Revivals In The Bible
Dean Taylor teaches that biblical revivals, exemplified by Asa and Jehoshaphat, reveal God’s desire to empower believers through repentance, worship, and reliance on Him for transformative spiritual renewal.
This sermon delves into the concept of revivals in the Bible, focusing on the revivals of Asa and Jehoshaphat. It emphasizes the characteristics of biblical revivals, such as occurring in times of moral darkness, beginning with consecrated servants of God, resting on the Word of God, leading to a return to worship, destruction of idols, separation from sin, obedience to God's laws, restoration of joy, and experiencing God's blessings. The sermon highlights the importance of fully trusting in God's promises, seeking Him in prayer and fasting, and worshiping Him in spirit and truth to bring about revival.
Sermon Outline
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I. Characteristics of Biblical Revival
- Revival occurs in times of moral darkness and national depression
- Begins in the heart of a consecrated servant
- Rest on the Word of God and return to worship
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II. Revival of King Asa
- Removal of idols and return to worship with blood sacrifice
- Dependence on God’s power rather than own strength
- Renewal followed by testing and warning from prophets
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III. Lessons from Asa’s Later Years
- Danger of trusting in accomplishments and riches
- Consequences of turning from God’s ways
- God’s desire for a heart perfect toward Him
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IV. Revival of King Jehoshaphat
- Following God’s ways and teaching His Word
- Experiencing God’s blessing through obedience
- Challenges of alliances and tests of faith
Key Quotes
“God is looking all around the earth to show Himself strong on behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him.” — Dean Taylor
“Asa cried unto the Lord his God and said, 'Help us, O Lord our God, for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude.'” — Dean Taylor
“If you seek Him, He will be found of you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you.” — Dean Taylor
Application Points
- Seek God wholeheartedly in times of personal or national difficulty to experience revival.
- Depend on God's power rather than your own strength or accomplishments.
- Regularly examine your life for idols or alliances that hinder your walk with God.