of-the-world party? And finally, Mooger's pick is Jerry Cantrell's “Atone,” a tune that'll make you want to reflect on your life choices. So, make sure to tune in and join us for some musical adventures. Until next week, wake and bake, baby! And remember, it's all about that Fireball Ministry ,stoner rock, and rocking out to those sweet 2000s vibes. Let's keep the good times rolling! #fireballministry #americaspodcast #rock #rockreviewpodcast 

What took place during the Second Great Awakening? Today, Stephen Nichols offers a bird's-eye view of this significant movement in 19th-century America. Read the transcript: https://www.5minutesinchurchhistory.com/the-second-great-awakening-overlook/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://www.ligonier.org/donate/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Guest Bios Show Transcript America is experiencing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history—greater than the First and the Second Great Awakening and every revival in the U.S. combined. But instead of a massive shift into the church, what we're seeing is a mass exodus. In this edition of The Roys Report, you'll hear from Michael Graham, co-author of The Great DeChurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back. Based on the most comprehensive study of people leaving the church in America, the book gives keen insights into this phenomenon. You'll learn why people are leaving the church, which demographic groups are leaving in the greatest numbers, and what can be done to stop the bleed. And the results may surprise followers of this podcast. Though much of our reporting focuses on corruption and abuse in the church, these issues were not the greatest factors people cited for leaving. The reasons cited were much more mundane than you might think. We are living in a unique moment—what research says is the greatest “dechurching” in nearly 250 years of this nation. This exodus doesn't just affect society or public expressions of faith; it impacts family relationships and how people relate to each other. Tune in for a highly informative conversation that examines the state of the church and why restoring her matters. Guests Michael Graham Michael Graham is program director for The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. He is also the executive producer and writer of As In Heaven and co-author of The Great Dechurching. He received his MDiv at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando. He is a member at Orlando Grace Church. He is married to Sara, and they have two kids Show Transcript SPEAKERSMICHAEL GRAHAM, Julie Roys Julie Roys  00:04America is experiencing the largest and fastest religious shift in its history greater than the first and the second Great Awakening and every revival in the US combined. But instead of a massive shift into the church, what we’re seeing is a mass exodus, and the greatest de churching in nearly 250 years. Welcome to The Roys Report, a podcast dedicated to reporting the truth and restoring the church. I’m Julie Roys, and on this podcast you’ll hear from Michael Grant, co- author of the new book The Great Dechurching. Based on the most comprehensive study of people leaving the church in America, the book gives keen insights into this phenomenon. You’ll learn why people are leaving the church, which demographics are leaving in the greatest numbers, and what can be done to stop the bleed. And the results may surprise followers of this podcast. Though much of our reporting focuses on corruption and abuse in the church, these issues were not the greatest factors people cited for leaving. The reasons were much more mundane than you might think. And we’ll dig into those in just a minute.   Julie Roys  01:05 But first, I’d like to thank the sponsors of this podcast, Judson University, and Marquardt of Barrington. If you’re looking for a top-ranked Christian University, providing a caring community and an excellent college experience, Judson University is for you. Judson is located on 90 acres, just 40 miles west of Chicago in Elgin, Illinois. The school offers more than 60 majors, great leadership opportunities and strong financial aid. Plus, you can take classes online as well as in person. Judson University is shaping lives that shaped the world. For more information, just go to JUDSONU.EDU. Also, if you’re looking for a quality new or used car, I highly recommend my friends at Marquardt of Barrington. Marquardt is a Buick GMC dealership where you can expect honesty, integrity, and transparency. That’s because the owners there Dan and Kurt Marquardt are men of integrity. To check them out just go to BUYACAR123.COM.   Julie Roys  02:09 Well, again, joining me is Michael Grant, Program Director at the Keller Center for Cultural apologetics. He’s also the executive producer and writer for the As In Heaven podcast. And he’s also a member at Orlando Grace Church where Jim Davis, who’s the co-author for his latest book, The Great Dechurching. He is also a teaching pastor. So, Michael, welcome. It’s a pleasure to have you join me.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  02:31 So good to be here with you, Julie.   Julie Roys  02:32 So, Michael, your book is based on an extensive study that sought to prove or disprove this thesis that America’s in the middle of the largest and greatest religious shift in its history. And what you discovered is pretty sobering. Would you tell me about that?   MICHAEL GRAHAM  02:47 Yeah. So, I mean, the Cliff’s Notes version is that 40 million adult Americans have left houses of worship, across all religious traditions. And by and large, almost all of that has occurred in the last 30 years. So, from the moment of Nirvana’s Smells Like Teen Spirit to today, 40 million people have gone from, you know, the various pews of all religious traditions. Now, most of those are out of what you’d call Christian traditions, about 15 million of that out of evangelical traditions, and then about another 20 million out of Roman Catholic and mainline traditions, the other traditions are a lot smaller. So, we weren’t really sure what we would be looking at in terms of why there were two prevailing storylines, depending on what your kind of media diet looked like. If your media diet looked a little bit left leaning, then the story was basically that people had been leaving houses of worship primarily because of mistakes made by those institutions themselves. So, this would be things like racism, misogyny, abuse, political syncretism, clergy scandal. If your media diet leaned a little bit to the right, the prevailing story was basically a story of secularism, or sexual revolution, progressivism, people are leaving houses of worship, because they’re no longer worshipping the Triune God, they’re worshipping some other, you know, forms of non-Christian things. The reality is that you can find several million people who would fit both that first story or that second story. However, most of the people might have elements of either of those two stories in there, but most of them left for really, really boring reasons. So, the challenge is like not necessarily saying that story A or story B is wrong. There’s actually a story C that is not as interesting. That’s also there and is kind of  the water that we’re all kind of in is the number one reason why people you know, left houses of worship, and stop going on at least a monthly basis. So that’s how we defined the charging somebody who used to go to church, or house of worship at least monthly, consistently, and now less than once per year. So even if you go to church on Christmas Eve, or Christmas, or Easter or Christmas and Easter, we still counted you in our study as being churched. So, if you think the 40 million number sounds scary, you know, if you take all the Christmas and Easter people out.   