Spirit Empowered Preaching: Involve the Holy Spirit in Your Ministry by Arturo G. Azurdia III
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Azurdia’s “Spirit Empowered Preaching” is a profoundly helpful book for those called to preach the Word to God’s people. It is refreshing that this is a contemporary work with much wisdom, as well as rebukes for much of our modern evangelical folly. We cannot expect God to work mightily if we are not faithful to obey His command to “preach Christ”. This is foolishness to the world.
Further, while many want to replace preaching in the church with motivational speeches, dialogues, debates, rock ‘n roll worship experiences, Azurdia reminds the church of our generation that nothing can replace preaching the Gospel in the power of the Spirit.
One of the final chapters I found most edifying was the chapter which exhorted congregations to “do their part” in preaching; that is, be attentive, eager, discerning listeners. It is no wonder that we get so little out of preaching, precisely because we come predisposed to dislike, critique, and even disdain the message preached.
Azurdia presented some real solid portions here, worthy of consideration and implementation. However, there seemed to be a lack of original material here, and while the quotes he provided were wonderful, it seemed to me that the arguments made relied a bit too heavily on external material rather than original reasoning.
Overall, really good. Worth reading by both pastors and parishioners!
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