“We would have a revival in the church if everybody, in order to join the church, had to confess their eight biggest sins, and their two areas of great pain.”
Radio host Steve Brown is calling Christians to stop putting up masks and live in authentic community. He issues a challenge to the church in his book . True community can be painful. No one wants to be exposed or shamed for sin in their lives – but if we all knew how deeply loved we already are, sharing some of our brokenness wouldn’t be a source of fear. We would instead encourage and embrace each other, saying ‘me too.’
“That’s why Jesus made the church, by the way. So that people would see our love and be drawn to Him.”
We tend to think that projecting purity and holiness will draw others to Jesus – but He tells His people in John 13:34-35,
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.”
What can we do, then, to bring revival of love? Steve puts it simply – revival starts with confession. Honesty, openness, and forgiveness start with confession. Bible studies are good. Outreach events are good. But our works need to flow out of a place of honest brokenness and humble love for others.
“The best thing we can do for the world – and we’re the only people in the world who can do it because we know we’re loved – is to confess our sins.”
If we were to admit we need help, others would drop their guards and flock to the church. Our role is not to set a perfect standard but to set a redeemed one.
How can we step out if we’re afraid? Steve understands that perspective even as a self-described loner.
“I have an awful fear of being totally alone. Of being rejected by everybody, of being shamed by everybody, of failing publicly, and having to go off by myself because nobody will spend time with me.”
In those places of fear, we can trust God’s words.
“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Joshua 1:5
Choose to find one or two safe people who love Jesus, and love you, and if just for a moment, let down your mask. See how God uses your honest confession – revival may be right behind it.
Key Scriptures: Matthew 10:26; Psalm 19:8; Romans 7
Featured Songs: If We’re Honest by Francesca Battestelli; Made New by Lincoln Brewster; Flawless by MercyMe
