Learn And Experience The Benefits Of Lay Preaching

You probably found this page because you are new to lay preaching and were asked to bring a message. Maybe you were wondering whether it is the correct thing for normal members to minister the Word. Should a leader trust his members to take this responsibility?

At our home church, members are regularly asked to minister the word. Most members experience a range of emotions including fear, apprehension and feelings of inadequacy.

However we have learned to embrace the opportunities and are starting to see benefits that were difficult to predict at the outset. By taking the responsibility to minister, we have learnt many things about ourselves.

Phil Pringle says the following: "Great leaders stretches the abilities of those they lead. We don't realise our potential until a coach-style leader takes us where we didn't think we would or should ever go."

At our home church we are fortunate to have a relaxed leader that understands the importance of practical experience in the process of growth. Here is a short list of some of the benefits that we have experienced:

We have learnt that God has deposited treasures and abilities in us that we were unaware of.
Some have confronted fears and other negatives that have held them captive for a long time.
The person preparing the sermon is forced to seek a deeper intimacy with the Lord.
We have developed as public speakers.
We have become more comfortable addressing larger audiences. This is especially important because we believe it is difficult to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit when one is feeling distressed.
We have learnt to overcome the fear of what others might think of us.
We have learnt to bring a Word even when you know it will not be well received.

We are convinced that lay preaching has many benefits. We believe that the sheep is the wealth of the Church. Every effort should be made to fuel the life of Christ within us, including be placed in positions that we are not comfortable with.

Only then do we learn to fully rely on Him who is our life. It may be uncomfortable at times, but what a great place to be!

You can find our sermons - preached by the "sheep" - by clicking here.

Return from Lay Preaching to Our Sermons
Return from Lay Preaching to Fueling Christian Life

SBI!