Monthly Archives: June 2009

by | June 30, 2009

Expository Preaching Is a Matter of Life and Death!

I’ve picked up Albert Mohler’s book He is Not Silent again.  In chapter 3 he addresses the issue of defining expository preaching.  He urges us to drop the language of “I prefer expository preaching” in favor of defining true exposition, … Continue reading →

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by | June 29, 2009

Pastoral Periphery?

Martyn Lloyd-Jones held preaching to be the highest calling.  Many pastors and church leaders consider it the central calling in their ever increasing list of tasks.  In reality preaching is only ever one part of a bigger package.  There may … Continue reading →

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by | June 27, 2009

Definitions

Definitions matter.  They matter theologically.  They matter personally.  They matter in preaching.  I’m not talking about the definition of preaching – although that is a fine word to wrestle with!  I’m talking about the basic building blocks of the faith. … Continue reading →

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by | June 26, 2009

True Topical Takes Time

Some churches apparently have “topical sermons” every week.  Apparently some preachers think they are easier to prepare and easier to listen to.  Yes and no. A topical message is easier to prepare if you are simply wanting to say your … Continue reading →

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by | June 25, 2009

Non-Sermon Specific Feedback

It is healthy and helpful to get feedback on your preaching.  Sometimes you might pursue this by asking several people to fill out an evaluation of a sermon preached.  Perhaps you ask for specific feedback on handling of the text, … Continue reading →

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by | June 24, 2009

Excitement Is Both Taught and Caught

There are many exciting parts of the Bible.  Last night I was leading a seminar and we thought briefly about the story of Acts.  That’s exciting.  The problem we have, though, is decades of familiarity combined with a stoic tendency … Continue reading →

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by | June 23, 2009

Where Is The Burden of Authority?

When we are preparing a message there are many ingredients.  Biblical explanation, various forms of illustrative support materials, a variety of means of communicating application, etc.  A question worth asking ourselves is “where is the burden of the authority in … Continue reading →

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by | June 22, 2009

Reflect, Record, Relax, Renew

Monday morning.  For preachers it’s the day after Sunday (I suppose that’s true for others too?)  Whether you are privileged to be in a paid ministry position, or privileged to have “normal” employment, Monday is an important time for a … Continue reading →

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by | June 20, 2009

Intersecting “Life Experiences” – 3

Just a few practical thoughts on the issue of finding and using “illustrations” in preaching: Bring Description to Life, Not Just Application –Listeners will tell you that you have great illustrations in your preaching, even if you technically have none.  … Continue reading →

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by | June 19, 2009

Intersecting “Life Experiences” – 2

Continuing on from yesterday’s post.  How can we who struggle with generating “illustrative” materials do better in this regard (to keep preaching from being historical lecture)? Prepare Messages with Personal Sensitivity – As you prepare a message, look at your … Continue reading →

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