Why Revival Tarries summary

Understanding the Delay of Revival

In Why Revival Tarries, Leonard Ravenhill explores the spiritual lethargy and apathy that have infiltrated the modern church, hindering the arrival of a true spiritual revival. Ravenhill begins by emphasizing the urgency of revival, drawing from historical revivals to highlight its transformative power. He then delves into the reasons why revival is delayed, pointing to the church's preoccupation with materialism, entertainment, and superficial spirituality as the primary culprits.

Ravenhill argues that the church has become complacent, settling for a form of godliness without the power of God. He emphasizes the necessity of repentance, holiness, and a deep hunger for God as prerequisites for revival. According to him, revival is not about attracting larger congregations or achieving personal success, but about a profound encounter with God that leads to radical transformation.

The Role of Prayer and Purity

Ravenhill then shifts his focus to the indispensable role of prayer in bringing about revival. He critiques the church's prayerlessness and superficial prayers, emphasizing the need for fervent, persistent, and agonizing prayer. He stresses that prayer is not just a tool for getting what we want, but a means of aligning our hearts with God's purposes and preparing the way for His power to work.

In addition to prayer, Ravenhill highlights the importance of personal purity. He argues that revival cannot occur in a church where sin is tolerated or ignored. Instead, he insists on the necessity of a holy and consecrated life, free from compromise and worldliness. According to Ravenhill, purity of heart and life is a non-negotiable requirement for those who seek to be used by God in revival.

The Cost of Revival

Ravenhill does not shy away from the cost of revival. He asserts that revival always comes at a price, often involving a radical departure from the status quo. This may mean sacrificing personal comfort, enduring persecution, or risking one's reputation. Revival, according to Ravenhill, disrupts the comfortable routines of religious life and demands a total commitment to God's will.

He also emphasizes that revival is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that requires continuous surrender and submission to God's leading. It is not about momentary emotional highs but a sustained passion for God and His kingdom. Ravenhill's message is clear: revival will tarry until the church is willing to pay the price for it.

The Call to Action

In conclusion, Why Revival Tarries serves as a passionate plea for the church to wake up from its spiritual slumber and pursue a genuine revival. Ravenhill's uncompromising message challenges readers to re-evaluate their spiritual priorities, to seek God wholeheartedly, and to prepare themselves for the coming revival. He leaves us with a sobering reminder that the delay of revival is not due to God's reluctance, but the church's unpreparedness.

In essence, Ravenhill's book is a call to action, urging believers to abandon lukewarm Christianity and embrace a radical, passionate pursuit of God. He presents a compelling vision of what the church could be if it fully surrendered to God, and he leaves us with the question: will we continue to let revival tarry, or will we rise up and pay the price for its arrival?