Elders and Preachers: Effective Techniques for Holy Sermons
Introduction
Delivering a beneficial and effective sermon is a vital task for preachers and elders. This mission requires not only deep study and prayer but also a genuine connection with the faithful. While techniques and strategies can be helpful, the true effectiveness of a sermon often hinges on the preacher's spiritual anointing and dedication.
The Nature of the Sermon
The True Importance of the Shepherds
When considering the art of preaching, it is crucial to understand that not all preachers are created equal. The true shepherd, or elder, is someone who prioritizes the well-being of the flock of YAHWEH and seeks God's anointing to guide them effectively. Unlike preachers who preach for hire, these spiritual leaders are committed to nurturing and feeding the congregation with the Truth and truth alone.
John 10:11–15 emphasizes the distinction between the true shepherd and the hireling. While the true shepherd lays down his life for the sheep, the hireling flees at the first sign of trouble, caring only for personal gain rather than the spiritual health of the flock.
Qualities of a True Elder
The true elder, as exemplified by Peter, takes his responsibilities very seriously. This individual wants to serve the flock willingly, not for financial gain, but because of a deep love for the congregation. 1 Peter 5:1-2 provides guidance for these leaders, stating that they should feed the flock of Elohim with care and conviction.
From John 21:15-17, we see Jesus' emphasis on a leader's commitment and loyalty. Jesus entrusts the care of the flock to Peter three times, each time reminding him to feed the sheep. This underscores the continuous need for spiritual growth and a dedicated heart to serve others.
Preparing and Delivering the Sermon
The Role of Daily Spiritual Nourishment
For any preacher to be effective, they must first maintain a personal relationship with God. This involves diligent study of the Word of YAHWEH and meditation on it day and night. Joshua 1:8 provides a perfect example: 'This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth, but thou shalt meditate therein day and night that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous and then thou shalt have good success.'
When a preacher is spiritually nourished, they are guided by the Holy Spirit to address the specific needs of the congregation. This can result in sermons that extend beyond a standard one-hour timeframe. Sometimes, these sermons may last until midnight or even longer, as the Holy Spirit leads them to provide more guidance and comfort.
The Example of Paul
The Apostle Paul's sermon in Acts 20:7 provides a practical example of an effective, long-lasting sermon. Paul had a farewell meeting with the Ephesian elders, and his speech continued until midnight. This indicates that messages of this magnitude are not limited by time but rather by the depth of connection and the needs of the congregation.
Conclusion
In summary, the success of a sermon—whether it is a brief or an extended message—depends greatly on the preacher's spiritual state and their dedication to serving the flock. Techniques and strategies can be beneficial, but the true heart of an effective sermon lies in the preacher's connection with God and their willingness to serve the congregation with the unwavering love of YAHWEH.