John Piper begins by praising the work of 20schemes and explaining that true preaching is humanly impossible—it can only happen through the power of the Holy Spirit. Natural eloquence, rhetorical skill, or emotional persuasion cannot open blind eyes or create genuine spiritual understanding. The heart of preaching, Piper says, is to lead people to see, savor, and show the glory of Christ—something no human can accomplish without divine intervention.

He emphasizes that the Holy Spirit alone raises the spiritually dead, removes hearts of stone, reveals the truth of Christ, and transforms believers. Therefore, preaching is not merely communication; it is a miracle.

To preach in the power of the Spirit, Piper describes a lifelong approach summarized by the acronym APTAT:

A – Admit your helplessness.
P – Pray for God’s help.
T – Trust specific promises of God.
A – Act in faith.
T – Thank God afterward.

He highlights trusting promises as central, since the Spirit is supplied “by hearing with faith” (Gal. 3:5). Piper explains how he prepares moments before preaching: confessing weakness, praying for humility, clarity, and compassion, and clinging to concrete biblical promises that empower him as he steps into the pulpit.

He concludes by urging preachers to embrace preaching as a supernatural work—done in God’s strength so that God alone receives the glory.