SESSION 8:

The Role of Explicit Agreement and Visible Union in Revival

ICE BREAKER

In the 1740s, after Jonathan Edwards had experienced the First Great Awakening, he wrote a book that was to dramatically affect revival thinking for the next 150 years. The title was explanatory: “An Humble Attempt to Promote Explicit Agreement and Visible Union of God’s People in Extraordinary Prayer for the Revival of Religion and the Advancement of Christ’s Kingdom on Earth.” What a title!

Talk for a minute about what you think Edwards meant when he said we need “explicit agreement” and “visible union” among the people of God. Why this is so important?

WATCH THE VIDEO

For the next few minutes, we’re going to watch Brent Brooks in an excerpt from a message that tells the story of how God has been bringing “explicit agreement” and “visible union” in Reno, Nevada.

Brent Brooks – Uniting for Revival

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. What are the things leaders need to be in “explicit agreement” about, as it relates to the revival movement in a city or nation?
  1. How do we deal with our various differences in theology? How do we unite around the theme of revival, even when we have some differences? NOTE: One pastor said that although we don’t agree on everything, we prioritize the differences.
  1. Brent mentions six components to a leader who helps bring revival agreement and unity to a city. Discuss these:
  1. Isaiah 6 Focus
  2. John 17 Priority
  3. Revelation 5 Flexibility
  4. Galatians 3 Life
  5. Nehemiah 1 Moment
  6. Jeremiah 33 Dream
  1. Share stories of anything you have seen or been involved in that helped foster visible union.
  1. Edwards said the endgame of explicit agreement and visible union was that the church would unite in extraordinary prayer. What do you think this means practically, and how can we cooperate with God in that way in our city and across our nation?

REVIVAL PRAYER TIME

The best prayer is that which is led by the Spirit! As a leader, you must listen to the Spirit and let Him guide you to gently facilitate this prayer time. Don’t be hesitant to lead.

  1. ENTERING IN: Take a few moments to thank God for the unity He gives . . . for His Word that is forever “settled in heaven” . . . for all the things that help bring explicit agreement and visible union among God’s people.
  1. INTERCESSION: Spend time praying for your city, asking God to show you how to foster agreement and unity in your city.
    Now let’s pray for the nation and for the church across the nation, that God would unite us in heart and mind and body for the purpose of extraordinary prayer for revival.
    Spend time crying out for revival in the church and spiritual awakening among the lost.

As we finish praying, let me ask again: “Is there anything God seems to be saying to us that we should do to foster revival and awakening?”