Revival: Superficial or Supernatural

REVIVAL: SUPERFICIAL OR SUPERNATURAL

“For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” - Isaiah 57:15

Social media has been all abuzz lately about the event taking place at Asbury University in Wilmore, Ky. Many are calling it the Asbury revival. Yet it has caused many to ask the question, is it real? Is this event a supernatural work of God or a superficial work of emotionalism?

I have watched video clips of the service there. I've listened to comments of those who've attended. I've read the opinions of others. There are many who claim it is real move of God. There are critics who find fault with certain aspects of the event. It prompts us to ask the question, what constitutes a genuine revival? What really happens when God visits His people in a special way?

I am not attempting to judge Asbury or the other colleges and churches that claim to be experiencing revival. Instead, I think these events need to be viewed through the lens of Scripture.

When you read the Bible, you will find that there were special times that God radically changed individuals, churches and even nations. The Bible records great spiritual awakenings and revivals, such as the revival in Josiah's day, the repentance of Nineveh, the changed lives in Ephesus (Acts 19) and, most of all, the Day of Pentecost. When I read about revival in the Bible and church history, I find that there are three vital things that occurs during genuine revival.

1.  HUNGER

First of all, in a genuine revival, there is a hunger for God and His Word. I fear that many outsiders have made the long trip to Asbury so they can enjoy the experience. However, it is one thing to have a hunger for an event, it is another thing to have a hunger for God. Having a hunger for a spiritual experience is not synonymous with having a hunger for God Himself. When people hear of a huge fire in town, they all flock to the scene to witness the event. I suspect that many people do that with revival. However, genuine revival comes when there is a hunger for nothing else but God Himself. This hunger leads believers to get on their knees, seek God in prayer and persevere until they enjoy the sweetness of divine fellowship.

2.  HUMILITY

Secondly, in a genuine revival, humility is apparent. Genuine repentance and restitution occurs. Confession takes place. This form of humility is rare. That is why revival is rare. Most American Christians are too proud to apologize to others, repent of sin and make restitution. Yet the Bible says, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” There is special grace reserved for the humble. Furthermore, Jesus said, “Whosoever exalts himself shall be abased, but whosoever humbleth himself shall be exalted.” Most Christians want to be exalted, but few are willing to humble themselves first. During revival, God brings conviction through the power of the Gospel. During a genuine revival, the Word of God is preached and the Word brings fresh awareness of sin. The proclamation of the Bible leads individuals to humility and repentance. In genuine revival, people get right with God and each other.

3.  HOLINESS

Finally, recipients of revival seek personal holiness. In other words, lasting change occurs when revival comes. There is more to revival than excitement and extended periods of singing. Revival leads people to personal change. If change lasts for just a week or two, you may question the validity of the revival. When people are radically changed, there is lasting fruit. Such fruit indicates a divine work. Repentance leads to a fresh emphasis on personal holiness.

The word, “revival,” literally means, “to live again.” Revival is primarily about God breathing new life into the souls of believers and churches. When believers hunger after God, humbly repent of sin and seek radical change of their own lives, they are candidates for revival.

Revival is a work of God that changes lives, beginning with believers. Although genuine revival can be exciting, it is more than excitement. It is a personal encounter with God.

Perhaps the real issue before us is not the integrity of the Asbury revival. The real issue is our own hearts. Is revival going on in our lives right now? If not, are we content for our lives to remain this way? Leonard Ravenhill once famously said, “The only reason we don’t have revival is because we are willing to live without it!”

You don't need to go to Asbury to experience revival. You need to have a hunger for God, a repentant heart and a desire to live a holy life. Why drive hundreds of miles to witness an event when you can have an encounter with God right there where you're at?

Leave behind the superficial life and enjoy a revived life today!