Revival: The Journey to God's Presence

 

Summary

In reflecting on the passage from Exodus 33:7-11, we delve into the profound process of revival, emphasizing the necessity of understanding its stages and the role of prayer and intercession. The backdrop of this narrative is the rebellion of the Israelites, who, in Moses' absence, turned to idolatry, leading to God's withdrawal of His presence. This withdrawal was a catalyst for the Israelites' repentance, highlighting the critical importance of God's presence over any earthly possession or achievement.

The narrative underscores that revival is not an abrupt transition from sin to spiritual awakening but involves distinct stages. The first stage is marked by a burden for prayer and intercession, as exemplified by Moses setting up the Tabernacle outside the camp. This act signifies a call to separation and holiness, a deliberate move away from the sinfulness within the camp. It is a reminder that revival often begins with individuals or small groups who feel a deep burden for change and are willing to take action, even if it means stepping outside the established norms.

Moses' action of setting up the Tabernacle outside the camp is a powerful symbol of consecration and the need for unusual action in times of spiritual decline. It challenges us to consider whether we are content with routine religious activities or if we are willing to take extraordinary steps in response to the extraordinary times we live in. The narrative also highlights the importance of expectation and readiness for God's further revelation, as seen in Joshua remaining in the Tabernacle, anticipating more from God.

This passage calls us to examine our own spiritual lives and the state of the church. Are we burdened for revival? Are we willing to separate ourselves from the worldliness around us and seek God's presence with urgency and expectation? The story of Moses and the Israelites serves as a timeless reminder of the power of individual and collective repentance, prayer, and the pursuit of holiness in ushering in God's presence and revival.

Key Takeaways:

- The Necessity of God's Presence: The Israelites' realization that God's presence was more important than the land of Canaan underscores the vital importance of prioritizing God's presence in our lives over any earthly gain. True repentance leads to a deep desire for God's presence above all else. [05:07]

- Stages of Revival: Revival is a process with distinct stages, beginning with a burden for prayer and intercession. It is not an immediate leap from sin to spiritual awakening but involves a journey of repentance, prayer, and seeking God's presence. [07:00]

- The Role of Individuals in Revival: Revival often begins with individuals or small groups who feel a deep burden for change. Moses' action of setting up the Tabernacle outside the camp illustrates the power of one person's obedience to God's call, which can lead to a broader spiritual awakening. [12:06]

- Separation and Holiness: The act of setting up the Tabernacle outside the camp signifies a call to separation and holiness. In times of spiritual decline, there is a need for unusual action and a deliberate move away from sinfulness to seek God's presence. [22:34]

- Expectation and Readiness: Joshua's decision to remain in the Tabernacle reflects a spirit of expectation and readiness for God's further revelation. In seeking revival, we must be on the tiptoe of expectation, anticipating God's movement and being prepared for His response. [42:17]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:11] - Introduction to Exodus 33:7-11
- [01:36] - The Importance of Revival
- [02:57] - Israel's Rebellion and Repentance
- [05:07] - The Significance of God's Presence
- [06:26] - Stages of Revival
- [09:12] - Moses' Action and the Tabernacle
- [12:06] - The Role of Individuals in Revival
- [17:24] - Moses' Significant Action
- [22:34] - Separation and Holiness
- [29:10] - The Call to Holiness
- [32:59] - Unusual Action in Revival
- [37:34] - God's Response and Encouragement
- [42:17] - Expectation and Readiness
- [44:25] - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Exodus 33:7-11

---

Observation Questions:

1. What specific action did Moses take with the Tabernacle, and what was its significance in the context of the Israelites' spiritual state? [09:12]

2. How did the Israelites respond when they saw Moses entering the Tabernacle, and what does this reveal about their awareness of God's presence? [00:44]

3. What role did Joshua play in this narrative, and what does his action signify about his expectations from God? [41:20]

4. How did God demonstrate His presence to Moses and the Israelites after Moses set up the Tabernacle outside the camp? [38:08]

