Reasoning: What's the rationale behind?
In the realm of preaching, effective communication is paramount. This involves more than just a crude explanation of exegesis; it encompasses choosing the right words, the way they are said, and the body language used.
Peter Mead, a mentor at Cor Deo and the author of several books, emphasizes these key elements in his article titled "Biblical Preaching - Expository: Why", published in Evangelical Focus.
The article underscores the importance of prayerful preparation. Mead suggests beginning with a heart of prayer, seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance to rightly understand and teach the Scripture. Prayer readies the preacher to receive insight and helps align the sermon with God’s purposes.
Understanding the text’s historical, cultural, and literary context is another crucial aspect. This involves discerning the exegetical idea (the Bible’s intended message) and then shaping that into a homiletical idea (the sermon’s main point relevant for today). The mood or emotion of the passage—whether it is joyful, solemn, instructive—should inform how the message is presented to authentically bridge the ancient world and the contemporary audience.
Effective communication of the Word provides a clear path for listeners to be transformed. The goal of preaching is not just to provide information, but to facilitate transformation through encountering God. Mead stresses that preachers do not make the Bible relevant; they show how it is relevant.
The preacher should take the form, meaning, and relevance of the Bible seriously. The Bible is something that changes the preacher, and they consequently serve it to others. The text is offered, not used, in preaching, and it is the inspired Word of God. God places a high value on communication in preaching.
In summary, successful expository preaching is an art and discipline that combines spiritual preparation, rigorous biblical study, and practical communication to honor God and equip hearers spiritually. The preacher should pursue His heart as they study His Word, and prayer should be a critical thread throughout the entire preparation process for preaching.
Mead's blog can be found at Biblical Preaching. For those interested in delving deeper into the subject, his insights offer a valuable resource for understanding and practising expository preaching.
Education and self-development are vital for effective preaching. Peter Mead, in his article "Biblical Preaching - Expository: Why", highlights the importance of prayerful preparation, suggesting that a heart of prayer seeks the Holy Spirit's guidance for right understanding and teaching of the Scripture, which helps align the sermon with God’s purposes and aids in the preacher's spiritual growth.
