Great Revival of 1907

Definition

The Great Revival of 1907 was a significant religious movement in Korea that saw a surge in Christian conversions and revitalization of faith, marked by mass gatherings and fervent prayers. This movement is pivotal in understanding the growth of Christianity in Korea, as it led to the establishment of new churches and invigorated existing congregations, significantly impacting Korean society and culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Revival began in January 1907 in Pyongyang, following a series of prayer meetings that drew large crowds seeking spiritual renewal.
2. Key figures such as Jonathan Goforth, a Canadian missionary, were instrumental in leading the revival through powerful preaching and prayer meetings.
3. The revival resulted in tens of thousands of Koreans converting to Christianity, significantly increasing the number of church members across the nation.
4. It also emphasized social reform, inspiring Christians to engage in education, health care, and social justice efforts, which transformed various aspects of Korean society.
5. The movement laid the foundation for further Christian growth in Korea, influencing future generations and contributing to the establishment of Korean churches and seminaries.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Revival of 1907 influence the spread of Christianity in Korea during that period?
  • The Great Revival of 1907 acted as a catalyst for the spread of Christianity in Korea by fostering an environment ripe for conversions and increased church attendance. Mass gatherings and passionate prayers drew people from various backgrounds to experience spiritual renewal. The revival not only led to significant conversions but also inspired many to take active roles in their communities through church activities, which further solidified Christianity's presence in Korean society.
• What role did key figures play in shaping the events of the Great Revival and its impact on Korean society?
  • Key figures like Jonathan Goforth were pivotal during the Great Revival, as their leadership and passionate preaching attracted large audiences seeking spiritual awakening. Their influence helped facilitate an atmosphere of fervent prayer and community involvement, encouraging many Koreans to convert to Christianity. This increase in converts also translated into broader societal impacts, where churches became centers for education and social reform, contributing to the modernization of Korean society.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the Great Revival of 1907 on modern Korean Christianity and its social movements.
  • The long-term implications of the Great Revival of 1907 are profound, as it set a precedent for the dynamic growth of modern Korean Christianity. This revival not only established a strong foundation for Christian faith but also encouraged active engagement in social issues such as education and healthcare. The legacy of this movement can still be seen today, with Korean churches continuing to play crucial roles in community development and social justice efforts, shaping both spiritual life and societal norms in contemporary Korea.

Related terms

Pyongyang:

The capital city of North Korea, which was a central location for the Great Revival and became known as the birthplace of modern Korean Christianity.

Revivalism:

A movement within Christianity focused on renewing spiritual fervor, emphasizing personal faith and communal worship, often leading to mass conversions.

Missionary Movement: The effort by Western missionaries to spread Christianity in Korea, which played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the Great Revival.