Words of Hope…
Wherever the Word of God has been faithfully preached, the results that followed demonstrated that it was from God. Sinners felt their consciences awaken. Deep conviction took hold of their minds and hearts. They had a sense of God’s righteousness, and they cried out, “Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans
7:24). As the cross of Jesus was revealed, they saw that nothing
but the merits of Christ could atone for their sins. Through the
blood of Jesus, “God had passed over the sins that were previously
committed” (Romans 3:25).
These people believed and were baptized and rose to walk in
newness of life. By the faith of the Son of God they would follow
in His steps, reflect His character, and purify themselves even as
He is pure. Things they once hated they now loved, and things
they once loved they hated. The proud became meek, the vain and
haughty became serious and meek. The drunken became sober, the
immoral pure. Christians did not seek the outward decoration of
“arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel,” but
“the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very
precious in the sight of God” (1 Peter 3:3, 4).
Revivals brought solemn appeals to the sinner. They bore fruit
in people who did not draw back from self-denial but rejoiced that
they were counted worthy to suffer for the sake of Christ. Onlookers
could see a transformation in those who decided to follow Jesus.
Effects like these used to follow times of religious awakening.
But many modern revivals are very different from these. It is
true that many peopld claim to be converted, and large numbers join
the churches. But the results do not support the belief that there has
been an increase of real spiritual life in those who responded. The
light that flames up for a while soon dies out.
Popular revivals too often excite the emotions, appealing to the
love for something new and startling. People converted in this way have little desire to listen to Bible truth. Unless a religious service has something sensational in it, it does not attract them.
With every truly converted person, relating to God and to eternal
things will be the great topic of life. Where in the popular churches
of today is the spirit of consecration to God? Converts do not turn
their backs on pride and love of the world. They are no more willing
to deny self and follow the meek and lowly Jesus than they were
before their conversion. Godliness has almost completely gone away
from many of the churches.
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Source: Ellen G. White, The Great Hope, pp. 44-45