Revival in the Church
Revival in the Church4
Preaching in the 19th Century
By Ian Murray75359:44PSA 119:105MAT 28:19ACT 6:4ROM 10:141CO 1:211TH 2:132TI 3:162TI 4:2HEB 4:12JAS 1:22Ian Murray reflects on the profound impact of 19th-century preaching, emphasizing the dedication and long pastorates of influential preachers like Spurgeon and Palmer. He highlights the remarkable conversions and community transformations that resulted from their sermons, contrasting the evangelistic fervor of the first half of the century with the more contemporary, less impactful preaching of the latter half. Murray notes that while the earlier preachers focused on the heart and conscience, later preachers became more concerned with social issues and intellectualism, leading to a decline in spiritual fervor. He calls for a return to the principles of the first half of the century, urging a reliance on the Holy Spirit and a commitment to the ministry of the Word and prayer. The sermon concludes with a hopeful reminder of God's promises and the need for revival in preaching.
Another Royal Procession
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 21:1C.H. Spurgeon reflects on the royal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, emphasizing the contrast between His humble life and the glory of His triumphant moments. He urges the church to recognize and honor Christ as King, lamenting the lack of zeal in worship compared to earthly rulers. Spurgeon highlights that true revivals begin within the church, marked by obedience, sacrifice, and public proclamation of Christ's kingship. He warns that not all who praise Him are genuine, as seen in the fickleness of the crowd, yet encourages believers to seek the glory of Christ in their lives and communities.
A New Type of Preacher
By A.W. Tozer0ISA 6:8JER 1:7ACT 20:24A.W. Tozer emphasizes the urgent need for a new type of preacher in Christianity, one who is not bound by the conventional roles of the past but is instead a prophet who has encountered God and is willing to stand against societal norms. He argues that the current models of leadership have failed to rejuvenate the Church, and what is needed is a leader who is rugged, blunt, and passionate about Christ and the salvation of souls. This new preacher will face opposition and hatred from many but will remain steadfast in their mission to testify to the gospel of grace. Tozer calls for a revival of such leaders who have truly seen visions of God and heard His voice.
Spiritual Gifts
By A.W. Tozer01CO 12:4A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing spiritual gifts within the church, arguing that the current neglect and misrepresentation of these gifts have led to a loss in the vitality of spiritual Christianity. He points out that the topic has been mismanaged by extremists, causing confusion and skepticism among believers. Tozer calls for a revival of true New Testament Christianity, which he believes must include a proper manifestation of spiritual gifts to be considered scriptural. He encourages the church to rethink its approach to spiritual gifts to avoid the pitfalls of fanaticism and to fully experience the work of the Holy Spirit.