I agree revivals have become mainly a thing of the past. It can partly be blamed on the incursion of the world into the church: too many secular activities claiming time that used to be reserved for church.
But I think it goes beyond that, to a slipping away of personal devotions among us as believers. How many set daily time for reading the Word, and prayer? It doesn't require a lot of time, just a commitment to actually DO it EVERY day.
Years ago, I had an opportunity to read some of the works of the 19th century evangelist Charles Finney. More than once, he noted that upon research, every one of his successful revivals was backed by (usually) one or two saints who had been praying for revival in their community, in some cases for years.
So yes, the young seminarians have moved the goals, and many denominations have tried to become "modern and acceptable." But when sincere people in the pews begin to call on God regularly and fervently, He moves. Let's work to see God move again in our generation.
Right on Brother! We have two revivals a year, prayer meeting and Sunday evening service. Our church is growing and reaching young families. God is good. Continue to spread the word.
I partner with Pulse Evangelism, led by Nick Hall, who was mentored by Billy Graham.
Every year, Pulse recruits 100 young evangelists to train them up, network them, encourage them, and equip them to evangelize well and last long. They’re in their 4th year!
If you could only be in the room with these young evangelists, hearing them worship, seeing the zeal and love for the Lord in their eyes — and then see them on the street, telling strangers about Jesus!
I agree revivals have become mainly a thing of the past. It can partly be blamed on the incursion of the world into the church: too many secular activities claiming time that used to be reserved for church.
But I think it goes beyond that, to a slipping away of personal devotions among us as believers. How many set daily time for reading the Word, and prayer? It doesn't require a lot of time, just a commitment to actually DO it EVERY day.
Years ago, I had an opportunity to read some of the works of the 19th century evangelist Charles Finney. More than once, he noted that upon research, every one of his successful revivals was backed by (usually) one or two saints who had been praying for revival in their community, in some cases for years.
So yes, the young seminarians have moved the goals, and many denominations have tried to become "modern and acceptable." But when sincere people in the pews begin to call on God regularly and fervently, He moves. Let's work to see God move again in our generation.
The words of the old hymn, “Lord send a revival…” ends with “and let it begin with me.”
Right on Brother! We have two revivals a year, prayer meeting and Sunday evening service. Our church is growing and reaching young families. God is good. Continue to spread the word.
The evangelists are still here!
I partner with Pulse Evangelism, led by Nick Hall, who was mentored by Billy Graham.
Every year, Pulse recruits 100 young evangelists to train them up, network them, encourage them, and equip them to evangelize well and last long. They’re in their 4th year!
If you could only be in the room with these young evangelists, hearing them worship, seeing the zeal and love for the Lord in their eyes — and then see them on the street, telling strangers about Jesus!
The future of the church is very, very bright!
Yes it is. And praise God for your work.
I think the decline has been in lockstep with a decline in the church's view of lostness. Good article!