1860 South African Revival

The South African Revival of 1860 was a significant religious awakening that swept through the Cape Colony, leaving a lasting impact on the religious and social landscape of the country. This revival was characterized by fervent prayer meetings, passionate preaching, and numerous conversions. This report delves into the history of this revival, exploring its antecedents, key leaders, participating churches, unique practices, personal testimonies, and lasting results. It also examines the revival’s connection to other revivals and analyzes its beneficial takeaways.

 

 

 

State of Religion Prior to the 1860 South Africa Revival

The religious landscape in South Africa in the years leading up to the 1860 revival was a complex mix of influences and challenges. While diverse Christian denominations and other religions were present, a theocratic model, with the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) closely intertwined with the state, largely prevailed.

This model, rooted in John Calvin’s theology and enshrined in the Belgic Confession of Faith, positioned religion as the dominant force in society ¹. However, around 1800, a shift towards religious pluralism began to emerge, although this trend was disrupted during the apartheid era ¹.

The Dutch Reformed Church and the Great Trek

The DRC, while influential, faced internal struggles and divisions. The Great Trek of the 1830s and 1840s saw many Afrikaner farmers migrating from the Cape Colony, seeking freedom from British rule and creating independent republics ². The DRC, as the established church of the colony, initially discouraged this emigration and did not provide pastoral support to the departing farmers, contributing to further fragmentation within the church ². This highlights a tension between the church’s established position and the evolving socio-political landscape of the time.

Adding to the complexity, the Dutch East India Company exerted significant control over religious affairs, including the appointment of pastors and the establishment of congregations ³. This centralized control limited the church’s reach and responsiveness to the needs of a growing and dispersed population.

Language Barriers and Racism

The DRC’s adherence to the Dutch language presented another significant challenge. While many in the colony spoke Afrikaans, its use in religious services and even personal devotions was actively discouraged ³. This linguistic restriction hindered spiritual expression and created a disconnect between the church and the people, particularly among Afrikaners. This suppression of Afrikaans had a detrimental effect on the spiritual lives of many and contributed to a sense of alienation from the church.

Furthermore, the rise of European racist ideology during this period added another layer of complexity to the religious landscape. Mission-educated Africans and Coloureds, despite their religious education, faced increasing discrimination and exclusion from the dominant society ⁴. This racism contradicted the Christian message of equality and brotherhood, creating a tension between religious ideals and social realities.

Literacy and Religious Education

Despite these challenges, the Protestant emphasis on home Bible reading played a crucial role in promoting basic literacy among the population ⁵. This focus on religious education within families laid a foundation for future educational development and contributed to a culture of scriptural literacy.

Overall, the religious landscape in South Africa prior to the 1860 revival was marked by both opportunities and obstacles. The DRC held a prominent position but faced internal divisions, linguistic barriers, and the challenge of addressing social issues like racism. Despite these challenges, a foundation of religious education and a growing desire for spiritual renewal were present, setting the stage for the revival to come.

Antecedents of the 1860 Revival

The South African Revival of 1860 did not occur in a vacuum. It was influenced by a confluence of factors, including international religious awakenings and local stirrings of spiritual renewal.

Global Revival Wave

The 1850s witnessed a global wave of religious revivals that swept across various countries, including the United States, Ireland, and Wales ⁶. The 1857 Prayer Revival in America, in particular, had a profound impact on the Christian world, with reports of widespread conversions and spiritual fervor reaching South Africa ⁷.

These reports ignited a spark of hope and anticipation among believers in South Africa, who longed for a similar outpouring of God’s Spirit in their own land. The Ulster Revival of 1859 further fueled this desire, demonstrating the transformative power of religious awakening ⁶.

Local Revivals and Influences

Within South Africa, earlier revivals and religious movements also contributed to the groundswell of spiritual anticipation. In 1857, revival stirrings were felt in KwaZulu-Natal, followed by awakenings among the Xhosas in the Eastern Cape in 1858-1859 ⁸. These localized revivals demonstrated the potential for spiritual renewal and created an atmosphere of expectancy for a larger awakening.

