Welcome to the third and final part of our interview with Carlos Contreras (Juárez, Mexico). Read part one here and part two here.

Carlos, what single piece of counsel (or constructive criticism) has most improved your preaching?

The following great quote from George Whitefield’s journal entry of March 26, 1739 has remained with me through the years and reminded me of what really is happening as I preach and serve and what my only reward should be:

At eight I hastened to Weaver’s Hall, in Temple Street, which was procured me, because the Society rooms were too little. I was almost faint before I could get in through the crowd, but God enabled me to speak with freedom, and was with us of a truth. I believe there might be a thousand hearers. Well may the Devil and his servants rage horribly; their kingdom is in danger.

After I had done, I went to a Christian house, where many waited for me. At my return home, my Master paid me my wages: for my soul was filled with an intenseness of love, and I knew what it is not only to have righteousness and peace, but joy in the Holy Ghost. This is my continual food.

What books on preaching, or examples of it, have you found most influential in your own preaching?

I would list the following books: Between Two Worlds by John Stott, The Sacred Anointing by Tony Sargent, An All-Round Ministry by C.H. Spurgeon and George Whitefield’s Journals from Banner of Truth.

Other than Spurgeon’s sermons I would say reading Martyn Lloyd Jones’ has impacted me the most.

But I would say I am most indebted to Jeff Purswell and Mike Bullmore for the privilege of sitting under their teaching on this subject and to you for I have had the joy of hearing you preach probably over a hundred times. Thanks for that, C.J.!

What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your effective use of time?

Focus your efforts on results not activity.

What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your leadership?

Leadership is a gift from God and so we must prove faithful in leading. This thought helps me to not shrink back under significant challenges, to not fall into the temptation to pride, to better identify new leaders and to be careful to lead with love.

Where in ministry are you most regularly tempted to discouragement?

When I become aware that a member of our church has fallen into some significant sin. I am then tempted to wonder if we are doing our jobs correctly or if the church is in some way failing. However, I am only discouraged when I forget the doctrine of sin and the wonderful faithfulness of Christ towards his Treasured Possession.

Do you exercise? If so, what do you do? If not, why not? (Please be specific.)

Yes I exercise regularly. I go to the spinning gym or ride my bike about 7–8 hours a week.

Currently, what sport do you like to play and/or watch?

I enjoy cycling (both mountain biking and road) and am able to take significant rides with my buddies from the church.

I also enjoy watching most sports except hockey (big men chasing and hitting this little puck around), Nascar (cars going really fast many times around a loop?) and golf (which like bowling I don’t consider a sport, sorry!).

What do you do for leisure?

Skiing, gardening (I am so secure in my masculinity I even included this), Dominoes and cooking on the grill.

If you were not in ministry, what occupational path would you have chosen?

For 10 years I was in the industrial construction business; if for any reason I need to retire from full-time ministry, I would love to be able to go back and build homes for people.

Thank you, my friend!