The Spirit of Revival (With the Complete, Modernized Text of The Distinguishing Marks of a Work of the Spirit of God) [eBook]

Discovering the Wisdom of Jonathan Edwards

A key figure during the Great Awakening, Jonathan Edwards wrote this important discourse, The Distinguishing Marks of a Work of the Spirit of God, in 1741, just after the revival had reached its peak. In his thorough exploration of the true and false signs of revival, drawn from 1 John 4, Edwards concludes that while a movement may be accompanied by excesses and questionable actions, these signs do not necessarily disqualify it as authentic.

In a refreshing way Edwards embraces a genuine enthusiasm in these manifestations while stressing the need for biblical discernment. His critique is kind and gentle as he points to the true marks of revival: love and humility. In The Spirit of Revival, Parrish makes Edwards’s entire work more accessible by modernizing the text and adding explanatory notes. R. C. Sproul’s extended introduction compares the great theologian’s time to our own, and the preface by Edwards’s contemporary William Cooper rings resoundingly to the people of God today.

Edwards’s message provides more than just insight into the Great Awakening. It is a map to follow for all revivals in all times.

R. C. SPROUL is the founder of Ligonier Ministries and the author of over sixty books, including The Dark Side of Islam, and Defending Your Faith.

ARCHIE PARRISH is the founder and president of Serve International and faithfully works to train evangelical churches in prayer discipleship.

“This edition will enable the curious to get a taste of eighteenth-century American religion and its most celebrated theologian.”
—Gerald R. McDermott, Jordan-Trexler Professor of Religion, Roanoke College; co-author, The Theology of Jonathan Edwards

“This reader-friendly volume begins with an introductory essay by Sproul. . . . For readers unfamiliar with Edwards, Sproul’s essay is a valuable introduction. The book includes a discussion guide and a suggested application of the material for small-group settings.”
—Glenn Kreider, Professor of Theological Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary; Contributor, Bibliotheca Sacra