The arrival of Scottish ministers in the early 19th century, including Andrew Murray Sr., also played a significant role. These ministers brought with them a renewed emphasis on evangelical preaching and personal piety, which influenced the religious landscape and fostered a desire for spiritual renewal ³.

The Worcester Conference

A pivotal event in the lead-up to the 1860 revival was the Dutch Reformed Church conference held in Worcester in April 1860 ⁹. This conference, attended by over 370 ministers and lay preachers, focused on the theme of revival and provided a platform for discussing the need for spiritual renewal ⁹. The conference served as a catalyst, bringing together key leaders and fostering a sense of unity and purpose among those seeking revival.

In conclusion, the South African Revival of 1860 was the culmination of various factors, including the global revival wave, local awakenings, and the influence of key figures like the Scottish ministers. The Worcester conference played a crucial role in bringing these influences together and setting the stage for the widespread spiritual awakening that would soon unfold.

Major Leaders and Churches Involved

The South African Revival of 1860 was not a leaderless movement; rather, it was shaped and guided by several influential figures who played key roles in promoting prayer, preaching, and spiritual direction.

Andrew Murray Jr.

Andrew Murray Jr., a young pastor in Worcester, emerged as a prominent leader during the revival. Initially, he approached the revival with some reservation, particularly the spontaneous and passionate expressions of faith that characterized the movement ¹⁰. However, he gradually came to embrace these expressions as genuine manifestations of the Holy Spirit’s work and played a crucial role in guiding the revival and shaping its impact on the Dutch Reformed Church.

Nicolaas Hofmeyr

Nicolaas Hofmeyr, a professor at the Stellenbosch Theological Seminary, provided intellectual and spiritual leadership during the revival ¹¹. His keen observations and compelling testimonies of the revival’s impact in Montagu and other towns helped to validate the authenticity of the movement and encourage its spread ¹². Hofmeyr’s influence extended beyond academia, as he actively engaged with communities experiencing revival and provided guidance to those seeking spiritual direction.

Gottlieb van der Lingen

Gottlieb van der Lingen, a Dutch Reformed minister, played a significant role in addressing the language barrier that had hindered spiritual expression among Afrikaners. He championed the translation of the Bible into Afrikaans, making the scriptures more accessible to a wider population ¹¹. This effort contributed significantly to the revival’s broader reach and lasting impact.

Churches Involved

While the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) was the primary denomination involved in the revival, other churches also experienced spiritual awakenings during this period. The Methodist Church in Montagu, for example, held nightly prayer meetings and witnessed a surge in conversions ⁶. This demonstrates that the revival’s impact transcended denominational boundaries, uniting Christians from various backgrounds in a shared experience of spiritual renewal.

The revival also had a lasting impact on the DRC itself. It led to the establishment of mission churches for Coloureds and Blacks, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for inclusivity and outreach ². While these churches were initially segregated, they eventually united to form the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa, marking a significant step towards racial reconciliation within the church.

In summary, the South African Revival of 1860 was shaped by the leadership of individuals like Andrew Murray Jr., Nicolaas Hofmeyr, and Gottlieb van der Lingen. While the DRC was at the center of the revival, its impact extended to other denominations, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation among Christians from diverse backgrounds.

Prayers and Practices

The South African Revival of 1860 was characterized by specific prayers and practices that contributed to its fervor and impact.

Prayer Meetings

Prayer meetings were central to the revival, with people gathering frequently, sometimes up to three times a day, to seek God’s guidance and intervention ⁷. These meetings were often filled with passionate expressions of faith, including fervent prayers, heartfelt confessions, and spontaneous singing ⁷. The intensity of these prayer meetings reflected the deep longing for spiritual renewal and the sense of urgency that permeated the revival.

However, it’s important to note that the initial response to calls for prayer was lukewarm. Many pastors were eager for revival, but their congregations remained largely disinterested, with prayer meetings often sparsely attended ¹³. This changed dramatically during the Worcester conference in May 1860, when fervent prayer led by Andrew Murray Jr. ignited a spark that spread throughout the gathering and beyond ¹³. This demonstrates the catalytic power of passionate prayer in igniting and sustaining revival.

