Jesus’ preaching is challenging to use as a model. Many did not understand what they heard. Jesus did not seem to spend time clarifying himself. And there were many who may not have understood exactly what he was saying, but their reaction demonstrated the point they believed he was making meant that they were implacably …
It is common enough to equate preaching that challenges people to be thought ‘prophetic’ (and preaching that encourages people to be thought ‘pastoral’). But prophetic proclamation is not a heralding of people’s need to improve their behaviour (nor is pastoral exhortation assuring people that they’re doing okay). Prophetic preaching is an invitation to turn and …
A sound understanding of what the Gospel is forms a reliable foundation for understanding the form and nature of preaching. With true Gospel the focus is on God, the implications of which are the basis of human response. Gospel is not a set of ideas, a precious something tucked into our hearts, a decision we …
When the word of God is heard in preaching it always demands a response of movement. Continuing movement toward God, or a course correction to respond to God’s call. Jesus ensured that listening to him would bring comfort to the faithful, but it is not about the faithful being comfortable. From Will Willimon: Preaching is …
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