To grasp the true nature and impact of revival, it is necessary to examine the moral and spiritual conditions which precede such a time of awakening. As if to show us that it is “not by might, nor by power, but my Spirit”, God often seems pleased to pour out revival blessing when the land is at its most parched and dry:-
…Repeatedly these seasons of refreshing from the presence of the Lord emerge in the providence of the Lord at a time of crisis.
Moving further into the subject of revival, it may be helpful to provide an overview of revivals as they have occurred in history, from Old Testament until modern times. Reference will therefore be made to some of the most notable awakenings, describing some of their leading features but deferring more detailed analysis until later chapters.
It is sometimes questioned whether the revivals of the Old Testament were the same in nature and kind as those which have occurred more recently. …
The view of revival which has been assumed in the first part was one which emphasises the Divine agency in revival. Revival, it has been assumed, is first and foremost the work of God. This does not mean that we are passive; that we have nothing to do except wait for God to act. No – all that Scripture commands that we ought to do – repent, pray, believe, hope, and work – we should do, with all our might. …
Many books have been written on the subject of revival. Most of these are historical and biographical studies. Few attempt to discuss the biblical and theological aspects. Some years ago, I attempted to distil from my reading and from my study of Scripture some account of the theology of revival. What follows is the first instalment.
1. Introduction
Among the many changes which we experience or observe, three different patterns may be discerned. There are, first, sporadic changes, during which events occur in an apparently random way. …