“The Power of Prayer”

The distribution of a booklet titled “De Kracht des Gebeds” (The Power of Prayer) further fuelled the revival’s emphasis on prayer ⁹. This booklet, widely circulated among congregations and towns, highlighted the importance of persistent prayer and encouraged believers to seek God’s face in all aspects of their lives. It provided a framework for understanding the role of prayer in personal and communal spiritual growth.

Personal Testimony

Another significant practice during the revival was the emphasis on personal testimony. People openly shared their conversion experiences and spiritual encounters, inspiring others and strengthening the sense of community among believers ⁷. These testimonies often included accounts of visions, dreams, and profound encounters with the divine, adding to the revival’s emotional and spiritual intensity ⁷.

In conclusion, the South African Revival of 1860 was characterized by a fervent emphasis on prayer, fuelled by passionate prayer meetings, the distribution of “The Power of Prayer,” and the sharing of personal testimonies. These practices created an environment conducive to spiritual awakening and fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose among believers.

Personal Testimonies

The South African Revival of 1860 produced a wealth of personal testimonies that vividly capture the transformative power of the movement. These accounts provide valuable insights into the emotional and spiritual experiences of those who lived through this period of religious awakening.

One participant, writing anonymously, described the revival as a time of intense spiritual fervour, marked by “anxious cries,” “heart-rendering testimonies of conversion,” and even “visions” ⁷. This individual recounted a powerful experience during a prayer meeting where the entire gathering erupted in spontaneous prayer, creating a sense of awe and wonder:

“A feeling which I cannot describe took possession of me. Even now, forty-three years after these occurrences, the events of that never-to-be-forgotten night pass before my mind’s eye like a soul-stirring panorama.

I feel again as I then felt, and cannot refrain from pushing my chair backwards and thanking the Lord fervently for his mighty deeds.”¹⁴

Servaas Hofmeyr, a pastor who witnessed the revival firsthand, provided another compelling account. He described a scene of intense prayer and repentance, with people crying out for mercy and experiencing deep conviction of sin ³. He noted that the revival brought about a significant change in the spiritual atmosphere of the community:

“Before the days of revival the situation of our congregation was lamentable. Love of the world and sin; no earnestness or heartfelt desire for salvation; sinning and idleness that was the order of the day for most . . . when the Lord started to move among us how intense were the prayers for revival and the cries for mercy. ‘I am lost,’ cries one here. ‘Lord, help me,’ cries another . . . And none of this was expected by anyone, nor prepared by anyone, nor worked up, or preached by anyone. It was all the Spirit of God, and not for a few hours or days, but months long.” ³

Hofmeyr’s testimony emphasizes the transformative power of the revival in breaking through spiritual apathy and awakening a genuine desire for God.

Nicolaas Hofmeyr, in his account of the revival in Montagu, described a community profoundly impacted by the Holy Spirit. He observed that “cases of heartfelt conversion occurred daily” and that the revival had touched nearly every household in the village ¹². He noted a remarkable shift in the community’s spiritual climate:

“The religious indifference for which this place has been known has given way to a tone of earnestness, which is diffused throughout society. The aspect of this place is entirely changed.” ¹²

These personal testimonies, filled with vivid descriptions and emotional expressions, bring the South African Revival of 1860 to life. They reveal the profound impact of this religious awakening on individuals and communities, highlighting the transformative power of faith and the enduring legacy of this historical event.

Immediate and Lasting Results

The South African Revival of 1860 had both immediate and lasting consequences, shaping the religious and social landscape of the country in profound ways.

Immediate Impact

In the immediate aftermath of the revival, there was a noticeable surge in religious engagement. Church attendance increased significantly, and many people experienced conversions, leading to a renewed sense of spiritual vitality within congregations ¹². Prayer meetings became more frequent and fervent, reflecting a deeper commitment to seeking God’s guidance and experiencing His presence ¹².

