Transformation is a word used to explain what happens when someone is saved. It’s the theme of the Christian faith, but what about the daily progression of our relationship with God?
Many think the idea of changing into the image of Jesus no longer applies to them because they go to church and listen to Christian songs on the radio. This is good, but our relationship with God is not contained within a couple of hours per week. Do we only think about Jesus when we take Communion? Are we convinced that however we act is all right with God because we have accepted him? What does this mean to me? Did I accept that he is real or that my responsibility is to allow him to control me as the Lord of my life?
Much like the frog who comfortably sits in the pot that eventually comes to a boil, it’s disturbing how many within our religious culture are suffering from spiritual starvation. Today the Bible is being dissected by scholars, but the difficult commands are being ignored by the average Christian. Some Bible teachers are hesitant to speak the hard truths of self-discipline and moral purity, while church members applaud when feel-good devotions are filled with blessings and happiness. One of the principles of church growth today is to keep the people happy. Pastors are like coaches: They must keep pleasing their fans, or they will be replaced. However, from God’s perspective, his uncomfortable and sacrificial demands are the most important.
The time has come for a revival that strengthens homes, families and churches. I’m not just talking about an evangelist coming to church with a fiery sermon. This is good and people enjoy it, but often in a couple of weeks the excitement fades and most return back to their lukewarmness. True revival is a personal revelation that quickens the mind and heart with a deep sorrow and brokenness that we have offended God with our lethargic carnal attitudes. If there is not a deep grieving and repentance for the way we are living and a sacred vow to God to never fall into this state of coldness again, then a rededication has not happened. The Kingdom of God is not going to be advanced by our churches becoming filled with people but by people in our churches becoming filled with God.
The term revival must be understood as not something new, but it’s a way of thinking and acting that is being restored. There is no such thing as rekindling a fire that was never started. Revival is rarely mentioned in the seeker-friendly movement because it would reveal there must be a change in the way we think and live, not to mention scaring some of the new converts away. The concept of becoming aware of God’s presence is one of the most powerful realities within the Christian faith because it has everything to do with personal transformation. Surrendering our will to King Jesus is how we serve and obey him.