New jesus movement

The New Jesus Movement, also known as the Jesus People Movement, was a Christian revival that emerged in the United States in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was characterized by a renewed interest in Jesus Christ and a desire to share the Gospel with young people, particularly those involved in the counterculture movement.

The movement was marked by a number of distinctive features, including:

  1. A focus on personal relationships with Jesus Christ: The New Jesus Movement emphasized the importance of having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, rather than just following a set of rules or traditions.
  2. A emphasis on evangelism: The movement was characterized by a strong desire to share the Gospel with others, particularly with young people who were involved in the counterculture movement.
  3. A rejection of traditional church structures: The New Jesus Movement rejected traditional church structures and instead emphasized a more informal, community-based approach to Christianity.
  4. A focus on social justice: The movement was also characterized by a strong emphasis on social justice, with many participants involved in efforts to address issues such as poverty, racism, and environmental degradation.
  5. A use of contemporary music and art: The New Jesus Movement made use of contemporary music and art to communicate the message of Christianity to young people.

Some of the key figures associated with the New Jesus Movement include:

  1. Lonnie Frisbee: A charismatic leader who was instrumental in launching the movement in Southern California.
  2. Chuck Smith: A pastor who founded the Calvary Chapel movement, which was closely associated with the New Jesus Movement.
  3. Bob Jones: A musician and evangelist who was involved in the movement and helped to popularize its music.
  4. David Wilkerson: A pastor and author who was involved in the movement and wrote extensively about its themes and values.

The New Jesus Movement had a significant impact on American Christianity, helping to revitalize interest in Christianity among young people and paving the way for later movements such as the Charismatic Movement and the Emergent Church.