CUT-Restored & Revived use only selected chapters as flip book - Flipbook - Page 24
W EEK LY WOR D FOR DAILY LIVING
In Lystra, Paul is preaching and a man, lame from birth, is listening.
Paul, observing him intently, could discern that the lame man had
faith to be healed. Paul said with a loud voice, ‘Stand up,’ and the
lame man leaped and walked (Acts 14:8-10).
Faith Comes by Hearing
Faith came to the lame man through hearing the word Paul was
preaching. Faith, a fundamental characteristic for genuine revival,
is not achieved by preaching about experience. It comes through
hearing with revelation in the word of God. Lasting revivals are
built on the solid preaching of God’s word. Revival preaching
is what Paul and Barnabas were giving. Jesus will also be a focal
point in the preaching.
Revival preaching requires revival and Holy Spirit preparation,
ploughing the fallow ground of human hearts with the word of
God for the moment. Faith comes by hearing and hearing the
word of God. The message of God. Liberal words or teachings
will not bring faith nor revival. Conservative evangelical teaching,
which may deny the power and activity of the Holy Spirit today,
will hinder saving faith. Get into the word of God, the Bible.
Put yourself under biblical Holy Spirit teaching. Then revival can
come to you.
Paul could discern that the Holy Spirit was upon the lame man
as he was preaching. Notice Paul did not pray but commanded,
‘Stand up.’ Paul was flexible and always open for revival. Following
the prompting of the Holy Spirit yet again, brought revival.
Trouble Ahead
The revival the lame man experienced brought persecution, as
some Jews from Antioch wanted to kill Paul. They stoned Paul
and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead.
82