---

Interpretation Questions:

1. What does Moses' decision to set up the Tabernacle outside the camp suggest about the relationship between separation and holiness in the pursuit of revival? [22:34]

2. How does the narrative illustrate the stages of revival, and why is it important to recognize these stages in our spiritual journey? [06:26]

3. In what ways does the story of Moses and the Israelites challenge our understanding of the necessity of God's presence over earthly achievements? [05:07]

4. How does the expectation and readiness demonstrated by Joshua serve as a model for our own spiritual anticipation and preparation for God's movement? [42:17]

---

Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own life: Are there areas where you have prioritized earthly achievements over seeking God's presence? How can you realign your priorities this week? [05:07]

2. Consider the concept of separation and holiness. What practical steps can you take to separate yourself from worldly influences and seek a deeper relationship with God? [22:34]

3. Revival often begins with individuals or small groups. Do you feel a burden for change in your spiritual community? How can you take action, even if it means stepping outside established norms? [12:06]

4. Joshua remained in the Tabernacle, expecting more from God. How can you cultivate a spirit of expectation and readiness for God's further revelation in your life? [42:17]

5. Moses' action was a response to a spiritual decline. Are there any "unusual actions" you feel called to take in response to the current spiritual climate around you? [18:24]

6. The Israelites stood at their tent doors, observing Moses. How can you move from being a passive observer of spiritual movements to an active participant? [35:06]

7. Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence in a powerful way. What steps can you take to create an environment in your life that invites God's presence regularly? [38:08]

Devotional

Day 1: Prioritizing God's Presence Over Earthly Gains
In the story of the Israelites, we see a profound realization that God's presence is more valuable than any earthly possession or achievement. When God withdrew His presence due to their idolatry, the Israelites understood that without Him, even the Promised Land would be meaningless. This realization led them to repentance, emphasizing the necessity of valuing God's presence above all else. True repentance is marked by a deep longing for God, recognizing that His presence is the ultimate treasure. This calls us to examine our own lives and consider whether we are truly prioritizing God's presence over worldly pursuits. [05:07]

Exodus 33:15-16 (ESV): "And he said to him, 'If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here. For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Is it not in your going with us, so that we are distinct, I and your people, from every other people on the face of the earth?'"

Reflection: What is one area in your life where you have prioritized earthly achievements over seeking God's presence? How can you begin to shift your focus today?


Day 2: The Journey of Revival Through Prayer and Intercession
Revival is not an instantaneous leap from sin to spiritual awakening; it is a journey that begins with a burden for prayer and intercession. This process is exemplified by Moses, who set up the Tabernacle outside the camp, symbolizing a call to separation and holiness. Revival often starts with individuals or small groups who feel a deep burden for change and are willing to take action, even if it means stepping outside established norms. This journey involves repentance, prayer, and a relentless pursuit of God's presence, highlighting the importance of being intentional in seeking spiritual renewal. [07:00]

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: Who in your life can you partner with in prayer and intercession for revival? How can you commit to this journey together?


Day 3: The Power of Individual Obedience in Revival
Revival often begins with the obedience of individuals who feel a deep burden for change. Moses' action of setting up the Tabernacle outside the camp illustrates the power of one person's obedience to God's call, which can lead to a broader spiritual awakening. This act of consecration challenges us to consider whether we are content with routine religious activities or if we are willing to take extraordinary steps in response to the extraordinary times we live in. It reminds us that individual actions, driven by obedience to God, can have a significant impact on the spiritual climate around us. [12:06]

1 Samuel 15:22 (ESV): "And Samuel said, 'Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.'"

Reflection: What is one specific act of obedience God is calling you to today that could impact those around you? How can you take that step?


