PREACHING
by Given O. Blakely
CONTENTS
1. What God has said about preaching
2. Focused Preaching
3. Preaching what you can see.
4. Considering your audience
5. Making preaching relevant
6. Avoiding Divine judgment
7. A pleasing frangrance to God
8. Having your own treasury
9. Refreshment through preaching
10. The spirit of faith
11. Building on the foundation
12. Fruit that remains
Lesson One
WHAT GOD HAS SAID ABOUT PREACHING
by Given O. Blakely
INTRODUCTION
You may be tempted to think of preaching in terms of a career. If that is the case, there are a variety of approaches to the subject, designed give you a successful career. This approach to preaching is fraught with danger. If we address our subject from this perspective, we will be faced with several arresting considerations. First, there is a lack of emphasis on God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Scriptures. Second, a high value is placed upon the wisdom of men. It does not take a wise man to see the jeopardy of approaching preaching in such a manner.
There is an entire nomenclature that characterizes this approach to preaching. The terms employed are not found in the Word of God, nor are the ideas represented by them related to preaching in God's Word . I will name a few of these terms. They will be familiar to you. Homiletics (expression of thought or feeling in speech), Hermeneutics (a branch of philosophy dealing the theory of interpretation or understanding), Exposition (explaining or clarifying), Apologetics (defense and proof of Christianity), and Exegesis (something that serves to explain or interpret).These are good words, and represent legitimate fields of interest. However, they are not adequate when it comes to defining preaching the Word of God.
When we "handle" God's Word (2 Tim 2:15), we are in a different arena. We leave the philosophical realm and enter the domain of revelation. In this domain, Divine initiative is fundamental. If God does not make matters pertaining to life and godliness known, they will remain hidden to men. What is more, the wisdom of men cannot unlock the revelation of God. There are individuals that will contest this statement, but they cannot negate it. If the wise men of the world could not decipher the revelation of God enfleshed-the Son of God-, their interpretive techniques cannot Clarify the mind of God. This circumstance is affirmed in 1 Corinthians 2:7- 12. "No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written: 'No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him'--but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us" (NIV).
We will approach preaching from the Word of God. There, the substance of preaching is defined, as well as who can engage in the activity. In Scripture we will find a relationship of this noble work to God Himself, as well as to the salvation of mankind declared therein. In Scripture, preaching is affiliated with God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, salvation, truth, the Gospel, and God's Kingdom. These are the realities that sanctify preaching, making it powerful, effective, and gratifying. If you approach this holy work scientifically, you will rob it of its power and effectiveness! God has spoken on the subject of preaching. What He has said takes the precedence over everything men have said. It is to your advantage to not only know what He has said, but to allow it to dominate your thinking on the subject. You will never be a good preacher unless you please God, even though men may applaud your efforts! The one who speaks for God is to endeavor with all of his heart to present himself "to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth" (2 Tim 2:15).
You must have God's approval! It is imperative that you have no cause for shame when you stand before Him! It is essential that you handle His Word "correctly." These perceptions will guide our approach to this subject. When you stand to preach the Word of God--in particular the Gospel of Christ--you have God's attention! The Son of God pays close heed to what you say. The Holy Spirit is ready to undergird your proclamation--to the degree it is in harmony with the will of God. Angelic hosts also have an intense interest in what you say. God Himself will underwrite your preaching if it pleases Him. The Lord Jesus Christ will dispense what you need to preach in power. The Holy Spirit can use your words to convince the hardest of sinners of sin, righteousness, and judgement (John 16:8-11). Angels want to see God's great salvation delineated in your preaching. They have an intense interest in the Gospel of Christ (1 Pet 1:12).Your objective is to please God, glorify Christ, and make men conscious of God's Word in your preaching. If this does not take place, you have wasted your time, and the time of those that hear you. Preaching is not entertainment. It is not religious marketing, or a means of establishing a career path. It is the most noble work in all of the world, unexcelled among the activities of men! Approach it with faith, sobriety, and reliance upon the Lord. There is no reason why your preaching and teaching cannot be blessed by God. He has ordained preaching, and He will bless it!
WHAT IS PREACHING?
There are a variety of words translated "preach" in Scripture. Each word shows a slightly different aspect of preaching. One emphasis is WHAT is proclaimed, i.e. "Good News." Another is the NATURE of the communication, i.e., a proclamation, or announcement. Additionally, the SUPREMACY of words is declared, as compared with gestures or visible evidences. The concept of "preaching" assumes something has been accomplished--something that can be declared. Preaching is more affirmation than explanation, more declaration than interpretation. I do not want to over- simply this matter. In preaching, affirmation and declaration are insightful; i.e., the proclaimer has seen the truth he is proclaiming. In one of his letters to Timothy, Paul described this circumstance in these words. "The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops" (2 Tim 2:6). In the words of Peter and John, "For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:20). In these first lessons, we will emphasize preaching from the standpoint of proclamation. It is reporting the news, not making the news. It is making realities known, not providing self-conceived explanations of them.
In preaching, the message is more important than the technique. A proclamation assumes there is something to declare. Something to report is essential if reporting is to be done. An announcement is imperative before there is announcing. Angels desire to peer into the Gospel that has been given to us through the Holy Spirit. They are not impressed by messengers with no message, proclaimers with nothing to proclaim, reporters that have no news, and announcers with nothing to announce. Fanciful expositions and hermeneutical wizardry are no substitute for the lack of a message! Human methodologies and etymological expertise cannot compensate for the lack of a message. Preaching is the report of reconciliation. It is the proclamation of propitiation, and the preaching of peace. We are talking about the sounding of Divine satisfaction, and the announcement of amnesty! God has accomplished salvation in Christ, and it is to be proclaimed with power. Never be ashamed to announce the Gospel. It is the catalyst for faith and hope, without there is no salvation.
WHAT GOD HAS SAID ABOUT PREACHING GOD'S GOOD PLEASURE
When we speak of preaching, or proclaiming, we are dealing with a most sacred subject. Here the wisdom of Almighty God is made known, and it is wonderful! "For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe" (1 Cor 1:21). I personally prefer the word "preaching" to "what was preached." Technically, they mean the same thing. "Preaching," in this case is a noun, not a verb. The word used literally means "the proclamation," i.e., a specific message, made known by announcement. Note, this is the means God has chosen to save "those who believe." The reason for the choice is specified. It is because the "wisdom of God" cannot be appropriated by "the world through its wisdom." Mind you, before the Law, the world's wisest men were faced with the very creation of God. In the Law, they were provided a glimpse of God's mind. The prophets declared coming redemption, and John the Baptist identified the precise time of His arrival. In Jesus, God Himself was made known--brought within the range of human senses. Yet, the world's wise men did not grasp the truth! They could not unravel Divine mysteries or correctly interpret providential workings. Those that believe, cannot be saved by the wisdom of men, even if it wears a religious garb. You may call it exposition, apologetics, or hermeneutics--but it still cannot save "those who believe." God has already made His decision, and it has been made in strict keeping with His "eternal purpose." From the first to the last, believers will be saved by the proclamation of the Gospel. God is pleased with this arrangement--with preaching being the means through which believers are saved. For you to be effective in the Kingdom of God, you also must find pleasure in this Divine appointment.
THE EXAMPLE OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST
As always, the personification of God's will is found in the Person of Christ. Our Lord unveiled His mission in the very town in which He was raised. In an appropriate setting, He revealed His mission--one appointed by His Father. Reading from the 61st chapter of Isaiah, Jesus defined His mission. "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, and he began by saying to them, 'Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing'" (Luke 4:18-21).If you ever doubt the power of preaching, hear the words of Jesus again. He was sent to "PREACH GOOD NEWS . . . PROCLAIM FREEDOM . . . AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT . . . TO PROCLAIM THE YEAR OF THE LORD'S FAVOR." Freedom cannot be "proclaimed" unless an amnesty has been accomplished! In what other realm can the "recovery of sight" be "proclaimed"!Jesus did not say men OUGHT to be free! His message was not one declaring men ought to have sight! He announced the time of the Lord's favor--a time when God Himself had brought salvation to humanity! He did not come to enforce a moral code, but to announce Divine accomplishment. The power of that message would accomplishment what the Law "could not do" (Rom 8:3).
AN ILLUSTRATION OF THE POWER OF PREACHING
The book of Ezekiel affords us a supreme example of the power of proclaiming a God-given message. You may recall the prophet's vision of a valley of dry bones (Ezek 37). There were "very many" bones, and they were "very dry," bleached and lifeless. There was no human science or realm of knowledge capable of resurrecting these bones. The bones were not in skeletal form, but were scattered and dispersed throughout the valley. When asked if he thought these bones could live, Ezekiel replied to the heavenly spokesman, "O Sovereign LORD, you alone know" (v 3). The words of the Lord are arresting."Prophesy to these bones and say to them, 'Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! This is what the Sovereign LORD says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD'" (v 4-6).Look at Ezekiel's message closely! It contained no commandment! There was no assessment of the reason behind the circumstance. Ezekiel did not sound an exhortation, or provide a scientific explanation for the condition of the bones. Instead, he simply announced what God was going to do--no more. The "dry bones" were summoned to "hear the Word of the Lord." It was not an impersonal word, but one directed "to these dry bones." "I will . . . you will . . . I will . . . I will . . . you will . . . you will know ." If you wonder concerning the power of such a message, recall what occurred when it fell from the lips of the prophet of God. "As I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them" (v 7-8). Later, as directed by the Lord, the prophet called for the Spirit to breathe upon the slain. They sprang to life, a great army (v 10).
