Is it possible to experience revival and reformation apart from an active relationship with Christ through the words of Scripture? Throughout the history of Israel, as recorded in the Bible, true revival that led to reformation never happened without divine revelation. In fact, the first time the people of Israel “bowed down to worship” God in Scripture was followed by the announcement that God had “visited” the people (Exod. 4:31). Through faith in the Word of God revealed to Moses and spoken by Aaron, people gained new strength and new motivation to join God in His redemptive plan in leading them out of bondage to the Promised Land.
In time Israel failed to faithfuly keep their covenant to God and forgot their “first love” toward Him. This was initiated by a neglect concerning what God had revealed in the Torah and, subsequently, what God revealed to them through the prophets. Even in Jesus’ day, true discipleship was birthed in relationship to His Word. He taught that His true disciples were those that remained in His Word (John 8:31).
The record of Scripture shows that every spiritual decline in the history of Israel was marked by a neglect toward God’s revelation. If today’s church stumbles on the same mistakes that Israel stumbled upon in the past, there is no hope!
Revival and reformation is always initiated by the God who yearns to revive and reform His people into His image. The way God accomplishes this, in the past and today, is through revelation. And revelation, God’s will for His children, is never heard apart from His Word, the Bible.
So, as we wait and ask and hope for the gift of revival and the blessing of reformation, may we remember the words of Paul in Colossians 3:16: “May the word of Christ richly dwell within you.”
“Revived by His Word” is the main theme of this issue, and for this reason, I challenge you to promote this worldwide church initiative in your local congregation. Blessings on you!
Jonas Arrais | General Conference Associate Ministerial Secretary
