by William B. Sprague
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
William B. Sprague’s Lectures on Revivals of Religion is a profound and balanced theological treatise on the nature, necessity, and proper conduct of true spiritual revivals. Written in 1832, this work stands as one of the most careful and biblically grounded discussions on revivalism within Reformed theology. Sprague carefully distinguishes between genuine, Spirit-wrought revival and mere emotionalism or human-manufactured enthusiasm. His lectures cover essential topics such as the divine agency in revival, the means of promoting it, obstacles to revival, the treatment of awakened sinners and young converts, and the dangers of counterfeit excitement. With biblical clarity and pastoral wisdom, Sprague presents revivals as a sovereign work of God, yet one in which prayer, sound preaching, and faithful ministry play a vital role. He shows that true revival is not about numbers or dramatic experiences but the deep, lasting transformation of souls for the glory of God.
What sets Lectures on Revivals of Religion apart is its measured, biblical approach to a topic often marred by extremes—either uncritical enthusiasm or skeptical dismissal. Sprague provides practical guidance on how ministers and congregations can prepare for and respond to genuine movements of the Holy Spirit. He warns against emotional manipulation, unscriptural methods, and the dangers of self-deception, ensuring that true revival leads to holiness, doctrinal soundness, and long-term fruitfulness in the church. Included in the volume are letters from leading Reformed and evangelical pastors of his day, offering first-hand accounts and wisdom on revival experiences in different church traditions. Whether for pastors, church leaders, or lay believers seeking to discern the work of God in revival, this book remains an essential, biblically faithful guide that challenges, instructs, and encourages the church in every age.
About the Author
William Buell Sprague (1795–1876) was a Presbyterian minister, historian, and theologian, best known for his careful scholarship and writings on revivals and church history. A graduate of Yale and Princeton Theological Seminary, he served as pastor of Second Presbyterian Church in Albany, New York, where he witnessed and promoted biblically sound revival movements. His Lectures on Revivals of Religion remains one of the most respected works on the subject, blending Reformed theological depth, pastoral wisdom, and historical insight.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE
LECTURE I: NATURE OF A REVIVAL. Isaiah xlv. 8.
LECTURE II: DEFENCE OF REVIVALS. Acts ii. 13.
LECTURE III: OBSTACLES TO REVIVALS. 1 Cor. ix. 12.
LECTURE IV.: DIVINE AGENCY IN REVIVALS. Hab. iii. 2.
LECTURE V.: GENERAL MEANS OF PRODUCING AND PROMOTING REVIVALS. Phil. i. 27.
LECTURE VI: TREATMENT DUE TO AWAKENED SINNERS. Acts iii. 19.
LECTURE VII: TREATMENT DUE TO YOUNG CONVERTS. 2 Cor. xiii. 5.
LECTURE VIII.: EVILS TO BE AVOIDED IN CONNECTION WITH REVIVALS. Rom. xiv. 16.
LECTURE IX.: RESULTS OF REVIVALS.