We just wrapped up our Revival with Pastor Pat Finley of Grace Baptist Winchester.
Not surprisingly Pastor Finley brought Biblical and practical messages all three nights. The danger that can arise after a Revival is the issue of outward movement. We had one person 'walk the aisle' during the 3 nights of Revival. Some may feel that is an indication of something lacking. I, like all Christians are encouraged to see the outward expression of God's inward work. What concerns me is if we grade our services, Revival or otherwise by that standard.
There has been some serious thought given on the altar call issue by such experienced and successful pastors as D.Martyn Lloyd-Jones that you can read HERE.
As a pastor I have no desire to discontinue the public invitation. I just wish for it to be seen in the proper perspective. It is an option. There are many ways to respond to the Holy Spirit. The invitation is but one way that is available in our Bible Belt culture.
It is also critical that the invitation does not become the scoreboard for worship service. When that happens people become the center of the service. This can easily lead to doubting God's working in the local church, or psychological tactics to get people down the aisle. Both approaches are wrong headed.
What is the take away from our services? We prayed more. We anticipated. We came. We worshiped. We gave attention to the preaching of the Word. Choose which ever label you like for the events of the last few days. The good news is the Holy Spirit was and is working among us.
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