I've always loved Charles Spurgeon for his plainspokenness, his courage, his enthusiasm for the Word of God, his love of the truth, his command of the English language, and his ability to use simple, vivid language to make difficult truths inescapably clear. Those are all characteristics every preacher should seek to emulate, and there is no better model than Spurgeon.

A number of other notable characteristics also distinguished Spurgeon's ministry: He was indomitably optimistic, even in the midst of severe pain. He had a tender shepherd's heart. He loved people. He had a lifelong passion to see souls converted to Christ. He remained steadfast and firm in defense of the truth, even when his views became unpopular. He was a diligent worker, who knew how to redeem the time. For all those reasons and not just for his extraordinary preaching skill Spurgeon is a worthy hero for every preacher to emulate.

It is nonetheless true that Spurgeon's preaching is the main thing that makes him stand out as one of the most remarkable and beloved men God has ever raised up to lead the church. He is truly the prince of preachers. I often recommend that young preachers study his sermons, learn from his bright and colorful use of language and by all means borrow and make use of the best of his preaching.

Spurgeon was the master of the pithy quote. In fact, no author I have ever read is as quotable as Spurgeon. His published sermons as well as his books are a fertile source for ideas, expressions, illustrations, and axioms that help make biblical truth clear.

John MacArthur