E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of divine unction in preaching, asserting that without it, all ministerial efforts are in vain. He explains that unction, the anointing of the Holy Spirit, is essential for true spiritual results and distinguishes genuine gospel preaching from mere rhetoric. Bounds warns against the superficial emotional responses that lack the transformative power of unction, which is cultivated through persistent prayer and a deep connection with God. He stresses that this divine enablement not only empowers the preacher but also stirs the hearts of the congregation, making the gospel effective. Ultimately, Bounds concludes that much prayer is the price for this unction, which is vital for a fruitful ministry.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the vital relationship between prayer and the house of God, asserting that a church is a sacred space dedicated to worship and prayer. He argues that when prayer is absent, the church loses its divine essence and becomes just another building. Prayer is not only essential for individual believers but also for the collective worship of the church, making it a divine workshop for spiritual growth. Bounds highlights the importance of prayer in maintaining the church's life, power, and glory, and calls for a revival of prayer as the central focus of church activities. He concludes that without prayer, the church cannot fulfill its divine purpose and must prioritize teaching and practicing prayer in all its endeavors.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the incredible power of prayer as a vital force in the spiritual battle between good and evil. He asserts that only those who are committed to prayer can effectively confront the forces of darkness and that prayer shapes the destiny of God's movements. Bounds highlights that prayer is not merely a ritual but a profound communication with God that can change circumstances and bring about miracles. He encourages believers to pray continuously, as the effectiveness of prayer is directly linked to the faith and character of the one praying. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a revival of prayer in the church, asserting that the wonders of God are realized through the faithful prayers of His people.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of beginning each day with prayer, arguing that early communion with God is essential for spiritual vitality and effectiveness. He reflects on the practices of biblical figures like Christ and David, who prioritized seeking God in the morning, and warns against the dangers of allowing sleep and distractions to hinder our spiritual pursuits. Bounds asserts that a genuine desire for God should compel us to rise early and seek Him, as neglecting this can lead to a lack of spiritual fervor throughout the day. He calls for a generation of preachers who earnestly seek God early, highlighting that our laziness in prayer is a significant sin that hinders our relationship with Him.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the profound connection between prayer and consecration, asserting that true consecration is rooted in a life of prayer. He argues that much of what is labeled as consecration today lacks depth and is often devoid of genuine prayer, which is essential for a life fully dedicated to God. Bounds highlights that full consecration involves a complete offering of oneself to God, free from reservations, and is the highest standard of Christian living. He stresses that a life of prayer is indispensable for maintaining this consecration, as it leads to holiness and spiritual power. Ultimately, Bounds calls believers to recognize that true consecration is not merely about service but about a deep, personal relationship with God through prayer.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the critical role of prayer in the life of a believer and the church, arguing that without it, spiritual vitality withers and the church's divine mission is compromised. He asserts that God's plans are marked by self-denial and the cross, contrasting them with the worldly ambitions of men. Bounds encourages believers to approach prayer with earnestness and perseverance, highlighting that true prayer requires a life of holiness and obedience to God. He reminds us that prayer is not merely a duty but a powerful means to align ourselves with God's will and advance His work on earth. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper, more passionate engagement with prayer as a transformative force in both individual lives and the world.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the critical role of prayer in a successful ministry, asserting that true spirituality and effectiveness in preaching stem from a deep commitment to prayer. He argues that while a ministry can achieve popularity without prayer, it cannot achieve spiritual depth or holiness. Bounds highlights that prayer connects the preacher to God and the congregation, making it essential for genuine ministry. He notes that the most impactful preachers throughout history were characterized by their fervent prayer lives, which shaped their character and influenced the Church. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a ministry that is fundamentally rooted in prayer, as it is the key to spiritual success and transformation.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of deliberate and extended prayer for spiritual vitality, arguing that hurried devotions lead to a weakened faith and superficial piety. He reflects on the experiences of biblical figures who engaged in prolonged prayer, illustrating that true communion with God requires time and calmness. Bounds warns against the dangers of short, rushed prayers, which can starve the soul and hinder spiritual growth. He calls for a return to dedicated private devotions, suggesting that more solitude and earlier hours can revive spiritual life. Ultimately, he asserts that the effectiveness of prayer is directly linked to the time and effort invested in it.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the critical role of prayer in spiritual leadership, asserting that true preachers must fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God to effectively advance the kingdom of heaven. He highlights the apostles' commitment to prayer, which they prioritized over other duties to ensure their ministry was powerful and impactful. Bounds argues that a prayerless ministry leads to spiritual stagnation and that the fervent prayers of leaders are essential for the growth and purity of the Church. He calls for preachers to dedicate themselves to intercession, not just for salvation but for the fullness of God in their congregations. Ultimately, he believes that a revival of prayer among leaders will usher in a new era of spiritual prosperity.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the critical need for spiritual influence in ministry, highlighting that true power comes from a deep devotion to God through prayer. He argues that modern ministers must embody saintliness and fervent prayer to effectively combat the world's challenges and to inspire their congregations. Bounds asserts that prayer and devotion are inseparable, serving as the lifeblood of a preacher's ministry, which should be solely focused on glorifying God. He warns against superficial piety and stresses that genuine devotion is essential for impactful preaching. