Fall Back-to-School Revival Stresses the Need for Revolution

Oakwood University's Fall 2011 Back to School Revival concluded this past Saturday, August 20, with a message entitled "Nearsighted" from Pastor Benjamin Jones, Interim Pastor of Oakwood University Church. The spirit-filled series, which focused on "Revolution" as its unifying theme, began Wednesday, August 17, and continued each evening through Sabbath's Divine Hour Service. Each service was replete with music, led by the praise and worship team and several vocal ensembles.

Associate Pastor Jonathan Smith kicked off the revival on Wednesday night with a soul-stirring message that emphasized the point that revolution must start with our own sense of identity—recognizing our limitations and turning everything over to God. Assistant Pastor Lola Moore followed on Thursday evening with a "Revolution of Service" message, stating that "A real servant is one who gives without expecting recognition." Associate Pastor Edmund Julius delivered Friday's message sharing with the congregation that "What we really need is a revolution in loving."

Sabbath morning's concluding message from Pastor Jones drove home point, "When God gave His Son to us, there was nothing left for Him to give. He emptied all of heaven when He gave us Jesus!" His key text was Matthew 22:34, focusing on the greatest commandment, but he also recounted the familiar stories of the woman caught in adultery and the demoniac who could not even verbalize his own need, reminding the congregation that when one gives himself over to the service of the Adversary, he becomes his slave, unable to even give utterance to his need of the Savior. Yet, in His mercy, He hears our groans and meets us at our need, doing for us what we cannot do for ourselves. Pastor Jones concluded his message with a reminder that, "The world is waiting to see that kind of God in us!" Let us remember that as we go through the 2011-2012 school year.

For photos of this inspiring revival, visit the Oakwood University Photo Gallery.