Leonard Ravenhill, a renowned 20th-century preacher and author, was known for his uncompromising message of radical discipleship. His powerful words challenged the complacency of the church, urging believers to embrace a deeper, more costly commitment to Christ. This article explores some of Ravenhill's most impactful quotes on true discipleship, delving into their meaning and relevance for contemporary Christians. We’ll unpack the essence of his teachings and consider how we can apply them to our lives today.
While Ravenhill is celebrated for his fervent preaching and unwavering conviction, it's vital to approach his legacy with discernment. His style was often intense and provocative, and interpreting his work requires careful consideration of the historical and cultural context.
What Did Leonard Ravenhill Mean by True Discipleship?
Ravenhill's concept of true discipleship wasn't about a superficial adherence to religious rules. It was a radical, life-altering transformation that demanded complete surrender to Christ's will, regardless of personal cost. He challenged the status quo, criticizing what he saw as a lukewarm, self-serving Christianity, calling believers to a deeper, more costly following of Jesus. He believed that true discipleship involved a passionate pursuit of holiness, a relentless pursuit of God's glory, and a willingness to sacrifice everything for the sake of the Gospel.
Key Quotes and Their Significance
Several quotes encapsulate Ravenhill's powerful message:
"The church is the only organization that exists to please God." This quote highlights Ravenhill's core conviction that the church's primary purpose isn't self-preservation or worldly success, but rather unwavering obedience to God's will. He challenged the focus on building large, comfortable churches, arguing that true growth comes from a genuine dedication to God's purposes.
"We are praying for revival, but we are living for the status quo." This powerful statement confronts the hypocrisy of praying for spiritual awakening while clinging to comfortable lifestyles that hinder God's work. Ravenhill believed that genuine revival begins with personal repentance and a willingness to surrender our own agendas to God's.
"God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called." This challenges the tendency to wait until we feel "ready" or "capable" before answering God's call. Ravenhill emphasized that God equips those He chooses, even if they feel inadequate. This speaks to the importance of faith and obedience over perceived competence.
"The greatest tragedy is not that men are wicked, but that they are so comfortable in their wickedness." This is a stark reminder of the danger of complacency. Ravenhill believed that spiritual apathy is a more significant threat than outright sin, as it breeds indifference to God's will and the needs of the world.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
Ravenhill's challenge to modern Christianity remains profoundly relevant. In a world obsessed with comfort and convenience, his message serves as a wake-up call. We need to honestly examine our own lives, assessing whether we're truly committed to Christ or merely participating in a comfortable religious routine. Are we living for the status quo or actively pursuing God's heart? Are we willing to sacrifice for the Gospel, even when it's difficult or inconvenient?
Applying Ravenhill's Teachings
Applying Ravenhill's teachings to our lives involves:
- Self-examination: Honestly assessing our motivations and priorities, ensuring they align with God's will.
- Prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit: Seeking God's guidance and strength to live a life of radical discipleship.
- Sacrifice: Willingly surrendering personal comfort and convenience for the sake of the Gospel.
- Action: Translating faith into tangible actions that demonstrate our commitment to Christ.
Leonard Ravenhill’s legacy is one of unwavering devotion and a relentless pursuit of God's glory. While his style may be intense, the core message of his teachings—a call to radical discipleship—remains a powerful and necessary challenge for Christians today. His words continue to inspire and provoke us to consider the true cost and immeasurable reward of following Jesus wholeheartedly.
