Preparation and Study

Preparation and study are necessary for the preacher, or as Leonard Ravenhill put it, "sweat, blood and tears." Paige Patterson counselled that five hours per day be spent in preparation for preaching. Draper said that time, a plan of study, a real walk with the Lord, and the sharpening of whatever tools you possess, are essential ingredients in powerful preaching. Dr Drummond said

(1) that there must be vital commitment to the power of the Word of God;

(2) the power of a holy life, and be on a quest for holiness;

(3) be Spirit-filled men, paying the price of a disciplined, dedicated devotional life;

(4) be men of faith and believe that God will use the Word mightily. 

The wise balance of head and heart preparation is set out. Both are essential to avoid "correct deadness" and "living heresy." As much time ought to be spent in preparing the heart as the head! Ravenhill said that in the Scottish church of a by gone age, the preacher was not available on a Thursday since he was preparing his message; and on a Saturday he prepared his heart to deliver that sermon. Detzler referred to this quest for power as being broken before the Lord. Ravenhill said on this, "It is easy to get a man to the cross, but it's difficult to get him on it." It is also hard to keep him there! (Dr John Greever). Brokenness before God is crucial to powerful preaching.