Tips for Aspiring Preachers

While this blog may be tailored to those who are aspiring to preach, it’s important to understand that, in a sense, we are all called to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. However, it is true that some may feel a special call from God to preach the gospel, whether in church, on the streets, in jails, in prisons, as a missionary, in a small group, or online. If this is the case in your life, here are a few tips I would give largely based on the example we see in Paul.

How I Was Called to Preach

As a little child, I always had a desire to preach; when I would see preachers, I wanted to be like them. However, I often struggled with insecurities which made me question if preaching would ever be my calling, especially because I was scared of speaking in public. I remember the first time I spoke in a small church; I was twelve, and though my message lasted just a minute and a half, I was drenched in sweat. My uncle, who was my pastor, encouraged me to preach, pushing me to face my biggest fears. Though I didn’t feel like I had what it took, this has taught me an important principle: it’s not about me but about God’s call and purpose.

7 Tips Preachers Should Know

1. God Wants to Reveal Jesus to You so that He Can Reveal Jesus in You

Paul says in Galatians that it pleased God to reveal His Son in him (Gal 1:15-16).

Your ministry should start with a revelation of Jesus Christ because at the core, Christianity is a revelation, not just a religion.

This calling is not to showcase your gifts or education but to reveal Jesus.

2. God Has Separated You Since Your Mother’s Womb for This Call

Paul says he was separated since his mother’s womb, meaning his calling began before he was saved (Gal 1:15).

Every preacher has a sense that this calling started even before salvation. It’s God’s plan for you, despite whatever fears or obstacles you may face. Paul’s challenging past gave him greater compassion for others.

3. The Calling to Preach is Through Grace, Not Works

Paul says that he was called to preach through grace, not by works or education (1 Cor 5:9-10). Some feel called because of their degree, but that’s not why they’re called. If you forget that it’s by grace, pride will prevent you from making a difference. Remain humble and remember it’s God’s grace that called you and will sustain you.

4. Preachers Must Preach JESUS!

Next, it’s important to remember that God calls you to preach Jesus, not deliverance, healing, or other topics.

If you’re not preaching Jesus, you’re missing the calling. Paul said that God revealed Jesus in him so that he might preach Jesus among the Gentiles (1 Cor 2:2). Jesus should be at the heart of your message.

5. God Wouldn’t Use You to Preach to the Whole World, but He is Sending You to Reach Part of That World

We also see in the same passage in Galatians that Paul recognized that he was called to preach to the Gentiles specifically, not the entire world (Gal 2:7-8). Each preacher is given a specific grace to reach a particular group. It’s important to recognize and embrace the grace that God has given you so you can fulfill your calling without insecurity or competition.

6. God Calls You to Prayer as He is Calling You to Preach

Additionally, we see that Paul spent time alone with God before he began his ministry (Gal 1:17). Spending time with God in prayer should be the foundation of your ministry. Take time regularly to be alone with God, studying the Bible and fellowshipping with Him.

This time is essential in your walk as it will deepen your revelation and sustain your calling.

7. Don’t Be So Desperate to Join the Circles of Influence That You Forsake the Calling of Being Faithful to God

Lastly, Paul didn’t try to elevate himself by associating with “super-apostles” or influential church leaders (Gal 2:6).

Instead, he allowed God’s grace to build his ministry. Today, many young preachers feel pressured to brand themselves or join influential circles, but God will open doors for you.

I pray these tips were encouraging for you as you develop in the calling God has for you. Trust in God’s grace and be faithful where God places you.

Read: 13 Tips on More Effective Preaching