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While God plays the most significant role in the preaching task, the preacher must aid God in the work. Preachers can follow some simple strategies that will greatly aid the preaching moment. In the next 4 posts we will look at a few of these simple strategies. The first is to simply be present.
Arriving is a Statement
Simply arriving at a preaching engagement, is a powerful statement. As a minister, or ambassador of Christ we face many arduous circumstances, hindrances, and devilish detours all aimed at derailing us from spreading the gospel. Thus in a very real sense simply showing up and being present at the preaching moment is a powerful proclamation of God’s keeping power. Showing up also demonstrates that the preacher sees the preaching moment as more important than creaturely comfort. So be present because when you show up you are saying, “God is more powerful than Satan, and Good is more powerful than evil.”
Present in the Worship Service
In addition, the preacher ought to be present or have presence. Being present does not just mean being in attendance, it means having presence. To have presence one ought to participate in the worship service. This can not be done from within the study. While it is important to have moments for meditation, I believe that it is important for the preacher to participate in the worship service with the congregation. It sends a bad vibe to come out only when it is time to preach. It is like saying I am the main attraction and all of the preceding means of worship are mere opening acts. Moreover, being present in the service allows the minister to read the congregation and make necessary adjustments. In addition, the minister’s presence in the worship service helps the congregation gather a feel for the minister. This helps to lessen the anxiety or tension within the first few moments at the podium. One should be present in the worship service if one is to be an effective preacher.
Conclusion
To repeat, being present demonstrates the power of God over circumstances becuase the devil didn’t want this service to happen and yet God ordered our steps to be at the appointed time. Also, being present in the worship service allows the preacher and the congregation to get a feel for one another as they all approach the climax of the service in the presentation of the Word.
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Yes, Preacher’s presence in the worship service is necessary to connect immediately with the congregation. Even giving a pleasant smile when you have eye-contact with them, followed by a warm handshake if the worship service has not yet started, or about to begin. This gives the feeling that you are really with them, especially so that we are the ambassador of God.
Thank you so much for the insightful advice. I will use these techniques from now on. God bless you.