What has Asbury taught us about revival? With Zach Meerkreebs & Mark Matlock

Summary

In this episode of the Urbana podcast, hosts Mark Matlock and Phoebe Jeske are joined by Zach Meerkreebs, known for his connection to the Asbury outpouring—a significant spiritual revival that began at Asbury University in February 2023. Zach provides insight into his unexpected role as the chapel speaker during the initial outpouring, describing how he simply delivered a message on authentic love and humility and then watched in awe as the chapel service continued non-stop for sixteen days. He emphasizes that the true power of revival doesn’t reside just in the extraordinary events themselves, but in the sustained impact on ordinary, everyday faith and campus life that follows.

Throughout the conversation, Zach highlights the importance of “radical humility” as a posture for experiencing and sustaining revival, both individually and collectively. He shares stories of how revival has spread to other college campuses and even across the globe, noting similar movements in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The discussion also touches on how humility is countercultural in an age preoccupied with self-promotion and platforms. Additionally, Zach reflects on his personal spiritual journey, including the influence of Urbana on his life and the role of humility in global missions. The episode concludes with a call for radical humility, openness to the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to be “emptied” so that God can work powerfully—moving from being filled to being poured out on mission, both at Urbana and in everyday life.

Show Notes

(00:00) Introduction

(03:18) Asbury Revival’s Nationwide Impact

(10:46) How Campus Revivals Sparked a Spiritual Movement

(14:37) Understanding God’s Current Work

(19:36) Establishing Consecrated Confidence Through Humility

(20:41) Finding Grace in Humility

(24:54) Urbana’s Impactful Legacy

(29:23) Pouring Salvation into Future Generations

(31:06) Adaptive Worship: Embracing the Holy Spirit

(37:08) Transitioning Mission Narratives

(44:32) Trusting God in Programming Urbana

Links

Mark Matlock

Urbana

Urbana YouTube

Zach Meerkreebs