This incident is not unrelated to our subject. It provides an appointed illustration of the power of the Gospel of Christ--the affirmation of what the Lord has done. This is why Paul was not ashamed to proclaim a message totally out of harmony with the wisdom of men. It brought results--the only results God will accept. "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile" (Rom 1:16). Our approach to preaching will honor the power of the Gospel. It will not applaud or rely upon the wisdom of men. For this, I make no apology. God has appointed the means of bringing men to believe, and keeping them in that blessed state. Determine in your mind now, to be first and foremost a proclaimer--a preacher! Settle it in your mind that what God has accomplished in Christ is worthy of your hearty and energetic efforts!
THINK OF SINGLE WORDS (15) YOU ASSOCIATE WITH PREACHING
Think of preaching from a Scriptural point of view. Use words related to the content of preaching. Think of the objective of preaching. Consider the effects of preaching. Ponder the motivation for preaching. The vocabulary employed in preaching is also vital. You will find that when you focus your attention on this subject--with the Word of God dominating your thoughts--it will be remarkable how much you already know about the subjects. As we consider preaching, we are on holy ground. Because of this circumstance, you must take care not to allow mere men to form your concepts of the subject. You must permit the lamp of God's Word to shed light upon this glorious theme. Do not think to ask successful preachers how they became "successful." It is God that ordained preaching, and He is the One that has provided the message to be preached. He is the One that will ultimately evaluate your preaching before an assembled universe. If you preach within the circumference of Divine influence now, you will not be ashamed then!
SOME INSIGHTFUL REMARKS ON PREACHING FROM HISTORY
Great men of God have frequently spoken on this subject. They knew its centrality in God's Kingdom, and marshaled their mental and spiritual resources in their consideration of preaching.
A holy clumsiness is better than a sinful eloquence. Saint Jerome ©. 347 c. 420).
He that has but one word of God before him, and out of that word cannot make a sermon, can never be a preacher. Martin Luther (1483 1546)
The test of a preacher is that his congregation goes away saying, not "What a lovely sermon," but, "I will do something!" Saint Francis of Sales (1567 1622)
Actors speak of things imaginary as if they were real, while you preachers too often speak of things real as if they were imaginary. Thomas Betterton ©. 1635 1710)
Give me one hundred preachers who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God, and I care not a straw whether they be clergymen or laymen, such alone will shake the gates of hell and set up the kingdom of God upon the earth. John Wesley (1703 1791).
I don't like to hear cut-and-dried sermons. When I hear a man preach, I like to see him act as if he were fighting bees. Abraham Lincoln (1809 1865)
A preacher should be a live coal to kindle all the church. Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803 1882)
Preaching is thirty minutes in which to raise the dead. John Ruskin (1819 1900)
A man's nose is a prominent feature on his face, but it is possible to make it so large that eyes and mouth, and everything else are thrown into insignificance, and the drawing is a caricature and not a portrait; so certain important doctrines of the Bible can be so proclaimed in excess as to throw the rest of the truth into the shade, and the preaching is no longer the gospel in its natural beauty, but a caricature of the truth. Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834 1892)
You can preach sociology or psychology or any other kind of ology, but if you leave Jesus Christ out of it, you hit the toboggan slide to hell. Billy Sunday (1862 1935)
God's Word is as a seed. The seed-thought is one that preachers and evangelists need to remember. We imagine we have to plough the field, sow the seed, reap the grain, bind it into sheaves, put it through the threshing machine, make the bread all in one discourse. Oswald Chambers (1874 1917)
The best sermon is preached by the minister who has a sermon to preach and not by the man who has to preach a sermon. William Feather (1889 1981) We are not diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an ultimatum. A. W. Tozer (1897 1963)
QUESTIONS
1 What is "preaching?"
2 What is something God has said about "preaching?"
3 What did you learn from Ezekiel preaching to the dry bones?
4 What are three words you think of when you hear the word "preaching?"
FIRST ASSIGNMENT
Our textbooks are of Romans and First Corinthians. In these books, we will find the message of the Gospel, and the means of proclaiming it, defined. Our next lesson will deal with "Focused Preaching." Our purpose is to show the value and necessity of having and maintaining focus in the development and preaching of your subject. We will allow time for several presentations by those attending the sessions. As a group, we will also evaluate the presentations. This will be done charitably, and with a mind to help each of us to become God-blessed proclaimers.
TEXTS FROM WHICH TO CHOOSE
Choose one text.
Develop a five (5) minute presentation. Target a presentation with that exact duration. Identify the core thought of the text, and put it in a few succinct words. As you have opportunity, show the relationship of other statements in the text to the core thought.
Think in terms of God's revealed purpose in Christ. Do not get lost in the text. Romans 1:16-17, Romans 2:28-29, Romans 3:21-23, Romans 4:5-6, Romans 4:20-24, Romans 10:9-10 Remember, you are not developing a sermon, but a thought. Good sermons are made up of good thoughts.
Your thought is to identify the central idea of a text. Do not develop an extensive commentary of the passage. That exercise will come later. You will find it more difficult to state things in a few words. It will require more discipline, and a better understanding of the text you are opening to us. Your job is to find the door into the central room of the text, and open it for us. Present it so an intelligent and profitable discussion can be based upon your remarks.
Do not be afraid to be innovative in your approach. You are an individual, use your individuality in your preaching--but do so in a manner that pleases the Lord. Get your text firmly into your mind, then ask the Lord to help you see it. Profitable thoughts are the result of spiritual insight--and God can give it to you. With my heart, and without any reservations, I tell you what Paul told Timothy. "Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything" (2 Tim 2:7, NASB).
Lesson Two
FOCUSED PREACHING
by Given O. Blakely
INTRODUCTION
When you preach, you are unlocking the door to the mind and purpose of God. You are bringing salvation within the grasp of your hearers. Remember, this is the means God has chosen to fully deliver believers--whether they are believing for the first time, or are fighting the good fight of faith. You are giving people something to believe, something faith embrace. Your message may make the difference between your listeners overcoming or being defeated by the devil. It may very well be the catalyst for a turning point in their lives, an adjustment of their perspective, and a release from delusion. When Peter preached on the day of Pentecost, 3,000 people were redelivered from darkness and translated into the kingdom of God's dear Son (Col 1:13)– because of what he preached (Acts 2:10-40). An Ethiopian dignity went back to Ethiopia in fellowship with the living God--because of what Philip preached (Acts 8:29-40. In the idolatrous citadel of Athens, "A few men became followers of Paul and believed, with Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others"– because
of what Paul preached (Acts 17:1-34).
Take up preaching like you would a powerful and effective tool. Handle it wisely and with spiritual expertise. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are involved when you are preaching the Word. In this lesson we will deal with "FOCUSED PREACHING." My aim is not to teach a method, but a concept--and there is a big difference. Declaring a method assumes a number of things. Among them--(1)That the listeners are unlearned in the area being addressed. (2) That there is a perfect procedure that guarantees effectiveness. I am not questioning these conditions can, and most probably do, exist. I am not even questioning that there are some merits to this approach. It is not, however, the superior approach, because it does not capitalize on man's strengths. You are made "in the image of God." As such, you have designed strengths, calculated to enable you to have fellowship with God, and to be a co-worker with Him (1 Cor 3:9). The ability to understand is your strong point. Ultimately, you have been created to understand God Himself (Jer 9:23-24; John 17:3). That is a staggering consideration!
When we teach concepts (versus methodology), we are appealing to the Divine imagery in you. We acknowledge that you have the capacity to comprehend the very Word of God, to say nothing of the lesser things of this world. We are appealing to your ability to adapt the truth of God to your own capabilities, given to you by the Lord. God has made you with remarkable capabilities! At this point, it will suffice to state the case in a short paragraph. When you preach the Word (2 Tim 4:2), or preach the Gospel (1 Cor 1:17), you are not declaring methodologies. Rather, you are appealing to the cognitive powers of the people; i.e., to their ability to understand, then act upon what they understand. You are informing them of something God has provided for them in Jesus Christ--something that can be personally appropriated by faith. In order to preach effectively, you yourself must be focused, having some facet of truth within your view and grasp--some Kingdom reality that is dominating your thoughts. In the Kingdom, the more focused the preaching, the more powerful its effects. When your intellectual and intuitive abilities are focused on a particular facet of Gospel truth, they are brought to the peak of power. Coupled with the Holy Spirit, you become an instrument in God's hand. WHAT IS FOCUS? There are at least two perspectives to focus. First, it has to do with what you are doing. Second, it has to do with what you are seeking to accomplish. It is staggering to consider how much preaching has no apparent focus. What the preacher is doing is not clear, and where he is taking the people is equally obscure. Compare preaching to a life guard saving a drowning man. The life guard swims out to the poor soul, struggling to keep his head above water. The man's only hope is this life guard. When the life guard arrives, he begins by giving a dissertation to the drowning man about the quality of the life preserver in his hand. He tells him what material it is made of, and of the material's origin. He also shares some of the great rescues accomplished with this preserver. He carefully notes the soothing color of the preserver, together with the accommodating way it can be firmly held. With gusto the life guard tells how durable the preserver is, and sufficiently large it is, and how comfortable it will be to an already weary man. In the midst of his dialog, the gasping man drowns. From an academic point of view, the life guard had a focused presentation. From the practical point of view, he missed the whole point. The objective was to save the man. His focus should have been making the life preserver accessible to the man, and assisting him in getting a affirm hold on the preserver. The aim was to save the man, not acquaint him with the attributes of the preserver. He really was not focused at all. Focus always has the circumstance in view, as well as the text or truth being expounded. Mind you, the circumstance does not dominate the message, but the message can dominate the circumstance. Focus has an objective in mind. That objective includes clarifying the truth so it can be kept in the heart of God’s people. It also includes speaking so the sinner cannot forget what has been declared!
