Charles Simeon (1759-1836) writes of the gravity (the weight) and the glory of preaching (Abner Brown, Recollections of the Conversation Parties of the Revd. Charles Simeon [N.p., 1863], 126):
It is easy for a minister to prate in the pulpit, and even to speak much good matter; but to preach is not easy – to carry his congregation on his shoulders as it were to heaven; to weep over them, pray for them, deliver the truth with a weeping, praying heart; and if a minister has grace to do so now and then, he ought to be very thankful.
Preaching is much more than speaking, much more than delivering content. Undergirding it is a deep love for the Trinitarian God, an unshakable commitment to His Word, and an unwavering love for His people, which is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23).
May we be this kind of a pastor and preacher.
Well said. I might mention that the Charles Simeon Trust offers a number of excellent and extremely helpful workshops on exposition. One of our Elders and I attended on at The Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia last week and they are jam packed with great teachers and great teaching on preaching.
Thank you for the additional reference to the Charles Simeon Trust, John. I agree with your assessment.