Pray…that the Word of the LORD may speed ahead and be honored
Ways to Preach a More Intelligent Portrayal of Christianity Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D.
1. Do not cite only pop culture for illustrations. Broaden the reference to include classics of Western civilization.
2. Do not rush through sermons. Give the words the weight they deserve.
3. Never insult the intelligence of your congregation.
4. Do not use other preacher’s ideas at the expense of your own authentic wresting with texts and theological themes.
5. Do not copy “successful preachers” simply because they are successful.
6. Read classics on preaching, such as Haddon Robinson, Biblical Preaching and John Stott, Between Two Worlds.
7. Be careful in using humor. You can be very clever, get laughs, and lose people. I once heard a pastor say, “Come back,” after saying something about cats.
8. Do not be a bloke. A bloke is someone who is afraid to appear as anything more than the mythical “common man.” One should not put on airs, but a preacher should be a step above average in knowledge and public speaking.
9. Develop a deep reading life in many areas besides preaching, biblical studies, theology and leadership. Include lots of Francis Schaeffer C.S. Lewis, and Os Guinness.
10. Be careful in using any visuals, because they may actually detract from the seriousness of the message given.
11. Do not be entertaining. Be edifying at a high level.
12. Recommend good books from the pulpit.
13. Preach on the wise use of communication technologies.
14. Encourage people to bring real Bible and to take notes.
Ways to Preach a More Intelligent Portrayal of Christianity Douglas Groothuis, Ph.D.
1. Do not cite only pop culture for illustrations. Broaden the reference to include classics of Western civilization.
2. Do not rush through sermons. Give the words the weight they deserve.
3. Never insult the intelligence of your congregation.
4. Do not use other preacher’s ideas at the expense of your own authentic wresting with texts and theological themes.
5. Do not copy “successful preachers” simply because they are successful.
6. Read classics on preaching, such as Haddon Robinson, Biblical Preaching and John Stott, Between Two Worlds.
7. Be careful in using humor. You can be very clever, get laughs, and lose people. I once heard a pastor say, “Come back,” after saying something about cats.
8. Do not be a bloke. A bloke is someone who is afraid to appear as anything more than the mythical “common man.” One should not put on airs, but a preacher should be a step above average in knowledge and public speaking.
9. Develop a deep reading life in many areas besides preaching, biblical studies, theology and leadership. Include lots of Francis Schaeffer C.S. Lewis, and Os Guinness.
10. Be careful in using any visuals, because they may actually detract from the seriousness of the message given.
11. Do not be entertaining. Be edifying at a high level.
12. Recommend good books from the pulpit.
13. Preach on the wise use of communication technologies.
14. Encourage people to bring real Bible and to take notes.