Stewarding Revival: Embracing the Power of Unity
Summary
In tonight's message, we explored the theme of "Stewarding Revival," focusing on the first revival in the New Testament as described in Acts chapter 2. This pivotal moment, often referred to as Pentecost, marked the birth of the church and the coming of the Holy Spirit. It was a time of unique manifestations of God's presence, where believers were filled with the Holy Spirit, spoke in tongues, and experienced a powerful outpouring of divine power. This revival was characterized by the unity of believers gathered in one place, emphasizing the importance of physical assembly in experiencing God's best.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit was highlighted as a source of power, not just for speaking in tongues, but for living a bold and empowered Christian life. We discussed the three functions of tongues: private prayer language for personal edification, public tongues for church edification with interpretation, and tongues as a sign to unbelievers. The revival in Acts was also marked by criticism and misunderstanding from outsiders, a common occurrence in revival history. Yet, it was a time when those who were once weak or fearful, like Peter, were emboldened to preach the gospel with power.
Revival is not just about numbers, though 3,000 were added to the church that day. It's about a significant increase in baptisms, repentance, salvation, miracles, and manifestations of the Holy Spirit. We are called to steward revival by recognizing and celebrating what God is doing, and by being willing to pay the cost of consecration, dedication, and prioritizing spiritual things over the natural. Revival is not something we attend; it's something we carry within us. It starts with personal consecration and a deep hunger for God.
As we look at revival history, we see that each move of God had unique focuses and manifestations. Our church is uniquely positioned to carry revival winds, not as a parachurch movement, but as a local church committed to both pastoral care and the pursuit of revival. We aim for a sustaining revival, not limited by time, but continuously fueled by prayer and the Holy Spirit. Revival requires stewardship, and we are called to fan the flames of God's sovereign will, ensuring that the fire of revival continues to burn brightly in our midst.
Key Takeaways:
1. Unity in Assembly: The gathering of believers in one place during Pentecost highlights the power of unity in experiencing God's presence. While online ministry has its place, there is a unique blessing in physically assembling together, overcoming obstacles to be in the house of the Lord. This unity creates an atmosphere ripe for revival and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. [00:56]
2. The Power of the Holy Spirit: The baptism of the Holy Spirit is primarily about receiving power, not just speaking in tongues. This power emboldens believers, transforming fear into boldness, as seen in Peter's transformation from denial to powerful preaching. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses and perform miracles, emphasizing the need for boldness in our faith journey. [12:06]
3. Criticism and Misunderstanding: Revivals often face criticism and misunderstanding from outsiders. This is a natural part of revival culture, as the supernatural moves of God can be unsettling to those who do not understand. Criticism should not deter us but rather confirm that we are on the right path, as even Jesus faced accusations during His ministry. [09:04]
4. Revival as a Personal Responsibility: Revival is not just a corporate event but a personal responsibility. It begins with individual consecration and a deep hunger for God. We are called to carry revival within us, seeking God's face more than His hand, and allowing the Holy Spirit to ignite a personal fire that spreads to others. [23:45]
5. Stewarding Revival: Revival must be stewarded through prayer, dedication, and prioritizing spiritual over natural pursuits. It comes with a cost, requiring us to give up good things for God things. We must be willing to fan the flames of revival, ensuring that the fire continues to burn brightly and impact our church, city, and nation. [24:40]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:56] - The Power of Unity
[01:44] - Baptism of the Holy Spirit
[05:14] - Prophecy and Gender Inclusivity
[08:12] - Unique Manifestations of Revival
[09:04] - Criticism and Misunderstanding
[12:06] - Boldness Through the Holy Spirit
[14:30] - Multitudes Saved
[15:14] - Defining Revival
[16:07] - Historical Revivals
[18:01] - Continuation of Acts 2
[20:57] - Church and Revival
[23:45] - Personal Responsibility in Revival
[24:40] - The Cost of Revival
[27:14] - Stewarding Revival Through Prayer
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Stewarding Revival
Bible Reading:
- Acts 2:1-41
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Observation Questions:
1. What were the unique manifestations of God's presence during the Pentecost as described in Acts 2? How did these manifestations impact the gathered believers? [01:44]
2. According to the sermon, what are the three functions of speaking in tongues mentioned in Acts 2, and how do they differ? [01:44]
3. How did Peter's behavior change from the end of the Gospels to Acts 2, and what was the cause of this transformation? [12:06]
4. What was the reaction of the outsiders to the events of Pentecost, and how does this reflect a common theme in revival history? [09:04]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the unity of believers during Pentecost serve as a model for the church today in experiencing God's presence? What challenges might modern believers face in achieving such unity? [00:56]
