Five Heart Challenges Every Preacher Faces – And How the Gospel Helps
Discover the 5 key heart challenges preachers face and how the gospel offers strength and guidance to overcome them, from Crossway.
Preaching the Word is a profound calling, but it's not without its struggles. The relentless nature of Sunday ministry can take its toll on a preacher's heart, leading to significant spiritual and emotional battles. An insightful article from Crossway, a ministry dedicated to publishing gospel-centered content, explores five of the most common heart challenges faced by those in ministry, offering gospel-centred encouragement and practical advice.
A man in a study preparing a sermon, looking thoughtful.
The Five Heart Challenges
The article, drawing from the wisdom of respected theologians and biblical principles, names five key areas where preachers are particularly vulnerable:
- Laziness versus happy labour
- Self-pity versus joy
- Manipulation of scripture versus integrity
- Pride versus 'contempt of praise'
- Unbelief versus belief
Each challenge is explored with honesty and vulnerability, acknowledging the reality of these struggles in the day-to-day life of ministry. The author highlights that these battles are often fought not on the platform, but in the quiet solitude of sermon preparation.
Laziness and the Call to Diligence
The temptation to laziness is a significant hurdle. The article stresses the need for a conscious, purposeful effort in preparation, drawing parallels with the Apostle Paul's own hardworking example. It quotes Jay Adams, who starkly notes that inadequate preparation is a fundamental reason for poor preaching, underscoring the importance of diligent work in handling God's Word rightly.
Overcoming Self-Pity with Joy
Self-pity can easily creep in, especially when faced with the demands of ministry while others enjoy leisure. The article contrasts this with the joy experienced by the early apostles who rejoiced in being counted worthy to suffer dishonour for Christ's name. It encourages preachers to find a sense of privilege and joy in their labour, even when it feels burdensome.
Integrity in Handling Scripture
The temptation to manipulate scripture for personal or pastoral ends is a serious concern. Citing the strong words of D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, the article warns against twisting texts to fit preconceived notions or sentimental ideas. It calls for unwavering honesty and integrity in handling God's Word, always seeking to understand and present its true meaning.
Battling Pride with Humility
The desire for recognition and praise can be a persistent snare for preachers. The article acknowledges that this desire often intensifies over time. It shares wisdom from John Chrysostom, emphasizing that true effectiveness in preaching requires both humility and the gift of eloquence, and that seeking praise above profit for the hearers is a dangerous path.
Faith in the Face of Unbelief
Perhaps the greatest challenge is the battle against unbelief. This struggle persists throughout a preacher's life, both in the preparation phase when roadblocks appear, and in the pulpit when doubts about the effectiveness of preaching arise. The article points to Isaiah 55:10-11 as a powerful reminder of God's promise that His word will accomplish its purpose, encouraging expectant prayer and a steadfast belief in God's power.
This article, adapted from Mike Bullmore's book 'The Heart of Preaching', offers invaluable insights for anyone involved in or supporting ministry. It serves as a timely reminder that the gospel is not only the message preached but also the power that sustains the preacher through every heart challenge.
Crossway originally published this story. Eden is sharing it to help connect you with their ministry.