I’m sure we all would concur that we want to preach to the glory of God!  It is a motivation that should drive everything we do.  But let’s make sure this is not an ambiguous concept.

God is glorified when we magnify Him in our preaching.  When His Word is preached, He should be the central character, the hero, the one elevated as a result.  This means our preaching is not about us as preachers, or merely about our listeners, or even about Bible characters, it is first and foremost about God.  Theocentric preaching, absolutely.

However, it is important to remember that bringing “glory” to God is not merely saying big things about Him or saying those things in a certain voice.  Glory is the fruit of love.  Consider John’s presentation of glory in his gospel, in chapter 17, for instance.  So as we preach God’s Word out of love for Him, and stir in others a greater love for God, He is glorified.

Furthermore, genuine love for God will show in the lives of our listeners.  Whatever we do, whether in word or deed, it should all be to the glory of God.  We should glorify Him in our bodies.  There are numerous references like these that point out the need for appropriate practical emphases in our preaching.  It is not enough to always stir worship, but not life change.  As I listened to Joe Stowell recently, I was reminded again that preaching for transformed lives means a practical righteousness in the lives of our listeners that is the greatest apologetic of our age – which all brings glory to God!

Let us preach to the glory of God, but not hide behind that motivation as an excuse for irrelevant or application free sermons.