The rise of Pentecostalism was unique in that it did not simply become a denomination of its own. Rather, the Pentecostal movement swept through churches and effected believers and unbelievers alike. #GNS211
Among the most influential preachers of all time, Billy Graham, through use of technology, touched the hearts of millions over the course of his ministry. #GNS211
Along with the increase of technology use in modern life came the idea of preaching as entertainment. Televangelists began to rise in popularity, using dramatic techniques to get their message across. Is it acceptable to make such a show out of preaching? GNS211
As Western culture has become increasingly secularized, Christianity has been greatly influenced by various philosophical ideas. How far does this influence of secularization reach, and how much of an impact does it have on how one relates to God? #GNS211
Beginning with the ideas of René Descartes, “I think, therefore I am”, an individualistic view of humanity became heavily involved in shaping Western philosophy and culture. This concept of the world revolving around man entirely still permeates our society today. #GNS211
North America has come to a point where the “secularization of society” is in full swing. Where God was once considered essential in explaining the world, science and logic have now taken over. #GNS211
David Livingstone, a missionary in Africa, passed away in 1873 kneeling by his bed in prayer. While his body was buried in Westminster Abbey, his heart was buried in Africa as a display of his love for the continent and the people. #GNS211
Although there was good that came from the Industrial Revolution in terms of productivity, it took a toll on family life, as work was now outside of the home and distance was created between men and their families. Was progress worth the harm it caused to family life? #GNS211
“Though the cause of evil prosper, Yet ‘tis truth alone is strong; Though her portion be the scaffold and upon the throne be wrong; Yet that scaffold sways the future, And, behind the dim unknown, Standeth God within the shadow keeping watch above His own.” James Lowell #GNS211
While some Christians were heavily involved in the abolitionist movement, others used Scripture to defend slavery. This goes to show how broad the beliefs within Christianity became over the years. #GNS211
Jonathan Edwards, described as an unimpressive public speaker, moved many with his sermons. He was a clear demonstration of the Holy Spirit working through the most unlikely of people. #GNS211
To hear a sermon by George Whitefield was among the most shared experiences of people in his day. One has to wonder whether any preacher in modern times could have such an impact as Whitefield did. #GNS211
The idea that human reasoning can explain God in full has been a major cause of church splits throughout history, and remains an issue in the church today. How does one approach the topic of God without human pride interfering? #GNS211
“Rejoice the Lord is King!
Your Lord and King adore;
Rejoice, give thanks and sing’
And triumph evermore
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice” - Charles Wesley #GNS211
It is interesting how some of the biggest names in science, such as Sir Francis Bacon, Isaac Newton, and Galileo were believers, given the fact that science and religion clashed so much at the time of the Enlightenment. #GNS211
The Reformation brought about a group called the Puritans, who believed that God called each person to a specific vocation which they were to work conscientiously at. Harvard and Yale colleges as well as the public school system were founded by dedicated Puritans. #GNS211
A method of missionary work commonly used by the Jesuits began with converting the elite class, as they believed this would in turn convert the nation. Is using political leaders as a means of mass conversion an effective method of evangelism? #GNS211
A Jesuit in India named Robert de Nobili recognized the value in evangelizing through cultural context. To evangelize to higher castes, he adopted their lifestyle and spread the gospel in a way they would understand instead of trying to assimilate them to his own culture. #GNS211
The view of work as worship, introduced in Calvinism and early monastic beliefs, encouraged Christians to do all things with excellence for the glory of God. This opened the door for Christians to work in the world. #GNS211
It is interesting how the Protestant church was not named by those within the movement, but rather those outside of it. The name was actually meant to be an insult against protesters, but was adopted as a badge of honour. #GNS211