Somewhat like the old observation that while everybody talks about the weather, few do anything about it, it is likely that few subjects are more preached or written about in religiously conservative circles than "revival" with seemingly little results. Anyway...
As frequent reminded by the present Administrtion, we are in a "war on terror." While somewhat variant to warfare in its more traditional sense, it is nonetheless war. As the observant are aware, however, it is not the only war presently underway.
We are somewhat struck by the increasing references to "war on Christianity" in relation to faith related concerns. It is more than empty rhetoric. Antagonism toward the faith, particularly in its more conservative expressions, is much on the rise. Even apart from the various religious news services designed to keep believers abreast of such matters (e.g., the daily Agape Press report - http://www.agapepress.org/), one need only peruse the news media at large to gain a measure of insight here.
Where is it all going? How is the Church to counter an increasingly hostile world - particularly in terms of "Christian America?" For decades it has been a tradition of many to quote II Chronicles 7:14 as cure for all present spiritual and societal ills: "If my people who are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face and turn from their evil ways, I will hear them from heaven and pardon their sins and revive ("heal," KJV) their land." This, we assume, means that if believers only become sincere, amend their ways, and pray, all will be remedied.
The preceding verse was spoken in a dream to Solomon following his dedication of the Temple. It had been a dramatic occasion; religious fervor ran high. At this point, the nation was "in revival!" In terms of spiritual quest is not this faith's primary objective? There is more here, however. The thrust of II Chronicles 7:14 is found, not in its isolation from context, but as defined within the framework of the chapter.
As an initial point of emphasis, it should be recognized that "revival" does not continue indefinitely. History, if nothing else, confirms the fact. Not only did spiritual decline - indeed apostasy - again prevail; Solomon himself eventually turned from God (I Kings 11:1-11). Hence God's dealing with the theme of renewal prior to the fact (failing of such, severe warnings follow in the passage.)
Restoration at this point is seen in terms of the nation - "My people" referring to Israel (cf. Jer. 2:13). While individual congregations may at times experience renewing of spirit and fervor, "revival" is often within the larger context. Despite the confusions of some, God never deigns to "revive" our own self-focused interests or pursuit of factional sectarian cause - however religious. We recall once hearing a pastor solemnly warn his congregation, "We need to seek revival in our denomination before God gives it to someone else!" God does not work that way. We are here to serve His cause - not He ours.
In contrast to our own endless parade of formulaic-oriented books, programs, methodologies, conferences and workshops on "how to have revival," God's answer did not lie in formulaic-oriented books, programs, methodologies, conferences and workshops on "how to have revival" - our usual lack of successful implementation typically leading to new books, programs, methodologies, conferences and workshops on "how to have revival."
While we do our part in seeking revitalization, the fact remains that true revival has its ultimate source in divine grace. Thus, in response to the greatest national revival of Old Testament record: "Hezekiah and all the people rejoiced over what God had reestablished for the people, and how suddenly this had been done" (II Chron. 29:36).
And finally, Solomon's prayer at the Temple's dedication: "May the LORD our God be with us... that He may incline our hearts to Himself " (I Kings 8:57-58).
Burl Ratzsch
