Jonathan Edwards in his 1741 publication ‘The Distinguishing Marks of a work of the Spirit of God’ based on 1 John 4, lays out the marks of a true revival:

  1. Jesus is exalted in the revival (1 John 4:2-3 c.f. 1 Cor 12:3)

  2. The Holy Spirit acts against the influence of Satan’s kingdom by preaching sin and repentance (1 John 4:4-5).
    a) Sensitive to the dreadful nature of sin
    b) Sensitivity to God’s holy wrath and judgment for sin
    c) Personal awareness of one’s own miserable condition
    d) People become aware of God’s pity and help in Christ

  3. The Bible is exalted and held in high regard (1 John 4:6)

  4. Sound doctrine is taught and promoted. The Spirit of understanding and truth opposes spirits of falsehood (1 John 4:6 c.f. Jn 8:44, Acts 26:14)

  5. Love to God and man is promoted (1 John 4:6-21). Love that the Spirit promotes is no ordinary love- it is divine love focused and patterned on Christ and His love (1 Cor 13). The best way to differentiate true love from counterfeit self-love is humility, which is the surest evidence.