I’ve just returned from a meeting of 65,000 college students and high school seniors, all focused on one purpose: the glory of Christ. There were other common threads in the Passion 2013 gathering, such as bold teaching of the Word of God, powerful worship that glorified Christ through deep, theological lyrics, the salvation of many who had come with groups, unexpectedly changed forever, and the gathering of many to authentic community in an unprecedented way. Could this be the spark of a greater awakening of God in our culture? Passion has been going on since 1996, and countless thousands have experienced this event. God has blessed the event in many ways. College students still come to this event even after 16 years, seeking renewal and greater purpose for their world.

The young of many previous generations in world history have been central in bringing about spiritual reform to society.  Jonathan Edwards marked several biblical principles that provide boundaries for what he saw as a true spiritual movement for which God was behind. These principles included the stirring of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of young people leading to the greater glorification of Jesus,  conviction and repentance of sin, a greater hunger for understanding the Word of God, working against Satan’s kingdom and its devices, leading people to be convicted of the truth, and a greater love for God and man.

Acts 17:6 which states, “These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also” describes such a movement of God, when people were passionate for Jesus they were making an impact in their community. They changed the world.  Acts 4:20 states, “For we cannot but speak of what have seen and heard.”  Peter and John were moved by the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim the good news of Jesus. Revival was upon the world, brought by the indwelling Holy Spirit to move ordinary men to share the gospel. But they couldn’t be kept quiet.

Many, if not all, of us who went to Passion this year came back wonderfully changed. We encountered bold teaching that convicted our hearts, and worship that moved us to a more intimate relationship with Jesus. We want to tell the world about who Jesus is! We all hopefully come to a realization at times that we may need a readjustment in our walks. A re-charging of the batteries. A spiritual kick in the pants. Our college students and seniors are fired up, as am I.  God would you continue this work for your renown, for your fame? May the name of Jesus be lifted up and many brought to repentance.