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.

Subscribe for more inspiring conversations that illuminate faith, history, and the power of storytelling!

Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit:

https://harvest.org/.

Find Pastor Greg on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/

https://x.com/greglaurie

https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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CHAPTERS:

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Gen Z’s Search for Authentic Faith
00:47 The Forgotten George: Spotlight on Whitfield
02:12 Thirty Years That Sparked a Revolution
03:27 Bringing Whitfield to Life On Screen
05:00 God Uses Unlikely, Flawed People
06:09 Whitfield’s Unstoppable Preaching Power
07:19 Becoming an Evangelist: Preaching for a Decision
10:27 Gospel Is Dunamis—The Power of Dynamite
11:37 Whitfield’s Compassion for All People
12:28 Franklin and Whitfield: Revolutionary Collaboration
16:01 Self-Governance Born from Revival
17:42 Franklin, the Reluctant Preacher’s Son
22:08 Why This Film Matters for America Today
23:12 Philly Rebuilt: Filming Market Street’s Awakening
25:40 Hollywood’s Alternate Universe and Film’s Influence
28:09 Every Christian Is a Candle—Personal Impact
30:06 Truth, Conviction, and Flawed Heroes
32:24 God Uses Crooked Sticks: Flaws in Scripture
36:13 America’s Revival Roots & Need for Awakening
37:20 Living Through Revival: The Jesus Movement
38:32 Can This Film Ignite Another Awakening?
39:29 Films That Changed Our Lives
44:05 The Power of Storytelling in Gospel Film
46:01 A Call to Unashamed, Bold Christian Art
47:52 God Ideas, Not Good Ideas
48:27 Closing Blessing: Fame of Revival Spreads the Flame

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What does it mean to leave an eternal legacy? In this unforgettable episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Pastor Greg Laurie sits down with Pastor Chuck Smith—the visionary founder of Calvary Chapel and often called “the father of the Jesus Movement”—for a profound, personal conversation recorded live at Harvest Orange County in 2012.

Together, Greg and Chuck delve into Chuck’s journey from boyhood in Ventura, California, to his pivotal decision to pursue ministry over medicine, trusting God for an impact that would last beyond this life. Chuck shares candid stories about his family, his marriage to Kay (his partner of 63 years!), and the unimaginable pain of losing loved ones—all woven together by faith, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to God’s Word.

You’ll discover surprising insights, such as the astonishing miracle that changed Chuck’s family forever, the real story behind Calvary Chapel’s explosive growth and birth of contemporary Christian music, and how Chuck remained calm in the face of death, cancer, and seemingly impossible storms. Pastor Greg and Chuck also revisit the origins of the Jesus Movement, the importance of supporting each other through suffering, and what truly sustains a lifelong marriage and ministry.

This episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and hope for anyone facing challenges, questioning their purpose, or simply longing for inspiration. If you’ve ever wondered how ordinary faith becomes extraordinary legacy, you’ll find answers here.

Don’t miss Chuck’s heartfelt prayer and his favorite hymn, “The Love of God,” as the perfect close to a conversation about running life’s race and finishing well.

Subscribe for more conversations like this—full of faith, real stories, and practical encouragement for your own journey.

Don’t miss this powerful episode. Subscribe for more conversations that challenge, encourage, and point you toward lasting hope.

Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit:

https://harvest.org/.