Focus includes a concentration on some facet of truth. It includes a close examination of the theme, magnifying it, so to speak, for the hearers. The preachers message revolve around his focus--like the spokes of a wheel to its hub. Your sermon can be like a shotgun blast, scattering pellets all over the place, but hitting nothing. Or, it can be like a rifle shot, straight and to the point. Most sermons probably fall somewhere between these two marks--but that should only be the case for a short time. Strive to hit the target every time in you preach. Be focused! Aim at something specific! Load your preaching gun with something specific! Now, you have some liberty in this area. Remember, we are not teaching a methodology, but a concept. Your use of the concept will be according to your grasp of it. It will also be in harmony with your own gifts and abilities. The hearers you are addressing will also have a bearing on your focus. These are all things you can, with the help of God, resolve.
AN OVERVIEW OF FOCUS
Your presentation should be entirely focused introduction, body, and conclusion. All of them should be tied together. If this is not the case, your message will not work effectively in the hearts of the hearers. If people cannot make some sense out of what you say, you will not have their hearts or hears. This assumes they have an interest in eternal things. If they do not, your sermon or lesson should be able to whet their appetite for "the things of the Spirit of God" (1 Cor 2:14). Your introduction opens the door to your subject. It does this by helping the people to rise above the world. When you deal with spiritual things, you are in another dimension--one that conflicts with the course of this world. Get the people pointed toward heaven in your introduction. Sharpen their conscience so God can speak to them through your presentation. The body of your message moves about the room of truth you are exploring. You are acquainting them with some facet of God's mind . . . His eternal purpose . . . His great salvation. Your sermon is wiping away the fog and mist created by this "present evil world" (Gal 1:4). It is bringing the things of God into clearer focus. The body of your presentation is bringing Divine provision within the reach of the people. To be more specific, it is bringing some aspect of God's "great salvation" within their reach. The conclusion constrains the hearers to take advantage of what you have presented, appropriating it for themselves. Your introduction pointed them in the right direction, and made a way for them to enter into the subject. The body of your message clarified the theme, bringing it within their reach. Now you are going to urge them to take it--to obtain it for themselves.
The Example of Peter
Think of Peter's epochal message on the day of Pentecost from this perspective. Remember, we are talking about a concept, not a methodology. Peter's sermon did not follow a prepared outline, but it was in strict comportment with the principles we are addressing. He preached it in the Spirit, thoroughly and effectively. His introduction was an analysis of the startling events that were taking place (Acts 2:14-21).The body of His message was an exposition of God's accomplishments through Christ (Acts2:22-35). His conclusion was that God has exalted Christ in spite of the malicious deeds of the people(Acts 2:36). He provided a way of escape for the people (Acts 2:38-39), and urged them to continue in their quest for glory(Acts 2:40). He opened the door for them to enter into sacred contemplation. He walked them around the room of Divine purpose. And, he put it all within their reach, making a way for them to enter into the blessing, and exit the bondage of sin. It is fashionable these days to rely on speaking techniques and curious anecdotes to get and keep the people's attention. Some resort to humorous stores to get people's attention, while others use contemporary events. Often such approaches are like throwing dust in the eyes of the people. They tend to disorient them for the reception of God's Word, rather than prepare them to enter into the "courts of the Lord" (Psa 84:2).
COME BACK TO THE POINT
Focused preaching always comes back to the point. You have probably heard what I call "spring board preaching." That is preaching that gives the text, then springs from it, never to return to it. After such messages, the Scripture that was read remains a mystery. It may have been used to clarify some other texts, or broaden the perspective of the hearer, but it was put on the shelf by the hearers. There may very well betimes when such preaching is profitable. It is not, however, the norm for you. This is not how you should plan to preach, knowing God can change your plans. When you take a text, you can go from it, or come to it. You can use it as a means to enter into and expound other passages of Scripture, or you can bring other passages to the text and expound it. Focused preaching clarifies the room you have entered. Unfocused preaching stands in one room and talks about another. A sermon is like a load of bricks. You're going to build something with the materials--something that is both durable and helpful. You can take those bricks and build a number of small walls or buildings. You can also use them to build a larger and more central structure, using materials from other sites as it is appropriate. The kind of focus we are speaking about puts together amain thought.
The Example of Paul
Take Paul's discourse on Mars hill as an example of focused preaching. His audience was not acquainted with the things of God, but they were capable of thought. His introduction opens the door to the consideration of Deity. "For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you" (Acts17:23, NIV). His theme is God--the one true God. He does not take for granted the people know anything about God. He is going to proclaim or announce a message that has power to change the individual. In summary, he elaborates on his focus. (1. God made the world and everything in it (v. 24a). (2. He does not live in temples made with hands (v. 24b). (3. He is not served or worshiped with men's hands (v. 25a). (4.He gives life and breath to all men (v. 25b). (5. God made all men from one man (v. 26a). (6. God determined the times and places they were to occupy (v.26b). (7. God did this in a manner that would encourage men to seek Him (v. 27a). (7. God is reachable, or not far from every one of us (v.27b). (8. We owe our existence to Him, and Him alone (v. 28a). (9.Some Grecian poets are cited to show the universality of this truth (v.28b). (10. Because we have our origin in God, we should not think of Him in terms of something man-made(v. 29). (11. There was a time when God overlooked man's spiritual ignorance of Himself (v. 30a). (12. God no longer overlooks this condition, but requires that men repent (v. 30b). (13. All of this makes perfect sense, because God has appointed a day of universal accountability (v. 31a). (14. The appointed Judge is a man, thus bringing God now within our reach (v. 31b). (15. God has provided proof of these things by raising Jesus Christ from the dead, a state common to all men (v. 31c). Paul's point was the living God! He kept coming back to His point! What God did . . . where He resides.. . how He is served . . . How He sustains . . . How He created mankind . . . What He determined . . What His objectives are . . . How accessible He is to us now . . . How even people that do not know Him acknowledge Him . . . How we should think about Him . . . How He viewed humanity in the past . . . how He views humanity now . . . What He has determined to judge humanity . . . The One through Whom God will judge humanity . . . How God has assured us this will occur. That is focused preaching! He always brought the people back to His subject . . . His theme . . . His message.
SOME SEED THOUGHTS
The texts on which your thoughts are being presented are key texts in Scripture. They are the sort of texts that should dominate your preaching. They are foundational texts that bring you into the larger room of God's eternal purpose. They are also texts that show salvation, with all of its greatness, to be accessible to all mankind. The following thoughts are not intended to identify the only way of seeing these texts. These represent my own perceptions of them--perceptions I expect to enlarge as I grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. These reflect my own walk with the Lord. You will see these texts from the place In the Kingdom you presently occupy. I am careful to add this is not a license to "go every where preaching," so to speak. Our preaching must always be harmonious with Divine objectives, and never contradictory of them. The truth of God is like a multi-faceted jewel. Each facet is glorious, enhancing our appreciation of salvation. The facets are also perfectly harmonious with each other. One valid view of the Gospel will never conflict with another valid view--just as one affirmation of Scripture will never conflict with another one. Wesley preached holiness, Spurgeon preached grace, Calvin preached sovereignty, Luther preached faith . . . etc. The kernel of what each man proclaimed did not contradict what the others taught. Seen properly, they were complementary of each other. When you preach truth, with a godly emphasis, it will blend with all other truthful preaching. Romans 1:16-17 (NIV) I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written:"The righteous will live by faith."Focus: The Gospel of Christ. It is God's means to salvation. It is universal in its offer. It is powerful when believed. It reveals God's righteousness. It makes known how that righteousness can be appropriated by everyone. It is confirmed by Scripture. Romans 2:28-29 (NIV). A man is not a Jew if he is only one outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man's praise is not from men, but from God. Focus: How God sees men. God does not classify men by race.
External conformity does not bring real distinction. The real sign and seal is in man's basic constitution--his heart. The source of the change is the Holy Spirit. Written codes cannot reshape men. God's approval is the issue. Romans 3:21-23 (NIV)But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Focus: God's righteousness. It is a righteousness that is revealed. It is made known independently of Law. Both the Law and the Prophets pointed to this righteousness, but did not give it. It is given by God. It is appropriated by means of faith. It is effectualized through Jesus Christ. It is for everyone that believes. It is our sin that qualifies us for the blessing, because sin is the common factor. Romans 4:5-6 (NIV) However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness. David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works. Focus: The justification of sinners. Man cannot be justified by working. Trusting God is the means. Even the wicked can be brought to trust God. Men are righteous because they believe. Scripture fully supports this affirmation. God credits righteousness, He does not award it. Men appropriate righteousness independently of their accomplishments. Romans 4:20-24 (NIV)Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." The words "it was credited to him"were written not for him alone, but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness--for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. Focus: Imputed righteousness. Abraham is an example of the possibility of believing God. Faith does not balk at God's promise. God is glorified by our faith. Faith is convinced God can do what He says. God honors such faith by credited righteousness to the believer. Abraham's case is not a point of history, but an example of how God gives righteousness. God will credit righteousness to those believing what He has said about His Son. Romans 10:9-10 (NIV)That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heartthat God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and arejustified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. Focus: Your salvation. You cantruthfully acknowledge Jesus is Lord. You can believe this in your heart, without doubting. Believingcenters in God's view of Jesus as demonstrated in His resurrection. The heart is what is convinced of thetruth of Jesus. Justification results from believing. Salvation results from confession, or heartfelt acknowledgment.
QUESTIONS
1 What do you think of whenm you hear the word "focus?"
2 What did this lesson mean by coming back to your point?
3 Should our preaching have the same purpose as God's WSord?
4 Is it right to preach something you do not understand?
5 What is the "focus" or Romans 3:21-23?
Our next lesson will be "PREACHING WHAT YOU CAN SEE." The most powerful preaching occurswhen you yourself understand what you are saying--when you are communicating something you haveperceived. We will touch on HOW you can obtain a larger understanding. We will also emphasize theimportance of staying within the range of your spiritual vision. Remembering that our textbooks are Romans and First Corinthians, review the following texts. Select one with which you are comfortable. Prepare a five minute presentation that shares what you have seen. This is to be a straight- forward sharing of your insights. Seek to express yourself in Scriptural terms as best you can. Ask the Lord to help you project your heart, and to do so in language that pleases Him. He will see to it that it get through to the people. Determine what you CAN see in these texts--not what you WANT to see. Say it as succinctly as you can, in a few words. This is to be a PIECE of a sermon, and not the sermon itself. Romans 14:1: Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. Romans 15:1: We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Romans 7:18: I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:38-39: For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 1:18: For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2:12-13: We have not received the spirit of the world but the spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words. 1 Corinthians 3:21-23: So then, no more boasting about men! All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future--all are yours, and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God. 1 Corinthians 5:9-101. I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people--not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world.
Lesson Three
PREACHING WHAT YOU CAN SEE
by Given O. Blakely
The preacher is not a purveyor of second-hand material. While this has a show of wisdom, and is recognized as a valid form of instruction by the world, it is not so in the kingdom of God. The preacher is a husbandman in the vineyard of the Lord. As such, he must first partake of the fruit he is sharing with the hearers. No person, no matter how well credentialed, or how excellent in presentation skills, has been commissioned by God to preach what he does not know. This lesson will focus on the importance of declaring what you have seen yourself, and being confident that this goal is attainable.
INTRODUCTION
We Are Participators!
Every facet of the Kingdom of God involves participation. Every covenantal benefit is dispensed within the framework of "the knowledge of God," or intimacy with Him (2 Pet 1:2,3,8; 2:20; 3:18). In the same way, truth cannot be profitably disseminated without first being ingested by the speaker. Truth cannot sanctify others unless it has first sanctified the individual speaking it. I say this with some caution, knowing that God can speak through Balaam and Caiaphas, although they personally were dissociated from the truth they spoke (2 Pet 2:15-16; John 11:49-51). Their role, however, is not the norm for the body of Christ. They were the exception, not the rule. The standard is this: those that walk with God can speak for Him.
The Reason for Participation
There is a reason for this general requirement. The individual delivering the message can be a hindrance to its acceptance. "Not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things" (Tit 2:10). "Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed" (1 Tim 6:1). Both admonitions are given to "servants" -- those that are not their own, but belong to another. Yet, there is a principle to be seen here. There is a direct correlation between the "doctrine" (teaching) and those that have embraced it. Even more, it is true of those that teach.
THE PRINCIPLE BEFORE US
Truth Sanctifies
This does relate to our subject; ingesting the truth that you proclaim. Truth has a sanctifying power. This is the proclamation of the Lord Jesus Himself. "Sanctify them through thy truth: Thy word is truth" (John 17:17). "And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth" (John 17:19). This is truth internalized, or experienced by the believer. More technically, it is obeying the truth: "Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit . . . " (1 Pet 1:22). Motives and desires are altered when you bring your life into conformity with the truth. Affection is now set on "things above," and not on things on the earth (Col 3:1-3). This puts a new perspective on teaching. You now speak with heaven in view. The will of God dominates your thinking, and your desire is to enable others to enjoy the same blessing.
The Word Engrafted
The Word of God obtains its greatest power when it is "engrafted," becoming a part of you. "Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls" (James 1:21). Under the law, the thoughts and ways of the people were at variance with those of God. "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD" (Isa 55:8). But this is not true in Christ Jesus. In the new covenant, the laws of God are written upon our hearts and placed in our minds (Heb 8:10). This is a condition where the redeemed are brought into agreement with God. In other words, you think like God so far as His Word is engrafted in you.
Knowing the Truth
There is yet another aspect to this. When the truth is known, or experienced in the inner man, it brings liberty from the contaminants of earth. "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32). This freedom is required for the profitable communication of the Word of God. As you teach, your person is mingled with the things you declare, either adding to or taking from your teaching. Remember, when the Master Preacher spoke, people sensed a difference in His instruction. He Himself had entered the things He declared. "And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes" (Matt 7:29). In your individual measure, you can partake of this benefit, standing apart from the multitude of mediocre preachers that have flooded the church. Praise God, you do not have to be in that category.
SPIRITUAL UNDERSTANDING
Special Understanding
Precisely what is "spiritual understanding?" First, it is understanding that is received from God. This is "understanding" centering in another realm, and it deals with "things above" (Col 3:2). Second, it is real understanding, not a mystical experience that excludes the involvement of the human mind. To some, "spiritual" and "understanding" are contradictory and irreconcilable things. Thus, something "spiritual" is perceived as beyond the grasp of "understanding." Others see "understanding" as purely within the confines of the human intellect. Both views are wrong. In Christ, the Holy Spirit joins with the human spirit as the mind is directed toward the truth of God. The result is "spiritual understanding" -- the comprehension of things conceived in the mind of God, yet given to the sons of men.
Not Automatic
This type of understanding does not come automatically. This is seen in the prayer of Paul for the Colossians. "For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God" (Col 1:9-10). Observe that being "fruitful in every good work" requires the possession of "spiritual understanding." Also, this dimension of comprehension allows one to Thus, one becomes more conversant concerning the Person and purpose of the Almighty God."increase in the knowledge of God." This has a direct bearing upon the appointed role of teaching. The person with "spiritual understanding" has, in fact, partaken of the fruit of the kingdom. Such an one is communicating what has been personally comprehended and appreciated. The power of this kind of communication is beyond estimation.
Use Your Mind
Understanding, while coming from God, necessarily follows the activity of our mind. Paul's admonition to Timothy confirms this to our hearts. "Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things" (2 Tim 2:7). Notice: Timothy was to "consider" what Paul had said. He was to devote his mind to it, perusing its breadth and depth. Yet, this was not the end of the matter. In that act of involvement, the Lord would "give" him "understanding in all things." What a blessed condition; and it is available to every "preacher" of the good things of God.
God Opens The Understanding
You must not miss this point, or underestimate its indispensable value in teaching. In Christ, we have increased capabilities to understand. Yet, those capabilities cannot become fruitful through our effort alone. Because we are in an evil world, surrounded by innumerable distractions, we must be "enlightened," or enabled to see the unseeable, and know the unknowable. Thus did Paul pray for the Ephesians; "The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us- ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places" (Eph 1:18-20). Knowing these things is essential to excellence in teaching.
Seeing the Scope
Yet another example is necessary. The devil will make every effort to obscure this truth to you. He does not mind if you rely upon language, commentaries, or even your natural capacities of discernment. He knows this will not yield the results desired by our Lord. Once again, Paul prays for the Ephesians; "That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God" (Eph 3:16- 19).
Truth has tremendous scope. It has breadth, with staggering implications. It has length, with long-term views and effects. God's truth also has depth, challenging both heart and mind. Too, it has height, reaching into heaven itself, exposing us to the "eternal purpose" of God (Eph 3:11). No one can hope to plumb these things without divine intervention! The Spirit must strengthen you, and Christ must dwell within you for this to take place.
Give Me Understanding!
The Psalmist often asked the Lord to give him understanding. As he walked about the circumference of truth, he sensed its magnitude, as well as the staggering deficiency of the natural mind. Join with him in the earnest plea. "Give me understanding . . . " (Psa 119:34,73,125,144,169). "Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works" (Psa 119:27). Never be ashamed of identifying yourself with holy man that asked for understanding!
NOT SEEING WHAT YOU PREACH
Is it possible to preach something you yourself have not seen? Indeed it is! But this is not a condition you want to exist. Such teaching is never praised in Scripture, although it is frequently found among those professing allegiance to the Word of God. You Can Miss the Point Paul warned of some whose doctrine corrupted rather than edified. One identifying mark of those defiling the truth is this: they do not understand what they said. "From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm" (1 Tim 1:6-7). Notice, they wanted to be teachers of the law, but that was not sufficient. Their ambition was not motivated by faith. Therefore, it caused them to swerve from the right path, going up the profitless tributary of "vain jangling," or "meaningless talk" (NIV). In the above text, Paul "urged" Timothy to remain in Ephesus so that he might "command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer, nor devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies." Such things "promote controversies rather than God's work," he affirmed (v 3-4, NIV). The objective of the commandment "is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere (unfeigned, KJV) faith" (v 5, NIV). Some preachers, however, sharply swerved from the goal of "a good conscience and a sincere faith." The evidence of their departure from those qualities was found in their teaching. Their words degenerated into "meaningless talk," because they did not "know what they were talking about" (NIV). Suffice it to say, you must strive to understand what you teach! If you do not, your teaching will surely become "vain jangling."
LABORING IN THE WORD AND DOCTRINE
While our subject is not confined to elders, there is a word concerning them that is appropriate here. "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine" (1 Tim 5:17). The point to be seen is this: there is a type of effort that is exalted in the kingdom of God. Laboring in the "word and doctrine" involves the energetic exertion of--mind, heart, and soul energy! A good preacher is one that works at it; works in research, works in prayer, and works in communication. Hastily prepared Saturday night lessons neither commend the preacher nor edify the student.
The Nature of the Labor
The NIV translates this verse, "especially those whose work is preaching and teaching." This is a very weak expression. "Whose work" seems to place the emphasis on responsibility. "who labor" emphasizes the willingness of the worker. The word "work" denotes unusual activity. The lexical definition "work" in this text is: toil (as reducing the strength), lit. or fig.; by implication pains: labor, trouble, weariness.); to feel fatigue; by implication to work hard:--(bestow) labor, toil, be wearied." This is a description of willing effort that depletes human resources. It also the confrontation of obstacles and hindrances. The one that "labors in the word and the doctrine" overcomes deterrents that stop the average person. There is an element of inconvenience related to teaching that does not discourage such a person. His heart is in the work, and it has brought a harvest of truth to his spirit.
The Total Mind Is Involved
Laboring, or toiling, in the "word and doctrine" also extends beyond the common perception of "preaching and teaching." In Scripture, the term "preaching" is normally represented by a word meaning to proclaim, publish, or announce. This is not the word used in this text. The word translated "word" is logos [log-os]. The foundational meaning of this word is relevant to this discussion. "logos, log'-os; something said (including the thought); by implication a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive . . . " Laboring in the word entails contemplation and reasoning. The preacher has an objective that is harmonious with God's revealed purpose. His preaching includes reasoning designed to clarify the truth of God to the hearers. If you have been in Christ for any length of time, you know that there are members of the body that have this trait. They are the real preachers.
You Are Working With God
In all of this "work," do not forget that the preacher is laboring together with God (1 Cor 3:9). Such activity is truly work, but it is not debilitating activity. Energy is expended, yet strength is renewed. There is a certain refreshment that comes to such workers that is known only by them. No amount of academic expertise and discipline can compensate for a lack of fellowship with God. If we are not working with Him, our work is without any redeeming value! We thus are only clanging cymbals!
PARTAKING OF THE FRUITS
There Is A Harvest
Extensive effort in the field of truth will yield a harvest. That harvest must be tasted by the laborer before it is passed on to others. What is more, the preacher is like a caretaker of the domain of truth--a "husbandman." He/she is not an owner, but a caretaker; a custodian of the truth of God. Hear the word of God to the "husbandman." "The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits" (2 Tim 2:6).
Strength Is Required
What sort of activity constitutes "labor?" The "labor" will require strength and fortitude that can only be found in the grace of God. "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus" (v 1). It also requires alertness; being on the watch for competent individuals that can join in the labors. "And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also" (v 2). Because preachers are in a war zone, the ability to withstand evil encroachments is difficult. "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (v 3). Vigilance is required to avoid entanglement with the lesser things of this world. "No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully" (v 4-5).
The First to Benefit
Preachers that zealously engage in these activities will be the first to eat the fruit. They will see the invigorating implications of the text. The glory of the doctrine will first dawn upon them. They will see its association with the purpose of God, and perceive its relevance to life. The Word of God will bring personal benefit to them, thereby enabling them to effectively communicate it to the people. Those that do NOT experience such things are, by that very condition, disqualified from the ministry of teaching.
More Than Academics
The "fruits" of the harvest involve more than an academic understanding of the text. The heart is strengthened by the fruit. The soul is gladdened as the effect of discernment is realized. A peace that passes understanding that floods the heart. Confidence in God begins to dominate, as reliance on the flesh wanes and finally disappears. How delightful to the heart experiencing such things! As you must know, there are many "preachers" that have never experienced these things. To them, teaching is a burden, laden with fear and foreboding. But it will not be so for those that "eat the fruit of their doings" (Isa 3:10), while working in the fruitful field of God's Word. To them, teaching will be a source of refreshment and happiness--both to themselves, and those that hear them.
This aspect of preaching cannot be overstated. If you do not comprehend what you are preaching, you will not be able to put all of your person into it. It will also open the door for Satan to hinder your effectiveness. Insight is an essential part of proclamation.
THE BLESSING OF FRESH MANNA
A Parallel From the Past
A marvelous parallel to this situation is found in the miraculous manna provided to Israel in the wilderness. The wonder of that food, however, did not reduce the requirement for effort by the people. God sent it, but they had to gather it. What is more, it had to be gathered within a certain period. Excessive manna could not be profitably gathered, for it would spoil after one day. Each day, the people had to eat fresh manna. God would not allow it to be any other way. Here is the record.
"This is the thing which the LORD hath commanded, Gather of it every man according to his eating, an omer for every man, according to the number of your persons; take ye every man for them which are in his tents. And the children of Israel did so, and gathered, some more, some less. And when they did mete it with an omer, he that gathered much had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack; they gathered every man according to his eating. And Moses said, Let no man leave of it till the morning. Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank: and Moses was wroth with them. And they gathered it every morning, every man according to his eating: and when the sun waxed hot, it melted" (Exo 16:16-21).
Give It When It Is Fresh
Spiritual insight is like that manna; it does not last beyond current usefulness. I realize that some do attempt to carry old insights from lesson to lesson, so to speak. But they help neither themselves nor those that hear them. If the Word of God is not burning in your heart, it will not ignite the spirit of others. Labor in the Word until your heart is burning; then speak while the fire burns! Thus is it written, "My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue" (Psa 39:3).
The productive preacher communicates spiritual realities by which he/she is currently being affected. Though the facet of truth with which he/she is dealing may not be totally new, yet the characteristic of newness remains within it. The expanse of kingdom realities has produced expectancy in the preacher. The vistas of truth are unfolding in his heart, bringing a vibrancy to the message. As his heart burns within him, his speech will be blessed.
This is not to be confused with mere human charisma or dynamism. The kingdom of God has its own sphere of power and effectiveness, and it is spiritual. The truth ignites the spirit, not merely the manner, of the preacher. As the truth sanctifies the human spirit, it vivifies the message to all that have received the love of the truth. This freshness is as indispensable to the preacher as daily manna was to Israel in the wilderness. Whatever robs your message of freshness also robs it of power. Make it your aim to possess your subject to the fullest extent possible Leave no stone unturned in this quest. This is more than merely being emotional! It is being insightful.
SPEAKING FROM YOUR OWN TREASURY
A Personal Treasury
The preacher has a personal treasury of truth. It consists of the things he/she has seen and heard. More particularly, the understanding and appreciation of Scripture is the heart of your treasury. More than an understanding of the circumstances under which Scripture was written, the correlation of the text with God's "eternal purpose" is perceived. There is a certain rationale in Scripture that transcends the immediate issues with which it deals (i.e., the Thessalonians not working, the Galatians being inclined to law, immorality in Corinth, the selection of leaders in First Timothy, etc). The correlation of specific texts with the "purpose" of God, of the perception of the rationale that permeates Scripture, enables the preacher to make insightful applications of truth.
Some of these insights occurred in the past, while others are "hot off the press," so to speak. Jesus said it this way; "Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old" (Matt 13:52). The NIV emphasizes that the "scribe" is a preacher, not merely a "note-taker." "He said to them, "Therefore every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old" (Matt 13:52).
It Is the Preacher's Treasury
Notice that the treasury, or storehouse, belonged to the preacher; it was "his." Observe also that he is "instructed about the kingdom of heaven." Like Samuel, He knows the "manner of the kingdom" (1 Sam 10:25). This knowledge is revealed in the blending of "old" and "new" treasures from his "storehouse." The insightful preacher can correlate Scripture in the field of truth being cultivated. This does not mean the preacher knows everything about every affirmation of God's Word. It does mean he teaches only those things with which he is familiar.
For many years, I have preceded my personal studies with a prayer for understanding. I have gauge the success of my study by this single criterion: did I see some fresh facet of truth? To put it another way, Did the panorama of truth become larger? Did the horizon of revelation become more beautiful and extensive? Did my appreciation for the Word of God grow, and my thanksgiving increase? The experience of these things increases your personal treasury.
Ask the Lord to Increase Your Treasury
Ask the Lord to help you develop and teach from a personal treasury of understanding. Ask Him to "enlarge" your heart (Psa 119:32); to give you a greater capacity for comprehending His truth. You will not be disappointed! The answer to your prayer will be reflected in your teaching. Such teaching will bring you pleasant experiences, and will not be easily forgotten by those fortunate enough to hear it. And remember, it is your treasury--a rich and valuable resource. Do not underrate the things you have been given to see! These are the fruits that you have eaten from the garden of God's Word, and they qualify you to teach for Him.
SPEAKING WHAT YOU HAVE SEEN AND HEARD
Our Great Example
When our blessed Lord was here, He set the tone for all kingdom labors. He communicated ONLY what He had "seen and heard." With Him, that involved "all things," and yet it reveals the very nature of godly teaching. "He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony" (John 3:31-32).
Peter and John
When "Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest," confronted Peter and John, they commanded them to refrain from preaching (Acts 4:6). The response of those bold proclaimers is noteworthy: " . . . we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:20). That is the manner of the kingdom.
Saul Commissioned
Devout Ananias was sent by God to inform Saul of Tarsus that he had been chosen to communicate the Gospel. His commission to Saul again reveals the manner of the kingdom. "And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard" (Acts 22:14- 15).
The Aged Apostle
When John the beloved had grown old, and had gained respect in the household of faith, he maintained his grasp of this principle. He did not use his apostolic office to promulgate personal views or make a name for himself. Instead, he maintained the manner of the kingdom. "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ" (1 John 1:3).
An Ongoing Experience
Seeing and hearing spiritual realities is an ongoing experience. It is the expansion of spiritual understanding and the enlargement of your kingdom perspective. It is possible for the preacher to experience such things on a daily basis. As you walk in the light, you will be illuminated. When you walk by faith, you will be convinced. When you live in the Spirit, you will be enlivened. That is the manner of the kingdom, and it is indispensable in the realm of teaching.
CONCLUSION
The requirement of first partaking of the fruit must not be viewed as a harsh and disqualifying law. This is a privilege granted by God in Christ. It provides an opportunity for the preacher to prove the faithfulness of the Lord. It brings glory to God and honor to Jesus. This is an area of blessing! The reality of "fruit" is a commentary on the preparations of the preacher. Your preparatory labor, when done in faith, will produce a harvest. God will see to it that it does. As you study and pray, look for the growth of satisfying spiritual produce! And, when you have tasted its sweetness, give a healthy helping of it to those you instruct. It will bring joy and satisfaction to every one that loves the truth, just as it did to you! It will also bring honor to the Savior Who has sent you.
QUESTIONS
1 What is one of the results of the Word being engrafted in a person?
2 What happens when we "know the truth?"
3 Explain in your own words what iks meant by God opening our understanding.
4 What does it mean to labor in the word and doctrine?
5 Should the preacher be the first one to see what he preaches?
ASSIGNMENT Pick one of the texts shown below, and an audience to which you will declare it. Remember the previous lessons we have had, and incorporate your perception of them into your presentation. (1) What God has said about preaching. You are engaged in a holy activity--one that has been ordained by God as the exclusive means through which men can be saved. He will bless your efforts as you enter into them with Him. The message He has given us is tailored for men, and they will be able to grasp what you say when it is blessed by God. (2) Focusing your preaching. Let your words be like nails that fasten the truth in men's hearts. Do not let your message get away from you by lingering too long on the condition of your audience. Your sermon is like a flashlight. Do not simply wave it about, but shine it on something of eternal relevance. (3) Preaching what you can see. Thoroughness is good, but insight is better. If you can bring your audience to see something you have seen, it will effect them like it has effected you. The point of this class is not to obtain a grade, or preach according to a prescribed pattern. Rather, it is to encourage you to be an effective preacher--to move men's hearts toward the Lord, and persuade them to take hold of His great salvation. And other view of preaching is unacceptable.
Lesson Four
CONSIDERING YOUR AUDIENCE
by Given O. Blakely
INTRODUCTION
The nobility and priority of preaching is worthy of your consideration. If you are in Christ, you are a product of preaching. The Lord employed the message of someone to penetrate your heart, making known its counsels. It is with you as with the Corinthians someone was given to you through whom you believed. As it is written, "What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, as the Lord assigned to each" (1 Cor 3:5). It was not viewing how these holy men lived that saved the Corinthians, but believing what they proclaimed! To be sure, their lives were harmonious with their message, but it was the message that had the power! The trite little saying, "I had rather see a sermon than hear one any time," is foolish, and appeals to those with little or no acquaintance with the ways of God. Our lives adorn the doctrine (Tit 2:10), but it is the doctrine that distills within the heart, bringing conviction and life (Deut 32:2).
Preaching, or proclaiming the Gospel, is not undergirded by human wisdom. It cannot be accomplished by following a prescribed procedure, or adhering to a scientific principle. You can be sure that the God Who declares the wisdom of this world to be "foolishness" (1 Cor 1:21; 3:19), will not employ it to accomplish His salvational objective in Christ Jesus. Reliance upon the flesh in preaching is as foolish and unacceptable as relying upon it for protection or justification. In my judgment, this cannot be overemphasized. You can imagine what would have happened if Paul would have sought to develop his apostleship by employing the things to which he was subjected as a pharisee. When he poignantly stated that he counted everything that was "gain" to him but "loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus," he was expressing the requisite for laboring in the vineyard of the Lord (Phil 3:8ff). While we are not expected to abandon thought, or take refuge in ignorance, our thinking processes and presentation skills can only be honed to their finest edge when we rely upon our God. At the point the wisdom of this world becomes inhibitive to faith, it becomes sinful, and is to be abandoned. That is something that must be determined by each individual, and it is to be done with the greatest of sobriety, and in complete reliance upon the Lord.
WHAT ABOUT YOUR AUDIENCE?
Preaching is never done mechanically, in ignorement of the audience that is being addressed. While we are not preaching to "please men" (Gal 1:10), we do seek to "to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith" in Christ (Acts 26:18). In this matter you find another opportunity to rely upon your God!
Think of the different audiences to whom the Gospel was preached in the book of Acts. Though not exhaustive, here is a sampling of the remarkable diversity of these audiences. (1. A multitude of devout men from every nation under heaven, guilty of murdering Jesus (Acts 2:14-36). (2. A group of people impressed by a great work of God (Acts 3: 12-26). (3. Enemies that sought to suppress the preaching of the Gospel (Acts 4:8-12; 5:29-32; 7:2-53). (4. A Samaritan city (Acts 8:5). (5. Before political officials (Acts 8:32-35; 22:2-21; 24:10-25; 26:2-25). (6. A Gentile that was a good man, with all his household (Acts 10:34-43). (7. Synagogues (Acts 13:16-41,44-47; 17:2-4). (8. A conference of Apostles and elders (Acts 15:7-11, 13-21). (9. A merchant at a prayer meeting (Acts 16:13-15). (10. A jailor (Acts 16:28-36). (10. Before heathen philosophers (Acts 17:22-31).
The early proclaimers of the Gospel did not have time to become specialists. Jesus has told them they would testify before people to whom they were not accustomed to speaking (Luke 12:11). While it is fashionable today to culture special preaching ministries, such activity must be done with care. You may very well have a burden for a certain body of people, and that is not to be condemned. However, if you are going to be used of God, you must become as versatile as your faith will allow. God may send a relatively unknown prophet like Jonah to a great city like Nineveh. He may also send a former Pharisee to the Gentiles, or a fisherman to the Jewish leaders. A former deacon in a provincial congregation may be sent to a desert road to speak to a political official from a distant country. There is not restraint with the Lord, and the preacher must learn to reckon upon that.
Preachers of Scriptural record did not simply spout forth a canned message, memorized and proclaimed without regard to the audience. Under the influence of the Holy Spirit, they could personalize the Gospel to a seeking Gentile like the Ethiopian eunuch, to those that had crucified the Lord of glory.
THE GOSPEL MESSAGE DID NOT CHANGE
The essential message of Christ did not change. There is only one Gospel, unchangeable in all of its aspects. If you examine the preaching in the book of Acts, you will find Christ consistently exalted. His resurrection is set forth as a pivotal doctrine, with His death as the appointed means of reconciliation. Men were also faced with the coming judgment, and their ultimate accountability to the Son of God. There was also a consist challenge for men to think on a higher level. You will not find condescending and simplistic presentations of the Gospel in Scripture. Men were addressed as the "offspring of God," with profound capabilities of thought and contemplation. An absolute reliance upon the Lord was also evident. The speakers did not become embroiled in the issues of the day, even though they often spoke to people that were caught up in such things. Peter did not speak on the glories of Jewish feasts on the day of Pentecost, nor did Philip speak on the relevance of financial responsibility to the eunuch. Stephen did not address the matter of scholarship or leadership to the Sanhedrin, and Paul did not speak on the virtues of synagogue worship to the Jews. When standing before Agrippa and Felix, Paul did not address the matter of honorable governors or equitable rule. Their consideration of the audience was at a different level.
SEE MEN AS GOD SEES THEM
Beware of perceiving men through psychological eyes, something that is highly fashionable in this generation. You do not favor to men, nor do you bring honor to God, by perceiving individuals as primarily male or female, bond or free, Jew or Gentile. More foolish still is the consideration of them as left- brain/right-brain people, or other forms of emotional classifications. This is not simply an opinion. New life in Christ does not allow such classifications. It is written, "For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more" (2 Cor 5:214-16, KJV). Another version puts it this way: "For the love of Christ urges us on, because we are convinced that one has died for all; therefore all have died. And he died for all, so that those who live might live no longer for themselves, but for him who died and was raised for them. From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way" (NRSV). The Spirit is telling us the Kingdom of God does not permit fleshly evaluations. It is not only unlawful for the child of God to indulge in such assessments, it is against the nature of Kingdom life. It makes little difference who proposes such evaluative procedures, God does not allow it! The "human point of view" is the sinful and unacceptable point of view! Those in fellowship with the Lord simply do not engage in such assessments.
God has spoken on the classification of men. These are the primary classifications, with all others being subordinate to them.
Jews, Gentiles, and church of God. "Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God" (1 Cor 10:32).
Jews by nature and sinners of the Gentiles. "We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles" (Gal 2:15).
Those in the flesh, and those in the Spirit. "For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit" (Romans 8:5). The natural man and the spiritual man. "But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man" (1 Cor 2:14-15).
Alienated and reconciled. "And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled" (Col 1:21).
CONSIDERATION IS AT THE POINT OF EXHORTATION
The point of exhortation is the primary point of audience consideration. Though not confined to this area of your presentation, here is where your power becomes focused. Those on the day of Pentecost were addressed as those that needed to change. The Ethiopian eunuch was directed to respond as one that had been convinced. The Philippian jailor was offered escape from doing himself harm. The Athenians and Stoics were summoned to prepare for confronting the Judge of all the earth. The Sanhedrin was told of their stubborn hearts. Paul reasoned with Felix concerning his relationship to God. Paul led the Lydia and her associates from praying to receiving God's great salvation.
You will note in each of the cases that holy men took people from where they were to a consideration of the Gospel of Christ. It was not so much WHO they were, but WHERE they were that made the difference. You may speak to a young person that is advanced, like David. You may also address prisoners that need comfort, like Paul or Epaphroditus. It may be your lot to speak to devout people who want to know the truth, but have simply never had the opportunity, like Cornelius or the Ethiopian eunuch. Or, you may have to address hardened people, who really have no interest in what you are saying, like the Sanhedrin or Felix.
Your job is not to present a feminine Gospel to ladies, or a juvenile one to young people. You are not to make the Gospel political to an official, or philosophical to a worldly thinker. You will never honor God by presenting His Son as a means to have fun to a lover of pleasure, or a way to promote equity to the political advocate. The preacher must always declare the Divine agenda. His job is to bring the people to a common place to a consideration of the truth of God.
In preaching, you are seeking to elevate people to bring them close enough to the truth of God to be able to grasp it by faith. The role of the preacher is never to tamper with truth, make it more appealing, or tailor it to the taste of the people. Bring the truth within the reach of the people, but do so by raising them to a point where earth is subordinate to heaven.
QUESTIONS
1 Is there a different Gospel for different kinds of audiences?
2 What do you think about the preacher seeing the people like God sees them?
3 What three classes of people are mentions in First Corinthians 10:32?
4 What does "exhortation" mean, and what is being done when people are exhorted?
5 What are solme ways you can bring the truth of God close to the people, so they can understand it?
PREACHING
Lesson Five
MAKING PREACHING RELEVANT
by Given O. Blakely
INTRODUCTION
Preaching is not a form of entertainment. Its purpose is not to provide some respite from the boredom of everyday life. Neither, indeed, is it intended to address life from an earthly point of view. True preaching is a channel through which the thinking of your audience is brought into alignment with heaven. It sets before men a spiritual perspective and urges their involvement in it. If you will listen carefully to the preaching of our day, you will find that it falls far short of this. Too much of it is designed to entertain men, giving them a little laughter, and rounding it out with some tear-jerking emotion. Such preaching is not recognized in heaven, and it must not be honored by you.
REMEMBER WHAT WE HAVE LEARNED
Keep in mind what we have said thus far about preaching. First, God has spoken on the subject. He has revealed this is His ordained way of saving those that believe. The announcement of amnesty, proclamation of propitiation, and report of reconciliation are the means He uses to touch the hearts of people. The substance of preaching is the Gospel. That is the hub upon which all valid proclamation turns--the Person and accomplishments of the Lord Jesus Christ, God's only begotten Son (Acts 8:5; 9:20; 1 Cor 1:23). Second, Preaching has a focus--a central theme that makes it powerful. From the standpoint of a Person, that focus is Jesus Christ. From the standpoint of a message, it is the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. From the standpoint of provision, it is the "salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory" (2 Tim 2:10).
Third, Preach what you can see, or understand. Do not theorize or speculate in your preaching! Do not preach dictionaries, history, and lexicons! Preach what you have "seen and heard" (Acts 4:20; 22:15; 1 John 1:3). Remember, "The husbandman that laboreth must be first partaker of the fruits" (2 Tim 2:6). When the Word of God makes sense to you, and you have yourself grasped it, you can preach with power. Fourth, Consider your audience. View them as God would view them. Do not think of them in terms of fleshly distinctions--something that is not allowed by the Lord. You are NOT to judge "according to appearance" (John 7:24), and life in Christ does not provide for knowing men "according to the flesh," or "From a human point of view" (2 Cor 5:16). You do not one a favor, and you neutralize your preaching, by seeing them as a member of the X-generation, left brained people, men or women, or some other psychological distinction. They may be "not far from the kingdom of God" (Mark 12:34), "dead in trespasses and sins" (Eph 2:1-2), "strangers and pilgrims in the world" (1 Pet 2:11), "overtaken in a trespass" (Gal 6:1), or even "lukewarm," "hot,", or "cold" (Rev 3:15-16) but see them from God's perspective! Preach with that perspective in mind!
DEFINITION OF TERMS
What do we mean by "making preaching relevant"? Relevant means (1) bearing on, or connected with the subject at issue, (2) crucial to the case before us, or (3) of current interest--a live issue. Making preaching relevant is NOT laying it along side the issues of the day. It is NOT an attempt to provide answers for questions raised by the contemporary generation. In the Kingdom, relevance is always perceived from God's perspective. If it does not have something to do with what God is doing, it is NOT relevant. If preaching does not have Jesus at its heart, it is NOT relevant. If it does not have to do with getting people ready to face God and enter into eternity, it is NOT relevant. Preaching is not simply the conveyance of information. It is the appointed means of bringing Divine influence to bear upon the hearts and consciences of men.
By "making preaching relevant," I mean you extend yourself to be a vessel of honor, suitable for God to use in bringing the people to Himself through His Son. Your role is not to find out what men consider to be "live" topics, or to assess what people want to hear. Your preaching must fit into the Divine agenda, or it is pointless. When your preaching is truly relevant, it will enable men to make progress toward the Lord. Alien sinners, if they will hear, will be provoked to call upon the name of the Lord. Believers that are in stressful times will derive comfort and consolation. Those that have lapsed into slothfulness will be jarred from their complacency. Those that are energetically fighting the good fight of faith will be energized by your preaching to press the battle and cast down imaginations!
As a preacher, your role is to impact men for eternity to bring them to a position where they can become involved in the grand and glorious purpose of God. This is an "eternal purpose," that will extend beyond time and this present evil world. When that remains dominant in your thinking, your preaching will be undergirded by the Lord Himself!
A SPIRITUAL VIEW OF RELEVANCE
If you do not make serving and pleasing the Lord your objective, you will be confused by the word "relevance." People who are living at a distance from God will try and set your preaching agenda. Even though they are living in spiritual darkness, they suppose they know what they need, and will want you to supply it. To them, "relevance" means meeting their perceived needs and desires. Remember, "For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ" (Gal 1:10, NASB). As a servant of God, no provision is made for you to depart the Divine agenda, or preach for purposes other than those God has ordained.
This does not reduce your preaching to insignificance. Rather, it provides access to Divine power and blessing. When you are on God's side and are perceptive of what He is doing in Christ, your preaching becomes truly relevant. It is at that point that it becomes practical, beneficial, and a blessing to those that receive it. I want to ever keep before you the centrality of God's "eternal purpose" (Eph 3:11). This is a term that represents what God has determined to do, and what He is doing in the Lord Jesus Christ. Here, in God's "eternal purpose," we find the reason for the creation of man and the universe in which he resides. The reason for the Law, the prophets, and the sending of His only begotten Son are found here. His "eternal purpose" dictated both the reason and content of the Scriptures. God has never acted out of harmony with this purpose, and He ever seeks to draw mankind into it. Jesus Christ functions as our Representative in strict accord with this purpose. We were called according to this purpose (Rom 8:28). This is the "good and acceptable, and perfect will of God" that is to be appropriated by the people of God (Rom 12:2). God has "saved us and called us" according to this purpose (2 Tim 1:9).
This "eternal purpose" is revealed from several different perspectives in Scripture. In a consummate sense, it is stated this way. "And He made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment--to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one Head, even Christ" (Eph 1:9-10, NIV). From the standpoint of progression, it is states succinctly in Romans 8:29-30. "For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first-born among many brethren; and whom He predestined, these He also called; and whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified" (NASB). In summary, this purpose involves God receiving glory for His wisdom and grace. He has determined to bring men into intimate association with Himself through Jesus Christ. That relationship begins in this world in the new birth. It will continue throughout the ages to come with the redeemed being "like" the Son (1 John 3:1-3), reigning with Him (Rom 8:17), and being "joint heirs" of all things with Christ (2 Tim 2:13; Rom 8:l7b; Rev 22:5). Everything in Scripture contributes to this purpose, preparing those that believe for personal involvement in God's grand objective.
When rebuke, correction, and instruction in righteousness are employed, they are never ends of themselves. They are always designed to bring men within the circumference of hearing, so they can be involved in the purpose of God. Correctness of life is not an end of itself, but a preparation for eternity. If men cannot live unto God in this world, how can they ever expect to live with Him eternally? When you preach, you are not doing so to merely get things to run smoothly, or remove dissension, or develop a pleasant environment. There certainly is nothing wrong with these things, but they are not large enough to occupy the principle place in preaching. Our country may need to repent, homes may need to be in harmony, and immorality in the country may need to be subdued. Such issues, however, are not large enough to support the burden of preaching. They are PART of the whole, and not the whole itself. They are important, but not all important. These issues are not large enough to provoke God to send a Redeemer, Author the Scriptures, and marshal the resources of heaven.
When your preaching majors on God's objective, it will include peripheral matters. National, domestic, and personal issues will be addressed with the "mind of Christ." You must be willing to trust God in your preaching, believing that the Gospel is "the power of God unto salvation" (Rom 1:16). Leave your people sensing their need to involvement in the will of the Lord. Lay upon their conscience what God is doing in Christ Jesus! Do not allow yourself to drift into the agenda of the people. The chart that follows provides my own perspective of preaching that is relevant. In summary, the further we get from an emphasis on the purpose of God, the more irrelevant our preaching becomes. If, for example, you allow yourself to become an institutional man, your preaching will become irrelevant. By "institutional man," I mean one that primarily serves the religious organization. The purpose becomes to build the institution and guarantee its longevity.
CONCLUSION
In preparing to preach, fill your mind the Word of God. Cultivate your soul with prayer and meditation. Get yourself unplugged from the "fashion of this world" (1 Cor 7:31). Determine to view the Word of God from the standpoint of God's purpose. I cannot overemphasize this. I have become acutely aware of the corruption that can enter into preaching when it is prompted by the wrong motivation. Allow me to give you an example.
Example 1: Because of the dramatic decline in family values, some have taken upon themselves to make the restoration of the family their primary objective. No one, of course, in possession of a sound mind, does not long for godly families. However, if you make that your objective, it will impact upon your preaching. You probably have heard sermons that were reflected this emphasis. Those delivering them read the Bible with the family in mind, and they came up with rather strange conclusions. Such men have no compunctions about speaking derogatorily of great saints of God--men that have received God's approval and commendation. But this Divine approval is not seen when the Word of God is read through the template of domestic concerns. Thus, men will speak about Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David being bad fathers. They hold them up to ridicule, telling us how they were neglectful of their families, setting a terrible example for us all. For carnal people, their reasoning sounds good enough--but that is only because they are carnal.
When God spoke about Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David, He did not so represent them. He identified Himself as "the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob," and declared David to be a man "after His own heart" and the "sweet psalmist of Israel." Why the difference in God's assessment of these men? He certainly knew of their failings, yet did not represent them as failing people. The reason is simply this: they are represented within the context of God's "eternal purpose." They are pivotal men in the Divine economy for that reason. As soon and do not miss this as soon as they are represented within the context of family life, they become irrelevant. They no longer are longer viewed in relation to what God is doing. As a consequence, such preaching is no longer relevant to the work of God. Their record loses its edifying power to the listener, and they can actually be held in contempt, though approved by God.
I am quick to say that the family is not neglected by maintaining a godly emphasis. When the husband and wife relationship, for example, is seen as a mirror of Christ and the church, it will have a calculated effect upon the way husband and wife live.
Example 2: The rise of religious institutions to supremacy has produced a crop of evil fruit. Not the least of this corrupt harvest is the distortion of the Word of God. Take, for example, the nearly universal emphasis on what is called "the great commission." Although extremely sensitive ground, I am constrained to speak to this matter. If it were possible for a person to know only the language and terminology of Scripture, he would be confused by the term "great commission." Firstly, it is not found in Scripture. Secondly, the text to which this phrase is ascribed is never declared to be the center-post of preaching. Nor, indeed, is it set forth as the heart of spirituality and godly living. Those are simply the facts in the case. No church of Scriptural record was ever reminded of the words of Matthew 28:18-20 or Mark 16:15-16. Peter referred to what was said on the Mount of transfiguration (2 Pet 1:17-18). Paul mentioned what Jesus told Him about the table of the Lord (1 Cor 11:23-24). Again, Paul recalled the words of our Lord, that "it is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). But there as no reference to, what men call, "the great commission." Mind you, they DID what the Lord declared, but it was not the center of their proclamation.
Men today have read the Bible through the template of this "great commission." It has caused such distortions that some have even derided an emphasis upon feeding the church of God (Acts 20:28) and nourishing the people of God. Some have been bold enough to say "No one should hear the Gospel twice until every one has heard it once." Many assemblies have been tailored for the express purpose of reaching the lost--even though this contradicts everything that is said about saints assembling together.
If God's purpose is to "win the lost," then what will be done in the ages to come? Such is not an eternal purpose, and thus cannot accomplish the will of the Lord. But if a person will give themselves to the purpose of God, sinners will be converted, and men will turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God. Such wonderful realities are part of His purpose, but they do not occupy the chief position! I am going to wax bold at this point. Preaching that makes reaching the lost the preeminent matter is irrelevant. Such is in sharp conflict with what God has declared, and thus cannot accomplish His purpose. When Jesus ascended on high, He gave gifts to men. Those gifts were given to accomplish the purpose of God. How marvelous that purpose! From the standpoint of communication and ministry, it was "to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work" (Eph 4:12-16, NRSV). If preaching to believers does not have this objective, it is irrelevant.
From the standpoint of preaching to those that are alienated, the purpose is stated in Christ's commission to Paul. " . . . to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, in order that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me" (Acts 26:18, NASB). The objective is not simply to make people "Christians," so to speak. It is to bring them to the eternal inheritance which is reserved in heaven for those in the Son. If that is not the objective behind the preaching, it becomes irrelevant. Make preaching a serious matter, and God will bless your efforts!
QUESTIONS
1 What does "relevant" mean,. and what do you think about it?
2 What are some ways in which you can prepare to preach?
3 Is the family a suitable subject to emphasize in preaching?
4 In preaching, should we try and promote our own church or denomination?
5 What does "speaking the truth in love" mean?
PREACHING
Lesson Six
AVOIDING DIVINE JUDGMENT
by Given O. Blakely
INTRODUCTION
If preaching is a preeminent activity in the Kingdom of God, it follows that men will especially be held accountable for their preaching. There are a great number of approaches to preaching that are common in educational circles. Some of them do have some merit, although they must be approached with a caution dictated by faith. However, I do not know of any contemporary approach to preaching that emphasizes the accountability of the preacher to the One that sends the preacher--the Living God!
Preachers are Sent!
Scripture apprizes us that a person cannot preach "unless they are sent" (Rom 10:15). Speaking representatives of God have always been chosen and sent by God Himself. Moses the lawgiver was sent by God Ex 3:13). All of the prophets were sent by God (Jer 7:25). John the Baptist was sent by God (John 1:6). Jesus Himself was sent by God. The Apostles were sent by the Son of God (John 20:21). Through Jeremiah, God confirmed that a false prophet is someone God did NOT send (Jer 14:14; 23:21,32; 27:15).
How Can You Know?
The knowledge of this condition has produced numerous questions in the minds of aspiring preachers. How do they know they are "sent?" How can they be assured they are within the will of the Lord . . . etc. This, of course, is answered in the very nature of the New Covenant. "They shall all know Me," declares the Lord, "from the least to the greatest" (Jer 31:34; Heb 8:11). In Christ Jesus, we are sensitized to the will of the Lord, as well as the Lord Himself. God's will is not discerned procedurally, or by formulae, but by personal acquaintance with Him. God has "set the members in the body as it has pleased Him" (1 Cor 12:18). Each of those members is accountable to the Lord for their deportment in that position. Grace will be given to them to execute their office with pleasing precision. If they fail to conduct themselves in a manner that will glorify the Lord, they will be held in strict accountability.
A Needed Perspective
In my judgment, this knowledge is sorely needed among those who preach the Word. Preaching is not an activity of career advancement. It is not an appointed way to become popular, or to become prominent among men. This is the means God has chosen to bring and maintain faith to the sons of men. It is a activity that can bring unusual blessing or cursing.
A Suggestion
At least three things need to come together for the preacher to have confidence he is "sent" of God. First and foremost, he must have something to say. God sends no preachers without a message! It is possible to want to say something, and really have nothing to say. Such was the case with Ahimaaz, who insisted on running to King David to report the outcome of a battle. As he stood before the king he said, "I saw a great tumult, but I did not know what it was" (2 Sam 18:21). Alas, many a young preacher has so spoken. They know something was happening, but did not know what it was. They knew Jesus had accomplished something, but were unaware of what it was. They knew a message was in the Scriptures, but knew not what it was. Let it be clear, God sends no such messenger. The person sent by God HAS A MESSAGE! There is something burning shut up in his bones. It wears him out keeping it silent, and finally cannot help but speak it. Jeremiah put it this way. "Then in my heart it becomes like a burning fire Shut up in my bones; And I am weary of holding it in, And I cannot endure it" (Jer 20:9, NASB). The person from God HAS A MESSAGE--something to say! Second, the preacher sent from God has a desire to proclaim the message. He is not like Jonah, who received a message and, for a while, did not want to tell it (Jonah 1:3). He was not allowed to preach until he wanted to do it! Finally, from the bottom of the sea in a fish's belly, Jonah became willing to preach the message. It was after his willingness that God said, "Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and proclaim to it the proclamation (preaching, KJV) which I am going to tell you" (John 3:2, NASB). Third, there is an opportunity to declare the message burning in the heart. Paul calls this "a wide door for effective service" (1 Cor 16:9, NASB). Later Paul told the Corinthians a time "when a door was opened for me in the Lord" (2 Cor 2:12). It was a time when he was restless in spirit, unable to be content with remaining silent (v 13). Paul had a message to declare, and wanted to declare it. He knew, however, that only the Lord could provide the opportunity to effectively do this. Therefore he asked the Colossians to pray "that God may open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; in order that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak" (Col 4:3-4). Three things must be brought together to confirm you are sent. You must have something to say, fervently want to say it, and have an opportunity to do so. When these three things come together you are, in my judgment, "called," or "sent" to preach. Do so with power and confidence! The Lord sends and empowers!
HOW SERIOUS IS THE MATTER OF PREACHING?
The average speaking that is called "preaching" would lead you to believe it was not all that important. There are men that stand and speak in the name of the Lord that spend less time preparing to preach than they do in the preparation of a meal. For them, it is an activity that can be done with a small amount of thinking. The