You Have Left Your First Love (Clip)
Leonard Ravenhill passionately warns that believers do not lose their first love for Christ but leave it behind as their passion shifts to other things.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of not losing but rather leaving our first love, drawing a parallel to losing and finding a cherished possession. It highlights the need to rekindle the initial passion and devotion we had for God, as seen in the message to the church in Revelation about returning to that fervent love for Him.
Full Transcript
So many people lose their first love. That's not what the Bible says. The Bible says, thou hast left thy first love.
You don't lose it. I've got an old coat. Must have been 20 years.
I lost it this week. Boy, was I upset. It's out of style, but it's good to me.
Keeps me warm. I was glad when I found it. I lost it.
But the address to the people there in the book of the revelation is the people who left their first love. Something else got them and they gave all their consuming passion and desire to that one thing that they got hold of again.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Introduction to the concept of first love
- Distinction between losing and leaving first love
- Personal illustration of losing a coat
-
II
- Biblical reference to the church leaving their first love
- Explanation of what it means to leave first love
- The danger of shifting passion to other things
-
III
- Call to examine personal spiritual passion
- Warning against allowing other things to consume desire
- Encouragement to reclaim and renew first love
Key Quotes
“So many people lose their first love. That's not what the Bible says. The Bible says, thou hast left thy first love.” — Leonard Ravenhill
“I lost it. But the address to the people there in the book of the revelation is the people who left their first love.” — Leonard Ravenhill
“Something else got them and they gave all their consuming passion and desire to that one thing that they got hold of again.” — Leonard Ravenhill
Application Points
- Regularly evaluate your spiritual passion to ensure Christ remains your first love.
- Avoid allowing other interests or distractions to consume your devotion to God.
- Renew your commitment by intentionally returning to the fervor of your initial faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'first love' refer to in this sermon?
It refers to the initial passionate love and devotion a believer has for Christ.
Does the Bible say people lose their first love?
No, the Bible says they leave their first love, implying a conscious shift away.
What is the significance of the old coat illustration?
It illustrates the difference between losing something unintentionally and leaving something behind intentionally.
Why is it dangerous to leave your first love?
Because it means giving your passion and desire to something else, which can lead to spiritual decline.
How can one reclaim their first love?
By recognizing where their passion has shifted and intentionally returning their devotion to Christ.