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a revival of earnest prayer to cultivate holiness and Christlikeness in the church.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the immense possibilities of prayer, illustrating its necessity and power through biblical examples, particularly the prayers of Solomon, Samuel, and Jacob. He asserts that prayer is essential to human existence, rooted in our needs and instincts, and that it serves as a universal remedy for all troubles. Bounds highlights that God is always ready to respond to heartfelt prayers, regardless of the circumstances, and that true prayer can bring about miraculous changes. He encourages believers to recognize the boundless potential of prayer, which is linked to God's infinite power and integrity. The sermon calls for a deeper commitment to prayer, showcasing its transformative effects on individuals and nations.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes that prayer involves the entire being of a person—mind, soul, and body—stressing that true prayer requires full dedication and wholeheartedness. He argues that only those who give themselves entirely to God can experience the profound effects of prayer, as it engages every aspect of one's nature. Bounds highlights the importance of a unified heart and mind in prayer, illustrating that effective praying is a serious endeavor that demands complete focus and commitment. He cites biblical examples, including Jesus and Paul, to demonstrate that the most impactful prayers come from those who strive earnestly and wholly in their communication with God. Ultimately, Bounds concludes that the benefits of prayer extend to the whole man, enriching both spiritual and physical aspects of life.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the inseparable connection between prayer and trust, asserting that trust is the full expression of faith and is essential for effective prayer. He explains that true trust is a conscious, heartfelt conviction that sees God's actions in the present and recognizes His ability and willingness to answer prayers. Bounds illustrates that trust must be rooted in the person of God rather than merely in His promises, and that it flourishes in the prayer chamber through consistent communication with God. He warns against the dangers of weak faith and the consequences of neglecting prayer, urging believers to cultivate a robust trust that leads to powerful prayer and divine intervention. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a deep, abiding trust that transforms prayer into a means of receiving God's blessings in the here and now.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the profound power and necessity of prayer, illustrating through various historical figures how their dedication to prayer led to remarkable spiritual success and influence. He highlights that true prayer requires total concentration and fervor, contrasting it with the superficiality often seen in modern practices. Bounds cites examples like Payson, who wore grooves into the floor from kneeling in prayer, and Dr. Judson, who attributed his impactful ministry to his commitment to lengthy, earnest prayer. The sermon calls for a reevaluation of prayer as a serious, laborious endeavor rather than a mere routine, urging believers to invest significant time in communion with God. Ultimately, Bounds asserts that no enduring work for God can be accomplished without being a person of prayer.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of dedicating significant time to prayer, illustrating that the greatest spiritual leaders throughout history have made prayer a priority in their lives. He cites examples of renowned figures like Bishop Andrews and John Wesley, who devoted hours daily to communion with God, demonstrating that deep and persistent prayer leads to a more profound relationship with the Lord. Bounds argues that short prayers are effective only when they are rooted in the long, earnest prayers that precede them, highlighting the importance of wrestling with God in prayer. He encourages believers to cultivate a habit of spending much time alone with God, as this is essential for spiritual growth and influence. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a commitment to prayer as a vital aspect of the Christian life.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the foundational role of faith in prayer, asserting that true prayer is an expression of faith that claims God's promises and power. He illustrates that faith is essential for a vibrant spiritual life, as it enables believers to trust in God's ability to answer prayers, even amidst delays and trials. Bounds encourages believers to focus their prayers on present needs, trusting that God will provide for tomorrow, and highlights the importance of obedience and patience in the life of faith. He concludes that faith, when centered on Christ, empowers believers to pray effectively and experience God's blessings.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the paramount importance of prayer in the life of a preacher, asserting that it must be the foundational force in every aspect of ministry. He argues that true prayer is not a mere routine but a deep, heartfelt connection with God that empowers preaching and transforms lives. Bounds highlights that without fervent prayer, sermons lack spiritual vitality and effectiveness, and he warns against the dangers of superficial praying. He calls on preachers to prioritize prayer, as it is essential for gaining God's presence and power in their ministry. Ultimately, Bounds insists that the mightiest preachers are those who prevail in prayer before they engage with their congregations.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the danger of 'letter preaching,' which, despite being orthodox and well-structured, lacks the life-giving power of true spiritual insight and prayer. He reflects on his own spiritual journey, recognizing that his gratitude and obedience to God have not matched His immense grace and love. Bounds warns that preaching devoid of heartfelt prayer leads to spiritual death, creating a church that is more like a graveyard than a vibrant community of faith. He calls for a return to genuine, fervent prayer and preaching that truly connects believers to God, urging ministers to seek a deeper relationship with the divine. The sermon serves as a powerful reminder of the necessity for authenticity and spiritual vitality in ministry.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes that God's primary work in the world is to transform fallen humanity into holy beings, aligning with His nature. He stresses the importance of prayer in this process, noting that true holiness must precede righteous actions, and that the church must prioritize spiritual growth over material prosperity. Bounds challenges the church to reflect on whether its leaders and members are genuinely pursuing holiness and engaging in fervent prayer. He warns against the dangers of complacency and the neglect of the work of holiness, urging believers to seek a deeper relationship with God through prayer. Ultimately, he calls for a revival of holiness within the church to fulfill God's divine purpose.

