Thesis Statements on Revival

i)     A revival is a period of time when the people are awakened to the reality of an ever-present and ever-willing God. It is sparked by prophetic preaching of the Word and is led by example. God initiates spiritual relationships by inviting people unto Himself. Rarely does God force anything to happen apart from human cooperation. People respond to God’s initiative. This human response to God is always a mixture of the carnal and the divine. Therefore, all revivals are dirty: dirt and divinity blend at the point of revival. People respond to God by seeking Him, finding Him, and accepting Him. This response always involves the mind, the emotions and the will. Excessive carnal responses are characterized by certain negative traits. Exceptionally spiritual responses are characterized by certain positive traits. A Pentecostal revival emphasizes holiness, power, and service and it may take many forms. Revivals change people, churches and society.

ii)    A revival is the life of God, in and through the people of God, to reproduce the life of God in the world.

iii)   A revival establishes the kingdom of God in believers, and through them, in the world.

iv)   If this process is interrupted, the result is “spiritual abortion” – the life of God is derailed in achieving its purpose.

v)    If this process is uninterrupted, one can and should expect spiritual warfare of unparalleled proportion – Revelation 12:3-5

vi)   Revivals may be signified by many different manifestations and human responses, but the measure of true revivals influence the following:

(1)  Sound Doctrine

(2)  Evangelism and missions (A concern for the lost increases)

(3)  Discipleship process is clarified and implemented

(4)  Sanctification and holiness has a new prominence

(5)  The work of the Holy Spirit is alive and active in the congregation

(6)  Church life – people are excited about being in the house of the Lord

(7)  Stewardship increases – time, talent and money

(8)  Attitude of servanthood increases

(9)  Willingness to suffer

(10)               There is a definite social impact