As we reflect on the origins of the charismatic movement, it is impossible to ignore how the power of the Holy Spirit ignited a global renewal in the church. This movement, which began in the early 20th century and surged in the 1960s, was not just a wave of emotional fervor—it was a powerful move of God that revitalized millions, bringing fresh fire to those longing for a deeper experience with Him. Today, the hunger for this movement is more critical than ever, not only for the health of the body of Christ but for the spiritual direction of the United States itself.
The charismatic renewal was built on the belief that the gifts of the Holy Spirit—prophecy, healing, tongues and miracles—did not cease with the early church but remain active and available to every believer today. This conviction, rooted in Scripture, sparked revivals in mainline denominations, crossing denominational and racial lines. From Catholic prayer groups to Pentecostal tent revivals, from Baptist pulpits to Methodist seminaries, the Spirit moved mightily, restoring a passion for the supernatural power of God.
Now, decades later, we find ourselves in another season of upheaval. Our nation is polarized, our churches struggle with declining attendance and our culture is unraveling under the weight of moral confusion. In this hour, the charismatic movement offers a divine solution. It provides not only a return to biblical truth but also a demonstration of God’s Dynamis power that can break through the cynicism and deception that grip our nation.
Consider what happened during the Jesus Movement of the 1970s. Young people, disillusioned by the political chaos and moral depravity of their time, found a radical alternative in Christ. They were not drawn in by empty rituals or theological debates but by the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit, manifesting in healings, prophetic words and supernatural encounters. That same hunger exists today among a new generation seeking authenticity. They are not interested in lukewarm religion but in a gospel that demonstrates the reality of God’s power.
Mainline denominations, many of which have drifted toward theological liberalism and cultural accommodation, can find their way back through the principles of the charismatic movement. The infusion of Spirit-led worship, bold faith and supernatural power could restore vitality to churches that have lost their evangelistic zeal. We have seen pockets of renewal in unexpected places—Anglican churches experiencing healing services, Catholic congregations embracing the gifts of the Spirit and Baptist leaders encouraging personal encounters with the Holy Spirit.
The charismatic movement also speaks directly to the moral crises America faces today. We live in an age where biblical truth is being aggressively challenged. The rise of secularism, the redefinition of marriage, attacks on religious liberty and confusion over gender identity all reveal a society unmoored. Political solutions alone will not work. A revival in Spirit-filled Christianity will. When the Spirit moves, hearts are changed, sin is abandoned and righteousness is restored. These are not just inspirational stories—they are proof that the Holy Spirit is active and working today, right now. Imagine if the American church embraced this power more fully, refusing to conform to the world’s standards but instead standing boldly in the supernatural reality of God’s kingdom.
One of the greatest needs in the church today is for believers to walk in spiritual authority. The early charismatics understood this. They knew that when they prayed, strongholds were broken. When they laid hands on the sick, healing manifested. When they preached, lives were changed. That same authority is available to us today. The church must stop operating as though it is powerless and begin walking in the full measure of the Spirit.
We cannot afford to be passive. This moment requires bold faith, unwavering commitment to the truth of God’s Word and a willingness to demonstrate His power. The charismatic movement is not a relic of the past—it is a blueprint for the future. If the American church wants to see true revival, if we want to see our nation return to righteousness, we must embrace the Spirit in all His fullness. It is time to pray with urgency. It is time to preach with power. It is time to move in the gifts of the Spirit, not as a fringe practice but as a central tenet of our faith. If we do, we will see the next great move of God. The Spirit of God is moving.
The question is, will we follow?
Stephen Strang has seen major changes in the church, the culture and technology since he founded Charisma magazine in 1975. In addition to being CEO of Charisma Media, he hosts a Strang Report podcast live on YouTube and Rumble at 4 p.m. EST every Tuesday and Thursday. His important recent book Spirit-Led Living in an Upside-World is available wherever fine Christian books are sold d including online at amazon.com.