Julie Roys  05:32 That is like a really, really low bar.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  05:35 There’s many, many more people. But basically, the number one reason I moved, right after that is, attendance was inconvenient. After that is some kind of marriage, divorce, new child, or some other significant family change. After you kind of get past some of those reasons, you start to get into some of the reasons where people experience some more pain or some more friction, either at the individual level, or at the institutional level. But it really kind of looks like of the 40 million people who left, 30 million left, what we called casually, and about 10 million left as casualties. And so, 10 million people is a lot of people, okay, I don’t want to downplay at all the people who have significant church hurt at the individual, institutional or both levels. But there’s also just kind of 30 million people where it just kind of looks like, okay, well, just the inertia of American life and their rhythms and habits just kind of had them floating on.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  06:45 Now, the interesting thing about really, across the board, both the people who left casually and unintentionally, as well as the people who left as casualties and left highly intentionally, most of them are willing to return today to a house of worship of some sort. Some of them were willing to go back to exactly what they left and some of them are not willing to go back to exactly what they left, but willing to go to something that we would all consider as being part of the historic Christian tradition.   Julie Roys  07:18 Yeah, I was surprised when I read it, how many people just dropped out because well, even COVID. Like, they just got out of the habit. And I guess we’re seeing that. I mean, I know that’s a phenomenon. But it’s stunning in some ways that something that you would expect to be so central to a person’s life, that they would give it up just because it’s inconvenient, or they get out of the habit of going. And yet, maybe that speaks to where the spiritual state before that happened. But that was surprising, I thought finding of the study.   Julie Roys  07:48 I thought too just thinking through what’s at stake, which you do kind of in that first section relationally, what’s happening, you know, between parents and their kids, and you had this one line which struck me because I’m over 50. And it says, anecdotally, we know, of almost no parents over the age of 50, who don’t have at least one child who is dechurched. And I’ve got three kids. I guess I read that, and I just was very grateful, because none of my kids are dechurched. But I mean, certainly, wow, we felt like we have been in a war for their soul at different times within their lives. And just, by the grace of God, I think, have seen them embrace faith. But there are a lot of things in here that remind me of the situation that we’re in. I mean, this between parents and their children. And of course, I have so many friends, I mean, that are just beautiful parents and probably did a 10 times better job than I did. And they’re dealing with just such heartache over their kids leaving their faith leaving the church. But even you know, it’s culturally how fractured we are mentally. I mean, talk about some of these impacts on who we are as communities and as Americans that are really going to be impacted as we see this begin to play out.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  09:15 Let’s start at the purely secular level. Why would I care about this if even I was an atheist or agnostic or a nothing in particular? The first thing I would say is you should care about this phenomenon, because it’s going to at least sociologically reorder many aspects of American culture and society. How many different trends can you think about that impact one in six adult Americans? There aren’t many. And so, the implications of this will have implications in terms of politics and political voting groups. It will have an impact on the social safety net in our country. There are certain studies that have shown that as much as 40% of  America’s social safety net, the social safety net being the kinds of things that are there for people, when they’re, at their hardest or most challenging moments, that 40% of the social safety net in this country is basically coming from religious nonprofits. And so, when you see one in six adult Americans, you know, opt out of those kinds of ties, thicker ties, and local ties to local religious institutions, that’s going to have an impact for sure, on the social safety net. And I don’t think that that’s in the interest of either common good or human flourishing.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  10:41 We estimate in the book that that’s probably about $25 billion that just exited out of the religious nonprofit world. I mean, you’re talking about $1.4 trillion dollars, in terms of the total income of the people who have disconnected from local churches. A lot of implications for institutions, certainly, you’re going to see churches and houses of worship that are going to struggle, perhaps even close. You’ll have others where the trend of decline will continue. And that will put additional strain on those institutions. There will probably be consolidation that takes place that’s there. But if you’re listening to this, and maybe you yourself are dechurched, is it’s like, what, I miss you, okay? Because I go to church, and if you’re not there, I’m worse off because of your absence. At the local church level, it’s like, well, dechurching is impoverishing our churches, because you have all these people who are amazing image bearers, and then who liked I want to know, and love and experience. And I think about like the 59 one another's in the New Testament. At least over half of those require, we have to be embodied in order to even get to do those things. And so, I’m just worse off when there’s people who aren’t there anymore, and they’re missed. And so, and then zooming all the way down to, like, the familial level, there’s tremendous pain and hurt there. We’re not talking about just a number on a spreadsheet, you’re talking about real people’s lives, and real things in their story, and real pains, and real hard sometimes. Sometimes for very good reasons people disconnect themselves from these things. Anybody familiar with you and your ministry,  knows these stories, and they know them well.. And so, I think on that front, there’s just tremendous things at stake. What’s the Thanksgiving or the Christmas dinner table look like? And what pieces of sadness are there?, or these places where people land different from their family members in terms of how they process really big conversations. Those can be really hard and lonely and isolating things when you find yourself in a very different place.