From the MLJ Archive

Exodus 33:1-11 — Revival begins when one realizes that they may gain the whole world and lose their soul. Every good thing of this earth is nothing if God is not with them. In this sermon on Exodus 33:1–11 titled “Revival Sermon: Toward Revival,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones examines the steps toward revival. How does revival come? What sparks it? Whether revival is individual and personal or corporate, Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues that it begins the same way. First, one faces the facts and becomes deeply aware of sin and idolatry. Second, one repents. As he presents the story of Israel’s revival upon the building of a golden calf, he highlights a number of issues involved: the need for separation, a mediator, realizing they are poor and wretched, and God’s displeasure upon the church. Why is the church so ineffective? Why is it going from bad to worse? The need is not met with better events, campaigns, or programs; the presence of God must be in the midst. God must be with them. This is the thing that so horrified the people of Israel and it must haunt Christians today. Revival begins as men and women realize nothing is so serious as being without the presence of God.