Introduction

Welcome back to Contending for the Word. As we conclude this week on discerning true revival, we turn again to the foundation God has given His church for every season, every generation, and every spiritual test, His all-sufficient Word.

We live in an age captivated by experiences, emotion, and spiritual sensation. Many believe that God’s power is revealed through dramatic signs, emotional environments, or the right atmosphere. Yet Scripture teaches that the power of God is made known through His Word and by His Spirit working through it.

Experiences may stir emotions, but the Word transforms hearts.

The Question

Why must a true, faithful church be centered on Scripture rather than experience?

Scripture, Not Sensation, Builds the Church

Paul writes, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

Scripture is sufficient. Scripture is authoritative. Scripture is the means God uses to convict, correct, encourage, and mature His people.

A church built on emotion will drift with emotion, but a church built on Scripture will endure.

The Dangers of Experience-Driven Faith

Experience itself is not evil. God does comfort, convict, and strengthen His people experientially. But when experience becomes the center of church life, the congregation becomes vulnerable to dangers such as:

• Manipulation instead of ministry
• Sensation instead of sanctification
• Emotional reaction instead of enduring obedience
• Noise instead of spiritual nourishment
• Human charisma instead of divine truth

When feelings become the standard, truth becomes optional.

The Marks of a Word-Centered Church

A biblical church is shaped and strengthened by practices rooted in Scripture and guided by the Spirit. Such a church is marked by:

• Expository preaching
• Deep, reverent worship grounded in truth
• Prayer shaped by Scripture’s promises
• Fellowship centered around Christ rather than personal preference
• Discipleship built on sound doctrine
• Evangelism grounded in the gospel rather than emotional appeal

A Word-centered church does not chase movements. It stands firm when movements fade. And when the Word is central, Christ is exalted, and His people grow strong, discerning, and steadfast.

Encouragement for the Faithful

You do not need new revelation to walk faithfully. You do not need spiritual fireworks to grow in holiness. You need the Word, the Spirit, the local church, and a heart that treasures Christ.

True revival does not abandon the ordinary means of grace. It restores them to their rightful place.

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