The Spirit’s presence when we preach is more than an attractive option.

Moreover, the Spirit is not the sole property of preaching’s often fanatical fringe.

Instead, He—the Spirit is a Person, not an It—is an imperative part of any sermon worthy of the name.

“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favour, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified” (Isa. 61:1-3).

There, in one paragraph, is Isaiah’s justification for being a preacher.

(Extract: Leslie Holmes Sermon Central)