J. Edwin Orr's The Second Evangelical Awakening in Britain offers a meticulously researched account of the Evangelical Revival that swept through the United Kingdom from 1859 to 1865. This book is a seminal work in the field of revival history, providing a detailed narrative of the movement's origins, progress, and impact across various regions and denominations.
The Nature and Scope of the Revival
The book begins by contextualizing the 1859-65 Revival within a broader historical framework, comparing it to the earlier Evangelical Revival of the 18th century. Orr highlights the Revival's significant numerical impact, with approximately a million converts added to churches across the UK. The movement was marked by a notable absence of fanaticism, which had marred previous revivals, and it led to substantial social uplift and missionary activity. The Revival's influence extended to various denominations, including Methodists, Baptists, Congregationalists, Anglicans, and Presbyterians, with substantial membership increases reported across the board.
Methodology and Sources
Orr's research is grounded in primary sources, particularly newspapers, which he used to reconstruct the history of the Revival. He faced challenges in organizing the material, ultimately opting for a geographical approach to document the movement's spread across Ulster, Scotland, Wales, and England. This method allowed for a detailed examination of the Revival's development in specific areas, providing a comprehensive picture of its reach and impact.
Key Figures and Organizations
The Revival produced numerous notable converts and leaders, such as Tom Barnardo, James Chalmers, and Evan Hopkins. It also gave rise to influential organizations like the Children's Special Service Mission and the Salvation Army. Orr emphasizes the role of laypeople in the movement, with many taking on leadership roles and contributing to the Revival's spread.
Analysis and Impact
Orr's work not only documents the events of the Revival but also attempts to analyze its results. He acknowledges the complexity of interpreting the movement's phenomena, recognizing both divine and human elements at play. The book concludes that the 1859 Revival was a major development in English-speaking Christianity, comparable to the earlier Evangelical Revival.
Place in Orr's Work
The Second Evangelical Awakening in Britain is a cornerstone of J. Edwin Orr's contributions to revival history. It stands out for its depth of research and comprehensive coverage, making it an essential reference for understanding the dynamics and legacy of the 19th-century Evangelical Revival in Britain.