Leonard Ravenhill, a 20th-century preacher and author, left an indelible mark on Christian thought with his uncompromising commitment to holiness and fervent prayer. While often controversial, his teachings resonate deeply with those seeking a genuine and transformative faith. His emphasis on brokenness, far from being a negative state, is presented as a crucial prerequisite for spiritual power and intimacy with God. This exploration delves into the profound wisdom found in Leonard Ravenhill quotes on brokenness, examining their meaning and relevance for contemporary believers.
What Does Brokenness Mean in the Context of Leonard Ravenhill's Teachings?
Ravenhill's understanding of brokenness isn't about mere sadness or defeat. Instead, it signifies a complete surrender to God's will, a humbling acknowledgement of our inadequacy, and a willingness to relinquish control. It's a process of dismantling the self-sufficient "I" to make room for the indwelling presence and power of the Holy Spirit. This brokenness leads to a deeper dependence on God, allowing Him to work powerfully through us. He saw brokenness not as an ending but as a necessary beginning, a fertile ground for God's transformative work.
Why is Brokenness Essential for Spiritual Power? (Addressing a common PAA question)
Many interpret Ravenhill's emphasis on brokenness as counterintuitive. Why would vulnerability lead to power? Ravenhill believed that our self-reliance and pride hinder God's ability to work through us. Our attempts to control outcomes, our reliance on our own strength, and our independence from God prevent the Holy Spirit from moving freely. Brokenness, however, creates space for God's power to flow unimpeded. It’s in our weakness that His strength is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). He saw brokenness as a pathway to true humility, a prerequisite for experiencing God's mighty power.
How Does One Achieve This Kind of Spiritual Brokenness? (Another common PAA Question)
Achieving the kind of brokenness Ravenhill championed isn't a passive process. It requires intentional surrender and active engagement with God. It involves:
- Honest self-reflection: Confronting our weaknesses, sins, and pride is the first step. This honest examination needs to be done before God, seeking His grace and forgiveness.
- Humility and repentance: Acknowledging our dependence on God and turning away from our sinful ways is crucial. This requires a genuine desire to align our lives with God's will.
- Persistent prayer: Communicating honestly with God about our struggles, seeking His guidance, and surrendering our will to Him is paramount.
- Disciplined spiritual practices: Fasting, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers can help us to grow in spiritual maturity and deepen our dependence on God.
- Obedience: Responding to God's leading, even when it's challenging, demonstrates our willingness to surrender our will to His.
What are Some Examples of Brokenness in the Bible? (Addressing a potential PAA question)
Scripture provides numerous examples of individuals experiencing and embracing brokenness. Consider:
- David: His repentance after his sin with Bathsheba demonstrates a profound brokenness leading to restoration and renewal.
- Peter: His denial of Jesus showcases the fragility of human nature, yet his subsequent repentance reveals a heart broken and ready for God's grace.
- Paul: His transformation from persecutor to apostle illustrates a radical brokenness—a complete reversal of his life's direction.
These biblical figures demonstrate that brokenness is not the end but a pathway to deeper intimacy with God and greater spiritual fruitfulness.
Criticisms of Ravenhill’s Emphasis on Brokenness
It's important to acknowledge that Ravenhill's teachings haven't been without critique. Some argue his emphasis on brokenness could lead to unhealthy self-deprecation or a misconstrued view of God's grace. It’s crucial to understand that true brokenness is not masochistic; it is a divinely guided process leading to wholeness and freedom in Christ. A balanced perspective recognizes the importance of both humility and the joy found in God's grace and forgiveness.
Conclusion: Embracing the Power Found in Brokenness
Leonard Ravenhill’s legacy is one of challenging believers to pursue a deeper relationship with God. His emphasis on brokenness, while demanding, offers a pathway to genuine spiritual power and transformation. By embracing our weaknesses and surrendering our self-reliance, we create space for God to work miraculously in our lives, empowering us for His service and bringing forth abundant spiritual fruit. It is in our brokenness that we truly find the power and presence of God.
