Revitalize by Andrew M. Davis [Book Review]
Does your church demonstrate the life and vitality that a New Testament church should? If not, then Andy Davis' book Revitalize is a book for you to get onto your reading list.
I had the opportunity of sitting next to Andy during church history doctoral studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is a personal yet serious minded student of the Scriptures and of the history of the church.
The Lord has used him to lead in the revitalization of the First Baptist Church of Durham, NC. The story of God's work in that church is nothing short of amazing.
In this book Andy brings to print the lessons he learned and applied during this revitalization. He also brings to bear the experiences both in Durham and in the broader scope of church history.
Revitalize Goals & Audience
His stated goal for the book is that it would be an instrument in his holy hands for the revitalization of churches all across America, and perhaps even around the world (p. 16).
The pastor or church member who takes his lessons to heart will certainly put their church in a position for the Lord to do his great work of rekindling that church.
What exactly is revitalization? Davis offers this definition,
The effort to restore by biblical means a once healthy church from a present level of disease to a state of spiritual health, as defined by the Word of God.
Andrew Davis, p. 20.
The primary audience for the book is the pastor or elder of the Lord's church, but it does have a secondary target of committed church members. I am not a pastor, but found the book helpful for me in being a praying and concerned member of a local church.
Revitalize Strengths & Weakness
The strengths of the book are the wise lessons drawn from the pages of the Scriptures and history. Anybody who has been around Andy knows his serious commitment to the Word of the Lord. He has memorized more books of the Bible than anybody else that I am aware.
The only weakness was in the area of church music. It is not that I disagree with his comments, but I am not fully convinced either. But that weakness is a minor one.
Structure for Revitalize
Introductory Chapters
Eyes of Blazing Fire: The Zeal of Christ to Revitalize His Church
God Speaks Life into Dying Churches
Lessons in Revitalization
Embrace Christ's Ownership of the Church
Be Holy
Rely on God, Not on Yourself
Rely on God's Word, Not on Techniques
Saturate the Church in Prayer
Cast a Clear Vision
Be Humble toward Opponents
Be Courageous
Be Patient
Be Discerning
Wage War against Discouragement
Develop and Establish Men as Leaders
Become Supple on Worship
Embrace the Two Journeys of Disciple-Making
A Heavenly Celebration of God's Glory