Preaching: Eloquence

And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.—1 Corinthians 2:1-2

There are few things in religious circles held in greater esteem than eloquence. Yet there are few things of less actual value or that bring with them greater temptation or more harm.

One qualification everyone expects a preacher to have is the ability to discourse fluently on almost any religious or moral subject. Yet such ability is at best a doubtful asset and unless brought to Christ for cleansing may easily turn out to be the greatest enemy the preacher faces here below. The man who finds that he is able to preach on a moment's notice should accept his ability as an obstacle over which he must try to get victory before he is at his best for God and His kingdom. We Travel an Appointed Way, 91.

"Lord, this is a vital thought, but potentially quite contrary to what we normally think. I know I need to strive for excellence in my communication—but never at the expense of humble reliance on the Holy Spirit to do the work. Amen."