The Greg Laurie Show

Before America had a revolution, it had a revival—and at the center of it was a “rock star” preacher named George Whitefield. On this episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Greg sits down with Joshua Enck and Jonathan Blair—creators and star of the new film “A Great Awakening”—to uncover the forgotten story of the First Great Awakening and its lasting impact on our nation. Joshua Enck (director, Sight & Sound) and Jonathan Blair (who portrays Whitefield) bring history to life, sharing how Whitefield’s radical preaching and partnership with Benjamin Franklin helped ignite a revival that transformed colonial America. Through powerful anecdotes, biblical insight, and a genuine passion for storytelling, the conversation explores not just Whitefield’s supernatural voice and courage, but also the authentic warmth and compassion that drove him to reach every corner of society. Listen for two unforgettable moments: Jonathan describes the challenge—and surrender—in embodying Whitefield’s larger-than-life spirit, revealing how “getting out of the way” allowed something greater to shine through 06:09. And don’t miss the compelling analysis of Whitefield’s relationship with Franklin—a unique friendship that shaped both men and the birth of America 22:50. This episode invites listeners into the heart of revival: how ordinary, flawed people can spark extraordinary change. If you’re hungry for authentic stories of hope, faith, and renewal, tune in as Greg and guests reflect on what America needs now—another spiritual awakening. Subscribe for more inspiring conversations that illuminate faith, history, and the power of storytelling! Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit:   https://harvest.org/. Find Pastor Greg on social media: https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/ https://x.com/greglaurie https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.   --------   CHAPTERS: CHAPTERS:00:00 Gen Z’s Search for Authentic Faith00:47 The Forgotten George: Spotlight on Whitfield02:12 Thirty Years That Sparked a Revolution03:27 Bringing Whitfield to Life On Screen05:00 God Uses Unlikely, Flawed People06:09 Whitfield’s Unstoppable Preaching Power07:19 Becoming an Evangelist: Preaching for a Decision10:27 Gospel Is Dunamis—The Power of Dynamite11:37 Whitfield’s Compassion for All People12:28 Franklin and Whitfield: Revolutionary Collaboration16:01 Self-Governance Born from Revival17:42 Franklin, the Reluctant Preacher’s Son22:08 Why This Film Matters for America Today23:12 Philly Rebuilt: Filming Market Street’s Awakening25:40 Hollywood’s Alternate Universe and Film’s Influence28:09 Every Christian Is a Candle—Personal Impact30:06 Truth, Conviction, and Flawed Heroes32:24 God Uses Crooked Sticks: Flaws in Scripture36:13 America’s Revival Roots & Need for Awakening37:20 Living Through Revival: The Jesus Movement38:32 Can This Film Ignite Another Awakening?39:29 Films That Changed Our Lives44:05 The Power of Storytelling in Gospel Film46:01 A Call to Unashamed, Bold Christian Art47:52 God Ideas, Not Good Ideas48:27 Closing Blessing: Fame of Revival Spreads the Flame Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it mean to leave an eternal legacy? In this unforgettable episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Pastor Greg Laurie sits down with Pastor Chuck Smith—the visionary founder of Calvary Chapel and often called “the father of the Jesus Movement”—for a profound, personal conversation recorded live at Harvest Orange County in 2012. Together, Greg and Chuck delve into Chuck’s journey from boyhood in Ventura, California, to his pivotal decision to pursue ministry over medicine, trusting God for an impact that would last beyond this life. Chuck shares candid stories about his family, his marriage to Kay (his partner of 63 years!), and the unimaginable pain of losing loved ones—all woven together by faith, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to God’s Word. You’ll discover surprising insights, such as the astonishing miracle that changed Chuck’s family forever, the real story behind Calvary Chapel’s explosive growth and birth of contemporary Christian music, and how Chuck remained calm in the face of death, cancer, and seemingly impossible storms. Pastor Greg and Chuck also revisit the origins of the Jesus Movement, the importance of supporting each other through suffering, and what truly sustains a lifelong marriage and ministry. This episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and hope for anyone facing challenges, questioning their purpose, or simply longing for inspiration. If you’ve ever wondered how ordinary faith becomes extraordinary legacy, you’ll find answers here. Don’t miss Chuck’s heartfelt prayer and his favorite hymn, “The Love of God,” as the perfect close to a conversation about running life’s race and finishing well. Subscribe for more conversations like this—full of faith, real stories, and practical encouragement for your own journey. Don’t miss this powerful episode. Subscribe for more conversations that challenge, encourage, and point you toward lasting hope. Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit:   https://harvest.org/. Find Pastor Greg on social media: https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/ https://x.com/greglaurie https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.   -------- CHAPTERS:00:00 Kay Smith’s Burden for Hippie Youth02:08 Everything in Life Is Preparation04:46 Sister’s Healing and Mother’s Vow08:12 Chuck’s Personal Encounter with God at Age 1410:19 "One Life, Soon Past—Only What’s Done for Christ Will Last"13:55 Meeting Kay: A Misplaced Car and Love at First Sight16:13 Secret to a Long Marriage: Christ at the Center18:25 The Infamous Boulder Incident21:00 Losing Father and Brother: Processing Tragedy and Faith24:26 Never Trade What You Know for What You Don’t Know26:41 Calvary Chapel: From Small Church to Jesus Movement33:33 Lonnie Frisbee’s Impact & Hippie Revival Explosion41:37 Calvary Chapel Expands: Birth of Contemporary Worship42:13 Cancer Diagnosis: Chuck’s Peace and Perspective on Death45:03 Best Decision: Marrying Kay46:28 Most Embarrassing Moment: “Blessed Out of My Gourd” in New Guinea47:08 First Sermon and Last Sermon Themes49:47 Three Reasons for Preaching Christ’s Return52:02 Heroes: Billy Graham and the Power of Sacrifice53:52 How Chuck Wants to Be Remembered54:39 Chuck Sings “The Love of God”57:40 Final Wisdom: Holding to an Unchanging Christ in Uncertain Times58:39 Chuck’s Prayer for Listeners and the Future Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today’s episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Pastor Greg Laurie sits down with Shannon Bream—Fox News Sunday host, chief legal correspondent, and author of Nothing Is Impossible with God—for an inspiring conversation about faith, resilience, and finding purpose amid impossible odds. “You are the worst person I’ve ever seen on TV.” What happens when your greatest setbacks propel you toward your biggest breakthroughs?  Shannon Bream opens up about her journey from lawyer to national journalist, sharing powerful stories about battling chronic pain, enduring professional rejection, and navigating life-changing diagnoses—with honesty, humility, and hope. She reflects on moments when faith was all she could cling to, from her husband Sheldon’s surprise brain tumor diagnosis at 24 to her own years of debilitating, undiagnosed eye pain. Through each storm, Shannon reveals how prayer, scripture, and the support of the Christian community guided her toward healing and purpose. Together, Greg and Shannon discuss some of the most significant Supreme Court decisions from her career, the unexpected challenges of interviewing world leaders, and the lessons learned from biblical figures like Gideon, Joseph, and Jonah. Shannon’s deep knowledge of scripture shines as she unpacks what it means to be an overcomer, sharing encouragement for anyone facing adversity: God never allows pain without purpose. Tune in for relatable stories of doubt, perseverance, and laughter—plus a few surprises, like Shannon’s favorite cookie obsession and lessons learned from offbeat humor and self-deprecation. Whether you’re struggling with your own setbacks, aspiring to make an impact, or simply seeking hope in a divided world, this episode offers practical wisdom and spiritual insight for every listener. Subscribe for more conversations like this—and be inspired to discover that, with God, nothing is impossible. Don’t miss this powerful episode. Subscribe for more conversations that challenge, encourage, and point you toward lasting hope. Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit:   https://harvest.org/. Find Pastor Greg on social media: https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/ https://x.com/greglaurie https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.   -------- CHAPTERS:00:00 Shannon Bream’s Stunning Critique from TV Boss01:33 Overcoming Chronic Pain: Faith and Despair03:19 Prayer for Healing and Finding a Lifesaving Doctor05:41 Storms of Life: Biblical Lessons from Trials06:25 Facing Fiancé’s Brain Tumor Diagnosis08:06 Quitting Law for Journalism: Bold Career Leap09:29 Fired and Told “Worst on TV”—Turning Point11:03 Surprises and Challenges Interviewing World Leaders13:29 Humbled in Oval Office: Childhood to White House16:02 Supreme Court Historic Decisions: Same-Sex Marriage & Obamacare17:00 Supreme Court Leak: Dobbs Decision and Public Threats18:04 Overcomers in the Bible: Gideon and Joseph19:10 Jonah’s Story: Rebelling Against God’s Call22:01 Mike Johnson & Marco Rubio: Faith in Public Life24:06 Favorite Food: Chocolate Chip Cookies with Walnuts25:22 Shannon’s Offbeat Sense of Humor and Movies27:47 Advice to Younger Self: “Don’t Be in Such a Hurry”29:05 Personal Faith Journey: Accepting Christ as a Teen30:19 Why Faith Matters: Unconditional Love and Security  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is World War III closer than we think? In this episode of The Greg Laurie Podcast, Pastor Greg dives headfirst into the prophetic significance of today’s global events, focusing on the escalating conflict in the Middle East and its surprising alignment with ancient biblical predictions. Join Pastor Greg Laurie as he unpacks why Jerusalem, not Washington or Moscow, sits at the center of humanity’s ultimate showdown—a truth foretold thousands of years ago. Drawing from Scripture, current headlines, and heartfelt conversations, Greg offers clarity and hope amid rising anxiety and uncertainty. In a special highlight, he’s joined by Marco Rubio, the U.S. Senator and former Secretary of