Five Marks of Gospel Renewal
Author: Pastor Chris Castaldo
February 23, 2023
In light of what’s happening at Asbury University, let’s continue to pray for gospel renewal in our hearts, in the nation, and around the world. J.I. Packer, writing in God in our Midst: Seeking and Receiving Ongoing Revival (Authentic Publishing, 1987, 24-35), proposes that, among the variety of God’s ways, five constants appear in all biblical revivals:
- Awareness of God’s presence: “The first and fundamental feature in renewal is the sense that God has drawn awesomely near in his holiness, mercy and might.”
- Responsiveness to God’s Word: “The message of Scripture which previously was making only a superficial impact, if that, now searches its hearers and readers to the depth of their being.”
- Sensitiveness to sin: “Consciences become tender and a profound humbling takes place.”
- Liveliness in community: “Love and generosity, unity and joy, assurance and boldness, a spirit of praise and prayer, and a passion to reach out to win others, are recurring marks of renewed communities.”
- Fruitfulness in testimony: “Christians proclaim by word and deed the power of the new life, souls are won, and a community conscience informed by Christian values emerges.”
May these five constants of revival be evident in increasing measure in our lives and in the life of New Covenant Church.
Chris Castaldo PhD, is lead pastor of New Covenant Church in Naperville and author of the forthcoming book, The Upside Down Kingdom, from Crossway.
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