The Asbury Revival 2 Years Later: Interview with Dr. Suzanne Nicholson
What makes a campus fall to its knees in worship for 16 straight days? Why do some places become sacred spaces where God repeatedly pours out His Spirit? Join us as we welcome Rev. Dr. Suzanne Nicholson, Professor of New Testament at Asbury University, to reflect on the remarkable 2023 Asbury Revival two years later and discuss her new book “Cooperating with the Holy Spirit.” From the initial 16-day outpouring that captured global attention to the lasting impact on campus life and beyond, Dr. Nicholson shares unique insights as both an eyewitness and scholar studying revival movements. We’ll explore the theological foundations of revival, practical lessons for stewarding moves of God, and how this historic event fits into both Asbury’s legacy of revivals and the broader context of spiritual awakening in America.
Transcript Summary
Michael Rowntree hosts this episode of The Remnant Radio, stepping in for Joshua Lewis. The guest is Rev. Dr. Suzanne Nicholson, a New Testament professor at Asbury University. This episode reflects on the Asbury Outpouring, two years later, and what has been learned. Nicholson provides background, describing the continuous worship and call to repentance that characterized the event. The outpouring wasn’t an isolated incident, with similar movements occurring on other college campuses. Nicholson also discusses the book “Cooperating with the Holy Spirit” in which she served as editor.
The conversation explores the unique aspects of the Asbury event, including the intense atmosphere of Hughes Auditorium and the palpable presence of the Holy Spirit. Nicholson shares her initial skepticism and how she sought confirmation from trusted theologians. She describes the “gentle” nature of the outpouring, contrasting it with more sensationalized displays often associated with charismatic revivals. The hosts and Nicholson discussed the theme of repentance, highlighting the sense of God’s love and mercy that accompanied conviction of sin.
The student-led aspect of the outpouring is emphasized, with Nicholson noting that the focus remained on young adults. She discusses the reasons why young people might be particularly open to such movements, including their search for purpose and meaning. She also comments on the role of anxiety and other mental health struggles among Gen Z, suggesting that the outpouring met a deep need for reassurance and healing. The discussion also touches on the need to avoid “Revival-ism”, where the focus is more on chasing an experience than living out a daily walk with Christ. They also explore the Wesleyan roots of Asbury. Finally, Nicholson described that the outpouring demonstrated the God of the Bible was present to renew those who sought Him.