State, who shares insight into confronting fear, the role of faith in turbulent times, and why Christians should face the future with profound confidence: “We know how the story ends.” Key moments you won’t want to miss include: Pastor Greg Laurie's powerful perspective on “doom-scrolling” culture and the biblical command to “look up” in hope rather than despair Marco Rubio's honest discussion of global threats, personal faith, and why prophetic teachings comfort rather than frighten A clear yet riveting explanation of the rapture, its place in end times prophecy, and the unique destiny of Israel according to both Scripture and history Whether you’re unsettled by global headlines, curious about Revelation, or simply longing for hope in chaotic times, this conversation offers answers and encouragement for your faith journey. To request your free New Believer’s Bible visit: harvest.org/bible Don’t miss this powerful episode. Subscribe for more conversations that challenge, encourage, and point you toward lasting hope. Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit:   https://harvest.org/. Find Pastor Greg on social media: https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/ https://x.com/greglaurie https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.   -------- CHAPTERS:00:00 Intro01:25 Jesus’ Advice: Look Up, Not Down03:16 Signs of End Times: Abomination of Desolation Explained05:30 Marco Rubio: Christians Should Not Fear the Future08:21 Romans 8:28 – All Things Work Together for Good10:27 Joseph’s Story: “You Meant it for Evil, God Meant it for Good”12:28 Iran’s Hostility Toward Israel and Jerusalem13:23 Zechariah’s Prophecy: Jerusalem as a Heavy Stone14:47 Holocaust Roots: Ancient and Modern Threats16:55 Esther’s Courage: “For Such a Time as This”18:36 Replacement Theology Controversy20:13 Modern Israel Reborn Against All Odds22:15 Israel Apartheid Debate Debunked23:06 The Rapture: What Is It Really?24:44 Christians as Restrainers of Evil25:31 God’s Judgment: Noah, Lot, and the Tribulation26:10 Does the Bible Actually Mention the Rapture?27:28 Jesus’ Promise: “I Will Come Again and Receive You”28:23 Comfort in Prophecy: Grieving With Hope31:02 Date-Setting Dangers: “No One Knows the Day or Hour”33:02 Rapture’s Suddenness: “Twinkling of an Eye”34:06 What Happens When Christians Die?36:04 Rapture vs. Second Coming: Key Differences37:13 John MacArthur Explains End Times Order39:01 How to Be Ready for Christ’s Return41:35 Prayer for Salvation and Invitation to Receive a Bible Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it take to get heaven’s attention? In this inspiring episode of The Greg Laurie Podcast, Pastor Greg Laurie shares a never-before-heard story about acclaimed actor Kelsey Grammer, best known for his iconic role as Frasier, and reveals the profound power of faith that moves not just mountains—but God Himself. Journey with Pastor Greg Laurie as he recounts his personal friendship with Kelsey Grammer on the set of Jesus Revolution, revealing how a simple prayer for meaning led Kelsey Grammer to a role that transformed his spiritual journey. You'll hear a touching first-hand account of Kelsey Grammer’s spiritual awakening at a Harvest Crusade, exploring what it meant for him to step onto a field—questioning God in the midst of past tragedy—and receive an unmistakable answer. This episode dives deep into the biblical story of the Roman centurion whose faith astounded Jesus, examining why it was an outsider—a “full-blown pagan”—who demonstrated a trust in Christ that even lifelong believers often miss. Pastor Greg Laurie unpacks the different kinds of faith, from belief that sits on a shelf, to living, risk-taking faith that acts—and receives miracles. Two unforgettable insights await you: An honest, moving testimony from Kelsey Grammer about wrestling with grief and finding hope on the field of Angel Stadium The surprising truth that sometimes, outsiders see spiritual reality more clearly than insiders—and why religious familiarity can be the greatest barrier to amazement Whether you’re new to faith, wrestling with doubt, or seeking your own moment of breakthrough, this episode is an invitation to examine what real, “amazing faith” looks like—and how you can experience a relationship with God that is both authentic and life-changing. Don’t miss this powerful episode. Subscribe for more conversations that challenge, encourage, and point you toward lasting hope. Want more from Greg Laurie? Visit:   https://harvest.org/. Find Pastor Greg on social media: https://www.instagram.com/greglaurie/ https://x.com/greglaurie https://www.facebook.com/harvest.greglaurie   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. -------- CHAPTERS:00:00 How Kelsey Grammer Landed Jesus Revolution02:43 Kelsey Grammer's Emotional Harvest Crusade Story04:50 Feeling Ghosted by God: Prayer and Doubt07:26 The Centurion: Faith That Amazed Jesus09:32 Old Friend Calls Out Greg's Pranks13:53 When Nonbelievers Show More Faith Than Believers16:59 Jesus Amazed by Nazareth’s Unbelief18:44 Everyday Faith Versus Faith in God21:52 Faith That Demands Action, Not Display25:12 The Widow of Nain’s Miracle26:32 Losing a Loved One and Hope of Reunion32:40 The Promise of the Rapture Explained34:08 The Gospel Invitation and Next Steps Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.