Spurgeon defends Nonconformist congregations against criticism from the Church of England. He asserts that their worship services are in fact genuine and heartfelt, not merely centered around sermons as accused. He also stresses that among Nonconformists are devout believers who derive genuine joy and fulfillment from their devotion to God. In his defense, Spurgeon argues that listening attentively to a sermon is indeed a form of worship. Moreover, he emphasizes that preaching and prayer often blend seamlessly during services, thereby highlighting the role of sermons in worship. However, he admits that there are weaknesses in some public services, particularly those where the prayers lack devotion and fervor. Spurgeon advocates for sincere, unscripted prayer as the most appropriate form of public supplication. In contrast, he criticizes the concept of "reading prayers" or the usage of liturgy, which he perceives as an adaptation introduced at a time of decline in the church’s purity. His concerns stem from the fact that the Bible doesn't support the use of liturgy. Spurgeon advocates for spontaneous prayer over formalized prayer, insisting that the former should demonstrate its superiority in ardor and earnest feeling. He also argues for reverence in prayers and against the idea of using prayer as a platform for human applause. Vulgarity and overly affectionate language in prayer are strongly discouraged. Furthermore, Spurgeon cautions against disrespect while praying to God. He calls for humility in approaching God, asserting that prayers should be communicated with utmost regard for God's grandeur. This purification and sanctification in prayer underscore Spurgeon's interpretation of the biblical narrative regarding Moses’s interaction with God. Spurgeon insists that ministers engaged in public prayer should do so following the practices of private prayer – with deep, heartfelt connection to God. He advocates for genuine, intentional prayer in order to forge a true bond with God. He criticizes preachers who delegate the task of public prayer as a way of honoring others, asserting prayer's central importance in the service. In terms of the actual conduct of services, Spurgeon prefers flexibility and a reliance on the impulses of the Holy Spirit rather than rigid customs or traditions. He cautions against rote religiosity, which can lead to disengagement and criticizes revisions to the original language of biblical prayers. Finally, Spurgeon emphasizes earnestness, genuineness, and appropriateness in prayers, looking down upon feigned enthusiasm or vain showiness. He warns against overly long prayers, arguing that they can lead to diminished interest in sermons. However, earnest and to-the-point prayers are crucial. He also prescribes the supremacy of prayer over the sermon and asserts that prayer should be a central and critical part of the service.
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