Dullness of Demeanor?

I've just finished reading "Preaching the Cross", conference addresses from the 2006 Together for the Gospel Conference. Its a great read, uplifting, challenging and heart-warming in equal measure. Its well worth getting. I most appreciated the contibutions from C.J. Mahaney and John Piper. Here are a couple of quotes:

C.J. The Pastor's Priorities:

Simply stated, God uses human ministry and godly leadership as a means of grace... Pause and consider this as you face the daunting demands of pastoral ministry. Who stands behind and guarantees the fruitfulness of your labours? Our Mediator. What assures you that by "watching your life and doctrine," men and women will spend eternity with God. The work of our Saviour. What empowers your close watching and diligent persistence? The cross of Christ.

John Piper, Preaching as Expository Exultation to the Glory of God:

Oh, brothers, do not lie about the value of the gospel by the dullness of your demeanor. Exposition of the most glorious reality is a glorious reality. If it is not expository exultation ~ authentic, from the heart ~ something false is being said about the value of the gospel. Don't say by your face, or by your voice, or by your life that the gospel is not the all~satisfying glory of Christ. It is. And may God raise up from among you a generation of preachers whose exposition is worthy of the truth of God and whose exultation is worthy of the glory of God.


Hallelujah and Amen!