(Clip) Secret to Revival
Leonard Ravenhill teaches that the secret to revival is a deep, Spirit-led intercession marked by groaning and heartfelt prayer, empowered by the Holy Ghost to bring true transformation in the church.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of deep, Spirit-led intercession through groaning in prayer, highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in helping believers pray according to God's will. It challenges Christians to move beyond superficial prayers and embrace a deeper level of spiritual intimacy through groaning and tears, seeking revival and the anointing of God. The sermon also addresses the need for believers to be indwelt by the Holy Spirit, allowing God to work in them to overcome sin and be transformed into the image of Christ.
Sermon Outline
-
I. The Secret of Revival
- Revival begins with people who know how to groan in prayer
- Groaning is taught only by the Holy Spirit
- True intercession transcends words and vocabulary
-
II. The Role of the Holy Spirit
- The Spirit helps us in our weaknesses and intercedes for us
- The Spirit convicts of error, death, weakness, sorrow, and love
- Indwelling of the Spirit guarantees victory over defeat
-
III. The Cost and Process of Revival
- Revival often involves painful pruning and reduction
- Persistence in prayer leads to God's powerful movement
- Revival results in transformed lives and renewed church vitality
-
IV. The Call to Spiritual Maturity
- Christians are called to perfect obedience, not bodily perfection
- Salvation is not just escape but transformation into Christ's image
- Believers must confront and overcome sin and fleshly desires
Key Quotes
“I'll tell you the secret of getting revived in the church. Find half a dozen people that know how to groan.” — Leonard Ravenhill
“The greatest language of prayer has no vocabulary. The greatest prayers in the Bible have no words.” — Leonard Ravenhill
“If you're a Christian, you're an indwelt person. God dwells in you, the Father dwells in you, that's what it says.” — Leonard Ravenhill
Application Points
- Seek to cultivate Spirit-led intercession marked by groaning and heartfelt prayer.
- Be prepared for spiritual growth to involve trials and perseverance in prayer.
- Commit to confronting and overcoming personal sin through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Leonard Ravenhill mean by 'groaning' in prayer?
He refers to a deep, Spirit-led intercession beyond words, where the Holy Spirit helps believers pray according to God's will through groanings.
Is groaning the same as praying in tongues?
No, Ravenhill clarifies that groaning is not praying in tongues but a distinct form of prayer without vocabulary, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Why does revival often involve hardship according to the sermon?
Revival requires painful pruning and perseverance, similar to how Jesus endured suffering, indicating that God’s blessings often come through trials.
What role does the Holy Spirit play in a believer's life?
The Holy Spirit convicts believers of sin, helps in weaknesses, intercedes for them, and dwells within to empower victorious Christian living.
How can believers pursue spiritual maturity?
By seeking perfect obedience to God’s will, confronting sinful habits, and allowing the Spirit to transform them into Christ’s image.