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"One Life Will Soon Be Past"
Leonard Ravenhill
Leonard Ravenhill (1907 - 1994). British-American evangelist, author, and revivalist born in Leeds, England. Converted at 14 in a Methodist revival, he trained at Cliff College, a Methodist Bible school, and was mentored by Samuel Chadwick. Ordained in the 1930s, he preached across England with the Faith Mission and held tent crusades, influenced by the Welsh Revival’s fervor. In 1950, he moved to the United States, later settling in Texas, where he ministered independently, focusing on prayer and repentance. Ravenhill authored books like Why Revival Tarries (1959) and Sodom Had No Bible, urging the church toward holiness. He spoke at major conferences, including with Youth for Christ, and mentored figures like David Wilkerson and Keith Green. Married to Martha Beaton in 1939, they had three sons, all in ministry. Known for his fiery sermons and late-night prayer meetings, he corresponded with A.W. Tozer and admired Charles Spurgeon. His writings and recordings, widely available online, emphasize spiritual awakening over institutional religion. Ravenhill’s call for revival continues to inspire evangelical movements globally.
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This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life dedicated to God, highlighting the eternal impact of what is done for Him. It challenges the notion that all Christians die happy, pointing out that some may face regret for not fully utilizing their time and opportunities to serve God. The key to victory and a fulfilling Christian life is found in personal devotion, adoration, and love for Jesus Christ, going beyond mere service or financial contributions.
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The poet wrote this, only one life shall soon be passed, only what's done for God will last, and when I am dying how glad I shall be if the lamp of my life has been burned out for thee. You think all Christians die happy? Not on your life. They die as miserable sinners, some of them. Why? Because I've misused my time and I've misused, Lord if you'll only spare me to do this. Some of you prayed that on a hospital bed. Some of you women, when you thought you were dying, giving birth to a child, said Lord if you spare my life I'll do this, that and the other. Have you done it? The only thing that will tie me in victory continually through the blood of Christ is my personal devotion to him, the Son of God. My adoration that I give him my tribute every day. It's more than my service. It's more than giving my money, that I love him and I adore him and I magnify him. I take him as he were by the feet.
"One Life Will Soon Be Past"
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Leonard Ravenhill (1907 - 1994). British-American evangelist, author, and revivalist born in Leeds, England. Converted at 14 in a Methodist revival, he trained at Cliff College, a Methodist Bible school, and was mentored by Samuel Chadwick. Ordained in the 1930s, he preached across England with the Faith Mission and held tent crusades, influenced by the Welsh Revival’s fervor. In 1950, he moved to the United States, later settling in Texas, where he ministered independently, focusing on prayer and repentance. Ravenhill authored books like Why Revival Tarries (1959) and Sodom Had No Bible, urging the church toward holiness. He spoke at major conferences, including with Youth for Christ, and mentored figures like David Wilkerson and Keith Green. Married to Martha Beaton in 1939, they had three sons, all in ministry. Known for his fiery sermons and late-night prayer meetings, he corresponded with A.W. Tozer and admired Charles Spurgeon. His writings and recordings, widely available online, emphasize spiritual awakening over institutional religion. Ravenhill’s call for revival continues to inspire evangelical movements globally.