Before America had a revolution, it had a revival—and at the center of it was a “rock star” preacher named George Whitefield. On this episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Greg sits down with Joshua Enck and Jonathan Blair—creators and star of the new film “A Great Awakening”—to uncover the forgotten story of the First Great Awakening and its lasting impact on our nation.

Joshua Enck (director, Sight & Sound) and Jonathan Blair (who portrays Whitefield) bring history to life, sharing how Whitefield’s radical preaching and partnership with Benjamin Franklin helped ignite a revival that transformed colonial America. Through powerful anecdotes, biblical insight, and a genuine passion for storytelling, the conversation explores not just Whitefield’s supernatural voice and courage, but also the authentic warmth and compassion that drove him to reach every corner of society.

Listen for two unforgettable moments: Jonathan describes the challenge—and surrender—in embodying Whitefield’s larger-than-life spirit, revealing how “getting out of the way” allowed something greater to shine through 06:09. And don’t miss the compelling analysis of Whitefield’s relationship with Franklin—a unique friendship that shaped both men and the birth of America 22:50.

This episode invites listeners into the heart of revival: how ordinary, flawed people can spark extraordinary change. If you’re hungry for authentic stories of hope, faith, and renewal, tune in as Greg and guests reflect on what America needs now—another spiritual awakening.

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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Gen Z’s Hunger for Authentic Faith
00:45 Introducing "A Great Awakening" and George Whitefield
02:15 The 30-Year Revival Behind America’s Revolution
05:14 Actor Prepares to Portray “America’s First Celebrity”
10:04 Whitefield’s Preaching Sparks Tension in the Church
12:40 Evangelism vs. Pastoring—Waking Up the Spiritually Dead
15:00 The Gospel’s “Dynamite” Power Explained
17:03 Whitefield Challenges Slavery and Preaches to All
19:10 One Candle Illuminates a Thousand—Legacy and Influence
22:50 Franklin & Whitefield’s Unlikely Friendship Explored
26:04 Searching for Truth: Franklin vs. Whitefield
29:15 Why “A Great Awakening” Matters Today
35:32 Authentic Storytelling vs. Agenda-Driven Film
39:14 Addressing Flaws in Spiritual Leaders & Redemption
44:03 A Call for a New Spiritual Awakening in America
52:11 The Transformational Power of Storytelling in Film
54:00 Boldly Sharing the Gospel Through Art
55:07 God Ideas vs. Good Ideas in Filmmaking
56:07 Closing: Spread the Flame of Revival___________________________________________________________________________________

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