(By Shane Idleman) Christians can embrace one of two extremes concerning the word “revival.” At one extreme are those who embrace pure emotionalism and hysteria—”if it’s odd it’s God.” At this church, and all weird behavior is excused. The other extreme lacks a living, vibrant spiritual life. The church feels dead, cold and lifeless. Talk of reviving the things of God (revival) is either dismissed or ridiculed.
Both extremes can hinder the work of the Holy Spirit and genuine Christian growth. I am primarily addressing the first extreme. Sadly, some of the leaders of these movements are rarely challenged. They can divorce their spouse and remain in leadership using 1 Chronicles 16:22 as a proof text, “Do not touch My anointed ones, and do My prophets no harm.” This is an abuse of grace at the highest level, and a twisting of Scripture. CONTINUE
This happens because we are all lazy at heart and want a shortcut to the things of God, the Creator does not work His will in us this way, He desires that by reading of His word and obeying of His commandments we grow to become like Him so that we can receive the gifts that are set aside for us.