Celebrating Baptism and the Call for Revival
Summary
### Summary
Today is a day of celebration and transformation as we witness the baptism of eight individuals who have committed their lives to Jesus Christ. Baptism is a public declaration of their faith and a testament to the transformative power of God's love, grace, and mercy. As we celebrate these baptisms, we are also kicking off a new two-week series on revival. Revival is a sovereign work of God that lifts Christians and churches out of spiritual indifference and worldliness, leading to a deep conviction of sin, a desire for more of Christ, purity in lifestyle, boldness in witness, and a renewed passion for reaching the lost.
Revival is not just about extended church services or emotional experiences; it is about a profound transformation that starts within the church and extends outward to the community. We need a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit, similar to the revival movements in Argentina, the Great Awakening, Azusa Street, and the Jesus Movement. These historical revivals were marked by a powerful anointing for souls, where people were drawn to God in unprecedented ways.
In the context of our current times, we are called to pray and seek God's guidance, especially as we approach significant events like elections. Our hope and salvation do not rest in political leaders but in Jesus Christ. We need to cry out for a move of God that will bring about a spiritual awakening in our nation.
Revival involves three key components: an upward revelation, an inward transformation, and an outward activation. We need a fresh encounter with Jesus, leading to a transformation of our hearts and lives, which then compels us to reach out to others. The process begins with us drawing near to God, humbling ourselves, praying, seeking His face, and turning from our wicked ways. As we do this, God promises to hear from heaven, forgive our sins, and heal our land.
### Key Takeaways
1. Baptism as a Public Declaration: Baptism is a significant step in a believer's journey, symbolizing a public declaration of faith and a transformed life through Jesus Christ. It is a celebration of God's love, grace, and mercy, and a powerful testimony to the community. [10:08]
2. Understanding Revival: Revival is a sovereign work of God that brings Christians and churches out of spiritual indifference and worldliness. It leads to a deep conviction of sin, a desire for more of Christ, purity in lifestyle, boldness in witness, and a renewed passion for reaching the lost. Revival is not just about emotional experiences but about profound spiritual transformation. [50:27]
3. Historical Revivals as Models: The Great Awakening, Azusa Street, and the Jesus Movement are examples of powerful revivals that transformed communities and nations. These movements were marked by a strong anointing for souls, where people were drawn to God in unprecedented ways. We should pray for a similar move of God in our time. [54:33]
4. The Role of Prayer and Humility: Revival begins with us drawing near to God, humbling ourselves, praying, seeking His face, and turning from our wicked ways. God's promise is that if we do this, He will hear from heaven, forgive our sins, and heal our land. This requires a collective effort from the church to seek God earnestly. [01:16:37]
5. Three Components of Revival: Revival involves an upward revelation (a fresh encounter with Jesus), an inward transformation (a change in our hearts and lives), and an outward activation (reaching out to others with the gospel). These components ensure that revival is not just an internal experience but also impacts the broader community. [01:09:07]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[10:08] - Baptism Sunday Introduction
[10:49] - Celebrating Baptism
[40:17] - New Series on Revival
[41:27] - Call to the Altar
[43:02] - Importance of Voting and Prayer
[46:07] - The Spirit of Antichrist
[47:37] - Defining Revival
[50:27] - Revival with an Exclamation Point
[51:59] - True Revival Components
[53:05] - Revival in Argentina
[54:33] - Historical Revivals
[56:49] - Revival in the Old Testament
[59:30] - The Great Awakening
[01:02:44] - Azusa Street Revival
[01:04:19] - The Jesus Movement
[01:06:27] - Prophetic Word from Joel
[01:08:02] - Global Revivals Today
[01:09:07] - Three Components of Revival
[01:16:37] - Recipe for Revival
[01:20:28] - Invitation to Accept Jesus
[01:26:25] - Call to Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. 2 Chronicles 7:13-14 (NIV): "When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
2. Joel 2:28-32 (NIV): "And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days. I will show wonders in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance, as the Lord has said, even among the survivors whom the Lord calls."
### Observation Questions
1. What are the three key components of revival mentioned in the sermon? ([50:27])
2. According to 2 Chronicles 7:14, what are the steps that God's people must take for Him to heal their land?
3. What historical revivals were highlighted in the sermon, and what was a common characteristic among them? ([54:33])
4. How does the sermon describe the role of prayer and humility in initiating revival? ([46:07])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14 apply to the church today? What does it mean for us to humble ourselves and seek God's face?