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  13:25 But you know, one of the things that we advocate in the book is a posture of quiet, calm curiosity for everybody. You can only find yourself in that, in that place of being quiet, calm, and curious with other people, when you have a sense of security in yourself. And I think that security is best found when we’re confident in our identity as image bearers made in the image of God, redeemed by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and confident of our future, our eschatological future in the kingdom of God. And so, when we have that, that gives us the freedom to not feel like we need to be defensive, we can just listen to other people and hear what they have to say and believe people when they’re telling us about the wins and losses, particularly the wins and losses and their experiences with people who claim Christ or institutions that claim to be Christian. And so, I think there’s a lot of implications for these things. There’s just a lot that’s at stake. I think that there’s much work to be done, both on the individual front, and there’s a lot of work to be done on the institutional front.   Julie Roys  14:43 How we lead as institutions, I think, is probably an area that energizes me because I have found so much dysfunction within those institutions. And I did like that you said, we don’t have to go back to the church we left and I’m in a house church now, I love it. And I find myself questioning a lot of the stuff that I just took on face value. I was having discussion recently, I’m like, I don’t know, like preaching is that really the best way for us to study the Bible? We get together and we open the Bible, and we study it together. And I found that incredibly rich, richer than a lot of times when I have somebody giving me basically a lecture for 30 or 40 minutes on their opinion of what it says. And I find it just much richer to go right in and dig in ourselves. So, I find myself at least among the people that I’m in contact with, are all asking these questions. What is it really have to offer look like? I am just in contact with so many people where it hasn’t felt safe. And so, I just have such a degree of empathy for those who have trouble and I say, even my own children, I watched them try to find a church. And it is unbelievably hard, unbelievably, and that just breaks my heart because I feel like so many of the vibrant churches that I knew when I was their age, don’t exist anymore, or they’ve been just the ministries that I think of that were so vibrant on campuses, and so forth just aren’t there. And so, we do have an unbelievable amount of work to do. And I thought it was interesting, you also found, like, when we’re talking about leaving the church, like, who’s dechurching?, this isn’t any particular group. This like everybody across the board, right?   MICHAEL GRAHAM  16:27 It’s unilateral across the board,. In certain places, it’s maybe a little bit more prominent or pronounced than others. And the timing of which various different groupings may have kind of floated on looks different. But by and large, yeah  there’s no group that’s immune.   Julie Roys  16:48 Well, let’s dig into some of the groups because that’s what I do find really fascinating, but also, I think, really educational, because if we’re going to be relating to these folks in hopefully a winsome way, it’s helpful to know who they are. And I think there are some misconceptions of who they are. So, you basically found there’s five groups of dechurched individuals, cultural Christians, dechurched mainstream evangelicalism, exvangelicals, dechurched, BIPOC. So Black, Indigenous and People of Color, and dechurched mainline Protestants. Let’s dig into each one of those groups. Let’s start with the cultural Christians who, I’m guessing these are the people that grew up went to church on Christmas and Easter, and maybe a few times in between, but basically a little bit of church background, but not really a saving faith, probably.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  17:46 Yeah, so every one of those groups we mentioned had one thing in common, they all went to a house of worship, at least consistently on a monthly basis, but now less than once per year. So, the culture in terms of size, the 15 million people who left evangelical traditions, and that’s the first four profiles that you just read off: cultural Christians, dechurched mainstream evangelicals, exvangelical, and then the BIPOC dechurched. The cultural Christians are about eight of those 15 million people. And then the next three groups are between two and two and a half million each. So, the cultural Christians, they look like people who are upwardly mobile, who did not have a deep understanding of the gospel, or the Bible, and the inertia of just their rhythms and habits basically has them out of the habit of going to church anymore. They’ve been gone from church for about 12 years now. They’re in their early 40s, on average. They’re overwhelmingly white, 98% white, and they’re doing well from an education and income standpoint. Interestingly enough, about half of them are willing to return to an evangelical church today. The top reasons why they left attendance was inconvenient, their friends weren’t worshiping at church anymore, they moved. More casual reasons than casualty and painful and the reasons why they said that they wouldn’t be willing to return were largely things that were relational in nature; new friends, lonely and want to make new friends, they miss church, a friend invites them, a spouse wants to go, they move and want to make new friends in a good community. So those were the reasons why about 4 million of them were willing to return to an evangelical church right now.   Julie Roys  19:36 Throughout these profiles, you often talk about their relationship to their parents, because again, they were brought up a certain way and obviously they’re doing life differently now than their parents did. And there were a couple things with their parents, one turned off by their parents commitment to culture wars and refusal to listen. And then the second  one, they’re not seeing the fruit of the Spirit in their parents. It’s tough to hear that. I think it’s a reminder that you know, as parents wow, I mean, what a responsibility. I’m curious if those relationships, and I don’t know how much you dug into it, but do they just remain fractured?   