Leonard Ravenhill was a British-born evangelist, author, and preacher known for his deep passion for prayer, revival, and a strong commitment to holiness. He is perhaps best known for his emphasis on the desperate need for revival in the church, as well as his critiques of the complacency and worldliness he saw in the Christian faith of his time.
Famous Quotes:
-
“The world is not waiting for a new definition of Christianity; it’s waiting for a new demonstration of Christianity.”
-
“No man is greater than his prayer life.”
-
“The church is dying on its feet because it is not living on its knees.”
-
“We have too many dead churches, and they are full of dead people. A revival is the church coming back to life.”
-
“What is the cost of revival? It’s the broken heart, it’s the surrendered will, it’s the giving of everything for the glory of God.”
-
“Our best work is the work we do on our knees.”
Known For:
-
Emphasis on Revival: Leonard Ravenhill spent much of his life calling for a return to spiritual revival in both the church and in society. He was particularly critical of the lukewarm state of the church and emphasized the need for repentance and personal holiness.
-
Prayer and Holiness: Ravenhill’s teachings often focused on the importance of prayer, fasting, and personal holiness. He believed that revival could only come when Christians dedicated themselves to fervent prayer and a life of purity.
-
Books and Writings: One of his most famous works is “Why Revival Tarries,” where he outlines the conditions necessary for spiritual revival and critiques the state of the modern church. He also wrote “Sodom Had No Bible,” “The Master’s Plan for the Church,” and other influential works that have left a lasting impact on Christian thought and practice.
-
Revivalist Ministry: Ravenhill was deeply involved in preaching and evangelism. He traveled extensively to speak about revival, urging both individuals and churches to live out their faith with passion and conviction.
Legacy:
-
Leonard Ravenhill’s legacy continues through his books, his teachings on revival, and the way he inspired others to pursue a deeper, more genuine relationship with God. His calls for repentance, prayer, and a return to Biblical principles have influenced many Christian leaders, especially within the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements.
-
His ministry and writings also resonate with those who are passionate about revival in the 21st century, especially in an age that often seems distracted or indifferent to the need for spiritual awakening.
Ravenhill remains a key figure in discussions of revival, spiritual awakening, and the need for the church to live authentically in a world that is increasingly secular. His life and work continue to inspire those seeking a deeper, more fervent walk with God.
