Revelation 14:12 summarizes, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus” (KJV)

Podcast: Revival and Reformation

ABSTRACT

This article explores the transformative call of revival and reformation as revealed in Scripture, emphasizing prayer, repentance, trials, and service as central to spiritual renewal. Drawing from biblical texts and inspired writings, it addresses apathy, tests of faith, and God’s loving discipline, urging believers to embrace personal and communal change that reflects God’s commandments, the faith of Jesus, and His enduring love.

A Universal Appeal

Revival and reformation transcend religious boundaries, touching the hearts of Jews, Christians, Catholics, Muslims, Buddhists, and more. These concepts are a divine call to examine faith, deepen spiritual connections, and embrace transformation. Whether rooted in ancient texts or shared wisdom, the pursuit of revival reflects humanity’s yearning for a closer relationship with the divine. As Psalm 85:6 declares, “Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?” (KJV), this article explores the transformative power of revival and reformation, a journey that beckons all to heed God’s call.

THE STRUGGLE WITH APATHY AND FAITH

Spiritual apathy is a subtle drift from devotion to complacency. Revelation 3:19 reminds us, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent” (KJV). Reflecting on my own life, there was a time when church felt like a hollow routine. Social disconnection made me question my faith’s foundation. Through prayer and self-examination, I realized my faith was tied to convenience rather than true commitment. This journey mirrors the call for reformation: “The converting power of God must come into the church” (Testimonies to Ministers, p. 443, 1923). To support this, Psalm 51:10 states, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me” (KJV), and Isaiah 55:7 affirms, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord” (KJV). Further, “A revival and a reformation must take place under the ministration of the Holy Spirit” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 128, 1958), and “The work of God in the heart is to renew the entire man” (The Desire of Ages, p. 172, 1898). This personal awakening underscores the need for heartfelt repentance and renewal to restore true faith. Let us now explore how prayer serves as the cornerstone of this transformative journey.

THE ROLE OF PRAYER IN REFORMATION

Prayer is the cornerstone of reformation. Jeremiah 6:16 states, “Ask for the old paths… walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls” (KJV). During a church-wide prayer season, I witnessed remarkable transformations. Attitudes softened, unity blossomed, and spiritual fervor grew. This experience aligns with the truth that “A revival of true godliness among us is the greatest and most urgent of all our needs” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 121, 1958). Additionally, Psalm 145:18 declares, “The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth” (KJV), and 1 Thessalonians 5:17 instructs, “Pray without ceasing” (KJV). Moreover, “Prayer is the key in the hand of faith to unlock heaven’s storehouse” (Steps to Christ, p. 94, 1892), and “A revival need be expected only in answer to prayer” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 121, 1958). This experience reaffirmed that revival begins on our knees, preparing us to act with purpose and faith. The next section will shed light on how trials refine our faith, forging a stronger connection with God.

THE SHAKING: A TEST OF FAITH

True reformation brings testing. Joel 2:32 assures us, “Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered” (KJV). A close friend’s departure from church challenged my faith. This period forced me to reflect deeply, asking: Is my faith rooted in Christ or external circumstances? This introspection led me to embrace Zephaniah 3:13: “The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies” (KJV). This aligns with the insight that “The straight testimony… to the Laodiceans” causes this shaking (Early Writings, p. 270, 1882). Furthermore, James 1:3-4 states, “Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (KJV), and 1 Peter 1:7 adds, “That the trial of your faith… might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (KJV). Additionally, “The work of God in the heart is to purify and refine” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 159, 1900), and “Trials and obstacles are the Lord’s chosen methods of discipline” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 471, 1905). Faith, tested and refined, becomes a beacon of God’s love. Let us now consider how reformation reflects God’s boundless love for His people.

REFLECTING GOD’S LOVE THROUGH REFORMATION

Reformation is a testament to God’s love. Revelation 3:20 says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock” (KJV). God’s rebukes are acts of love, drawing us back to Him. This love became clear to me as I turned from complacency to active faith. His discipline mirrors a parent’s guidance, aiming to protect and restore. This is echoed in the truth that “With yearning love, He waits to receive the penitent” (Steps to Christ, p. 54, 1892). Moreover, Hebrews 12:6 states, “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth” (KJV), and John 16:27 affirms, “For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me” (KJV). Additionally, “God’s love is revealed in His discipline as well as in His mercy” (The Desire of Ages, p. 824, 1898), and “The Lord’s discipline is to prepare the soul for eternal life” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 332, 1890). Revival reminds us of His desire to fellowship with us, offering grace and transformation.

Reformation requires action. Revelation 18:4 calls us to separate from spiritual compromise: “Come out of her, my people” (KJV). Practically, this means deepening our relationship with God through prayer, study, and service. Volunteering and leading Bible studies have helped me fulfill this responsibility. Additionally, Philippians 2:4 challenges us to prioritize others: “Look… also on the things of others” (KJV). This is reinforced by the call that “God’s people are to be representatives of His character” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 28, 1909). Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 6:17 states, “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord” (KJV), and James 2:17 declares, “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone” (KJV). Moreover, “The followers of Christ are to be the light of the world” (The Desire of Ages, p. 152, 1898), and “True obedience is the outworking of a principle within” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 97, 1900). Serving others reflects His love, drawing them to His truth.

EMBRACING GOD’S INVITATION

Revival and reformation reveal God’s enduring love and call to transformation. Our responsibility is twofold: to deepen our faith and to share God’s love through selfless service. Will we answer His call? This is urged in the call to “Let the work of reformation begin at once” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 128, 1958). Additionally, Isaiah 1:16-17 states, “Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; Learn to do well” (KJV), and Matthew 5:16 commands, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (KJV). Furthermore, “The work of reformation is to transform the heart and life” (The Great Controversy, p. 467, 1888), and “God calls for a revival that will prepare His people for eternity” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 717, 1889). Together, let us seek revival, reflecting His grace and truth in our lives and communities.