The influence of the Enlightenment did not just affect secular culture—it deeply reshaped Christianity. Many churches in Europe and America embraced a rationalist approach to faith, minimizing the supernatural work of God.
Chuck Swindoll warns:
“Deism reduces God’s function in creation to that of first cause only. God wound up the clock of the world once and for all at the beginning, so that it now proceeds as world history without the need for His further involvement.”
Signs of Enlightenment Christianity
- A focus on human rationality — Faith becomes an intellectual pursuit rather than a relational experience.
- Overemphasis on order — Church services are carefully structured, leaving little room for the Holy Spirit’s leading.
- The lecture-style model — Preaching is emphasized, but supernatural encounters are downplayed.
- A diminished view of experience — The value of personal testimony and spiritual encounters is disregarded.
- A static view of Scripture — The Bible is treated as historical information rather than a living, active Word.
- Evangelism reduced to knowledge and technique — Sharing faith becomes about apologetics rather than demonstrating God’s power.
- Social programs without spiritual transformation — Charity is done without the relational dynamic of God’s presence.
Biblical Response: The Power of God’s Presence
Christianity was never meant to be merely an intellectual belief system—it is a dynamic, supernatural relationship with God.
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.” — 1 Corinthians 4:20
Jesus’ ministry was not just about teaching principles but demonstrating the reality of the Kingdom through miracles, healing, and deliverance.
Example: In Acts 3:1-10, Peter and John encounter a lame man at the temple gate. Instead of offering a theological argument, Peter declares:
“Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
Immediately, the man was healed—a demonstration of God’s presence and power.
Call to Action: We must return to a biblical Christianity that does not just discuss God but experiences Him in power.
Biblical Response: Returning to a Living Faith
The early church did not rely on persuasive words alone—they demonstrated the power of God (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). Jesus didn’t just teach—He healed, delivered, and transformed lives.
Key Points:
- Faith without power is incomplete—Jesus calls us to experience His presence, not just believe in Him.
- A rationalized faith limits God—The supernatural is meant to be part of Christian life.
- We must return to biblical Christianity—one that expects God to move today as He did in Scripture.
Engaging Question: Have you ever experienced God’s presence in a tangible way? How can we invite more of His power into our lives?
