Pastors and preachers face constant pressures, both self-inflicted and from various external influences. These forces push and pull against declaring and proclaiming the truths of Scripture with conviction and clarity. These forces seek to persuade the preacher that doctrine, authority, and teaching the whole counsel of God are out of touch with the modern audience. The listener must be pleased. The church must grow. The sermon must address a certain need, fill a perceived void, or excite a desired response. After all, look at the churches that are booming today and listen to their sermons. Expository preaching just will not reach today's culture. The pastor must only teach from the application portions of Scripture, he must attach scripture verses to his chosen topic, and he must be large and entertaining.

Steven Lawson's book on preaching, an expansion of his sermons from 1 Corinthians 2, argues that Paul's method of preaching is not one among many but the biblical example that all pastors should emulate. Paul intentionally chose not to display his intellect or charm with his words, but rather to simply declare the truths of God so that the listener would be moved by God, not Paul. He maintained a high view of the Father's sovereignty, the Son's supremacy, and dependence upon the Spirit in his preaching. Paul knew that only the Word of God gives life, so he determined to only declare it.

This is great encouragement and timely instruction for all who have felt the call to preach the Word of God. Let us not stray into pragmatic, audience-driven, personality-elevating, flesh-pleasing sermonettes that offer something less than Gospel, grace, and truth! Let us sound forth the great doctrines of the Bible, verse-by-verse, exalting Christ, relying on the Spirit, pleading with the listener.