ALPHARETTA, GA – From his humble beginnings as an itinerant evangelist, Ravi Zacharias has become recognized as one of the greatest Christian apologists of our time. Perhaps, even of all time.
His expertise in and application and defense of Biblical truth has often been tested in debates and post-lecture Q and A’s. I do not believe, however, that it is those truths alone that quiet the skeptics. He delivers those truths with humility and grace that can come only from the presence of the Holy Spirit.
He and his staff respond to difficult questions with thoughtful answers. Though many who desire to debate him are hoping to “defeat” him, Ravi disarms them with respect for their queries and compassion for their souls. He does not regard his individual interrogators as enemies but as people who are blinded by spiritual darkness. His responses are always crafted in his desire for his questioners to come to the Light.
In 1984, Ravi established Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM), making 2019 that ministry’s 35th year of service. RZIM has active ministries in 43 countries. More than 90 staff speakers from RZIM engage with an average of more than 20,000 people each month, not counting interaction with another 600,000 people online.
Recently, Dr. Zacharias announced that he is stepping down from his role as President and CEO of RZIM. He will remain as chairman of the board while he passes the leadership baton to long-time associates Sarah Davis and Michael Ramsden. Davis will assume the role of CEO while Ramsden will serve as president.
Zacharias explained that he is in good health and has a joyful heart. Although he will no longer deal with day-to-day operations of RZIM, he will continue in his calling as an itinerant evangelist around the globe.
“I will continue to honor my calling and serve my Lord as a speaker and writer. In recent times, I have sensed his anointing more than ever. I am busier than ever on every continent. My whole family joins me in supporting this transition.”
Passing the baton reminds us that the race is not over. It is still being run, and the team continues pressing toward to mark.
Zacharias concluded his remarks on the transition with the text of a hymn from Charles Wesley. It is fitting to share them here.
O Thou who camest from above,
the pure celestial fire to impart
kindle a flame of sacred love
upon the mean altar of my heart.
There let it for thy glory burn
with inextinguishable blaze,
and trembling to its source return,
in humble prayer and fervent praise.
Jesus, confirm my heart’s desire
to work and speak and think for thee;
still let me guard the holy fire,
and still stir up thy gift in me.
Ready for all thy perfect will,
my acts of faith and love repeat,
till death thy endless mercies seal,
and make my sacrifice complete.
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