“For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: but as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.” 1st Thessalonians 2:3-6

True preaching teaches but it is much more than teaching a lesson about the Bible.

True preaching invigorates but it is much more than a motivational speech.

True preaching is powerful but it is much more than a well rehearsed, smooth talking actor putting on a show.

True preaching is often hard work, and sometimes it has a hard message for the flock to hear. But it is the admonition of God.

True preaching begins and ends in God.

When God anoints the man to preach the Bible in demonstration of the Spirit of God and His power: God is the motivation. God is the content. And God is the judge as to whether true preaching has taken place.

Modern televangelists say a lot of things that people like to hear. But is the message from God and the Bible? They might quote scripture but have they “rightly divided the word of truth” and taught a message from God? Or is it their opinion or the popular message of the day?

If a man preaches to be popular, he is not to be trusted for he is preaching the words of man, not God. If he requires a contract before he speaks, he is not preaching God’s free message. He is a paid motivational speaker (and not a very good one in my opinion).

The preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ is a supremely important task. Ministers of the gospel are entrusted by God to speak the things that God would have His children learn, not man’s opinions.