MICHAEL GRAHAM  20:21 We don’t know yet. The hard scientist in me would say we need to ask the same people the same question years later. And to drill down to get at the heart of those things. Probably in the three-to-five-year timeframe, we want to ask a lot of the same questions and see what looks similar, see what looks different. The stuff with the parents is really hard. And  it’s challenging, and it’s sad. I don’t know if it’s necessarily surprising. Obviously, for most of us, that’s one of the most formative relationships, if not the most formative relationship, at least in certain times of our life. And so, I think, also the last decade, in American public life, and I think particularly with the advent of social media, and the ways in which social media, you know, you have the like button, I think that was introduced, I want to say in 2009. Every platform has their dopamine-inducing reward structure for creating content that some people find interesting. The challenging thing about all of that is now, when you have a reward mechanism built into social platforms, people are more self-revelatory than what they would have been before. And so, I think, in terms of public communication and discourse, there is the freedom for people to communicate more about their perspectives than probably what there was before this dynamic of American public life existed. And so, I don’t think that’s necessarily all good or all bad. It’s just, there are implications that are downstream from that. And now, it’s where everybody is at, is far more clear than what it was 10 plus years ago. And there’s going to be implications from that, particularly as people have divergent perspectives, and sometimes strongly divergent perspectives. And again, all of these things are algorithmically incentivized. And in some ways, the stronger you feel about those things, sometimes that reward mechanism rewards you even further. And so, I think over time, there aren’t many impulses that are there baked into these things that create people finding as much common ground. And oftentimes, our digital interactions become power over persuasion.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  22:56 And so those are challenging dynamics. And what do you do if your parents are behaving poorly on the internet, and are getting cheered on from those things? You can flip that script in the other way, as well. So those things are going to have implications at the dinner table. And I’m sure that many people have experienced some challenges during looking back at their Thanksgiving and their Christmas. And I think that some of these things are just downstream from these particular dynamics of how technology has inserted itself into our lives and revealed things about people that we loved that have maybe changed our perspectives about how we view them and have altered maybe the amount of relational intimacy that we feel comfortable with. Those are hard and sad things.   Julie Roys  23:44 And one thing I found really interesting about this group, I mean, obviously, there’s the family fracture, well, that’s going to leave you more lonely, maybe depressed. But then there’s the relational fracture, like most of us, I mean, I know for me, my closest friends are my church friends, right? And without that community people are, and you even found, like more depressed, higher anxiety, I mean, all those things. And so, the reverse then, is that, and we often think, how do we invite people back to the church?, and I thought it was insightful that you’re like, these people need a dinner-table invite. In other words, they’re looking for a relationship, right? That’s most likely what’s going to bring them back to the church.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  24:26 What we talked about in the book is there’s three levels of relationship that different broadly speaking profiles probably need. The second profile that you’ve mentioned, the dechurched mainstream evangelicals, these folks left on average about three or four years ago. They’re about the same age as that first group, early 40s. But this group is whereas the cultural Christians only 1% of them said that Jesus is the Son of God, 98% of this second group said Jesus is the Son of God.. These people have a very deep understanding of the Gospel, the Bible, and the kinds of things that you want to see from Nicene-creed level of Christianity. And 100% of that group are willing to return to an evangelical church today.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  25:08 And so, the three levels of kind of relational need that’s there, that group really they just need a nudge. A nudge is something like a text, a phone call a water cooler moment, talking out on the porch, or in the cul de sac, hey, I got this really cool thing going on at church, or I’m speaking up this thing, or I think you’d really like our pastor, would you be willing to come to church with me? Let’s go grab lunch after at such and such place, that’s a nudge. I think when there is more pain, or church hurt, or these different kinds of things. And this should be obvious, when you think about it, it’s just people need the kind of intimacy that occurs around breaking bread together in a home at the dinner table. Literally, or figuratively and metaphorically, I think that when people need to be able to have an avenue, when there’s either interpersonal or institutional or both friction, then they need to be able to have a place that is where they can experience somebody who’s going to be willing to quietly, calmly and with curiosity, engage them in their story in a way that they would want to be treated. So, we have a third category of people who are just, they’re probably just never going to return to a house of worship.   Julie Roys  26:26 The exvangelicals. No?   MICHAEL GRAHAM  26:28 The exvangelicals are done with the evangelical expression of the faith. Okay. 79% of them were willing to return to some form of Christian tradition. That was something that was very surprising.   Julie Roys  26:44 So just 100%, they will not go back to the church they came from, which may be a good thing, in a lot of ways.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  26:51 Well, I mean, certainly there are many different institutions I could think of where it  would be very unhealthy to return to. So, and that’s the good news about all of this stuff, you don’t have to return to what you left if there was something unhealthy. I always think about these things in terms of truth, goodness, and beauty. Well, what’s a healthy church? Where you can see the truth of the gospel, the goodness of the gospel, and the beauty of the gospel, all in the same place.   