Alexander Whyte, after observing the 1859 awakening in Scotland, said, “In revival, the congregation does the preaching.”  

Yes and amen.

I stumbled upon Whyte’s quote in Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire by Jim Cymbala. I read the book long ago but for some reason dusted it off this week. Perhaps the reason was this very quote. I’ve turned the quote around in my brain for days. I’m not ready to let it go.

I love preaching. It fills me with great joy. My tank is filled by preaching, preparation for preaching, hearing other preachers preach, and spending time with others devoted to the craft.  In fact, I gather with a group of beloved friends to critique each others preaching and encourage one another to better preaching.  We call it “Preach Club.”  The number one rule of Preach Club … you don’t talk about Preach Club.  I’ve already said too much.

My desire is to be an effective preacher.  I’m not interested in oratory skill nor massive crowds.  I don’t desire compliments or pats on the pack.  Of course, my ego loves such things.  Yet, the deepest desire of my heart is for my preaching to be fruitful.  My prayer is that revival would spark from the pews.  I long for my congregation to preach.

Lord, let it be.