The Legacy of George H. Warnock

When you trace the spiritual undercurrents of the twentieth century, you’ll find a few names that rarely make the headlines yet quietly shaped the lives of thousands. One such figure is George H. Warnock (1917–2012), a Canadian minister and writer whose life and ministry were deeply interwoven with what became known as the Latter Rain Movement. Though often considered outside the mainstream, George H. Warnock writings and teachings carried a consistent thread: God’s eternal purpose to form a people in His likeness.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

George H. Warnock was born in Manitoba, Canada, in 1917. Raised in a devout Christian home, he was exposed to faith early on, but it wasn’t until his young adult years that he fully surrendered his life to Christ. His spiritual hunger drew him beyond the ordinary rhythms of church life into deeper studies of Scripture and a quest for authentic Christian experience.

This pursuit led him into contact with the Pentecostal and revival movements sweeping across North America in the early-to-mid 20th century. What struck him most was not simply the emphasis on spiritual gifts but the possibility of the church moving beyond traditional denominationalism and into a fresh vision of Christ as the head of His body.

Involvement in the Latter Rain Movement

By the late 1940s, George H. Warnock had become connected with leaders of the Latter Rain revival, a movement that emphasized prophetic ministry, laying on of hands, and a vision of the corporate body of Christ coming into maturity. Though controversial in some circles, this movement profoundly impacted Warnock.

He became secretary to Ern Hawtin, one of the leading voices in the movement, and later worked closely with George R. Hawtin and other key figures. This was a formative period that shaped much of his theological outlook. While others focused heavily on outward manifestations of revival, Warnock developed a steady, Scripture-based approach that sought to root spiritual experience in God’s eternal plan.

The Feast of Tabernacles and Other Writings

George H. Warnock’s most influential contribution came in 1951 with his book, “The Feast of Tabernacles.” Written during his time at the Sharon Schools in North Battleford, Saskatchewan (a hub for the Latter Rain revival), the book presented a sweeping vision of the church’s destiny.

In it, George H. Warnock drew from Israel’s Old Testament feasts to illustrate stages of spiritual growth. Just as Passover and Pentecost found fulfillment in Christ and the church, so too, he argued, would the Feast of Tabernacles be fulfilled in a final, climactic move of God—bringing His people into fullness and maturity.

This idea became a hallmark of his teaching: that the church was not meant to stagnate but to advance toward Christlikeness, preparing for the ultimate unveiling of God’s glory through His people.

Over the years, George H. Warnock wrote prolifically, producing titles such as:

Each work circled back to the same central theme: God is shaping His people into a dwelling place for His presence.

Life of Simplicity and Quiet Faithfulness

Unlike many ministers of his generation, George Warnock never sought a platform, denomination, or organization bearing his name. He and his wife moved to Cranbrook, British Columbia, where they raised their family in relative obscurity. From their home, he wrote, corresponded, and welcomed believers who were hungry for deeper fellowship and understanding.

Friends and visitors often remarked on his humility. His ministry was marked less by the dramatic stage presence of a revivalist and more by the steady, pastoral tone of a man captivated by God’s eternal purpose. He lived simply, resisting the pull of popularity or fame, and instead devoted himself to prayer, study, and writing.

Legacy

George H. Warnock passed away in 2012 at the age of 95. Though he never led a large movement, his influence endures in those who continue to read his books and draw from his insights. For many, his writings represent a roadmap pointing toward maturity, unity, and intimacy with Christ.

In an age where quick fixes and shallow faith often dominate, George H. Warnock’s life reminds us of something different: that God’s work is long, deep, and transformative. His vision was never about building an empire but about preparing a people—a bride—for the Bridegroom.

Closing Thought:
George H. Warnock may not be a household name, but like a steady lighthouse, his writings continue to guide seekers toward the shore of God’s eternal purpose. His life whispers the same truth he spent decades proclaiming: that Christ in us is indeed the hope of glory.