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Tips for Those Who Preach

“But they will not ask for help unless they believe in him, and they will not believe in him unless they have heard of him, and they will not hear of him unless they get a preacher.”
Romans 10:14, Jerusalem Bible
 
I have a lot to say about preaching. Preaching is one form of public speaking that takes place weekly and involves a captive audience that has gathered voluntarily to hear from one who is called to proclaim a word of God. The congregation gathers to hear from one who is convincing and committed to the very essence of what he or she is proclaiming.
 
Rev. Dr. Alfred Smith, Sr., says, “Preaching is, in essence, the telling of a love story, already told for the plain purpose of reconciling persons to God and one another”.
 
Bishop Ben R. Chamness in his recent book, Notes to New Pastors, says, “People want someone to stand before them and deliver a clear and concise word of God that is applicable to their daily lives”. Now retired, Bishop Chamness reflects on what he would do differently, if he could do ministry over, “Even though I focused on making preaching an important part of my ministry, if I could do ministry over, I would make (preaching) first and foremost in every setting”.
 
When we gather for worship as a community of faith, we experience a dynamic in worship when we sense a presence of the living God. Over the years, I have been afforded the opportunity to hear dozens of preachers and preach in a variety of settings. As a District Superintendent and now as Resident Bishop, congregations continue to convey a high value in preaching that is evidence of leaders who are prayerful and prepared.   Preaching is an essential part of dynamic well-planned worship.
 
In the United Methodist Church, we want our preachers to be encouraged, so our preaching can be encouraging. As few notes and quotes about preaching.
  • If you intend to keep preaching, plan to get better.
  • Lectionary study groups, teaching Disciple Bible Study, spiritual accountability groups contribute to good preaching.
  • If you perceive you need help or hit a dry season, ask for help. Study time away from church and regular times for vacation are essential.
  • Preparation includes prayer, but prayer is never a substitute for preparation.
  • “All teaching is not preaching, but all preaching includes teaching.” (Dr. Manual Scott)
  • The Biblical stories should be complimented by stories that people in your setting can relate to.
 “Preaching is a dynamic, divine human interaction in which the people of God are nourished for the journey of life, and are challenged and empowered to serve and to celebrate the present and coming kingdom of God.” (James Forbes, The Holy Spirit & Preaching)
 
Today, I am praying for those who preach.
 
Be encouraged…
 

Topics: Preaching