J. Edwin Orr's Evangelical Awakenings in South Africa is a detailed exploration of the evangelical movements that swept through South Africa during the 19th century. This book, originally a dissertation for Orr's Doctor of Divinity degree, examines the antecedents of these movements in Europe and North America and their subsequent influence on the evangelization of Africa.
Historical Context and Scope
Orr situates the South African awakenings within the broader context of global evangelical movements, particularly those in North America and Europe. He draws on the work of historians like Kenneth Scott Latourette, who termed the 19th century as 'the Great Century' for Christian expansion. Orr's study spans from the British occupation of the Cape of Good Hope to the Union of the South African colonies, providing a comprehensive view of the century's religious landscape.
Methodology and Sources
The book is grounded in meticulous research, combining original South African records with broader historical data. Orr acknowledges the contributions of various scholars and institutions, including the Paternoster Press and Marshall, Morgan & Scott, for access to previously published materials. He also credits numerous professors and archivists for their assistance in translating and scrutinizing historical documents.
Themes and Patterns of Revival
Orr distinguishes between the terms 'Revival' and 'Evangelical Awakening,' preferring the latter to describe genuine movements of the Holy Spirit that lead to the revival of churches and the awakening of masses. He argues that these awakenings follow a pattern seen throughout church history, akin to the events described in the Acts of the Apostles. This pattern includes intense prayer, dynamic witness, and a profound conviction of sin, resulting in conversions and societal impact.
Impact and Legacy
The awakenings in South Africa were part of a larger progression of evangelical movements that Orr traces back to the days of John Wycliffe and the Lollards. He highlights the continuity of evangelical doctrine and action from the New Testament through the Reformation and into the 19th century. These movements not only revitalized the church but also contributed to social reforms and the spread of Christianity across the globe.
Conclusion
Evangelical Awakenings in South Africa is a significant contribution to the study of Christian revival, illustrating the profound and lasting impact of 19th-century evangelical movements. It stands as a testament to Orr's scholarship and his role as a foremost historian of Christian revival, complementing his other works on evangelical renewal and advance.