I heard a helpful lecture recently concerning how Scripture is accessed and used in peoples’ lives. The lecturer made the observation that Christianity is unique among the world’s religions in that it has meaning at its core. How so?
Well, other religions may be more primarily concerned with form, with tradition, with the system. Christianity is uniquely centred around a God who has revealed Himself in the Word – written and incarnate. What does this mean for preaching? Well, for a start it has to mean that we are concerned with genuinely grasping the meaning of the Word as we prepare to preach it, it means we are concerned not for others to go through the form of a church service, but rather that they grasp the meaning of the Word preached. It means that at its core Christianity is concerned with God’s self-revelation resulting in responsive hearts bound to His in personal relationship. How easily we slip into a religiosity that is more about form and externals. As preachers, we are at the heart of avoiding that cul-de-sac.
I’ll leave this post there, although so much more could be said, but I am travelling today and so don’t have time to add more yet.
Biblical Preaching 
Thanks, Peter: a helpful reflection here. I appreciate your call to those of us who preach to be concerned with “genuinely grasping the meaning of the Word” so that our congregation can grasp it as well. Perhaps one more step might be added: when the substance of the Word is unique, as noted, isn’t the ultimate measure of hearing located in the heart . . . so that the Word grasps us and changes us through our preaching?
While other religions are concerned with form, tradition and system, I prefer to stress their reliance on works. The distinguishing inspiration of Christianity is tha the very God of creation came down to us. Immanuel.
We do not earn that gift. All other religions and cults are works-based.
In a secular, hostile world that mouths religious equivalence, we need to make this our clear apologetic. Only in Christianity can broken people encounter a God who comes to them despite their inadequacy.
This is our most important core message. There is most certainly a place for piety, for reverent forms, for praise music that is not trivial, for liturgy, for creeds.
But, the central theme must establish the stunning uniqueness and promise of Christianity or it remains indistinguishable from the pretend religions and cults.
Very good. Please pull over the car and say more on this subject. Thanks