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My pastor is convicted to only read and explain the text. He rarely adds any application and feels the Holy Spirit will apply the text to those who hear. Some in my church really appreciate his style and other prefer more of a Puritan Style that includes application.
Then there are some pulpits where no emotion is included at all (i.e. monotone words only) in order to not distract from the preached word.
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While I believe most of the sermon should be explaining the text, I think it is valuable for the pastor to use sermon illustrations, and on the occasion (if it will help to clarify the text) to use examples from his personal life. Look at the sermons of Jesus; He used illustrations and stories all the time. Paul also used personal examples.
The best sermons I have heard are those which focus on explaining the Scripture, but throw in examples when they help make a point more clear.