Spellbound: The Story of Charisma in America (with Molly Worthen)
Spellbound: The Story of Charisma in America (with Molly Worthen)  
Podcast: The Remnant Radio's Podcast
Published On: Wed Dec 24 2025
Description: What happens when the power of the Holy Spirit collides with the chaos of American politics? Join Joshua Lewis as he sits down with historian Molly Worthen to explore her book Spellbound, which traces the fascinating and often controversial story of charisma—both spiritual and political—from Puritan prophets to modern-day leaders like Donald Trump.We explore the tension between institutional authority and personal revelation that has defined American Christianity and culture for centuries. Discover how figures like Anne Hutchinson challenged Puritan ministers by claiming direct assurance from the Holy Spirit, how George Whitefield revolutionized preaching with theatrical emotion, and how Joseph Smith blended enlightenment rationalism with spiritual experience to birth Mormonism.Professor Worthen, a historian at UNC Chapel Hill, reveals how charismatic leaders aren't always the charming orators we imagine—instead, they're polarizing storytellers who invite followers into transcendent narratives that give suffering and struggle cosmic significance. We explore the dangerous line between prophetic truth and spiritual manipulation, examining everyone from radical Quaker Benjamin Lay to Martin Luther King Jr., and asking the crucial question: how do we test the spirits in an age of radical individualism?Whether you're fascinated by church history, concerned about discernment in charismatic movements, or trying to understand the spiritual undercurrents shaping our political moment, this episode offers essential insights into how divine power—or the claim to it—has shaped the American experiment.0:00 – Introduction0:46 – Molly's background and ministry4:49 – Defining charisma20:11 – Anne Hutchinson & Puritan Massachusetts30:00 – Donna Beatrice & the Congo rebellion36:25 – George Fox & the Quaker movement44:01 – George Whitefield & emotional preaching50:28 – Charisma & American individualism54:05 – Joseph Smith & the Mormon church1:00:14 – Closing thoughts on charisma & discernmentABOUT THE GUEST:📖BOOK https://a.co/d/e9yLtGCSubscribe to The Remnant Radio newsletter and receive our FREE introduction to spiritual gifts eBook. Plus, get access to: discounts, news about upcoming shows, courses and conferences - and more. Subscribe now at TheRemnantRadio.com. Support the showABOUT THE REMNANT RADIO: The Remnant Radio exists to equip believers who are hungry for the radical middle of both Word and Spirit. Subscribe for twice-weekly content on theology, church history and the gifts of the Spirit.📧 SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER 📚 COURSES & CONFERENCES 🛒 SHOP MERCH 💝 SUPPORT OUR MINISTRY: • Leave a Tip• Become a Patron• Make a Tax-Deductible Donation  🌐📧 Check Out Our Church PagesJosh's ChurchMiller's ChurchRowntree's Church