Leonard Ravenhill
Leonard Ravenhill: A Life of Passionate Evangelism
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Leonard Ravenhill
Common Aliases: None
Birth and Death Dates
Born: June 18, 1907
Died: November 27, 1994
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: British
Profession(s): Evangelist, Author, Christian Minister
Early Life and Background
Leonard Ravenhill was born on June 18, 1907, in Leeds, England. Growing up in a devout Christian family, Ravenhill was exposed to the teachings of the Bible from an early age. His upbringing in the industrial heartland of England during the early 20th century instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep sense of spiritual purpose. As a young man, he attended Cliff College in Derbyshire, where he was profoundly influenced by the teachings of Samuel Chadwick, a prominent Methodist preacher. This period of education and spiritual formation laid the foundation for Ravenhill's lifelong commitment to evangelism and revival.
Major Accomplishments
Leonard Ravenhill is best known for his fervent preaching and his passionate calls for revival within the Christian church. Throughout his life, he traveled extensively, delivering sermons that emphasized the need for personal holiness and a return to the foundational truths of Christianity. His ministry was marked by a deep conviction that the church needed to awaken from spiritual complacency and embrace a life of prayer and repentance.
Ravenhill's influence extended beyond the pulpit through his writing. His books, particularly "Why Revival Tarries," have been widely read and have inspired countless individuals to pursue a deeper relationship with God. His writings are characterized by a sense of urgency and a call to action, urging believers to live lives that reflect the transformative power of the Gospel.
Notable Works or Actions
Among Leonard Ravenhill's most notable works is his book "Why Revival Tarries," published in 1959. This seminal work has been a catalyst for spiritual renewal in many Christian communities. In it, Ravenhill challenges readers to examine their spiritual lives and to seek a more profound experience of God's presence. His other works, including "Revival God's Way" and "Sodom Had No Bible," continue to resonate with readers who are seeking to understand the dynamics of true spiritual revival.
Ravenhill's actions were not confined to writing and preaching alone. He was known for his commitment to prayer, often spending hours in intercession for the church and the world. His life was a testament to the power of prayer and the belief that God could bring about significant change through the prayers of His people.
Impact and Legacy
Leonard Ravenhill's impact on the Christian world is profound and enduring. His messages on revival and holiness have left an indelible mark on the church, inspiring generations of believers to pursue a deeper, more authentic faith. His emphasis on prayer and personal holiness has influenced many prominent Christian leaders, including A.W. Tozer and David Wilkerson, who regarded Ravenhill as a spiritual mentor.
Ravenhill's legacy is also evident in the continued popularity of his writings. His books remain in print and are frequently cited in discussions about revival and spiritual renewal. His teachings continue to challenge and inspire those who seek to live lives that are fully devoted to God.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Leonard Ravenhill is widely quoted and remembered for his uncompromising message and his passionate call to revival. His ability to articulate the need for spiritual awakening in a way that resonates with both laypeople and clergy has made his words timeless. Ravenhill's quotes often reflect his deep conviction that the church must return to its roots and embrace a life of prayer, repentance, and holiness.
His memorable sayings, such as "The church is waiting for the world to become regenerate, while the world is waiting for the church to become repentant," capture the essence of his message and continue to challenge believers to examine their spiritual lives. Ravenhill's legacy as a prophetic voice calling the church to revival ensures that his words will continue to inspire and provoke thought for years to come.
Quotes by Leonard Ravenhill
Leonard Ravenhill's insights on:
When there's something in the Bible that churches don't like, they call it 'legalism.'
You never have to advertise a fire. Everyone comes running when there's a fire. Likewise, if your church is on fire, you will not have to advertise it. The community will already know it.
If Jesus preached the same message ministers preach today, He would have never been crucified.
The surest thing in the world is not death and taxes, it’s death and eternity. Yet, we’re so unconcerned.
God never intended His Church to be a refrigerator in which to preserve perishable piety. He intended it to be an incubator in which to hatch out converts. – F. LINCICOME.