2. In what ways does the baptism of the Holy Spirit empower believers beyond the ability to speak in tongues? How can this empowerment be seen in the life of a believer today? [12:06]
3. Why might revivals often face criticism and misunderstanding from outsiders, and how should believers respond to such criticism according to the sermon? [09:04]
4. What does it mean to steward revival as a personal responsibility, and how can individuals cultivate a deep hunger for God in their daily lives? [23:45]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced unity with other believers. How did it impact your spiritual life, and what steps can you take to foster such unity in your current community? [00:56]
2. Consider the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. In what areas do you need more boldness, and how can you seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment to address these areas? [12:06]
3. Have you ever faced criticism for your faith or spiritual experiences? How did you handle it, and what can you learn from the sermon about responding to such situations? [09:04]
4. Revival is described as a personal responsibility. What specific actions can you take this week to deepen your personal consecration and hunger for God? [23:45]
5. The sermon mentions the cost of revival, including consecration and dedication. What are some "good things" in your life that you might need to give up for "God things"? [24:40]
6. How can you actively participate in stewarding revival within your church or community? What role does prayer play in this process, and how can you incorporate it more into your life? [27:14]
7. Think about the unique manifestations of the Holy Spirit in your life. How can you recognize and celebrate these moments, and what impact do they have on your faith journey? [08:12]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Unity in Assembly
In Acts chapter 2, the gathering of believers in one place during Pentecost highlights the transformative power of unity in experiencing God's presence. This unity is not just about being physically present but about being of one heart and mind, creating an atmosphere ripe for revival and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. While online ministry has its place, there is a unique blessing in physically assembling together, overcoming obstacles to be in the house of the Lord. This unity fosters a collective faith that invites the Holy Spirit to move powerfully among us. [00:56]
"And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need." (Acts 2:44-45, ESV)
Reflection: How can you contribute to the unity of your church community this week, both in spirit and in action?
Day 2: Boldness Through the Holy Spirit
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is primarily about receiving power, not just speaking in tongues. This power emboldens believers, transforming fear into boldness, as seen in Peter's transformation from denial to powerful preaching. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses and perform miracles, emphasizing the need for boldness in our faith journey. This empowerment is not just for personal edification but for the edification of the church and the advancement of God's kingdom. [12:06]
"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." (2 Timothy 1:7, ESV)
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's boldness to step out in faith today?
Day 3: Embracing Criticism and Misunderstanding
Revivals often face criticism and misunderstanding from outsiders. This is a natural part of revival culture, as the supernatural moves of God can be unsettling to those who do not understand. Criticism should not deter us but rather confirm that we are on the right path, as even Jesus faced accusations during His ministry. Embracing criticism with grace and understanding can be a powerful testimony to the authenticity of our faith and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. [09:04]
"Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account." (Matthew 5:11, ESV)
Reflection: How can you respond with grace and love to criticism or misunderstanding about your faith this week?
Day 4: Revival as a Personal Responsibility
Revival is not just a corporate event but a personal responsibility. It begins with individual consecration and a deep hunger for God. We are called to carry revival within us, seeking God's face more than His hand, and allowing the Holy Spirit to ignite a personal fire that spreads to others. This personal revival requires intentionality in our spiritual practices and a commitment to living a life that reflects the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. [23:45]
"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (James 4:8, ESV)
Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to deepen your personal relationship with God and carry revival within you?
Day 5: Stewarding Revival Through Prayer and Dedication
Revival must be stewarded through prayer, dedication, and prioritizing spiritual over natural pursuits. It comes with a cost, requiring us to give up good things for God things. We must be willing to fan the flames of revival, ensuring that the fire continues to burn brightly and impact our church, city, and nation. This stewardship involves a commitment to prayer, a willingness to sacrifice, and a dedication to seeing God's kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. [24:40]
"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving." (Colossians 4:2, ESV)
Reflection: What is one "good thing" you can sacrifice this week to prioritize your spiritual growth and contribute to the stewardship of revival?
