OUR NEED FOR REVIVAL
Revival implies we have lost something we need to restore. People who were once hot in the Lord’s service are now only luke-warm; Some have fallen through the cracks and disappeared back into the world. What do we need to revive?
Revival of Faith in the Power of God
God is not only the power behind the universe, He is the power behind the church. The writer of Hebrews says that God is at work in us, helping us to be well pleasing in His sight.(13:21) Revival is not dependent on some gimmick, fad or new program, but on a return to faith in the power of God and the gospel message.
Revival of the Spirit of Complete Obedience
Acquiring a baptismal certificate does not guarantee a place in heaven. Modern churches stress membership not discipleship. They have watered down membership to the point anybody can claim it, but Jesus’ demands of discipleship remain unbent and unbendable. We must “say ‘No,’ to ungodliness and worldly passions and live self-controlled, upright and godly lives.” (Titus 2:12.)
Revival of Worship
We live in a therapeutic society that is caught up in self. Frequently worship services incorporate large doses of self satisfaction and entertainment. We have moved the focus from God to the audience. Jesus demanded worship in spirit and in truth. (John 8:24) Genuine, scriptural, revival is not changing the worship, but changing our hearts, our attitudes, while remaining faithful to truth!
—Randall Caselman