The Difference Between Teaching and Speaking

In this blog I try to give my best thoughts on what goes into making an effective talk and an effective, Spirit-filled ministry.

It’s too bad there’s not more training available, but I’m trying to offer some the best I can, so that together we can reach the world for God!

One of the themes that I speak on frequently at this blog is that teaching and speaking are not the same thing. This doesn’t mean that we don’t teach during our talks; it just means that the goal needs to be different. We speak to change lives; we don’t speak to impart knowledge. Now imparting knowledge might be part of what leads them to change; but if you’re not working towards a change, then you’re not really having an impact.

Many preachers understand this, but what they frequently do is to tag an “application” onto the end of what is otherwise a teaching sermon. I don’t think that’s a good solution. I think everything in the talk has to lead people to a point where they’re willing to surrender something new to God, or to take one more step of faith. Some of those things will be teaching points; others will be anecdotes, laughter, tears, or whatever. I’m not saying we should be shallow; not by any means. We have to root everything we say in Scripture. But let’s remember what we’re aiming for. When we can remember that, we’re much more effective.

I’ve written about this a lot, but today I thought I’d let you hear me say it. Here’s another in our continuing series of Speakers’ Tips that I’ll be putting up.

I hope that encourages you!

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