Daily Encouragementنموونە

This is the high privilege of the preacher. He is a preacher of the word of God - “the living and enduring word of God . . . this is the word that was preached to you” (1 Pet. 1:23-24). The phrase, “the very words of God” is used in Romans 3:2 of the Scriptures. So the preacher will expound the written word and will proclaim the gospel which is “according to the Scriptures” (1 Cor. 15:1-4). He will not preach himself, and even in preaching the word he will look to the Lord for words. “The words in which he clothes his thoughts must come from the . . . Spirit,” says Harold St. John, commenting on 1 Corinthians 2:10-16.

This is the solemn responsibility of the preacher. It will be fulfilled to a large extent in the secret place of prayer. Sermon preparation will involve seeking the word from God. “If anyone enquire of me, “How shall I obtain the most proper text?” I shall answer, “Cry to God for it!” said Spurgeon. There will be a dignity and authority about the preaching, coupled with a fitting self-depreciation.

Too dread the task, too great the duty calling,
Too heavy for the weight is laid on me!
Oh, if mine own thoughts should on Thy words falling
Mar the great message, and men heart not Thee!
(J. H. Moulton)