Much of what passes for preaching today is sadly just entertainment dressed up with Biblical jargon. It may move our emotions but unless it changes the way we think, and therefore act, it has no lasting value. Good preaching both ignites the heart and illuminates the mind. Good preaching inspires faithful obedience to the Father and ultimately changes the world.
I have discussed elsewhere the 7 signs of mediocre preaching. In the video clip below, John Piper – a preacher at the top of his game – explains what he means by preaching. In a sobering reminder to all preachers he explains that he is not relaxed when he preaches, because
I stand vigilantly on the precipice of eternity speaking to people who this week could go over the edge whether they are ready to or not. I will be called to account for what I said there.
May 16, 2009 at 12:34 pm |
i dont have sound on my puter so couldnt listen to john piper, who i do like and have read a few of his books… this quote was WOW “I standing vigilantly on the precipice of eternity speaking to people who this week could go over the edge whether they are ready to or not. I will be called to account for what I said there.”
as a preacher – a fairly new one at that – who speaks reguarlily to our young adults i feel the weight of responsiblity, that what i say can make a difference and that i am not there to entertain but to speak truth and give hope and point the way to God and for God. its a huge privaledge and only by the grace of God can we do it. i am glad that he DOES empower us to serve him.
blessings, fireball
May 18, 2009 at 12:01 am |
many ICCers heard my story of why I am here at ICC, but no one knows why I am still here at ICC….I still remembered the first day I came to ICC what you preached about…and preaching can really change dramatically one’s life.
Thanks Paul
May 19, 2009 at 10:33 am |
I feel it most in my small congregation of 4 [children].
May 30, 2009 at 1:45 pm |
Amen! The Truth (the whole truth) will sent people free and not entertained or comfortable…