Peter did the same in his epistle to scattered and discouraged Christians living throughout the Roman Empire. It is a movement that calls believers to return to their faith, to a deeper and more intimate relationship with God, and to a greater understanding of His purposes and plans. It distances us from Him, but confession draws us near. After preaching, teaching and praying for revival for more than seventy years, he passed away on November 27, 1994. I believe this prophecy will also be fulfilled at his second coming by another Elijah figure (cf. (Galatians 5:16, 25). Many churches are worldly, formal and lacking in spiritual power and vitality. For I know my transgression, and my sin is always before me. It is through the Spirit that God enables and empowers us to live the Christian life. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse.Malachi 4:5-6. Sing and make music inyour heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. How do we receive His grace? I once had a pastor who often said, One soul on fire for the Lord can do innumerably more than a million souls who have simply been enlightened by the Spirit. Another person said, Get on fire for the Lord and people will come and watch you burn. Every revival needs souls like this, souls who get on fire and inspire us all. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. Examine your life for symptoms of self-dependence or self-centered living. The Holy Spirit is the ultimate agent of revival, empowering believers to live a life that is pleasing to God. Certainly, he would have used his power to get a better job, a better ministry., I can imagine Nehemiah asking for volunteers for different locations. To learn more, please visit our affiliate information page here. Pray in your groups, claiming the fruit you seek (such as, love for specific relationships, joy for specific trials, etc.) This commitment, like any commitment, initiates an ongoing process. It is often when we relinquish these areas, like adrain coming unclogged, that we experience a special empowerment, or increased influence of the Lord. This set the tone for reviving the hearts of the people. But what does it mean that God is gracious? Nehemiah 3:5 says this: The next section was repaired by the men of Tekoa, but their nobles would not put their shoulders to the work under their supervisors.. He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988. I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. Revival starts at home. As you become aware of more areas where your attitudes or responses have fallen short (Romans 3:23) and been displeasing to God, breathe spiritually: Exhale by confessing your sins, thanking God for his forgiveness. Let us bring glory to God and honor to others. The Bible prophesies a great revival for the times just ahead. Grieve, mourn, and weep. If youve ever been to a college party or bar, youll get this concept rather easily. As a nation of priests, they were to bring the Gentile world to Yahweh. They laid its beams and put its doors and bolts and bars in place. Knowing how easily spiritual fervor can fade with time, pray the second half of that verse as well: Grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.. John 3:5. Simply coming to God as we are, admitting what He already knows to be true, and receiving in return grace upon grace. How can we apply this? Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary. Throughout the day, week, and year there are times when we make choices to sin. He knows that when Solomon fell away from God, it led the people away from God as well. Verse Concepts. Ezra and Nehemiah: An Introduction and Commentary (Vol. While God used various agents to bring about revival, the ultimate agent of revival is the Holy Spirit. This is true for us as well. 1. I had a close friend who would Skype with her mom weekly for Bible study. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.Matthew 6:3-4. He also practices secrecy in his service, as he is not seeking honor from man but from God. Having believed, you were marked in himwith a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are Gods possession (Ephesians 1:13-14). It gives the devil a foothold, a base to attack us and Gods church from all different angles. The little horn Da 8:9-12 This probably represents Antiochus Epiphanes. Let us pray for revival in our own lives and in the world around us, and let us trust in Gods faithfulness to bring it to pass. Psalm 85:6 Verse Concepts Will You not Yourself revive us again, That Your people may rejoice in You? It is great to have a pat on the back, but Jesus says a servant should not expect one. The Dung Gate was the place where the excrements were taken to be discarded. In fact, when we consider Billy Graham crusades or revivals, where thousands of people got saved, unity was always one of the characteristics that marked those revivals. They came from diverse professions: the goldsmiths and the perfumers in verse 8. Do you glow at work while you serve the Lord? This teaches a great deal about serving the Lord and being part of revival. Bringing hope and resources to military families worldwide. In His parable of the mustard seed, Jesus demonstrated that the most powerful revivals begin not in a sanctuary or tented pavilion but in a quietly bowed heart that yields completely to God within. It is like Christmas. And Jesus took upon himself every . Maybe this renewal starts with forgiving a mom, a dad, or a sibling. It is only natural for ones heart to burn for their brother, their sister, their mom and their dad. You didnt need a revival. Listen to what Paul says: Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. But I suspect that almost all of us would admit that we desire more in our relationship with God. Father we know we have sinned and fallen short of your glory, Lord please show us mercy in Jesus name. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. Historically, it has at times done all of these. The Need for Revival All living systems, left on their own tend toward entropy. But this was a gloriously bright period as well when Gods kingdom rapidly expanded and lives were changed for all eternity. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. We cannot experience intimacy with God and enjoy all he has for us if we fail to depend on His Spirit. Listen to what Paul said: From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work (Ephesians 4:16). The next section was repaired by the men of TekoaNext to them, the men of Tekoa repaired another section, from the great projecting tower to the wall of Ophel. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. It is no wonder that the church multiplied at such a fast rate. Oh God send down revival. After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort? Matthew 11:12 says this: From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it.. 24:12 NKJV). We must be willing to hear the voice of the Lord and respond to His call to repentance and renewal. We need this type of personal revival. Even the spiritual leaders served including the high priest and his fellow priests (v. 1), the Levites (v. 17), and many district leaders (verse 9, 12, etc.). He challenged the false prophets of Baal and called the people to repentance (1 Kings 18:17-39). We see in this text that people from various backgrounds came together to serve. 2. The kings were the leaders of Gods people, and their actions had a significant impact on the spiritual condition of the nation. There is an opportunity to confess barriers to the Spirits control. Revive Our HeartsChurchLeaders.comLove Worth FindingThe Gospel Coalition. Application Question: In what ways have you been inspired by people who were on fire for God? He is the governor, the mastermind around the rebuilding. In fact, I love the analogy of the ligament that Paul uses. These verses teach us about the importance of having a burning passion for, Revival Scriptures Revival is a powerful concept in the Christian faith, referring to a time when believers experience a renewed sense of faith and dedication, What started as a standard chapel service at Asbury University has turned into a massive gathering. It says that Baruch zealously repaired another section. The word zealously means to burn or glow.3. We must be bold and courageous, willing to stand up for what is right and to proclaim the truth of the gospel. 3 Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The antichrist 1Jn 4:1-4; 2Jn 7. Participating in these activities daily constitutes walking in step with the Spirit, or walking in the Spirit. Certainly, one of the ways we put our family first is by constantly praying for them. What other things do we notice in the building of the wall? Apart from Him, we and our best wrought plans are dead and lead to death. They are men whose affections are set on the things of heaven and not on the fleeting things of this world. California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. I have seen this at work in many churches. We want everyone to actively participate and experience all God has for you during this time of prayer. Striving to see Christ-followers on every team, in every sport and in every nation. The priest, typically, offered the sacrifices and taught the people, but, nevertheless, they were willing to get their hands dirty and set the example. Develop your leadership skills and learn how to launch a ministry wherever you are. In what ways have you seen Satan make churches or ministries ineffective through division? No doubt, when Nehemiah came to Israel, one of the primary jobs he focused on was motivating the leaders to get on fire and to lead the way. Nehemiah 3 When does revival happen? How do we rebuild the walls of our church to keep out the attacks of liberalism, false teaching, and apathy that are running rampant among the people of God? Firebrand ministers are men with strong addiction for truths, sound teachings or wholesome doctrines. Watch part 107 of the 365 Key Chapters of the Bible series, based on Ken's Handbook to Scripture. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches (Matthew 13:31-32, NLT). We've all heard this word. They also spoke of a new covenant that God would make with His people, a covenant that would be written on their hearts (Jeremiah 31:31-34). But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. A grace that inspires a personal revival that quickly becomes contagious and creates a movement of transformation and healing. Each of the people listed as serving were on the honor roll. They sought the will of God and obeyed His commands, even when it was difficult. We are filled with the Spirit by faith, enabling us to experience intimacy with God and enjoy all he has for us. Similarly, unity always precedes revival amongst the people of God. They were responsible for maintaining the worship of the Lord and leading the people in righteousness. He planted churches throughout the Roman Empire and wrote many letters that became part of the New Testament. Why is that? They get on fire for the youth. Optional: In your groups, pray for others you care for or minister to by name. Ephesus was the church that had the apostle Paul as pastor, then his disciple Timothy, and finally John the apostle, as seen in 1 John. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. Help military families thrive during summer challenges! Hosea 6:2 Peters preaching was marked by boldness, clarity, and conviction. People from other cities and colleges are now flocking, Introduction Revival is a term that has been used frequently in Christianity. This section works best with a mature group of believers familiar with these concepts. Some examples of prophets as agents of revival include: The prophets played a crucial role in preparing the people for the coming of the Messiah. Now, I have no doubt that the Jews who read this would be shocked. Equipping families with practical approaches to parenting and marriage. Learn about Cru's global leadership team. Some kings led the people toward revival, while others led them away from God. Thats such a frightening yet freeing request! In fact Malchijah, the leader of the district of Beth Haccerem, repaired the Refuse Gate in verse 14. Theyd seen miracles performed, religious leaders silenced by the right questions asked at the right moments, and crowds of people stirred to praise. Because ethnicity is part of the good of creation, we seek to honor and celebrate the ethnic identity of those with whom we serve as well as those we seek to reach. 1 Kidner, D. (1979). One of the things that must stand out as we study this text is the great number of different people God used in rebuilding the wall. But resist the devil and he will flee from you. As husbands, we must prioritize being the spiritual leader of our families, leading our wife and children in seeking God daily, and serving in a Bible preaching church. Tools. See, a servant serves, many times behind the scenes, but often never gets the glory for his service. Next to him Meshullam son of Berekiah, the son of Meshezabel, made repairs, and next to him Zadok son of Baana also made repairs. O Lord, revive Your work in the midst of the years, In the midst of the years make it known; In wrath remember mercy. The saving of the hearers only happens when ones life and doctrine are both being protected from sin or blemish. True, theyd walked closely with Him during His time on earth. If we get an overpowering experienceScore! See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way of everlasting (Psalm 139:23-24). If time is short, skip to 1 Corinthian 2:12 below. Thousands of Bibles, books, and studies starting at 30% off -- Shop ChurchSource.com now! It was "in the days of Herod" that this word of hope came to Zecharias. If they feel scared or nervous, they light up. They dedicated it and set its doors in place, building as far as the Tower of the Hundred, which they dedicated, and as far as the Tower of Hananel. Jesus said when the church is unified, we will see many souls come to Christ; the world will know that Jesus came from God. Are The 7 Deadly Sins Really That Fatal? In fact, it only opens the door for Satan to bring destruction. Divorce is all but the norm. Revival happens when there is unity. Their preaching and teaching always cut their hearers to the hearts, like Peters first sermon on the Day of Pentecost, bringing conviction of sins and leading men to repentance and faith in Christ, Like Ezekiel, firebrand believers are Gods mouthpiece to bring life and strength to dry bones or souls in the valley of sin, THE PROCESS OF RENEWING YOUR MIND (Part 1). Christmas morning! Their preaching and teaching always cut their hearers to the hearts, like Peters first sermon on the Day of Pentecost, bringing conviction of sins and leading men to repentance and faith in Christ (Acts 2:37). If we are going to preach on the importance of Scripture, let us be zealous in study. We must be willing to hear the voice of the Lord and respond to His call to repentance and renewal. In the coming of the Holy Spirit, it was suspected that the Spirit-filled believers had too much wine (Acts 2:13), because of the similarity of influence. