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Spirit-Led Preaching: The Holy Spirit’s Role in Sermon Preparation and Delivery
Preaching simply does not happen apart from the Holy Spirit. In fact, preaching is the Spirit's ministry! Spirit-Led Preaching helps readers understand preaching from the Spirit's point of view and teaches about the Spirit's role in both the preparation and delivery process, showing what it means to be truly empowered by the Spirit when you preach. It also explains the crucial connection between Word and Spirit as they depend on each other to bring about spiritual transformation in the lives of the congregation. This revised edition includes a new chapter on the congregation’s role in relationship to the Spirit and preaching—a subject not often mentioned in books on preaching. Spirit-led Preaching is a book written by a pastor to pastors and students of preaching and is filled with personal examples from the author’s own preaching ministry. It has encouraged both novice students of preaching as well as seasoned pulpit veterans for over a decade. In 2007, Spirit-Led Preaching won first place for the Pastor’s Soul category from Christianity Today magazine.
208 pages, Paperback
Published July 1, 2018
38 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 1, 2018
Most books on preaching, and I’ve read a lot of them, only give a cursory mention of the Spirit’s role in preaching. The better ones sometimes give a chapter. Besides a book by Tony Sargent on the preaching of Martyn Lloyd-Jones, I’m not aware of any book like this helpful volume by Greg Heisler that probes the Spirit’s role in preaching. Even the Sargent book, as awesome as it is, doesn’t guide us through the whole sermon preparation process step by step with an eye on the Spirit as does this book. I somehow missed the first edition of this work, but this revised edition was a blessing and a reminder to me.
Chapter 1 challenges us to see that the most vital element, the Spirit’s help, may be missing in our preaching. What’s worse is that we may not have even felt the loss! Chapter 2 probes exactly what Spirit-filled preaching is. That aforementioned loss may mushroom for you in this chapter. If you somehow slip through without concern through chapters 1 and 2, chapter 3 will bring you before the tribunal. Jesus, the Prophets, and Paul all clearly highlight the essentialness of the Spirit in preaching. That must be the standard for us as well. Since there’s little doubt of being all in at that point, chapter 4 works through the doctrine of illumination. Here the nuts and bolts meet the Spirit. We who love the Word, and the exposition of it, find how complimentary Word and Spirit are to each other in chapter 5.
Chapter 6 looks at the Spirit and sanctification. Here the preacher himself and the Spirit are in view. The next chapter takes the preacher again through the sermon preparation process from text selection to ready to preach again with the Spirit. Chapter 8 glides into sermon delivery with the Spirit. Chapter 9 is a breath of fresh air as it takes the Spirit to the congregation. The value of listening is even probed. Chapter 10 is something of a challenging summary.
I’m impressed with this book. Its contents are desperately needed in our day of programmed, sterilized preaching that would rather give pointers for self-improvement than deliver the Word of God that throbs with life and has the power of the Spirit to bring it to life for you. Every preacher needs a library of key books on the ministry. Make sure this book is in yours.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Chapter 1 challenges us to see that the most vital element, the Spirit’s help, may be missing in our preaching. What’s worse is that we may not have even felt the loss! Chapter 2 probes exactly what Spirit-filled preaching is. That aforementioned loss may mushroom for you in this chapter. If you somehow slip through without concern through chapters 1 and 2, chapter 3 will bring you before the tribunal. Jesus, the Prophets, and Paul all clearly highlight the essentialness of the Spirit in preaching. That must be the standard for us as well. Since there’s little doubt of being all in at that point, chapter 4 works through the doctrine of illumination. Here the nuts and bolts meet the Spirit. We who love the Word, and the exposition of it, find how complimentary Word and Spirit are to each other in chapter 5.
Chapter 6 looks at the Spirit and sanctification. Here the preacher himself and the Spirit are in view. The next chapter takes the preacher again through the sermon preparation process from text selection to ready to preach again with the Spirit. Chapter 8 glides into sermon delivery with the Spirit. Chapter 9 is a breath of fresh air as it takes the Spirit to the congregation. The value of listening is even probed. Chapter 10 is something of a challenging summary.
