The Asbury Revival Is A Reminder Of The Blessings And Dangers Of ‘Mountaintop Experiences’

Wilmore, Kentucky is witnessing something remarkable.

On Wednesday, Feb. 8, Asbury University, a private Christian college located in Wilmore, was closing down daily chapel One student raised his hand and continued to speak. This small act inspired other students to stay in chapel instead of leaving as they would normally. The chapel service continues for a week, and people continue to come from all over the globe to participate in what is becoming increasingly known as “a Chapel Service.” “revival.”

What’s the deal? Tucker Carlson interviewed me in a February 15 interviewAlison Perfater, president of Asbury Student Body described the phenomenon in this manner:

The deeper aspect of the story is that a new generation of believers has been rising to claim Christianity, their faith, since Wednesday. This is why people can’t get enough.

It’s truly a wonder to see and a source of inspiration and encouragement for anyone with faith. As a Baby Boomer of 50, I can tell you that I have never felt so depressed about the world as I do now. We could go on and on about the reasons but we would be lost.

After years of empty churches, livestream services, and churches having to close because people aren’t coming back for several years, I find it encouraging to see people from all walks of life come together for worship and not riots.  

A Warning

I do want to warn Asbury worshippers. Sinful humans, like us, have the dangerous tendency to take God’s goodness and make them idols. This is a common occurrence. Instead of keeping our eyes on Jesus, we chase after other things that are good in their own right but can distract from the real object of faith.

These could include the building that houses the church, the pastor, music, style of worship, friends, and even our supposed righteousness for being a part of a church. If any of these things are more important than Christ Himself, then we have lost our way. “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3).

On Sunday, February 19, much of Christendom, including my own church, will celebrate the Feast of the Transfiguration. This is when Jesus climbed the mountain with His apostles Peter and James and was there. “transfigured,” His face shone with brightness as the voice of His father was heard, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him” (Matthew 17:5). Three years ago, I wrote this article.Christ’s Transfiguration “is a pivotal event that vividly highlights Jesus’ divinity and marks a decisive turn in His ministry as He begins His journey to the cross.”

Heading down the Mountain

What’s going on in Asbury