Revivals have spanned nations and denominations. Distorted views of revival, such as heterodoxy, dead orthodoxy and emotionalism, become obstacles to an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. When a church has an assurance of God’s love, reflects a theological and intellectual balance, exemplifies understanding, participates in anointed worship, exhibits compassion, and reaches out through evangelism, it can become spiritually dynamic and inspire revival.

Five key components - vibrant worship, doctrinal teaching, theological depth, devoted fellowship, and evangelism — can keep a church balanced and healthy, ready for revival. Accompanied by prayer, these characteristics sustain the church as a living body, rather than just an organization.

A crucial strategy for dynamic church renewal and growth in a city is through church planting. Following in the footsteps of Paul and Titus, church planting is mandated in the Bible according to the Great Commission. It fosters a kingdom mindset as well as concern and commitment to renew, not displace, existing churches. As neighborhoods change, a planted church can effectively respond to new communities and new generations of people.