What Does it mean?
We are impressed with the intensifying emphasis on revival and the current need for such. To this, of course, we wholeheartedily agree. In pursuing the theme at large, however, we would suggest several related points as likewise meriting consideration. For example:
As the Church we can neither schedule nor initiate authentic revival. Nor are there prescriptive formulae whereby, upon being put into effect, a vibrant, viable awakening can be inaugurated. Should such be questioned, one need only provide a valid example of its having taken place. As the well-known song states, "O Holy Ghost, revival comes from Thee." We are not He.
At this juncture, II Chronicles 7:14 is oftentimes quoted as a formulaic routine for inciting spiritual renewal. What is typically overlooked is that this promise applies within the context of God's reaching out to His people in a specific act of appeal - in this instance via the outpouring of judgment - for their return to righteousness and dependence upon Him (see preceding vs. 13). It is a call for response on their part. Initiation of the whole has been on His part - "the goodness of God lead[ing] thee to repentance" (Rom. 2:4).
This underscores the fact of God's sovereignty in relation to mankind. Despite repeated attempts on the part of some - the more radical forms of "prosperity" teaching constituting but one example - we neither control, nor do we learn, how to manipulate God. It is more than "dialing in the right combination." Various biblical illustrations might be given. For now the following will suffice:
In his humanity, Jesus, despite his innate divinity, functioned as a man. In fulfilling his ministry, he makes this profoundly significant statement: "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something he sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner" (John 5:9). Luke reiterates this principle in his account of Jesus' healing of the paralytic in Luke 5:18-26 - his healing of the man ensuing in consequence of "the power of the Lord [being] present for him to perform healing" (vs. 17). It was not something that Jesus programmed, "worked up," or learned how to effect.
Which brings us to another point that, Lord willing, we shall address soon.
Burl Ratzsch
