Speaking of Ephesians…..
A pastor friend, Buddy Pennington writes this account in his weekly blog for small church pastors (https://brotherbuddy.org/letter-46-revival/)
“The story is told of a pastor who was impressed by the Holy Spirit while preparing for a Sunday morning service to simply read the entire book of Ephesians to his congregation and then to open the altar for prayer. The following Sunday morning, when it came time for the sermon, the pastor asked everyone to open their Bibles to Ephesians Chapter 1, Verse 1 and to read along silently as he read aloud. When he completed the final verse of Ephesians, he said it was time to pray and that the altar was open to anyone who felt it necessary to talk to God to make sure a right relationship existed between them and God.
The altar filled with weeping, groaning, repentant people who were revived spiritually through the public reading of the letter to the church at Ephesus. The repentant attitude among the congregation lasted for weeks as the Holy Spirit revived His fire in their hearts. (This is not fiction; it actually occurred.)”
Does this response to public reading of the Word of God sound familiar? Read Nehemiah 8 for the people’s response to hearing the public reading of the Law in Ezra’s day after the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem and the return of the exiles.
What will it take for revival in our churches?
One day during communion I was praying. I was feeling the pressure and urgency of age and time on me and was asking the LORD, “What else can I do to teach younger Christians and equip them for ministry.” The LORD asked me point blank, “Who taught you?” I replied, “You did.” He spoke again, “How did I do that?” I responded, “Through your Word.” Again I heard God speak in my spirit, “Just give them the Word.” 4/24/26. CBB
In celebration of America’s 250 anniversary:
America Reads the Bible
Big picture view
The marathon reading event celebrates 250 yearsof the Bible in America, and began on Sunday, April 19, and lasts through Saturday, April 25. Readings will take place each day from the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C.
Watch live
You can register with the organization to receive the livestream link and special event reminders.
By the numbers
The program will involve nearly 500 readers, according to organizers, and worship music will accompany each hour of the readings in partnership with different ministries and organizations.