by Robert Earl Houston
For the record, there is no less Holy Ghost nor Revelation for those who are led to manuscript a sermon than it is for those who do not. You’re not more profound because you don’t use notes and I would never attack anyone for their style of preaching.
I think there is not one style of preaching that fits all. I personally utilize manuscript preaching because I want to be concise, constructive in my preachment, and want to stay on point and on the text.
And yet some of my biggest influences in preaching either used notes, a full-blown manuscript, or memorized their previously written manuscript. You still have to study. You still have to pray. You still have to do research. You still have to hear from God.
Oh, that we could celebrate each other’s gifts rather than to create a non-spiritual litmus test of “preferred preaching styles.” Last I checked, I thought we were all preaching for the same goal – that souls would be saved, edified, and drawn closer to the Lord.
Just a few words from someone who has been preaching for 41 years . . . and found the style that fits me best.