Prayer Journal

Monday, December 4, 2000
339/27
Read the Bible through in OneYear

"The term 'revival' is not well understood. That word has been used to designate any kind of protracted meeting, so most people do not realize that the term really refers to the spiritual renewal of Christian people. Revival means God's people repenting of their sins and getting right with Him, as well as getting right with each other." Vance Havner (1)

What would you say is the most important function of a Christian? Many would respond by saying that evangelism, or proclaiming the gospel to the lost, is by far their most important duty. Using Matthew 28:19-20, their case is very strong. That same proof text, however, can be used by others to claim that "discipleship", or training the believer, is an equally important duty. "Go and make disciples" is listed in the same sentence with "baptizing them in the name of the Father".

Billy Graham has said that his crusades are not revivals, but rather a great movement of God among the lost. He sees his ministry as evangelism which has to do with sinners, whereas revival is work among the people of God. I agree.

When Jesus was asked to identify the most important duty of man, he responded; "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself'. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." (Mat 22:37-39)

If we then, were to graph what we've learned into a fast track diagram, "Loving God" should be alone at the top of our TODO list and "Loving others", second. Two duties, "Discipleship" and "Evangelism", should share third position. If anything, such an effort as this should lead us to conclude that whatever we do must be preceded by love for God and others that is visible and meaningful.

Is it possible that the Church is in need of revival because we have failed to obey God's Word? Could it be that we run around trying to evangelize and disciple without obeying what Jesus was our most important duty; loving God and loving each other? If so, perhaps we should apply the simplest of methods in our quest for revival; KEEP FIRST THINGS FIRST!

Sounds like an excellent subtitle for our 40Days of Prayer for Revival beginning in nine days.     Just Thinkin'.. WebServant

 

(1) Vance Havner, Journey from Jugtown, © 1977 by Douglas M. White. Published by Fleming H. Revell Company. (pp 114)
(2) Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society
(3) The images used herein were obtained from the Learning Company's ClickArt Christian Graphics Deluxe product, (c)1999 The Learning Company, Inc and its subsidiaries, 88 Roland Way, Novato, CA 94945 USA. All Rights Reserved.

Prayertower