Find Pastor Greg on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/

https://x.com/greglaurie

https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Kay Smith’s Burden for Hippie Youth
02:08 Everything in Life Is Preparation
04:46 Sister’s Healing and Mother’s Vow
08:12 Chuck’s Personal Encounter with God at Age 14
10:19 "One Life, Soon Past—Only What’s Done for Christ Will Last"
13:55 Meeting Kay: A Misplaced Car and Love at First Sight
16:13 Secret to a Long Marriage: Christ at the Center
18:25 The Infamous Boulder Incident
21:00 Losing Father and Brother: Processing Tragedy and Faith
24:26 Never Trade What You Know for What You Don’t Know
26:41 Calvary Chapel: From Small Church to Jesus Movement
33:33 Lonnie Frisbee’s Impact & Hippie Revival Explosion
41:37 Calvary Chapel Expands: Birth of Contemporary Worship
42:13 Cancer Diagnosis: Chuck’s Peace and Perspective on Death
45:03 Best Decision: Marrying Kay
46:28 Most Embarrassing Moment: “Blessed Out of My Gourd” in New Guinea
47:08 First Sermon and Last Sermon Themes
49:47 Three Reasons for Preaching Christ’s Return
52:02 Heroes: Billy Graham and the Power of Sacrifice
53:52 How Chuck Wants to Be Remembered
54:39 Chuck Sings “The Love of God”
57:40 Final Wisdom: Holding to an Unchanging Christ in Uncertain Times
58:39 Chuck’s Prayer for Listeners and the Future

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In today’s episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Pastor Greg Laurie sits down with Shannon Bream—Fox News Sunday host, chief legal correspondent, and author of Nothing Is Impossible with God—for an inspiring conversation about faith, resilience, and finding purpose amid impossible odds. “You are the worst person I’ve ever seen on TV.” What happens when your greatest setbacks propel you toward your biggest breakthroughs?

Shannon Bream opens up about her journey from lawyer to national journalist, sharing powerful stories about battling chronic pain, enduring professional rejection, and navigating life-changing diagnoses—with honesty, humility, and hope. She reflects on moments when faith was all she could cling to, from her husband Sheldon’s surprise brain tumor diagnosis at 24 to her own years of debilitating, undiagnosed eye pain. Through each storm, Shannon reveals how prayer, scripture, and the support of the Christian community guided her toward healing and purpose.

Together, Greg and Shannon discuss some of the most significant Supreme Court decisions from her career, the unexpected challenges of interviewing world leaders, and the lessons learned from biblical figures like Gideon, Joseph, and Jonah. Shannon’s deep knowledge of scripture shines as she unpacks what it means to be an overcomer, sharing encouragement for anyone facing adversity: God never allows pain without purpose.

Tune in for relatable stories of doubt, perseverance, and laughter—plus a few surprises, like Shannon’s favorite cookie obsession and lessons learned from offbeat humor and self-deprecation. Whether you’re struggling with your own setbacks, aspiring to make an impact, or simply seeking hope in a divided world, this episode offers practical wisdom and spiritual insight for every listener.

Subscribe for more conversations like this—and be inspired to discover that, with God, nothing is impossible.

Don’t miss this powerful episode. Subscribe for more conversations that challenge, encourage, and point you toward lasting hope.

Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit:

https://harvest.org/.

Find Pastor Greg on social media:

https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/

https://x.com/greglaurie

https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Shannon Bream’s Stunning Critique from TV Boss
01:33 Overcoming Chronic Pain: Faith and Despair
03:19 Prayer for Healing and Finding a Lifesaving Doctor
05:41 Storms of Life: Biblical Lessons from Trials
06:25 Facing Fiancé’s Brain Tumor Diagnosis
08:06 Quitting Law for Journalism: Bold Career Leap
09:29 Fired and Told “Worst on TV”—Turning Point
11:03 Surprises and Challenges Interviewing World Leaders
13:29 Humbled in Oval Office: Childhood to White House
16:02 Supreme Court Historic Decisions: Same-Sex Marriage & Obamacare
17:00 Supreme Court Leak: Dobbs Decision and Public Threats
18:04 Overcomers in the Bible: Gideon and Joseph
19:10 Jonah’s Story: Rebelling Against God’s Call
22:01 Mike Johnson & Marco Rubio: Faith in Public Life
24:06 Favorite Food: Chocolate Chip Cookies with Walnuts
25:22 Shannon’s Offbeat Sense of Humor and Movies
27:47 Advice to Younger Self: “Don’t Be in Such a Hurry”
29:05 Personal Faith Journey: Accepting Christ as a Teen
30:19 Why Faith Matters: Unconditional Love and Security

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.