I Dare Not Preach an Unfelt Christ

Questions Answered in This Article

What does the Bible say about preaching Christ?

The Bible emphasizes that preaching must be accompanied by conviction and the Holy Spirit's power, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 1:5.

The Bible teaches that true preaching of the gospel should not be mere words but should demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Thessalonians 1:5, it is stated, 'For our gospel came not unto you in word only but also in power and in the Holy Ghost and in much assurance.' This indicates that the effectiveness of preaching relies on divine enablement rather than just human eloquence. Preachers must be mindful that their words carry spiritual weight and should resonate with the transforming power of Christ.

1 Thessalonians 1:5

Why is the experience of candidates for ordination important?

The experience of candidates is crucial to ensure they have a genuine encounter with Christ before leading others.

The experience of those seeking ordination is of paramount importance as it reflects their personal relationship with Christ. George Whitefield cautions that many preachers may talk about a Christ they do not genuinely know or feel. This lack of authenticity can render their preaching ineffective and leaves congregations spiritually lifeless. It is essential for candidates to examine their own experiences and convictions regarding Christ before they assume the responsibility of leading others in faith. A sincere relationship with Christ equips them to preach effectively and powerfully.

How do we know that preaching should be felt?

Preaching should be felt because it reflects a personal experience with Christ that leads to a transformative impact on the congregation.

The significance of felt preaching stems from the understanding that a preacher must know Christ personally to convey His message authentically. Whitefield warns against the prevalence of ministers who preach about an 'unknown and unfelt Christ,' suggesting that congregations have become spiritually dead due to the lifeless message of unconverted preachers. True preaching involves a heartfelt experience with Christ that not only affects the preacher but also touches the lives of those listening. When the preacher has a genuine connection with Christ, it can lead to reviving the church and igniting the passions of the congregation for the gospel.

What happens when congregations have dead ministers?

Dead ministers lead to spiritually dead congregations, lacking the vibrancy of the gospel.

When ministers who are unconverted or not personally experiencing Christ lead congregations, the spiritual vitality of those congregations falters. Whitefield asserts that many have become 'dead' because they are listening to dead preachers. This dynamic creates a cycle of spiritual stagnation, where the absence of Christ's transformative power is felt in the preaching. For the health of the church, it is vital for ministers to have a personal encounter with Christ that invigorates their preaching and brings life to the congregation. A revival of genuine faith among ministers is crucial for the revitalization of the church as a whole.