IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 1029, 21 July 1930, Page 5

IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER

STRONGER FORCE THAN ORGANISATION PREPARING FOR REVIVAL In the Pitt Street Methodist Church yesterday morning the Rev. W. Walker preached a special sermon in preparation for the evangelistic campaign which is to be conducted by Raymond Preston from England. The sermon was based on John xvi., 24: “Ask, and ye shall receive.” “Every great spiritual awakening has been the outcome of believing prayer,” said Mr. Walker. “It is impossible to organise a revival. Organisation is necessary but it must be looked upon as machinery and not as power. The motive power is the Holy Spirit, who is the true life-giver. The atmosphere which enables the Spirit to do His work is created by prayer. , “The Church lives and prospers mainly through the faithful, consistent work which is done from week to week, but occasions arise when all the forces of the Church require to be mobilised for a great spiritual advance.” The Church was not so much a hospital for the care of the infirm as an army warring against the powers of evil, the speaker said. The congregation was urged to a full consecration to God in order that there might come to the Church and City a season of gracious revival. At the opening service of the campaign the City is to be represented by the Mayor and councillors, also A parade of the Young Men's Bible Class Union. The service last, evening was broadcast by IYA. Solos were sung by Miss Edna Peace and Mr. .7. McDougall. Mr. R. B. Bickerton officiated at the organ.