Local Church Revival
In the New Testament it is clear that God designed the local church to be the primary means of bringing His blessing and salvation to the world.
Eph 3:10-11 ‘His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.’
This is why His ministry to perfect the church will always be a top priority Eph 5:25-27 ‘Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.’
The Church of Jesus Christ carries the power and authority to bring Gods will to the nations through her prayers and witness. Matthew 6:9-10, 28:18-20. The church of the living God, is ‘God’s household, ……. the pillar and foundation of the truth. 1 Tim 3:15. 1 Peter 2:9-10 ‘But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God…’
Any spiritual awakening is sent by God in response to the prayers and passion of the local church in order to bless and empower the local church.
Revivals are not merely visitations of God to nations or areas. Nor are they sent only to great evangelistic gatherings. They come through the local church and for the local church. New Testament revivals flow from and result in vibrant and healthy local churches.
The local church, therefore must become the focus of our attention. When pastors concentrate on the health, holiness and activities of their church, the way is prepared and God’s Kingdom can come.
In this section we plan to post materials to help local pastors prepare their congregations for a fresh visitation of God. ‘We cannot organize revival, but we can set our sails to catch the wind of heaven . . .’ (G. Campbell Morgan)