Social Transformation

The revival’s impact extended beyond the walls of the church, inspiring social action and reform. Many individuals, moved by the revival’s message of compassion and responsibility, were motivated to address social issues such as poverty, illiteracy, and racial inequality ⁸. This led to the establishment of hospitals, schools, and other institutions aimed at improving the lives of the less fortunate and promoting social justice ⁸. This demonstrates the revival’s power to translate spiritual awakening into tangible social action.

Missionary Zeal

The revival also ignited a passion for missionary work, leading to the establishment of new churches and the spread of the gospel to various parts of Africa ². This missionary zeal was driven by a desire to share the transformative power of faith with others and extend the reach of the Christian message beyond existing communities.

Impact on Andrew Murray Jr.’s Ministry

The revival had a profound impact on the life and ministry of Andrew Murray Jr. It launched him into a worldwide ministry of speaking and writing, allowing him to share his insights and experiences with a broader audience ⁶. Murray’s writings on prayer, faith, and the Christian life continue to inspire and influence believers around the world to this day.

Language and the Church

The revival also played a role in promoting the use of Afrikaans in religious services and education ². This contributed to the eventual recognition of Afrikaans as an official language in South Africa, helping to bridge the linguistic divide that had previously existed within the church and society.

Enduring Legacy

In the long term, the South African Revival of 1860 left an enduring legacy that continued to shape the religious and social landscape of the country for generations to come ³. It fostered a greater emphasis on personal faith, social responsibility, and missionary outreach, influencing subsequent revivals and contributing to South Africa’s rich spiritual heritage.

In conclusion, the South African Revival of 1860 was a transformative event with both immediate and lasting consequences. It revitalized churches, inspired social action, fueled missionary activity, and contributed to linguistic and cultural shifts within South African society. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge Christians today.

Context and Relationship to Other Revivals

The South African Revival of 1860 occurred within a broader context of religious awakenings, both locally and internationally. Understanding its relationship to these other revivals provides a richer perspective on its significance and impact.

Global Influences

The 1860 revival was deeply influenced by the global revival wave of the mid-19th century, particularly the 1857 Prayer Revival in America ⁷. This American revival, with its emphasis on prayer and personal conversion, served as a catalyst for similar awakenings around the world, including South Africa. The reports of widespread conversions and spiritual fervor in America ignited a spark of hope and anticipation among South African Christians, who longed for a similar outpouring of God’s Spirit in their own land.

Local Connections

The 1860 revival also built upon earlier awakenings within South Africa itself. Revivals in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape in the late 1850s contributed to a growing sense of anticipation and prepared the ground for the larger awakening that would sweep through the Cape Colony ⁸. These local revivals demonstrated the potential for spiritual renewal within South African society and created an atmosphere of expectancy for a more widespread outpouring of God’s Spirit.

Broader Historical Context

The South African Revival of 1860 shares similarities with other historical revivals, such as the Great Awakening in America and the Welsh Revival. These revivals were characterized by fervent prayer, passionate preaching, and a focus on personal conversion experiences. They also often had significant social and cultural consequences, leading to reforms and renewed religious engagement.

Connections to Other South African Revivals

The 1860 revival also holds a significant place within the larger narrative of religious awakenings in South Africa. It is connected to other revivals in the country’s history, such as the Azusa Street Revival and the Hebrides Revival ¹⁴. These revivals, occurring at different times and in different contexts, demonstrate a recurring theme of spiritual renewal and a deep longing for God’s presence within South African Christianity.

In conclusion, the South African Revival of 1860 was not an isolated event but rather a part of a larger tapestry of religious awakenings. Its relationship to global revivals, local stirrings, and other historical movements provides a richer understanding of its significance and its place within the ongoing story of faith in South Africa.

Scholarly Articles and Historical Accounts

The South African Revival of 1860 has been the subject of scholarly research and historical accounts that provide valuable insights into its origins, impact, and significance. These resources offer diverse perspectives and contribute to a deeper understanding of this pivotal event in South African religious history.