2. In Joel 2:28-32, what is the significance of God pouring out His Spirit on all people, and how does this relate to the concept of revival?
3. The sermon mentions that revival starts within the church and extends outward. How can this inward transformation lead to an outward activation in our communities? ([51:59])
4. Reflecting on the historical revivals mentioned, what can we learn about the conditions and attitudes that precede a powerful move of God? ([54:33])
### Application Questions
1. Personal Revival: Have you experienced a personal revival in your life? If so, what were the circumstances that led to it? If not, what steps can you take to seek a fresh encounter with Jesus? ([50:27])
2. Role of Prayer: How can you incorporate more intentional prayer into your daily routine to seek God's guidance and revival in your life? ([46:07])
3. Community Impact: What are some practical ways you can contribute to an outward activation of revival in your community? Think of specific actions you can take this week. ([51:59])
4. Historical Lessons: Considering the historical revivals discussed, what specific characteristics or actions can we emulate to foster a similar move of God in our church today? ([54:33])
5. Humility and Repentance: Reflect on 2 Chronicles 7:14. Are there areas in your life where you need to humble yourself and seek God's forgiveness? How can you make this a regular practice?
6. Spiritual Awakening: How can you help others in your church or community experience a spiritual awakening? Identify one person you can pray for or encourage this week.
7. Revival in Current Times: The sermon mentioned the need for revival in the context of current events, such as elections. How can you balance your civic responsibilities with your spiritual commitment to seek God's kingdom first? ([43:02])
Devotional
Day 1: Baptism as a Public Declaration
Baptism is a significant step in a believer's journey, symbolizing a public declaration of faith and a transformed life through Jesus Christ. It is a celebration of God's love, grace, and mercy, and a powerful testimony to the community. When individuals choose to be baptized, they are making a bold statement that they have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior and are committed to following Him. This act of obedience not only strengthens their faith but also serves as an inspiration to others who witness it.
Baptism is more than just a ritual; it is a profound spiritual experience that marks the beginning of a new life in Christ. It signifies the washing away of sins and the start of a journey of faith, growth, and transformation. As we celebrate the baptisms of our fellow believers, let us be reminded of our own commitment to Christ and the importance of living out our faith boldly and publicly. [10:08]
Romans 6:3-4 (ESV): "Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life."
Reflection: Think about your own baptism or the moment you committed your life to Christ. How can you publicly declare your faith in your daily life today?
Day 2: Understanding Revival
Revival is a sovereign work of God that brings Christians and churches out of spiritual indifference and worldliness. It leads to a deep conviction of sin, a desire for more of Christ, purity in lifestyle, boldness in witness, and a renewed passion for reaching the lost. Revival is not just about emotional experiences but about profound spiritual transformation. When God moves in revival, He awakens His people to a deeper understanding of His holiness and their need for repentance and renewal.
Revival begins with a personal encounter with Jesus that transforms our hearts and lives. This transformation then extends to the church and the broader community, leading to a powerful impact on society. As we seek revival, we must be willing to humble ourselves, pray, and turn from our wicked ways, trusting that God will hear our prayers and bring healing and restoration. [50:27]
2 Chronicles 7:14 (ESV): "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to seek God's forgiveness and renewal? How can you actively pursue a deeper relationship with Christ today?
Day 3: Historical Revivals as Models
The Great Awakening, Azusa Street, and the Jesus Movement are examples of powerful revivals that transformed communities and nations. These movements were marked by a strong anointing for souls, where people were drawn to God in unprecedented ways. We should pray for a similar move of God in our time, asking Him to pour out His Spirit and bring about a spiritual awakening in our nation.
These historical revivals remind us that God is able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine. They show us the power of prayer, unity, and a deep hunger for God. As we reflect on these past movements, let us be inspired to seek God earnestly for a fresh outpouring of His Spirit in our own lives and communities. [54:33]
Habakkuk 3:2 (ESV): "O Lord, I have heard the report of you, and your work, O Lord, do I fear. In the midst of the years revive it; in the midst of the years make it known; in wrath remember mercy."
Reflection: Reflect on a historical revival that inspires you. What specific steps can you take to pray for and seek a similar move of God in your community?
Day 4: The Role of Prayer and Humility
Revival begins with us drawing near to God, humbling ourselves, praying, seeking His face, and turning from our wicked ways. God's promise is that if we do this, He will hear from heaven, forgive our sins, and heal our land. This requires a collective effort from the church to seek God earnestly and to be willing to repent and turn away from anything that hinders our relationship with Him.