I’m impressed with this book. Its contents are desperately needed in our day of programmed, sterilized preaching that would rather give pointers for self-improvement than deliver the Word of God that throbs with life and has the power of the Spirit to bring it to life for you. Every preacher needs a library of key books on the ministry. Make sure this book is in yours.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
August 7, 2024
Great book! I love the heart and message of this book. It truly seeks to promote Christ as the center of it all. If more pastors took excerpts from this book we would see a lot more reformation in the bride of Christ. After reading I was left encouraged to work harder for the Kingdom, while also refreshed by the reminder of the good news and Truth of Jesus revealed in the Bible.
March 21, 2026
Phenomenal book! The only critique, which is why I gave it 4 stars was the first 100 pages were amazing, but the last 83 were good, but not great!
February 8, 2023
This is the 4th time around with this book and I am still learning so much.
An absolute blessing!!!
An absolute blessing!!!
April 6, 2020
In Spirit-Led Preaching: The Holy Spirit’s Role in Sermon Preparation and Delivery, Greg Heisler presents a timely argument for Christian preachers to make sure that the Holy Spirit is alive and active in their preaching. Heisler presents the argument that in mainstream evangelical churches many preachers are being tempted to scratch the itching ears of their audience. Heisler argues that preaching will become more powerful and effective when preachers stop worrying about the reaction of their congregants and start focusing on being a vessel for God’s Spirit.
Using Jesus, the prophets, and Paul as examples, Heisler defines Spirit-led preaching. He debunks the myths that can be prevalent in churches that are trying to flatter the culture of the day. Heisler states that “Theology is out, storytellers are in, and as a result we are seeing an entire generation of preachers who are more driven to be entertaining and effective communicators than to be Spirit empowered preachers” (p. 8-9). Heisler adds that “A preacher cannot be pulled in a thousand different directions week in and week out and expect the power of the Spirit to show up in his sermons each week” (p. 83).
Heisler argues that preachers need to get back in step with the Holy Spirit. Preachers need to make sure every aspect of their sermon is saturated with the Holy Spirit. Preachers need to seek the Holy Spirit’s direction in their personal life, in the selection of the passage, in study, in the delivery and in the reception of their sermon. Heisler asserts, “Preach the Bible with clarity, authenticity, conviction, and power, and you will see lives transformed into the image of Christ” (p. 72)
In the second half of Spirit-Led Preaching, Heisler provides direction for the preacher who would like to become more Spirit-led in the pulpit. Heisler even provides instructions for shepherds who want to lead their flock to be prepared to receive the preacher’s sermon. Finally, Heisler touches on the subject of Spirit anointing. While he shares his view, he also presents differing opinions. He also admits he is only scratching the surface of the Spirit’s anointing in this book.
There is no doubt after reading Heisler that he knows what he is talking about. It is clear that he is up to date on the challenge our current culture places upon the shoulders of our preachers. He has an appropriate understanding of the power of proclamation in God’s kingdom. He knows what is at stake and he sees how the enemy is waging war on the church. He takes a definitive stand on what preaching should look like, perhaps swinging the pendulum a bit too far. Preachers do need to concern themselves with meeting people where they are at.
My experience is that as preachers we do need to evaluate whether or not we are guided by the Holy Spirit week in and week out. Heisler provides a roadmap for preachers to look in the mirror and measure themselves. Spirit-Led Preaching is a must read for all preachers. Heisler will help evaluate the areas in the life of the preacher that need to be adjusted.
Using Jesus, the prophets, and Paul as examples, Heisler defines Spirit-led preaching. He debunks the myths that can be prevalent in churches that are trying to flatter the culture of the day. Heisler states that “Theology is out, storytellers are in, and as a result we are seeing an entire generation of preachers who are more driven to be entertaining and effective communicators than to be Spirit empowered preachers” (p. 8-9). Heisler adds that “A preacher cannot be pulled in a thousand different directions week in and week out and expect the power of the Spirit to show up in his sermons each week” (p. 83).