Day 4: The Call to Separation and Holiness
The act of setting up the Tabernacle outside the camp signifies a call to separation and holiness. In times of spiritual decline, there is a need for unusual action and a deliberate move away from sinfulness to seek God's presence. This narrative challenges us to examine our own spiritual lives and the state of the church, asking whether we are willing to separate ourselves from the worldliness around us and seek God's presence with urgency and expectation. It is a call to pursue holiness, recognizing that revival often requires a radical departure from the norm. [22:34]

2 Corinthians 6:17-18 (ESV): "Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty."

Reflection: What worldly influences do you need to separate from to pursue holiness? How can you take a step towards this separation today?


Day 5: Living with Expectation and Readiness for God's Revelation
Joshua's decision to remain in the Tabernacle reflects a spirit of expectation and readiness for God's further revelation. In seeking revival, we must be on the tiptoe of expectation, anticipating God's movement and being prepared for His response. This narrative encourages us to live with a sense of anticipation, ready to receive and respond to God's revelation. It challenges us to cultivate a heart that is open and expectant, recognizing that God desires to reveal Himself to those who are prepared to listen and act. [42:17]

Habakkuk 2:1 (ESV): "I will take my stand at my watchpost and station myself on the tower, and look out to see what he will say to me, and what I will answer concerning my complaint."

Reflection: How can you cultivate a spirit of expectation and readiness for God's revelation in your daily life? What practical steps can you take to be more attentive to His voice?

Quotes

Moses took the Tabernacle and pitched it without the camp a far off from the camp and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation and it came to pass that everyone which sought the Lord went out into the Tabernacle of the congregation which was without the camp. [00:00:24]

Repentance is something so profound that it immediately has an effect upon our conduct and our Behavior. There is no value in remorse. It's repentance. It's Godly sorrow, not the sorrow of the world that is a value in the sight of God. [00:05:38]

There are definite steps and stages in this process of Revival. You will never find it doesn't matter which of the histories you read that the church suddenly passes from gross sin or failure into mighty Revival. Now there are intermediate steps and it is important that we should know about them. [00:06:51]

The first stage only it runs from verse 7 to verse 11 but then there's a second stage which goes from verse 12 to verse 17 and then there is a third stage the highest stage of all and that is from Verse 18 to the end of the chapter in verse 23. [00:07:32]

Moses was clearly LED here to take this peculiar action. He takes this Tabernacle out of the center of the camp and puts it outside far off from the camp. Now there are many things here which must detain us. The first is of course that this was an action taken by Moses himself. [00:11:19]

Some one man or some group of men suddenly begin to feel this burden and so feel the burden that they're led to do something about it. That is what happened here, you see. That is, I say, what has always happened. Look at the great history. Look at the Protestant Reformation. [00:12:03]

The teaching of the Bible is the exact opposite. It may be you that God's going to use. You're an unknown church member. It doesn't matter. In the hands of God, you may be the channel. Very well then, one man or a little group of men begin to feel the burden. [00:16:24]

Moses took this Tabernacle which had been formerly in the midst of the camp and he pitched it without the camp a far off from the camp. Now here is something again which we must underline and emphasize particularly because it is again one of those points that you get invariably in the history of revivals. [00:17:28]

Moses was anxious that the presence of God should return so he sets up this place of prayer and of intercession. Now you notice the way in which it was done. It didn't seem to be an elaborate organization. He didn't make any statement. He made no speech about it. [00:18:39]

Moses takes this action of setting up this place of prayer and of intercession. He was glad that the people had repented but oh that wasn't enough. The presence of God had gone. The Cloudy pillar had disappeared and God had made this statement that he was not going to accompany them. [00:18:07]

Moses had another motive and a very important one. It was this. It's the whole idea of consecration. Moses felt that this couldn't be done in the midst of the camp. The camp had become unclean and he deliberately takes it out a far off from the camp. [00:28:29]

Moses was expecting more to come. He didn't want any of it to be missed so while he himself goes back to part of the camp he leaves Joshua in the tent of meeting. What if God will do something further? Very well, they're expecting more. This is only the beginning. [00:42:20]

Chatbot

  • I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from May 24, 2017. Do you have any questions about it?

Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?