Julie Roys  27:21 The exvangelicals, I just want to camp there just a little bit, because these are folks that I mean, honestly, I have a lot of empathy for  and understanding. I mean, they’ve been through some things that were pretty toxic in the church. In fact, you found they scored 74% higher on experiencing a lack of love from their congregation than the other four groups combined. And that’s heartbreaking, like the place where you should most experience love, they experience a complete lack of love. And I’d be curious how many of them come from a fundamentalist background as well because I mean, there just seems to be a correlation there between just a rigid adherence to rules and so forth, and even the culture wars and all of that, and just a lack of caring for the soul and caring for the human being, whether they agree with you or not. But these folks, where they look for answers; talk about that a little bit.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  28:26 We ended up calling this group exvangelicals because none of them are willing to return to an evangelical church. But what was really surprising was that 79% of them said that Jesus is the Son of God, and they had the second highest view of the Bible, as well as Nicene Creed-level Christianity. And so that would be things like the Trinity, the seamlessness of Jesus, these kinds of things. But what was interesting is this group was overwhelmingly female, two thirds female. And they were middle aged, average age 53. And they left a little bit after 9/11, on average, in terms of the bell curve. And what does seem to be occurring there is they had the lowest income and the lowest education of any of the groups, and their relationship towards institutions in general, was very strained. And so that was really interesting to see. It’s not just that the church isn’t working for this particular group, particularly the evangelical church. But American institutions in general aren’t working well for this group. Much lower rates of marriage, much higher rates of divorce, the rates of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and suicidal thoughts were also elevated across the board, but particularly suicidal thoughts were very bad. I think I made a note of this in the book, describe how you’re doing with respect to suicidal thoughts. And we’re basically 100 is I have no suicidal thoughts; everything is rainbows and Skittles. And where zero is deeply, deeply struggling with suicidal thoughts, the average score among this group of people, the exvangelical group, was 16. I just started crying, these are real people. And there’s several thousand people that we surveyed here. Are some of these people no longer with us?, is some of these people? So, I don’t know, given the number of people we surveyed probably. So,  I’m looking at that., and it just can’t not impact you at a deep level, when you have any measure of empathy to think, oh, my gosh, these are image bearers. And this is a group of people that are clearly there’s a lot of pain that’s here. And there’s a lot of things that just aren’t working. And I don’t know how many institutions there are, depending on where you’re located, and how many options you have. I think many people might have to go a long distance to find a place where they’d find a church that would have that kind of empathy and understanding, given whatever is there in the story.   Julie Roys  31:07 Well, it becomes almost cyclical, because if you’re divorced, I mean, I hear this from so many of my divorced friends, that you go into a church and you feel judged right away, or you feel like you don’t fit in, and so it can become very self-perpetuating, makes it very hard to go to any place. So, wow, let’s move to the dechurched/BIPOC because this one was surprising to me, too. I was not expecting the profile that you found of this group. So, describe the black indigenous persons of color who have dropped out of their church. What kind of person are we talking about here?   MICHAEL GRAHAM  31:43 Yeah, so this group was fascinating too. Over two thirds of this group was male. Yeah. And the average age there was early 50s. And this group on average left in the late 1990s. Okay. Now, something that’s really fascinating, when the machine learning algorithm that we used to sort the dataset into these different profiles, we didn’t let it see ethnicity or race in the dataset, and sort based on that. Now, what’s interesting, though, is that you have profiles like cultural Christians that are 98% white, and you have profiles like this one that are 0% white. And note, so while race is a biological fiction, it is a sociological reality. And so, you can see that race and ethnicity has a significant impact in terms of the ways that you’re experiencing America and American institutions, and it has an influence on those things. So that was interesting. Another thing that was interesting was that this group, and you’re talking two to two and a half million people, had the highest income and the highest education of any of the different groups. Now, bear in mind, this is a group of people who aren’t white, who probably largely willfully chose to connect themselves to evangelical institutions, which we all know trend from a sociological and demographic standpoint, most evangelical churches trend in the Anglo direction of things. And so, it wouldn’t be wise to take the particular perspectives of this particular group and assume that everybody who’s BIPOC in America would share the same perspectives: very high incomes, very high education, head and shoulders above any of the other groups. And the cultural Christians are the next to that. And the BIPOC groups just stands head and shoulders above them.   Julie Roys  33:39 So, this is a group that generally, I mean, those that have dropped out, at least the profile you gave was of somebody who’s BIPOC that lives in a pretty white space. And so, I mean, I’m looking at that thinking, Is it easier to disconnect from that church community? Because the black church is such a cohesive community that, I mean, almost, it’s so strong in the community. I think it is even stronger than most white churches. Is it easier to disconnect from church once you kind of moved out of that space? And then you’re in really, almost an alien space in some ways.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  34:26 Yeah. In terms of black Protestantism, the black churches in American US history, have played more of a role in the local community life than say their predominantly Anglo counterparts. And I think a lot of that has to do with the amount of pressure that was placed on those communities over time. The BIPOC group was 76% African American and 13% Latino. So, when you combine the predominantly male with predominantly African American means over half of this group was extremely upwardly mobile black men. So, you’re talking to at least a million black men of the 15 million people who left evangelical churches. The most pain in church hurt comes from the exvangelical group and the BIPOC group. By far, the exvangelical group, they’re all the church casualties. The BIPOC group is a mixture of casual and casualty. The dechurched, mainstream evangelicals are all casual. And then most of the cultural Christians you’d characterize as casual.   