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The Living Waters Podcast

Ep. 224 - Examining Some of the Most Impactful Preachers of All Time

The Living Waters Podcast

Living Waters

Prolife, Witnessing, Faith, Gospel, Evangelism, Jesus, Salvation, Creation, Religion & Spirituality, Religion, Theology, Christianity, Apologetics, Spirituality

4.93K Ratings

🗓️ 26 December 2023

⏱️ 45 minutes

🧾️ Download transcript

Summary

Have you ever wondered what makes certain public figures so captivating? What is the secret sauce that gives the sermons of Charles Spurgeon, the artwork of Bob Ross, and the legendary strength of Chuck Norris such magnetic appeal? In today’s podcast episode, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar take you on a fascinating journey alongside guest Steve Lawson into the realms of influence and charisma, shedding light on the unique elements that make the most laudable preachers truly unforgettable.

Beginning with the unexpected popularity of Bob Ross, known for his soothing painting videos, and the enduring fame of Chuck Norris and his legendary strength, the conversation explores the mysterious appeal of these individuals and their ability to draw in audiences. Then, the guys delve into the topic of effective preaching, highlighting the impact of great preachers such as Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, Charles Spurgeon, and Martyn Lloyd-Jones. They discuss the hallmarks of good preaching and what makes a sermon effective, emphasizing the importance of being saturated with the word of God and delivering expository preaching that combines truth and passion.

Biblical preaching, while powerfully transformative, can also unsettle and convict listeners. The guys explore this tension with Steve, acknowledging the danger of biblical preaching while ultimately affirming its capacity to glorify the Lord. Steve also introduces an online preaching academy, a treasure trove that covers the entire Bible and aims to proliferate the essence of expository preaching globally.

Finally, the guys explore the preaching styles and techniques of three influential preachers: George Whitefield, Jonathan Edwards, and Charles Spurgeon. Their mastery over sound doctrine, theology, and eloquent application of text have shaped the world of evangelism. Highlighting the influence of Whitefield on both Edwards and Spurgeon and showcasing some of their most famous sermons, the guys give listeners insight into the powerful preaching of these men and their impact on the world of evangelism.

Understanding the influence of these individuals not only gives listeners a deeper appreciation for their work but also helps believers recognize the potential in their own lives for being used by God. Whether you're an aspiring preacher, evangelist, or are simply intrigued by the study of theology, this episode offers valuable insights. Come along on this fascinating journey and bask in the divine light of powerful preaching.

This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.


Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating!

Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.

You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Transcript

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0:00.0

And when you come to the last two pages of a Spurgeon sermon it will set your hair on fire.

0:06.0

He is so evangelistic. He is so persuasive and calling people to come to faith in Jesus Christ.

0:16.3

I think the greatest sermon that he preached and others would agree with this is a sermon

0:21.2

entitled, compel them to come in. There's no introduction. He

0:25.8

steps into the pulpit and says I must be immediately about my father's

0:29.6

business. I've read this one. And he then gives the reasons why you should commit your life

0:34.9

to Jesus Christ today this moment and he goes through like some 10 to 12 reasons

0:41.4

why everything from the fear of God to the glory of heaven to the

0:45.5

torment of hell. It's the whole package. Another sermon is simply entitled now.

0:52.1

2nd Corinthians 6-2, behold now is the accepted time,

0:56.0

behold today is the day of salvation.

0:59.0

He was so insistent that people respond to the truth this very second.

1:04.4

He says, my text does not say, go home and pray about it.

1:07.6

My text says, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ this moment. And so he just cuts through all of the procrastination and

1:16.2

excuses that people offer as they sit under the truth. Yeah I'll think

1:20.7

about it and so Spurgeon preached with a sense of urgency and fervency.

1:27.0

Some people like to listen to soothing music to relax, others take a walk. Some take a

1:38.0

hot bath. I like to watch Bob Ross videos. Okay, guys, seriously, Mark, you were doing it on one of the podcasts watching Bob Ross.

1:51.0

What is it about Bob Ross?

1:53.3

I can watch the guy and just feel so it.

1:56.7

He had a terrible temper and was very violent off sick.

2:00.3

Can you imagine?

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