Quotes
"Acts chapter 2, verse number 1, it says, when the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Pause for a moment. I feel like there's something special about us being all together in one place. And I know that our church has grown in that way. Some of you are growing, and some people, it's hard for you to get parking and get in here. But I want you to know that it's all worth the cost that we pay to assemble together. You know, I thank God for ministry online, but ministry online is not God's best." [00:00:55]
"So it's really not about the tongues, but the tongues is something that goes along with the baptism of the Holy Spirit. It's not about the tongues, it's really about the power. But subsequently, and there's three functions of tongues in the Bible, and this is where people get it twisted. There is one private tongue that we call your prayer language. Just like everybody can be saved, everybody can have this prayer language. And the private use of tongues is for you to build up yourself. You know, there's times where you feel weak and you feel down, and you don't know what you need to pray for." [00:02:13]
"Acts chapter 2 verse 13 says that somehow we're made fun of them and said they've had too much wine. They didn't understand what was going on, so they made him out to be ungodly right now. I've studied revival culture for many years and what I've learned about revival culture is if you really want to see. Supernatural moves of God, somebody's going to criticize it. Somebody's going to have a problem with you. Now, some of you all are too soft and you care way too much about what people think. Oh, they're talking bad about me. So." [00:09:26]
"Those who were weak or fearful. So at the end of the Gospels we see Peter and Peter denies Christ three times and he runs away scared. But then in Acts chapter 2 we see a different Peter. This Peter has a spirit of boldness on him. The same people that he was scared and ran away from is now the people that he's prophesying over telling them to repent and get themselves together. What was the difference? The baptism of the Holy Spirit." [00:12:06]
"Multitudes were saved and added to the church. Now, Acts chapter 2, verse 41, it says that 3,000 people was added to the church. In a day. That's revival. Somebody say, now that's revival. And it's not about the number, because it could have been 300. That would have still been revival. It could have been 3 million. You don't know what God wants to do. Don't get stuck on 3,000. And it's not about the day. It could have happened in a day, a week, a month, or it could happen 2 million in 20 years. It's still revival." [00:14:20]
"Revival is where there is a serious uptick of baptisms, repentance, salvation, miracles, healings, and manifestations. I'm happy to say we're in revival right now. You can do better than that. Maybe the overflow rooms are hearing what I'm preaching tonight. We're in revival. God, we give you praise. And revivals must be stewarded. Sometimes I think we take things for granted. Oh, 300 people got saved this week. What? What? Cancer was healed last week. What? Demons were cast out in between services. What?" [00:14:50]
"So when we talk about revival today, we're really not talking about something new, even though it feels like God is doing something new. What we're really saying is that God is restoring his church back to what he always wanted it to be from Acts chapter 2. We are not an extension of Azusa or Toronto. We are an extension of the early church. We are an extension of those who were in the upper room praying for the coming of the Holy Spirit We are the extension of when Jesus said listen Listen go to Jerusalem and wait for the promise of the Father which you've heard of me." [00:18:01]
"Revival has started when the Holy Ghost lights a match and he throws it on the people and we go home with consecration, dedication and desperation wanting to seek his face more than his hand. Number four, this is what I want you to know about stewarding revival and I hate to say it but it's true, that revival comes with a cost. Many people say we want revival but the question is, is are you willing to pay the cost. I almost wanted to preach a whole message on the cost of revival but you say pastor what is the cost of giving and paying for your work." [00:23:45]
"some people are nervous but it's okay i love you anyway number five revival is something that we must steward this is what i want you to know tonight pastor scott he sent me over a text message from a book that he was reading by randy clark randy clark is a revivalist that i know and respect and in the book i want to just kind of put it up very quickly um kind of read this with me this was very good and it's from my point revivals are something that must be stewarded but this is a guy who was a part of many revivals in his life he says the holy spirit will come and go over the last nine years from 1987 to 1995 i did not know how to keep it burning or help it grow i did not realize then that it was always god who lit the fire on the altar but it's the priest who keep it burning now don't miss that it's god who lights the fire but it's the priest who kept it burning burning that all revivals start because of god but they end because of man it never occurred to me that i had a role in maintaining an increase in the move of god somehow i thought things ended out of god's sovereign choice but since then i've learned that the sovereignty of god gets blamed for ending many great things i believe it's god's sovereign will that revival continues the question is are we willing to fan the flames" [00:24:40]
"More people that know how to be watchmen on the wall and stand in the gap on the behalf of our church, our city, and our nation. So, what I've learned is that God starts revival, but we keep it going. God starts revival, but we fan the flame. God starts revival, but we have to steward revival. Everybody say, steward revival. So, what I'm believing God for tonight is that some of you all will have a fresh encounter with God, a kind of encounter with God where he will mark you in the moment and your life will never be the same again." [00:27:14]
"don't believe that we should chase encounters i believe we should chase jesus but i believe when you chase jesus right you'll get encounters you don't need to chase money chase jesus you don't need to chase healing chase jesus because every thing that you need is found in jesus and so after that i was marked in the moment and as i got up off the floor i had a decision the next sunday am i going to go back to my my denominational church i'm going to go back to where something happened i came back to where something happened it was different i didn't understand it but i knew that you can't fake that and ever since that moment i haven't drank haven't watched pornography been faithful to my wife when four years at that moment there's something about the marking of the holy" [00:29:20]
"so when God healed Tabitha of depression 20 years ago she is now the vengeance of God towards your depression every single week people get healed from depression here because she got set free 20 some years ago when God healed her of Lyme disease she is now the vengeance of God towards Lyme disease when God healed her of cancer she is the vengeance of God towards cancer when God turned my bad marriage into a good marriage we are now the vengeance of God towards a bad marriage when God brought me out of poverty I'm the vengeance of God towards poverty come on somebody when God brought me out of religion I and the vengeance of God bring them the kingdom to haхer of heaven to the earth what are you the vengeance of God towards come on y 'all tonight is a night where God bringing you out and then He's sending you out come on somebody God is not delivering you and saving you for you he is using you as an arrow to the world" [00:32:51]
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