What Keeps God From Answering our Prayer for Revival
Edgar Reich emphasizes that God withholds revival because of unrepented sin and lukewarmness within the church, calling believers and leaders to heartfelt repentance, fasting, weeping, and prayer as commanded in Joel.
This sermon emphasizes the need for repentance and turning away from sin, both individually and collectively as a church and nation. It highlights the importance of fasting, weeping, and mourning as acts of humility and seeking God's forgiveness. The message calls for a revival in the house of God, urging leaders to weep and repent, acknowledging the sins of pride, prayerlessness, and disobedience to God's word. The sermon also addresses the need for salvation and the power of God to bring about transformation and revival.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Condition of the Nation and Church
- God's judgment is beginning as shown in Romans 1
- Evil and reprobate minds are prevalent in society and churches
- Lukewarmness in the church causes God to reject us
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II. The Call to Repentance from Joel
- God commands turning to Him with fasting, weeping, and mourning
- Leaders and congregations must assemble for solemn assembly
- God promises mercy if we rend our hearts and repent
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III. The Necessity of Leaders' Repentance and Weeping
- Pastors and leaders must weep and intercede for the people
- Historical examples of godly leaders repenting and weeping
- Without leaders' repentance, revival will not come
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IV. The Consequences of Unrepented Sin
- Sin in the heart blocks God from hearing prayers (Psalm 66:18)
- Judgment will intensify if repentance is ignored
- America faces either revival or tyranny
Key Quotes
“What stops God hearing our prayers and bringing us revival? Number one are the sins in the house of God not repented of, not confessed, and not turned from.” — Edgar Reich
“Let the priest, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar and let them say, spare the people, O Lord, and give not your heritage to reproach.” — Edgar Reich
“Rip your stony heart and not your garments and turn unto the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness.” — Edgar Reich
Application Points
- Examine your heart for unrepented sin and seek genuine repentance before God.
- Participate in fasting, prayer, and mourning as a community to seek God's mercy and revival.
- Leaders should lead by example in humility, weeping, and intercession for their congregations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does God not answer prayers for revival?
Because of unrepented sin and lukewarmness in the church, God withholds revival until His people genuinely repent and seek Him wholeheartedly.
What does God require for revival according to the sermon?
God requires fasting, weeping, mourning, and heartfelt repentance from both the church and its leaders as outlined in Joel 2.
Who should lead the repentance and intercession?
Christian leaders, including pastors and elders, are called to lead by example through weeping and praying for the people.
Is repentance only for sinners outside the church?
No, repentance must begin within the house of God, addressing sins among believers and leaders first.
What happens if the church refuses to repent?
Judgment will continue and intensify, potentially leading to national calamity and loss of God's protection.