Julie Roys  35:35 The last group we don’t have much time to spend on because I do want to talk a little bit about some of the messages and the things that we need to say to all five of these groups. But the dechurched, mainline Protestants and Catholics, not a lot of surprises there I thought. That they’re really concerned about the church doing some good when maybe the church they grew up in and I know the profile, you get profiles for all these different groups, but the profile was a man who grew up Catholic and the clergy sex scandal just rocked his world because it impacted his brother. And those people are kind of done with church if it doesn’t make a difference in a positive way for the community, right?   MICHAEL GRAHAM  36:16 Yeah. And in the dechurching that occurred among mainline and Roman Catholic occurred earlier than the dechurching that we’re seeing among evangelicals. Dechurching among mainline Protestants is more starting in the mid-80s. and extending into the late 90s. And then you can kind of shift that up about five years, for those who are leaving Roman Catholicism from the early 90s to like early aughts. And then you know, dechurching among evangelicals kind of looks like the Apple stock chart, just a little bit later, going hockey stick.   Julie Roys  36:54 Yeah. Well, the last segment of your book does talk about those who had dechurched from evangelical churches, how we might be able to bring them back. And, you know, I really appreciated that you talked about not just beliefs, because that’s what we hear so much about. In fact, when you were talking in the beginning you’re saying, you know, we think of people who don’t believe in the Bible anymore, don’t believe in God. And that’s not what we’re finding, by and large with a lot of these groups. But where we’re not looking is the sense of belonging and the behavior. So, would you talk just a little bit about that? and why this is important?   MICHAEL GRAHAM  37:30 Yeah. In sociology of religion, Jim and I learned from our conversations with Ryan, that they have these three categories of belief, behavior and belonging. I think in the 20th century, most of the ways in which we communicated the gospel to people was belief centric. And when you look at like, apologetic literature from that century, most of it is focusing on, oh, the claims of the Bible, or the claims of Jesus, or the Gospels are true. And it’s okay, that’s good. But I think the kinds of questions that we’ve seen more frequently, in the last decade or two, have been questions about whether is Jesus good? Or Is he beautiful? And what does that mean for me in terms of how I relate to other people and to community? And so those are more of belonging-type questions than truth questions. And so, I think that it is important for us that we be building healthier institutions. And like I said before, we want to have churches that emphasize the truth of the gospel, the goodness of the gospel, and the beauty of the gospel. Is the Jesus way a path towards to human flourishing to me?, will I find people who treat me with the fruit of the Spirit, with love, joy, patience, peace,  all of these kinds of things? The good news about all of that is those are things that are within our control. We can walk and keep in step with the Spirit. And we can bring the kinds of change needed at the institutional level, to try to really bring our churches in line and instep with the Holy Spirit and inline and in step with what God has revealed in his word. And as we do those things, we can be building beautiful places for people. Will those things ever be perfect or whatever? No. But I think that impulse to be always reforming. It needs to be there. And we need to be willing to have hard conversations with ourselves calmly. But we need to be willing to hold up mirrors to ourselves and ask ourselves, How can we do better?   Julie Roys  39:48 A question that you asked in the book that I think is powerful, is does your church operate more like an event or a family? And I have found it just in so many churches, it is an event where you can come, and you can go, and nobody even knows you. And it’s no wonder if that’s what people think of the church that they’re leaving. So, if there’s not that family component, yeah, they’re just not going to stay. I think it was interesting, too, that you found that online church is basically a back door. Like people might go there for a while. But if they’re not connecting relationally, which how can you, you're a virtual church?, they ended up leaving, and I thought, on the behavior side, where you talked about that the church talk about hypocrisy, if they don’t see our beliefs and our actions lining up, they’re not going to stay. And so, we can only touch the surface, really, in a podcast, but the book, I would just highly, highly recommend. There’s so many good things in there, I think, instructive for us, and how we can do better how we can reach out, but how we need to be something different, I think, before we can even invite people to what we have, because if we’re not really functioning healthy as a church, then we can’t invite people to it. But before you go, I just want to give you an opportunity to any last thoughts that you’d like to say, to those, and especially those right now who are listening, who, they’re still dechurched, they’ve had it.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  41:21 What I want to say is that, regardless of how people, humans, and human institutions have hurt and harmed or failed you, I have never been hurt or harmed by Jesus. And I continue to fall more in love with just the goodness of his gospel. And look, I’ve been before, in my current role I’ve been a pastor for some 15 years. And I should probably be dechurched based on the things that I’ve seen over the years. There’s nothing that’s in the book, aside from the parental pain, I don’t have that there. But pretty much any other category that you can talk about, I’ve seen it, and I should be at risk. But I just know at the end of the day, if anybody else had the words of life, I would go and I would go there, but nobody else has the words of life but Christ, and he has died for his church. Is she a mess? Yeah. Is some of her parts way more messed up than others? Yes. Some to a fatal extent? Yes. Should there be some institutions that don’t exist? Yes. However, and sometimes for certain people, it’s going to be more proximate than others. But there are still good places where you can find that, where the body of Christ functions like a family. So, I’d encourage you to go back to God’s Word and look at all those one another's that are there in the text and find a place where you see those one another’s embodied, and where you can see that the truth, goodness, and beauty of the gospel all in one place. There’s just such tremendous hope in Jesus. It is the treasure in a field that is worth selling, metaphorically speaking, all that you have to go and pursue. Only Christ as the words of life. And only in Him can we find redemption, and the hope of a future where re-creation is happening, and redemption is happening as far as the curse is found.   