Heisler argues that preachers need to get back in step with the Holy Spirit. Preachers need to make sure every aspect of their sermon is saturated with the Holy Spirit. Preachers need to seek the Holy Spirit’s direction in their personal life, in the selection of the passage, in study, in the delivery and in the reception of their sermon. Heisler asserts, “Preach the Bible with clarity, authenticity, conviction, and power, and you will see lives transformed into the image of Christ” (p. 72)
In the second half of Spirit-Led Preaching, Heisler provides direction for the preacher who would like to become more Spirit-led in the pulpit. Heisler even provides instructions for shepherds who want to lead their flock to be prepared to receive the preacher’s sermon. Finally, Heisler touches on the subject of Spirit anointing. While he shares his view, he also presents differing opinions. He also admits he is only scratching the surface of the Spirit’s anointing in this book.
There is no doubt after reading Heisler that he knows what he is talking about. It is clear that he is up to date on the challenge our current culture places upon the shoulders of our preachers. He has an appropriate understanding of the power of proclamation in God’s kingdom. He knows what is at stake and he sees how the enemy is waging war on the church. He takes a definitive stand on what preaching should look like, perhaps swinging the pendulum a bit too far. Preachers do need to concern themselves with meeting people where they are at.
My experience is that as preachers we do need to evaluate whether or not we are guided by the Holy Spirit week in and week out. Heisler provides a roadmap for preachers to look in the mirror and measure themselves. Spirit-Led Preaching is a must read for all preachers. Heisler will help evaluate the areas in the life of the preacher that need to be adjusted.
March 21, 2023
This is one of the best books I’ve read on preaching. It led me to pray and confess my pride over And over again. Focusing on the Spirit’s role, power, and purpose in preaching strengthened my love for the Word and its proclamation as well as humbling me by reminding me of my weakness and powerlessness. This book’s power lies not in the new information it gives but its weighty emphasis in trusting in and relying on the Spirit in preaching (and all of life). It helped take realities I’ve learned in the past and en grain them into my very being to live out. It reinforced by need to seek the Spirit in my whole life and stay in step with Him.
I gave this book four stars instead of five for a few reasons. One, I usually reserve five stars for books that deepen my knowledge (whether that is a fair criterion or not is up to debate). Two, there were times when the writing style was not up my alley. Three, there were also a few places that I felt were theologically wacky or poorly worded or wrong. Regardless of these negatives, this book was a blessing, and I desire that many preachers will read it to love the Spirit more and more.
I gave this book four stars instead of five for a few reasons. One, I usually reserve five stars for books that deepen my knowledge (whether that is a fair criterion or not is up to debate). Two, there were times when the writing style was not up my alley. Three, there were also a few places that I felt were theologically wacky or poorly worded or wrong. Regardless of these negatives, this book was a blessing, and I desire that many preachers will read it to love the Spirit more and more.
February 12, 2019
Wonderful book that preached to my soul. Doubled almost as a book on the theology of the Holy Spirit and its instrumental importance in sermon preperation and preaching. Excellent read and a must read for all pastors new and old alike. I think the new pastor will find this book insightful and the older to see this book as a refreshment.
March 2, 2021
Very interesting and inspiring work about the importance and power of Holy Spirit in preaching. I stay at 3 stars : a little bit repetitive at some point and some quotes of theologians whose ideology are not aligned with my personal vision and revelation of the Gospel.
Other than that, it is a book all preachers should have in their library.
Other than that, it is a book all preachers should have in their library.
June 11, 2022
Preachers: Read this book
The Holy Spirit’s role in the ministry of the preaching of God’s Word has for too long been ignored. This book helps to fill in a gap that has grown in this past century of homiletics. It is well written and a very practical guide to what might have been a very mystical or heady topic. I highly recommend this book.
The Holy Spirit’s role in the ministry of the preaching of God’s Word has for too long been ignored. This book helps to fill in a gap that has grown in this past century of homiletics. It is well written and a very practical guide to what might have been a very mystical or heady topic. I highly recommend this book.
July 14, 2023
If you’re one that questions those on the pulpit or if you have a calling to do so, this book reminds you of who you’re up there for and why. A humbling book for those who are led by the mic and not the spirit.
August 10, 2025
This was the greatest explanation for the work of the Holy Spirit in the act of preaching that I have come across yet. The work was both encouraging and convicting for someone just beginning a preaching ministry.
March 18, 2020
A helpful book that clarifies the Spirit’s role in preaching and provides needed guidance on practical steps to have the Spirit’s empowerment in preaching.
September 30, 2020
Best book I’ve read on the role of the Holy Spirit in preaching, especially from a non-charismatic perspective.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews