I have been thinking about preaching a lot lately. Several times a week I step in front of a group of people with a microphone and a Bible, and proceed to speak uninterrupted for anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. I am realizing what a strange concept this is. There are so few arenas or contexts where something like this takes place. Think about it. Brainstorm every example you can where large numbers of people gather to listen to someone talk for a somewhat extended period of time. It is a very short list, isn’t it? Academic lecture. Political debate. Stand-up comedian. Then the suggestions get obscure. I am part of something quite culturally infrequent when I walk up the steps to our stage to preach. The scenario is a rarity in most people’s lives, and as such, should not be taken for granted.
My thoughts naturally ask the next questions; what is the point, and what should be communicated?
If the point is to be intellectually stimulated, the academic lecturer would make more sense for my Sunday morning crowd. If the point is to laugh, the comedian has the advantage. What unique aspect is the preacher meant to offer?
I rediscovered this video today, and it added to the stew of thoughts in my brain.
It can’t just be something we study for in the mornings. It can’t just be something we prepare for. Preaching and teaching has to be something that we ARE.
Usually I have a bottom line point before I blog…but I’m not there yet. I’m just trying to process the gravity of the task God trusts me with a few hundred times each year.
I pray I am always a man who lets the word possess me, and communicates as one who believes deeply in what he is communicating.
Thanks, Matt.
November 20, 2008 at 8:09 pm |
I am so thankful for your yearning to make a difference and your passion for Jesus- what a blessing it is to have you as my son-in-law, you challenge me to go deeper! thank you!