The quiet revival: 'I remain cautiously optimistic'

In recent months, much has been written about the so-called “quiet revival.” In essence, what is being reported is that we are seeing an increase in people, especially younger people, attending church, with a growing interest in the Bible.

In my work with The Open-Air Mission, I have certainly seen a far greater number of young people showing interest in the good news than I have previously observed. People are open to talking about the gospel and reading God’s Word. These are all good things, though I remain cautiously optimistic.

I am encouraged by the growing interest in church attendance, but at the same time, I do have concerns. What we are witnessing is an increase in cultural Christianity, not a revival in the sense of the lost being saved and Christ’s church being renewed.