Mere Fidelity

The Counterculture That Became The Culture

Jun 11, 2025
Dive into the vibrant world of the Jesus People movement from the 1970s, where hippie communes collided with worship in Calvary Chapel. Discover how this counterculture transformed American evangelicalism, blending radical acceptance with spiritual hunger. The conversation navigates the tensions between informal revival and church structure, revealing key lessons for modern faith practices. As the hosts unpack the movement's impact on today’s culture wars, they highlight the importance of compassion and unity in an increasingly divisive world.
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INSIGHT

Jesus People Movement Origins and Impact

  • The Jesus People movement began in the late 60s/early 70s targeting spiritually hungry hippies in California.
  • It influenced evangelicalism widely, including music, campus ministries, and new worship styles.
ANECDOTE

Calvary Chapel’s Compassionate Evangelism

  • Joseph Minich recalls Calvary Chapel's strength in evangelizing hurting people but notes many new converts drifted after a few years.
  • He shares personal memories of the church's compassionate attitude toward former homosexuals, emphasizing a welcoming but not sin-affirming approach.
INSIGHT

Spirit vs. Structure Tension

  • The Jesus Movement balanced spirit-led revival with needed church order but struggled with anti-institutional tendencies.
  • This tension often led to charismatic leaders becoming egocentric or cult-like without solid accountability.
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