In this sermon, the preacher delves into the concept of defending oneself, as seen in the Bible through the Greek word 'apologeomai,' which means to speak or plead in defense. The sermon explores various instances in the Bible where individuals had to defend themselves before authorities or assemblies. It emphasizes the importance of having a clear conscience, as illustrated in the story of Pinocchio, and the significance of listening to one's conscience as a guide to making godly decisions. The preacher also highlights the role of conscience as a mirror to our inner lives, showing us our true selves in light of God's righteousness and purity, and the necessity of keeping a conscience void of offense towards God and man.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the critical role of prayer in the life of the Church, arguing that a praying pulpit will inspire a praying pew. He reflects on the necessity of strong, faith-filled leaders who can guide the congregation in prayer, warning against the dangers of a prayerless church. Bounds asserts that true spiritual revolutions come from those who are deeply committed to prayer and the Holy Spirit, rather than from mere educational or financial advancements. He calls for a generation of saints who are fervent in prayer, capable of igniting a powerful movement for God. Ultimately, Bounds encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God through prayer, believing that great things can still be accomplished in the Church today.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the profound necessity of divine sufficiency in preaching, illustrating that true ministry is empowered by God and the Holy Spirit. He warns against the dangers of non-spiritual preaching, which may appear eloquent but lacks the life-giving energy of the Spirit. Bounds highlights that a preacher must experience a deep surrender to God, recognizing their own powerlessness to effectively convey God's message. The essence of life-giving preaching is rooted in the preacher's inner transformation and crucifixion of self, allowing God's power to flow through them. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a ministry that is not only knowledgeable but also spiritually vibrant and alive.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes that true devotion is the essence of prayer, characterized by a heart fully committed to God, reverence, and a serious spirit. He warns against the modern church's tendency to engage in religious activities without genuine devotion, leading to empty prayers and a lack of spiritual fervor. Bounds illustrates that devotion transforms all aspects of life, making even mundane tasks sacred and ensuring that prayer is heartfelt and effective. He calls for a return to a spirit of devotion that permeates both worship and daily life, highlighting that true prayer is fueled by a fervent love for God. Ultimately, he stresses that without devotion, prayer becomes a mere routine devoid of power and meaning.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of zeal in the Christian life, arguing that a lack of fervor leads to a diminished representation of God in the church. He contrasts the 'iced' Christianity of modern times with the 'fiery' faith of the past, asserting that true Christian principles must be alive and passionate to have any real impact. Bounds warns that lukewarmness and insincerity are intolerable to God, and that fervency is essential for effective prayer and love. He calls for believers to ignite their hearts with the consuming fire of faith, as only a passionate church can truly reflect God's presence. Ultimately, he urges Christians to embrace a fiery earnestness in their pursuit of heavenly interests.

E.M. Bounds emphasizes the significance of 'unction' in true gospel preaching, describing it as a divine quality that transcends mere human effort and eloquence. He asserts that unction is what makes preaching powerful and effective, piercing the hearts of listeners and distinguishing true preachers from those who rely solely on earnestness or intellect. Bounds highlights that this unction is a gift from God, cultivated through prayer and spiritual devotion, and is essential for conveying the transformative message of the Gospel. He warns against confusing earnestness with unction, as the former can lack the divine presence that brings true conviction and change. Ultimately, Bounds calls for preachers to seek this heavenly endowment to fulfill their calling effectively.