Julie Roys  43:46 So good. And I think what we’re finding is that people are open to Jesus. It’s just the church. So, I do pray. I know for me; I feel just extraordinarily grateful that I found a body of believers and it’s been a lifeline for me. So, I just pray for that for other people. But I thank you, Michael, for helping us understand these different groups of people and also understanding what maybe we’re doing wrong that we can fix. Appreciate that, love your book. So, thank you again, so much for taking the time.   MICHAEL GRAHAM  44:17 Thank you, Julie. Appreciate it.   Julie Roys  44:19 And thanks so much for listening to The Roys Report, a podcast dedicated to reporting the truth and restoring the church. I’m Julie Roys. And just a quick reminder, if you’d like a copy of Michael’s book, The Great Dechurching, we’d be happy to send you one for gift of $30 or more to The Roys Report this month. Again, we don’t have any large donors or advertising we simply have you the people who care about reporting the truth and restoring the church. So, if you’d like to support our work and get The Great Dechurching, just go to JULIEROYS.COM/DONATE. Also, just a quick reminder to subscribe to The Roys Report on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts or Spotify. That way you’ll never miss an episode. And while you’re at it, I’d really appreciate it if you’d help us spread the word about the podcast by leaving a review. And then please share the podcast on social media so more people can hear about this great content. Again, thanks for joining me today. Hope you are blessed and encouraged.   Read more

This Breakpoint was originally published on February 21, 2023. ___ Two weeks ago, what started as a routine (and, according to the preacher, “lackluster”) chapel service at Asbury University became something remarkable. Instead of heading off to classes, students stayed to pray and worship. Services have continued ever since, with people traveling from near and far to join in prayer, repentance, and song. What is being called a “revival” by some and an “awakening” by others has now spread to other Christian colleges.   The past few days echo the revivals that were experienced in the recent past on other Christian college campuses, including one at Wheaton College in 1995, and those at Asbury in 1970 and 1950. In each case, there were seemingly spontaneous expressions from students of prayer, confession, and praise. The revivals of the past are an indelible part of Asbury's historical memory, and many who experienced the 1970 revival have prayed ever since for it to happen again.  Revivals have been, in fact, a consistent, distinct feature of American religious life since before our nation's founding. The First Great Awakening, in the early 1700s, was part of a larger, trans-Atlantic spiritual renewal centered on personal conversion, an emphasis that had a transformative effect on the emerging American consciousness. The idea that a genuinely converted, common ploughboy was spiritually ahead of an unconverted bishop contributed to a growing anti-hierarchical attitude in the colonies. This, in time, contributed to a growing anti-monarchial mood, setting the stage for revolution.  The Second Great Awakening, which swept the nation decades later, coupled a similar focus on conversion with postmillennial eschatology. Among the results was a drive for social reform. Abolitionism, temperance, and efforts against prostitution became calling cards of what came to be known as evangelicalism.  Other revivals followed, and most included an added focus on foreign missions. The Prayer Meeting, or Businessmen's Revival, of the 1850s was followed by revivals in the camps of both armies during the Civil War, the urban efforts and revival preaching of D.L. Moody of the 1870s and 80s, and the theatrics of Billy Sunday's revivals at the turn of the century. Soon after came the Azusa Street Revival in California, which led to a massive growth of Pentecostalism and the charismatic movement worldwide, and then eventually led to the Jesus People of the 1970s.   And those are only the “big” ones. Simply put, revivalism, with a focus on a personal faith with public implications, dramatically shaped American life and culture and is a major reason that America remained more religious than Europe for so long. At the same time, revivals and revivalism have always faced a good deal of criticism, including charges of excess, hyper-emotionalism, manufactured techniques, and anti-intellectualism.   Jonathan Edwards, a major figure of the First Great Awakening, understood the dangers inherent to revivalist fervor, but he also believed in these unusual times when the Holy Spirit moved among a people. Perhaps America's greatest intellectual, Edwards prayed and worked toward revival, and he offered criteria for evaluating it. According to Edwards, a true work of the Holy Spirit elevates Christ, opposes sin and Satan, prizes the Bible, distinguishes truth from error, and manifests love. He also understood that in the midst of such a movement, there would be things to oppose as well. All of this is helpful as we try to grasp what has happened at Asbury, and now beyond, over these last two weeks. We'd do well to remember Jesus' warning that there will be tares among the wheat, and that the remarkable times in which the power of God and goodness of Christ are made manifest are ways in which God graciously prepares us for life off of the mountaintops. Though, like Peter and John, we may want to remain in such times and places, He will eventually have work for us to do elsewhere. Critics would do well to recall the history of God working through awakenings and revival, both in this nation and elsewhere, as well as the faithful who sincerely believe that God has answered their years of praying for revival to return to Asbury.   What we can all be sure of (and thankful for!) is that God is constantly at work in His world, sometimes in extraordinary but most often in “ordinary” ways. God is constantly speaking through His world, through His Word, and ultimately, in His Son. May we have the ears to hear Him. And may He grant us the hearts to pray that an awareness of sin and a passion for God and His people would grow in the hearts of these students, long after the mountaintop high of the revival has faded in their memory.   This Breakpoint was co-authored by Dr. Glenn Sunshine. For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to colsoncenter.org.