Prayer and humility are essential components of revival. When we humble ourselves before God, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and our need for His grace and mercy. As we seek His face in prayer, we open our hearts to His transforming power and invite Him to work in and through us. Let us commit to being a people of prayer and humility, trusting that God will respond to our earnest seeking. [01:16:37]
James 4:8-10 (ESV): "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you."
Reflection: How can you incorporate more intentional prayer and humility into your daily routine? What specific actions can you take to draw nearer to God today?
Day 5: Three Components of Revival
Revival involves an upward revelation (a fresh encounter with Jesus), an inward transformation (a change in our hearts and lives), and an outward activation (reaching out to others with the gospel). These components ensure that revival is not just an internal experience but also impacts the broader community. A true revival starts with a personal encounter with Jesus that transforms us from the inside out and compels us to share the good news with others.
As we seek revival, let us focus on these three components. First, we need a fresh revelation of Jesus that renews our love and passion for Him. Second, we must allow this encounter to transform our hearts and lives, leading to greater purity and holiness. Finally, we should be activated to reach out to others, sharing the gospel with boldness and compassion. [01:09:07]
Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Reflection: Which of the three components of revival (upward revelation, inward transformation, outward activation) do you need to focus on the most right now? What practical steps can you take to grow in this area today?
Quotes
1. "And now they're taking the next step. And that next step is a public declaration. They want to declare to all of us, hey, I've decided that I'm going to follow Jesus. I'm going to live for Him, and I'm going to serve Him with the rest of my life. And that's what it's all about. And so today is a true celebration." [10:08] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Because here's the thing that I truly believe. Regardless of who ends up in the White House, you need to understand, we are not electing the Messiah. And whoever lands in the White House is not going to save or destroy the United States of America. But the only one who can save the United States of America is Jesus. It's Jesus. And that doesn't depend on who's in the White House. It depends on who's in God's house." [44:26] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We need a move of God. Because here's what I know is going to happen. If you say, I believe, Pastor, I agree with you. We're living in the last days. Then you've got to understand that in the last days, there's going to be an outpouring of the spirit of Antichrist in our world. We see it, right? Scripture talks about it. So you can't say, oh, so these are the last days. These are the last days. Then understand what's happening." [46:07] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We need revival. We need to have a fresh outpouring of the spirit of God. But here's what I also understand. When we start talking about revival, it can mean a lot of different things for a lot of different people. In fact, we could go through the room and say, what do you think revival is? And what do you think it is? And what do you think it is? And we'd have all kinds of different things. We've all been exposed to different things that were called revival." [47:37] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So here's the definition for revival. It's a sovereign work of God where Christians and churches are lifted out of spiritual indifference and worldliness into a deep conviction of sin and earnest desire for more of Christ and his word, purity in lifestyles, boldness in witness, and renewed passion for reaching the lost." [50:27] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "True revival is two things. True revival has two key components. One, it's reviving within the church and a spiritual awakening. Two, it's reviving outside the church. You've got to revive the church, first of all, because you can't revive something that's never been alive before. If those outside the walls of the church, they don't know Jesus. They've never had any kind of spiritual life." [51:59] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We need a fresh revival to shake our nation. Something new. And if I could describe it to you, if I look at all the different revival movements that have happened, I mean, there are so many to look at. And it's an interesting study if you ever want to just sit down and start reading about what happened in these different revival movements that took place around the world." [54:33] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "The moment that you asked Jesus to come into your life, the moment that you asked him to forgive you of your sins, he did it. Congratulations. Welcome to the family of God. Welcome to the family of God. Amen. You made a fantastic choice, and our job as a church is to come alongside you and to help you to grow in your relationship with God." [01:23:53] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Draw near to God, and he'll draw near to you. If my people who are called by my name would humble themselves and pray, seek my face, turn from their wicked ways. It starts with us, church. And so the team is going to lead us in some worship songs, and what I'm going to ask every one of us to do, don't leave yet. Service isn't over." [01:26:25] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "God, do it again. God, our nation needs a move of God. Do it again. God, the way that you did it in times past, the great awakening, Azusa Street, the Jesus movement, the way you did it in Argentina, like Pastor was talking about. God, do it again. God, do it again and start with me. God, do it again and start with me." [01:33:11] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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