Even though all Christian speakers are unique in style and personality, there are some things that top Christian speakers have in common. Maybe you are a Christian speaker or aspiring speaker. If so, prayerfully consider whether you can see each of these things in your own life and how God might want to grow you in these areas. Or, maybe you are looking for top Christian speakers for your event, church, or group—these are the characteristics to which you will want to pay attention to make sure you are finding the best speaker for your needs!
1. Foremost is a deep love for the Word of God.
Most have studied for years and are always seeking to learn more. Great Christian speakers keep asking questions about the Bible. Asking questions about the Bible indicates you are continually seeking to grow in Christ. They understand that we never know enough to stop learning. They want to know the Word and be prepared with Scripture no matter what situation they face. It is difficult to have a conversation with them that does not involve Scripture or Biblical principles.
2. Top Christian speakers also have a strong dependence on the Holy Spirit and on prayer.
They know that in themselves, they are incapable of saving anyone and the job of salvation rests solely on the power and work of God. This means that dependent prayer, asking the Lord to move and do His work, is crucial. They pray over every aspect of their events—before, during and after. Many will walk through venues and pray over individual seats or seek out leaders to pray together before speaking. Prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit are necessary and evident in their lives.
3. Effective Christian speakers have a comprehensive accountability system.
Studies have shown that most speakers who “fall” in ministry have limited accountability. Great Christian speakers do not shrink away from having someone ask them the hard questions. They are willing to be examined and are grateful for those who will do so. They also understand the need for mentoring and desire to reproduce their learning and experience in other young speakers. Everyone should have a Paul in their life (mentor), a Barnabas (accountability partner) and a Timothy (mentee). These speakers understand the need for these relationships in their lives apart from their up-front ministry.
4. Top Christian speakers also serve off stage.
A speaker can be accomplished and engaging on stage, but what they are like once they leave the podium demonstrates the kind of person they really are. The best Christian speakers are willing to serve in any capacity, from cleaning up to moving chairs to serving food; whatever is needed. They do not disappear once the speaking time is finished but stay and look for opportunities to serve and minister. They also look for individuals who might need encouragement or counsel. They take the time to listen and hear the hearts of those they talk to. They see ministry as all about others, not themselves.
5. Another quality of top Christian speakers is the ability to be flexible with scheduling.
Not necessarily with the dates of the event, but with scheduling once they are on location. They consider adding more speaking times at the last minute a gift! They seize every opportunity to share more truth with the group. They also look forward to being able to spend time with participants one–on–one or in small groups and never say no to those open doors without very good reasons. They are generous with their time and desire to pour out as much as possible in the window they have with a group. They have a healthy perspective on their role in the Kingdom of God and the privilege they have to be able to preach the Gospel to many different groups.
6. Being a top Christian speaker requires having “common sense.”
Itinerant speaking involves a great amount of travel, which presents many logistical dilemmas. There may be airport challenges, lost bags, car rental confusion, hotel issues, food difficulties, and a great deal of patience and problem-solving ability is needed to navigate these things. The best Christian speakers are usually flexible, quick thinking and can adjust on the fly. They grow in practical knowledge and experience over time. It may sound trivial, but most speakers can sleep anywhere, because they have! Whether in a cabin in the woods, or a dirt floor hut overseas or in a comfortable bed, they push through and consider it a gift to be there to share the name of Jesus. They are willing to sacrifice their own comfort and preferences. It is not unusual to see the greatest work of God happen in the most difficult circumstances!
7. Finally, top Christian speakers do not have a spirit of complaining.
There will be negative things at every event and in every situation. Those who understand Scripture know that complaining is a sin as described in Philippians 2:14: “Do all things without complaining or arguing…” Great Christian speakers have learned the secret of being content, no matter what their circumstances may be, as Paul said in Philippians 4:11. They have learned to rejoice in trials and suffering. Being able to consider it all joy (James 1:2) helps them avoid burnout over time.
These are things that top Christian speakers have in common, but most of them would be worthy goals for any follower of Christ! If you’re searching for top Christian speakers for your event, church, or group, these are the key traits to look for to ensure you find the right speaker to meet your needs. You can also find further help in our Free Event Planning Guide & Checklist!