Key Resources

• “South Africa’s Forgotten Revival: The Story of the Cape’s Great Awakening in 1860” by Olea Nel ⁷: This book offers a comprehensive overview of the revival, drawing on primary sources and historical records to provide a detailed account of the events and their context.

• “Lessons to be Learned from the South African Revival” by Allen Baker ⁷: This article analyzes the key features of the revival and draws lessons for contemporary Christians seeking spiritual renewal. It explores the revival’s theological underpinnings, its social and cultural impact, and its relevance for modern-day believers.

• “The 1857-1862 Revival: When God Comes in Power” by Bennie Mostert ⁷: This historical account provides a narrative of the revival, focusing on the experiences of individuals and communities touched by the movement. It captures the emotional and spiritual intensity of the revival and its transformative power.

• “Andrew Murray and the 1860 Revival” by Peter Hammond ⁷: This account explores the role of Andrew Murray Jr. in the revival, highlighting his leadership, theological contributions, and lasting impact on South African Christianity.

Scholarly Research

Scholarly articles, such as those published in academic journals, provide in-depth analyses of the revival from various perspectives. These articles often explore specific aspects of the revival, such as its social and economic consequences, its impact on race relations, or its relationship to broader historical trends.

Historical Accounts

Historical accounts, including personal testimonies, diaries, and contemporary reports, offer valuable firsthand perspectives on the revival. These accounts capture the lived experiences of those who witnessed and participated in the movement, providing insights into the revival’s emotional and spiritual impact.

In conclusion, the South African Revival of 1860 has been well-documented in scholarly articles and historical accounts. These resources offer a wealth of information for those seeking to understand this pivotal event in South African religious history.

Chronological Timeline

The following chronological timeline provides a concise overview of the key events leading up to, during, and after the South African Revival of 1860:

Date	Event	Location
1857	The Prayer Revival begins.	America
1857-1859	Stirrings of revival are felt.	KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape
1859	A call to prayer is issued by the South African Evangelical Alliance.	Cape Colony
April 18-19, 1860	A conference on revival is held.	Worcester
May 1860	Revival breaks out.	Montagu
1860	Revival spreads to other towns.	Cape Colony
January 5-13, 1861	A week of prayer is called for by the Evangelical Alliance.	Cape Colony
1861	A second wave of revival spreads.	Cape Colony
Post-1860	The revival’s impact continues.	South Africa

This timeline provides a clear chronological framework for understanding the sequence of events and the geographical spread of the revival.

Analysis of Results and Beneficial Takeaways

The South African Revival of 1860 produced a number of beneficial outcomes that had a lasting impact on the country. These include:

• Increased spiritual awareness and commitment: The revival led to a deeper understanding of Christian faith and a renewed commitment to spiritual growth among individuals and communities.

• Church growth and revitalization: The revival resulted in a significant increase in church attendance, conversions, and a renewed sense of purpose among congregations.

• Social transformation and reform: The revival inspired many individuals to address social issues such as poverty, illiteracy, and racial inequality, leading to the establishment of institutions and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the less fortunate.

• Missionary expansion and outreach: The revival sparked a missionary movement, leading to the establishment of new churches and the spread of the gospel in various parts of Africa.

• Educational development and advancement: The revival fostered a greater emphasis on education, leading to the establishment of schools and colleges to equip individuals with knowledge and skills.

• Ecumenical cooperation and unity: The revival fostered a spirit of cooperation and unity among different Christian denominations, breaking down barriers and promoting a sense of shared purpose.

The South African Revival of 1860 stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the potential for spiritual awakening to bring about positive change in individuals, communities, and society as a whole. It serves as an inspiration for contemporary Christians seeking renewal and a reminder of the importance of prayer, social action, and a commitment to spreading the Christian message.

The revival’s legacy continues to resonate in South Africa today, reminding us of the enduring power of faith to shape lives and communities. Its emphasis on prayer, social responsibility, and missionary zeal provides a valuable model for Christians seeking to make a positive impact in the world.

 

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