The Rock Star Preacher Who Sparked A Revolution | Greg Laurie

About this sermon

Before America had a revolution, it had a revival—and at the center of it was a “rock star” preacher named George Whitefield. On this episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Greg sits down with Joshua Enck and Jonathan Blair—creators and star of the new film “A Great Awakening”—to uncover the forgotten story of the First Great Awakening and its lasting impact on our nation. Joshua Enck (director, Sight & Sound) and Jonathan Blair (who portrays Whitefield) bring history to life, sharing how Whitefield’s radical preaching and partnership with Benjamin Franklin helped ignite a revival that transformed colonial America. Through powerful anecdotes, biblical insight, and a genuine passion for storytelling, the conversation explores not just Whitefield’s supernatural voice and courage, but also the authentic warmth and compassion that drove him to reach every corner of society. Listen for two unforgettable moments: Jonathan describes the challenge—and surrender—in embodying Whitefield’s larger-than-life spirit, revealing how “getting out of the way” allowed something greater to shine through 06:09. And don’t miss the compelling analysis of Whitefield’s relationship with Franklin—a unique friendship that shaped both men and the birth of America 22:50. This episode invites listeners into the heart of revival: how ordinary, flawed people can spark extraordinary change. If you’re hungry for authentic stories of hope, faith, and renewal, tune in as Greg and guests reflect on what America needs now—another spiritual awakening. Subscribe for more inspiring conversations that illuminate faith, history, and the power of storytelling! Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit: https://harvest.org/. Find Pastor Greg on social media: https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/ https://x.com/greglaurie https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. -------- CHAPTERS: 00:00 Gen Z’s Hunger for Authentic Faith 00:45 Introducing "A Great Awakening" and George Whitefield 02:15 The 30-Year Revival Behind America’s Revolution 05:14 Actor Prepares to Portray “America’s First Celebrity” 10:04 Whitefield’s Preaching Sparks Tension in the Church 12:40 Evangelism vs. Pastoring—Waking Up the Spiritually Dead 15:00 The Gospel’s “Dynamite” Power Explained 17:03 Whitefield Challenges Slavery and Preaches to All 19:10 One Candle Illuminates a Thousand—Legacy and Influence 22:50 Franklin & Whitefield’s Unlikely Friendship Explored 26:04 Searching for Truth: Franklin vs. Whitefield 29:15 Why “A Great Awakening” Matters Today 35:32 Authentic Storytelling vs. Agenda-Driven Film 39:14 Addressing Flaws in Spiritual Leaders & Redemption 44:03 A Call for a New Spiritual Awakening in America 52:11 The Transformational Power of Storytelling in Film 54:00 Boldly Sharing the Gospel Through Art 55:07 God Ideas vs. Good Ideas in Filmmaking 56:07 Closing: Spread the Flame of Revival___________________________________________________________________________________ Thank you for watching! Be sure to like and subscribe so you are notified as soon as a new video arrives. Get exclusive content on the Harvest+ Streaming App, including Harvest Films, TV shows and hundreds of messages from Pastor Greg Laurie. Available on Apple iOS, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google TV, and Samsung TV! Watch here: https://watch.harvest.org/ To support the ministry of Pastor Greg Laurie and help us continue to reach people with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ, visit here https://harvest.org/donate/

Topics

• Faith