Revivalism

Lately I've been studying and reading several books on revivals since the Reformation. A few things stand out:
1) Revival comes from the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, it cannot be generated by man.
2) Often with revival comes division from those who follow a previous or different theological path.
3) After a period of time, the revival fervor fades and often theological accuracy fades with it.
4) Most important, we need to trust Providence in all periods of history even when we no longer see the great outpouring of the Holy Spirit. God is always working even in history's darkest moments.

I can't recommend Iain Murray's Revival and Revivalism enough. Ever wonder about the altar call? Where did that come from? The oddball understanding of grace and why man has such control over his spiritual life? How he can make a decision? As good as this book is its heartbreaking as well to read the shift that took place from 1800 to 1831 that brought about the change in American thinking on these issues. I highly recommend it as we shall all understand our theological past.

Iain Murray on Reformation and Revival

I’ve been listening to some sermons/lectures on Reformation & Revival by Iain Murray (I believe they were given at a Pastor’s conference some time ago.) Outstanding stuff ! Murray offers his assessment of the three views on revival. The first is that there is no Revival to be had. We have all that we are to receive from the Lord now, it anticipates nothing more than what have at the current time. This view limits the working of the Holy Spirit and is quite discouraging. The second is that Revival only comes through obedience, it is conditional. Thus, it is logical to conclude that we are disobedient and therefore in a state of judgment. This also is dispiriting in that within the boundaries of this view we would never be obedient enough to ever see and experience revival. Lastly, the balanced view, is that God is still working in and through His people all the time ("I am with you always") but there are times when when He is pleased to shed a greater outpouring of His Spirit. Murray explicates this view thoughtfully both from Scripture and history. Well worth the time to give it a listen. Additionally, he offers an exemplary explanation of the working of the Holy Spirit in revival, i.e., the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Give it a listen from Sermonaudio.com.