One last post prompted by Bryan Chappell’s book, Christ-Centered Preaching, from the appendix on style (pp340-343). Chappell advocates a preaching style that is:
Natural – natural expression avoids pretense and artificiality. A personal, humble, natural style communicates care, transparency and acceptance (of self and others).
Plain – we should be as clear as possible. People may be overwhelmed by complex communication, but they appreciate clarity. Great preachers preach so people can understand.
Genuine – don’t hide yourself, but chose to be appropriately transparent in doubts, struggles and fears. We should have clear empathy and reality in our presentation.
Creative – be loving enough to anticipate the ebb and flow of concentration in your listeners and creatively seek to help them engage.
Courageous – have the courage to let the Bible speak for itself, not pumping in your own authority, but neither apologizing for the tough stuff it serves up. In an appropriate manner, have the courage to preach the Word.
Excellent list – I’ve been considering purchasing Chappell’s book for awhile now, and may do so after I finish “Inspired Preaching” by Wells and Luft next month.
I enjoy the site by the way (long time reader, first time commenter).