Are there preachers here that use C.H. Spurgeon's methods in their preachings? If yes, which methods do you use and which effect do they have on the congregation?
- Amazing, yes I also think that this makes the sermons more alive. Some people think more in images than others. Still, most people enjoy it greatly. Do you already see the effects of adding visual flair? Another tip, get some good books of illustrations if you don't have them yet. They also help a lot in making it more visual.
- I find that using visual language greatly affects the hearers as well as myself during a sermon. Using it effectively takes everyone from a distant third party to being an intimate participant in the text. When I did this for the woman at the well, we were all destroyed!
- When it comes to a genuine effect on the hearers of a preacher or teacher, it isn't the method, but a childlike faith in the Holy Spirit, grounded in prayer, and trust in the simple Gospel and Word of God. Paul stated that he relied on nothing more than preaching "Christ and him crucified". "Some planted, some watered, but God gave the increase." That is the foundation for truly affecting the hearers of preaching and teaching. That being said, I took up Jonathan Edward's preaching methodology, as was, I believe, Spurgeon's as well, to write out my sermons/lessons in full manuscript form. Writing everything out, word for word in paragraph form with proper grammar and punctuation helps me not only establish my thoughts more clearly, but also allows me to go back to it after praying and meditating on the passage. Shortening my sentences helps make my points more concise, allowing me to squeeze as much truth as possible into the allowed time frame for the lesson/sermon. I also try to flow, as you see that Spurgeon does, quotes from scripture right into the very language of the sentences I am formulating. Spurgeon was masterful at this. He didn't stop and say "Isaiah 53:7 says".. each time he uses a reference quote. Dr. Ian Paisley, of Martyrs Memorial Free Presbyterian Church in Ireland used to have some elders of the church in a room adjacent the main auditorium, who were on their knees and face down, begging God and the Holy Spirit to bless him, convert sinners, and build up the saints in their faith while he stood in his pulpit to preach, every time he preached.