Revive Us Again
Brad Whitt teaches that true biblical revival is a sovereign, supernatural renewal of believers that begins with repentance and prayer, resulting in restored joy, holiness, and a powerful witness in a sin-soaked world.
This sermon focuses on the biblical doctrine of revival, addressing common misconceptions and cultural influences on the true meaning of revival. It emphasizes the need for personal repentance, prayer, and holiness as key components of revival, highlighting the scriptural picture of revival using Ezekiel 37 as an illustration. The purpose of revival is to bring joy in the Lord, restore God's glory, and lead to a renewed spiritual walk and impact on the community.
Sermon Outline
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I. Understanding Revival
- Definition and biblical meaning of revival as renewal and restoration
- Distinction between revival and evangelism
- Common misconceptions about revival
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II. The Need for Revival
- Current state of the church: cold, complacent, and carnal
- Sinful society and cultural decay prompting revival
- Loss of joy and power in the Christian life
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III. The Scriptural Picture of Revival
- Revival described as fire, wind, and refreshing rain
- Ezekiel 37’s valley of dry bones as the best illustration
- Psalm 85’s prayer for God to revive His people
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IV. The Process and Outcome of Revival
- Begins with repentance, prayer, and holiness
- God’s sovereign supernatural movement among believers
- Results in fresh Christian walk and drawing of the lost
Key Quotes
“Revival is when Jesus shows up.” — Brad Whitt
“Revival is the sovereign supernatural movement of God among His people that comes as a direct result of repentance and prayer and holiness.” — Brad Whitt
“It's on the darkest night that you need a flashlight.” — Brad Whitt
Application Points
- Commit to daily repentance and prayer to invite God's renewing work in your life.
- Recognize and reject complacency in your Christian walk by embracing holiness and active faith.
- Be a part of a praying community that seeks revival and witnesses to the lost around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biblical definition of revival?
Revival is a sovereign, supernatural renewal by God that restores and refreshes believers, leading to a renewed Christian walk and drawing others to Christ.
Is revival the same as evangelism?
No, revival is an experience within the church empowering believers, while evangelism is the church’s outreach to the lost.
Can a Christian lose their salvation during spiritual dryness?
No, salvation is eternal, but a Christian can lose the joy, power, and vitality of their salvation, which revival restores.
Why does the church need revival today?
Because many believers have grown cold, complacent, and carnal, and society is deeply sinful, prompting a need for God’s renewing power.
How does revival begin according to the sermon?
Revival begins with repentance, prayer, and holiness among a small group of believers, leading to a spreading movement of God’s presence.