Keys to RevivalSample

A Simple Call (Key of Repentance)

In Acts 2, as Peter preached on the day of Pentecost, the crowd was “cut to the heart” and asked, “What shall we do?” (v. 37, NIV). His response: “Repent and be baptized… in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (v. 38, NIV). Repentance opened the door for the Spirit’s outpouring, and 3,000 were added to the church that very day.

History repeats the pattern. In 1907, a simple prayer meeting in Pyongyang, Korea, ignited a powerful move of God that changed a nation. When one trembling Korean elder confessed his hatred (of another person in the same room!) and sought forgiveness in front of all gathered, the Spirit broke through. As others stood to confess their pride, jealousy, and hidden sins, what began as a routine gathering turned into an all-night encounter with God. The atmosphere was electric with repentance and reconciliation! And that night sparked the Pyongyang Revival, leading thousands to Christ, planting churches across Korea, and transforming the nation into a force for the Gospel.

Every revival finds its starting point in the same place: repentance. It can happen today if we come with repentant hearts, lay aside our differences, and seek the Lord.

Maybe you don’t struggle with lust or lies, but for a moment, consider the past week. Were there moments of frustration with family, friends, or colleagues that led to a sharp word? Has unforgiveness or hurt lodged itself in your heart?

Repentance means a 180-degree turnaround. Begin by asking the Holy Spirit to reveal and convict you of sin. Acknowledge the offense to God (remember when David is confronted by Nathan in 2 Samuel 12:13 (NIV), he confesses, “I have sinned against the Lord.” Nathan replied, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die). Next, decide to turn away from the sin, and move toward God through prayer, Scripture, and community.

Prayer: Lord, I repent of my sins before You. Cleanse my heart and make me right with You and with my brothers and sisters. I come in humility and receive Your forgiveness. Revive me, and let revival flow through me. Amen.