Introduction

Welcome back to Contending for the Word. Yesterday we saw that true revival begins with God, through His sovereign work by the Word and the Spirit. Today we turn to the heart of that awakening, repentance and renewed love for Christ.

In Revelation 2:4–5, Jesus confronts the church in Ephesus with sobering words:

“But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen, repent, and do the works you did at first.”

The Ephesian believers were faithful in doctrine and perseverance, yet their love for Christ had cooled. True revival begins when God’s people see that drift for what it is and return to their first love, Jesus Himself.

Awakening Begins with Honest Repentance

Revival always starts when sin is confessed and idols are forsaken. It is easy for churches and individuals to grow busy with good things while neglecting the best thing, loving the Lord with all our heart. Jesus’ call to “repent” in Revelation 2:5 is not a suggestion, it is the gracious command of a Savior who loves His people too much to let them stay lukewarm.

Repentance is more than emotion, it is a change of mind that leads to a change of direction. It is turning away from sin and turning back to the Savior. When God revives His people, He first breaks them over their sin, then He ministers to them with His grace.

Revival Rekindles Love for Christ

The goal of revival is not simply moral reform or spiritual excitement, it is renewed affection for the Lord Jesus Christ. The church in Ephesus had sound theology, but their love had grown cold. The Spirit stirs revival when Christ once again becomes the treasure of our hearts, not merely the subject of our study.

When believers rediscover the beauty of the gospel, Christ crucified and risen for sinners, their hearts are rekindled. Revival restores joy in worship, tenderness in prayer, and zeal in service, all flowing from love for Christ.

Remember, Repent, and Return

• Remember, recall what it was like when your heart was aflame with love for Christ.
• Repent, turn from whatever has stolen that affection: sin, comfort, distraction, or pride.
• Return, do the works you did at first, seek Him in His Word, obey His commands, delight again in His presence as revealed in the Word of God.

This is the heart of revival, returning to the One who first loved us in Christ as revealed in the Word of God.

Conclusion

True revival begins with repentance and renewed love for Christ. It is not found in louder worship, larger crowds, or greater enthusiasm, it is found in humble hearts that remember, repent, and return to their Savior. May we, like the church in Ephesus, hear the Lord’s call and turn back to Him with undivided hearts in obedience to the Word of God.

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Stand firm in the Word. Christ is faithful.