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Amo_7:2. Means of a Revival of Religion
By the Rev. M. Tucker, D. D., of Troy, N. Y.
"By whom shall Jacob arise? for he is small."—Amo_7:2.
The text, independent of its particular application, may be regarded as a question of great interest to churches under trying circumstances. Jacob represents the people of God. The obvious import of the inquiry is, How shall a church that is small, or in a low state, be built up, revived, raised from its depression?
The object aimed at is not merely an increase of numbers, but a revival of pure and undefiled religion. How then can the number of deeply pious, devoted servants of Christ be increased?
I. There must be a Preparation of the Soil.
The Lord saith, "Break up the fallow ground, and sow not among thorns." Every church must have within it some evils which need to be removed. When his special presence is withdrawn they have provoked him by their sins. The message from Zion's King to such is, "Cast ye up, cast ye up, take up the stumbling-block out of the way of my people." The sins of broken vows, of blood-guiltiness, of worldly conformity, of idolatrous pursuit of wealth, of contention, &c., must be repented of, with deep humiliation and prayer before God.
II. The Church must be urged to cultivate a Spirit of Grace and Supplication.
This spirit is uniformly poured out upon the members of Christ's church, previous to any extraordinary visits of mercy. This was true under the national reformation by Josiah. Also, it preceded the surprising change effected by the ministry of Ezra A continued season of prayer preceded the great revival at Jerusalem in Act_1:14.
III. The Church must cultivate a Spirit of deep and living Piety.
Before a revival, the Lord's people generally exhibit more of the life of religion—less worldly-mindedness, and more attachment to God's house—holy ardor enkindled—unconquerable attachment to evangelical truth—filled with the Holy Ghost, and with faith.
IV. Plain, well-timed Preaching is necessary.
Is not my word as the fire, and the hammer that breaketh the rocks in pieces? Preaching must be plain—affectionate—direct—and in season. See Peter's sermon at Jerusalem. He thrust the charge of murder into their bosom, which pierced like a barbed arrow from the quiver of the Almighty. The sermons should exhibit the purity, and extent, and righteous sanctions of the law—the deep corruption and alienation of the heart by nature—the work of the Spirit—justification by faith—and the duty of immediate repentance and love.
V. Protracted Meetings for Public Worship.
These are not of recent origin. The Jews, from the commencement of their polity, held them; and Nehemiah revived them. It is like bringing a number of sabbaths into immediate succession—the heart is kept fixed upon God—the cross of Christ is exhibited so constantly, that its subduing influence is felt, and the sinner is constrained to cry, What shall I do?
VI. Another Means is Pastoral Visitation.
In this very much good may be done—we may aid in deepening impressions—in following up the melting and dissolving process—in encouraging and strengthening the weak and timid, &c.
VII. Meetings for religious Inquirers.
These meetings should be short—and special instruction should be given to those who visit them—and directions and help from God must be earnestly and particular sought.
Application
Have we not slept long enough over the interests of Zion?—Are not sinners hastening rapidly to ruin?—Is it not high time to awake out of sleep?—By all that is desirable in the salvation of souls—by all that is binding in the authority of Jehovah—by the love of the Spirit, I beseech you, strive together in prayer and effort for advancing the work of God. Amen.