Revival History & Now 4.3 - Discerning Genuine from Counterfeit Revivals

Aug 28, 2024

Lecture on Discerning Genuine and Counterfeit Revivals

Understanding Revivals

  • In every genuine move of God, there are always counterfeit elements.
  • Revivals require discernment to differentiate between what is of God and what is not (flesh or demonic).

Personal Experience and Discerning Manifestations

  • Personal anecdote: Wife's manifestations of the Holy Spirit were mistakenly identified as demonic by others.
  • Importance of not labeling Godly manifestations as evil and vice versa.

Human Elements in Revivals

  • Revivals are divine but led by humans, who are inherently frail and flawed.
  • Guard against being offended, cynical, judgmental, or critical during revivals.

Warnings and Signs in Revivals

  • Control vs. Freedom: Attempts to control revivals can stifle them as they are meant to be free and chaotic.
    • Advice: Don't organize and ask God to bless it; recognize what God blesses and organize around it.
  • Spiritual Pride: Guard against elitism and pride from personal experiences.
    • Revivals should involve communal experiences and accountability, not isolation.

Potential Pitfalls

  • Exaggerations and Emotionalism: Recognize the presence of new believers and avoid letting their actions hinder personal spiritual encounters.
  • Violation of Biblical Truth: Fresh revelations may sometimes stray from biblical truth.
    • Importance of personal engagement with the Word to discern truth.
  • Perceived Exclusivity: Avoid the belief that one is the sole instrument for God’s purposes.

Guarding Against Negative Reactions

  • Be aware of the enemy’s schemes but focus on fueling genuine moves of God.
  • Maintain a pure heart, avoid judgmental attitudes, and focus on loving others.
  • Understand that not every aspect of a revival is perfect, but the focus should be on God’s work.

Conclusion

  • Revivals require vigilance and discernment to ensure the purity and effectiveness of God’s work.
  • Seek to align with God’s intentions with pure hearts and clean hands.