21/02/2025
Lessons from the Fulton Street Revival
Three key aspects distinguished the 1857-58 revival from previous awakenings. First, it was a lay-led movement, with ordinary Christians, rather than clergy, taking the initiative. This set a precedent for greater lay participation in church activities, including the Sunday school and the YMCA. Second, it was a nonsectarian movement, uniting Christians across denominational lines in a shared concern for souls. Lastly, it was fundamentally a revival of prayer, unlike any before or since, with Americans coming together in unprecedented unity before God.
Jeremiah Lanphier, the man behind the Fulton Street meeting, exemplified the power of one dedicated life. Despite his relative obscurity in history, his impact was immeasurable. After a period of personal struggle, he surrendered fully to God’s calling, a decision that would catalyze a movement affecting hundreds of thousands. His work continued for decades, offering spiritual guidance to countless seekers.
The Fulton Street prayer meeting remains active even today, marking its centennial in 1957. While the 1857-58 revival was the last great national revival, it was far from the end of America’s revival history. The legacy of such awakenings endures through the faithful efforts of God’s servants, shaping the spiritual landscape of generations to come.
