Pattern for Revival
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners hall be converted unto thee.
Psalm 51:12-13
Here in Old Testament language the difference between revival and evangelism, so often confused today. David is saying, “Make me right and then I will go after somebody else!” Too much church work is being done by people who are not right with God and each other, who know neither the joy of salvation nor a willing spirit.
Conviction of sin, confession of sin, cleansing, and a right spirit – all this is revival. Evangelism, soul-winning, personal work, the conversion of sinners – all this flows from revival.
David needed a Nathan, and the church needs a prophet to tell his story and make the application, “Thou art the man.” That is not easy – especially if “the man” is sitting right in front of you! There are guilty Davids aplenty but few faithful Nathans.