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. Just as Jesus had predicted in Matthew 13. However, when there is revival it similarly starts with the leadership. Some examples of the Holy Spirit as the agent of revival include: The Holy Spirit is the ultimate agent of revival, and without His power and presence, revival cannot take place. It also foretells a time called the Great Tribulation. Pray that you would fully experience the Spirits strengthening with power in your inner being, so that Christ would be living his life in and through you. We seek God in prayer to do such mighty works, especially for those who most desperately need it, such as nominal Christians and unbelievers. All rights reserved. They played a vital role in bringing about revival by calling the people to repentance and turning back to God. This is where revival had to start; it had to start in the city where they were before it went to the world. We can be sure that because of this reality, Satan works over time to bring division. He ea More, Bible Teacher's Guide: Nehemiah--Becoming A Godly Leader. Let the fact that typically only a few get on fire and inspire others not relinquish our responsibility to get on fire for God. God always gives grace as we do our part. Rev 11:6). What was it like; how can you get it back and keep that fire burning? Each played a critical role in bringing about revival in the hearts of believers and in the nation of Israel. These agents were bold, courageous, and faithful, even in the face of opposition and persecution. (1 Corinthians 2:9-3:4). Listen to what Christ said in John 17:20-23: My prayer is not for them alone. Are there unbelievers near you? Copyright 2023, Bible Study Tools. If we are going to preach on zeal, let us burn with the fire of God. I have no doubt that many churches have encountered the curse that Jesus promised the church of Ephesus in Revelation 2:5. 1 Timothy 3:1 "It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do." 2 Timothy 2:2 "The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." We can follow the example David, ancient Israels second king, set in Psalm 51. Choosing throughout the day to turn to the Lord for wisdom, patience, empowerment, companionship, security, confidence, and every other need is called humble reliance. Jennifer Slattery is a writer and speaker whos addressed womens groups, church groups,Biblestudies, and writers across the nation. Prayer: My Dear Heavenly Father, set my soul ablaze today for You and make me an agent of revival and reformation in my generation, in Jesus name. It is also no wonder why evangelism has slowed to a crawl in most churches and denominations. Men of Character: Nehemiah (Kindle Locations 1038-1039). They are mentioned again in verses 22 and 28: The repairs next to him were made by the priests from the surrounding region Above the Horse Gate, the priests made repairs, each in front of his own house. They were leading by example. But then legalism, distraction, or plain busyness seeps in, and the monotony of religion overshadows our first love. 1. Divide into groups of three or four. In what ways is God calling you to serve? The fruit of the Spirit is one description of what we experience through the Spirit. Is this not true of families today? It will take men whose souls are on fire for God to storm the strongholds and prisons of the devil and release all his lawful captives and bring them to Gods kingdom. It records periods of revival followed by sin and its devastation that ultimately led to another revival, as explained in this video from The Bible Project. Application Question: What can we do to help bring unity, and therefore, the blessing of God upon the church? The degree to which we participate is the degree to which the Spirit has influence upon us. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Optional: Five times in the Farewell Discourse Jesus spoke of the gift of the Spirit. God is calling each one of us to be filled with zeal; he is calling each one of us to glow. When each person doesnt do his part, the church essentially handicaps itself and ceases to grow. He serves because it is his duty to serve the master. We can learn principles about this from Israels response to Nehemiahs leadership in Nehemiah 3. The apostles were the early leaders of the church who were called to spread the gospel to all nations. But dont stop there. Psalm 32:1-2, also written by David, says, Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Peter gives three vices that are common to those in leadership. And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning. Flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. 2 Getz, Gene (1995-06-22). Instead, be filled with the Spirit. The Spirit is the source of the truly satisfying life, quenching our deepest thirsts and longings. For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace (Romans 8:2-6). 1 John 5:1. Knowing what the Bible says about revivals helps us determine whether one is genuine. It had a tremendous history, but sadly, it is no longer here today. Paul expanded on this principle in Philippians 2:13: Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, he said, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose..
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