Preaching by the Book is a practical handbook offering fundamental guidance for preachers beginning to explore their gifts and fresh insights for seasoned veterans desiring to refine their craft. It is a unique resource that provides a concise overview of the sacred task by considering its theological foundation, textual framework, and technical features.
Readers will be motivated by the survey of doctrinal truths used to define the preaching task. Core convictions that include God revealing himself through the Scriptures, redeeming the lost through his Son, and ordaining preaching as his strategy, serve as a compelling impetus to faithfully proclaim his truth.
Preachers will also be equipped with a practical strategy and essential tools for interpreting Scripture, dissecting a passage, and preparing a message. The process presented offers a systematic approach for designing and developing sermons that proclaim the timeless and theological truths of God's word with conviction, fidelity, and relevance.
Sermon preparation also requires preachers to consider other critical elements of faithful proclamation that many works on preaching overlook.
Preaching by the Book provides biblical principles and practical insights for several of these components with individual chapters devoted to sermon introductions, illustrations, and invitations. It also challenges preachers to develop their style as well as their substance by considering their unique personality and gifts, the work of the Spirit, and the particular audience on a given occasion. The tools and tips provided will help preachers clearly and effectively communicate God's word by fully considering their context and congregation.
Preaching is a sacred privilege that God has graciously entrusted to us as servants of Christ and as stewards of the gospel. As such, we must be found faithful (1 Cor 4:1-2). This is a volume devoted to that end.
