Let there be Revival (III)

Let there be Revival (III)

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” Matthew 16:24-25 ESV

 Bible Reading: Exodus 33:12-17

Two days ago we started a series on revival. We reflected on what revival means and how we can align with God’s instruction to call and prepare for revival for our homes, cities, nations and the world at large in this end time. Revival means reconciling man back to God. It is first a concern for God: His glory, His honour and His name.

Today, let’s reflect deeper on concerns of revival. Revival is also a concern for the church of God. Jesus Christ’s command when He ascended to heaven was specifically given to believers: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.  (Matthew 28:19-20). This instruction is for the church. It is for those who have been redeemed, God’s children who have been delivered from the power of darkness, and have been translated into the kingdom of His Dear Son in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:13-14). The command is not for those who are yet to surrender their lives to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

Revival is a concern for the honour of the church of God. The church is the bride that Jesus Christ is coming to harvest. It is an assembly of the saints, those who have been redeemed and given the ministry of reconciliation. It seems there can be no hope for revival until we forget about ourselves and embrace the church of God as an entity. It seems we have to shun division and denominationalism that has taken hold of God’s people and concentrate on God. There is a need for spiritual sensitivity especially in this period of history when there is a concentrated attack on the church. Revival is a concern for the honour of the church of God. For instance, where does the church come into our prayers and intercession? How can we claim to love God when we do not love His church? Moses was concerned about the people of Israel. Revival will honour the church of God because everyone sees the testimony. Without revival, the church will be dormant. How can we desire revival when there is no love for the church of God and His people?

Self-Reflection: How often do you pray for the church of God and your local assembly?

Daily Confession: May our hearts be touched so that we can truly understand the position and the weight of the church in God’s agenda in Jesus name.

Hymn:  Come, Thou Almighty King,

              Help us Thy name to sing,

              Help us to praise:

              Father, all glorious

              O’er all victorious,

              Come and reign over us,

              Ancient of Days.