Statement from Dr. Peter Lillback on the Movie “A Great Awakening”

Dr. Peter A. Lillback, founding president of Providence Forum sent this statement to Jerry Newcombe, executive director of Providence Forum, at Jerry’s request. Dr. Lillback served as an historical advisor to the film, “A Great Awakening.” What did Dr. Lillback have to say about this movie?

“Although a great deal of time has passed since the remarkable encounter between Benjamin Franklin, inventor and patriot, and George Whitefield, theologian and evangelist, their engagement in life transcends the boundaries of time. They represent the perpetual struggle of the human heart to engage faith and to engage reason. The movie is beautifully developed both in theme and cinematography. It causes the viewer to engage fundamental questions–What is the ultimate source of meaning in life itself? Is the new birth necessary? Are invention, business or human reason sufficient or necessary for a meaningful life? The climax of Franklin’s expression of his profound faith in the midst of the conflict of the Constitutional Convention is not only riveting, it shows how faith is ever critical, even in the great things of life like government, not just in the personal matters of life. I encourage everyone to see this movie, believing that it will leave a permanent mark on hearts and inspire each to think deeply about Whitefield‘s message that we must be born again. It is my prayer that it will be used to awaken the sleeping church of Jesus Christ in this day.”