Revival in the Lincoln (Neb.) Church
By R. D. QUINN
THE definite work of deliverance from sin and the reception of the Holy Spirit is going forward in the Lincoln church, as in all other places where the standard has been lifted. On a recent evening all who were present, except three, surrendered their lives fully to God, claiming by faith the power that saves to the uttermost. There is a settled conviction taking hold of our people in this great center where this message is being given, that we are coming to a sharp turn in the fulfilment of God's plans, and by special manifestations of his power, he will cut the work short in righteousness. But this will not be done by the outpouring of the latter rain suddenly upon an unprepared people. Only “those who come up to every point, and stand every test, and overcome, be the price what it may, will receive the latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation.” This brings every one connected with this last great movement face to face with the definite experience of Christian perfection,—perfection as pertaining to the conscience. Therefore, in order to receive the latter rain, we must receive the former rain. Let no man think that he will receive anything of God who does not first comply with the conditions upon which the “perfecting latter rain” is promised. To sin, wherever found, “our God is a consuming fire.” Before Elijah was translated, Elisha asked that a double portion of the spirit of Elijah might rest upon him. Elijah's reply to this eager aspirant was not arbitrary, but conditional: “If thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so.” Perhaps there was not another individual in all Israel pure enough to have lived amid the chariots and horses of fire that swept Elijah to heaven, or to have been sensible of this glorious visitation. Our reception of the Spirit will be in exact proportion to the subjection of the flesh. Elisha met the conditions, and claimed the promised blessing, crying out, “My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof.” And his life ever afterward testified to the mighty workings of the Holy Spirit.20 “Only those who are living up to all the light they have will receive greater light. Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may fall on hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it.”
R. D. QUINN.