This “surprising work of God,” as Jonathan Edwards described it, may last for a few months, like the Welsh Revival which began in September of 1904 and began to wane in May of 1905. Or it may extend for many years, like the Second Great Awakening, which lasted for almost 30 years in the early 1800s. (One noted historian believes that this Awakening was the source of the greatest cultural and spiritual change in American history.)
It is certainly not limited geographically. It is happening right now in parts of the world, and we are seeing the rumblings (hopefully) of its beginning again in our land.
UNDERSTANDING REVIVAL
If you study this work of God, both in the Bible and in church history, you can see its regularity. “The LORD has bared His holy arm” in American history approximately every 40–60 years.
The First Great Awakening: 1735
The Second Great Awakening: 1800
The Third Great Awakening (The Prayer Revival): 1857
The Welsh Revival (worldwide in scope): 1904
The Jesus Movement: 1970
(An important note: The next 40- to 60-year visitation in America could be, at that rate, any moment!)
Why is it important to understand God’s work in revival?
So that you will have hope, knowing that God never abandons His people nor His work.
So that you will pray with faith for His work in your life, your church, your city, your nation.
And so that you can cooperate fully and aggressively with Him, “that all the ends of the earth may see the salvation of our God.”
This article originally appeared here.
