THE EVERLASTING REVIVAL
The Everlasting Revival
As we prepare for our Gospel Meeting, I have noticed that some express reservations about calling it a “revival.” Quite some time ago, I recall one brother saying,” I don’t think we ought to be calling our gospel meetings revivals! Denominations have revivals, and we have Gospel meetings. We meet to hear the Gospel Preached, not to get the Spirit and feel good." Well, bless his heart. Let’s take a moment to consider this perspective.
The concept of "revival" is more than an emotional experience. It is a fundamental return to God, acknowledging His rightful place in our lives through obedience, praise, and adoration (Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Psalm 95:6). Revival, in its truest sense, is a spiritual rebirth—a renewal seen throughout Scripture. It is a call to break free from the bondage of sin and death (Romans 6:6); to embrace the abundant life God has offered through Jesus Christ (John 10:10). It is a call to live in the fullness of the Spirit, reflecting the image of Christ in all we do (Galatians 5:22-23).
The scriptures are filled with examples of God's people who experienced spiritual ruin because they turned away from God, yet He still calls them to repentance and restoration. The Old Testament prophets consistently called Israel back to faithfulness. Consider the words of Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…” This verse illustrates God's willingness to forgive and cleanse those who turn to Him. Even the New Testament echoes this call for revival. Jesus Himself began His ministry with the message, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 4:17). This call to repentance is an ongoing process of turning away from sin and toward God—a call to revive one’s spiritual life in Christ.
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, states, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16). Paul speaks of the Gospel’s power to revive or restore and is the means by which we are saved, by which we are spiritually revived.
A recurring theme is the Holy Spirit's role in this process. In Acts 2:38, Peter's response to those convicted on the day of Pentecost was, "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." The Holy Spirit empowers us to live a life pleasing to God, guiding and strengthening us in our walk of faith through the Word of God, which He has provided (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; Jude 3).
Friends, the call to revival is a call to repent of our sins, to embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, and to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit through His Gospel. It is a call to examine our lives, to identify areas where we have drifted from God's will, and to recommit ourselves to Him. The life that we live and the journey of our faith is, and should be, a continuous process of seeking God, glorifying Him, growing in His grace, and allowing Him to revive our hearts and minds (2 Peter 3:18). Let us not be afraid to call our meeting a Revival and may we always heed the call to this everlasting revival and live a life that reflects the image of Christ.
~Casey Clement
>PS. Don’t forget to make plans to attend and bring a friend October 5th - 8th!!!