We are currently experiencing the largest and fastest religious shift in US history. It is greater than the First and Second Great Awakening and every revival in our country combined...but in the opposite direction. On this episode of the FTC Podcast, Jared Wilson chats with Jim Davis and Michael Graham, co-authors of the new book The Great Dechurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back?, about the eye-opening and challenging findings of the first-ever large-scale sociological research study of the American de-churching phenomenon. Maybe your assumptions about why people are leaving the church in massive numbers will be subverted, as well. Davis and Graham provide key insights to the challenge and applicational takeaways for evangelicals and church leaders in rising to the challenge. Find out more info at dechurching.com

When farmer John Durfee found the body of a local factory girl hanging from a fence post on his property on the morning of December 21, 1832, he and the rest of the townspeople assumed she had died by suicide. But a cryptic note she had left among her possessions pointed the investigation in a different direction, and the ensuing murder trial captured the public imagination. Joining me now to discuss the murder of Maria Cornell and the shifting cultural milieu of New England in the 1830s is Dr. Bruce Dorsey, Professor of History at Swarthmore College and author of Murder in a Mill Town: Sex, Faith, and the Crime That Captivated a Nation.  Our theme song is Frogs Legs Rag, composed by James Scott and performed by Kevin MacLeod, licensed under Creative Commons. The mid-episode music is “Midnight,” by Aleksey Chistilin (Lexin_Music) via Pixabay; available for use under the Pixabay License. The episode image is “A very bad man - Ephraim Kingsbury Avery,” published by Henry Robinson & Company in 1833; the image is in the public domain and is available via the Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. Additional Sources: “Sarah Maria Cornell,” The Town & the City: Lowell before and after The Civil War, University of Massachusetts Lowell Library. “Trial of Rev. Mr. Avery ; a full report of the trial of Ephraim K. Avery, charged with the murder of Sarah Maria Cornell : before the Supreme Court of Rhode Island, at a special term in Newport, held in May, 1833 ; Avery's trial ; Additional medical testimony by Professor Channing on the part of the defendant, and Dr. William Turner, for the government,” reported by Benjamin F. Hallett, 1832, Harvard Library. “Letters of the law : the trial of E. K. Avery for the murder of Sarah M. Cornell,” by J. Barbour, Law Text Culture, 2, 1995, 118-133. “Religious Revivals and Revivalism in 1830s New England,” TeachUSHistory.org. "The Second Great Awakening and the Making of Modern America," by Kerry Irish, Faculty Publications - Department of History and Politics. 78, 2018.  “Religion and Reform,” The American Yawp. “The Mill Girls of Lowell,” National Park Service. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Subscribe to The Realignment to access our exclusive Q&A episodes and support the show: https://realignment.supercast.com/.REALIGNMENT NEWSLETTER: https://therealignment.substack.com/PURCHASE BOOKS AT OUR BOOKSHOP: https://bookshop.org/shop/therealignmentEmail Us: realignmentpod@gmail.comFoundation for American Innovation: https://www.thefai.org/posts/lincoln-becomes-faiJoshua Zeitz, author of Lincoln's God: How Faith Transformed a President and a Nation, joins The Realignment as part of the show's expanded American history coverage. Joshua and Marshall discuss President Abraham Lincoln's religious beliefs in the context of the lead up to the Civil War and the Second Great Awakening, how the conversation around a president's religious beliefs has shifted since the heights of President George W. Bush's Evangelical faith in the 2000s, and Joshua's broader work on the presidency of LBJ.

THE DEVIL DOESN'T LIKE THIS BROADCAST! Join me and Charlie Kirk and Kash Patel on call to shake up the Republican Party. We will name the Red State Attorney Generals and District Attorneys who we put in office for this moment. They need to do their job and indict and bring to court the other side as vigilantly as they do to us by targeting: Trump, Bannon, Flynn, Stone and Peter Navarro. What is the matter with us? Why have we been asleep to what we need to do? GREAT AWAKENING POLITICS Everyone I knew cheered for the Asbury Revival. We still hope that spark grows into a flame. The problem with revivals is that they don't change anything till they ignite reformers. The reformers carry the revival over into institutions and the institutions are where the gates of hell operate. That is the location the ecclesia (church) is supposed to go. Why? Because “I will build My church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” We're supposed to show up where hell sets up shop. Awakenings are revivals that have social and cultural impact BECAUSE they leave the church mountain and run over into campuses, curriculum, courts, and congress! Did you know the Second Great Awakening led to the formation of the Republican Party in 1856 and the Civil War in 1860? This Awakening will reform the Republican Party. Lincoln was hated by the South and the “Copperheads” (swamp republicans) of the North. Trump is the Lincoln of this moment. I believe bold social and political action is entirely consistent with the spirit of this current Awakening in America. Mario Murillo and I will go to each swing state with the “Fire and Glory Tour” and lay siege to the forces that seek to steal America's future. We'll work with others in each state. (Fireandglorytour.com)We're doing our part to gather and unify the grassroots and take ground. If you SHARE this you help light the fire

Today, our black history segment today is on Harry Hosier, great evangelist and orator in the Second Great Awakening and namesake for the Indiana region. Next, we bring you a presentation from former Congressman Bob McEwen that he gave at the ProFamily Legislators Conference a couple months back. He offers hope for the direction of our country by reminding us of past victories and that our current trajectory can be influenced by Godly leaders.