The average protestant pastor in the United States has a tenure of less than four years. Having spent over 35 satisfying years with the same congregation, I thought it would be interesting to explore what makes a long-term pastorate work.
Sunday, December 05, 2010
Expository Preaching
I just came across this "Top Ten List" on expository preaching. While I wouldn't word each one the same, it's hard to argue with. It comes from Timothy Witmer's new book, The Shepherd Leader.
Expository preaching identifies exactly what is at the heart of the Christian message
Expository preaching requires that the shepherd concern himself with the intent of the Divine Author for every text.
Expository preaching respects the integrity of the textual units given through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit
Expository preaching keeps the pastor from riding his favourite hobby horses.
Expository preaching requires the preacher to preach the difficult or obscure texts and challenging truths of the Bible.
Expository preaching will encourage both pastor and students alike to become students of the Bible.
Expository preaching gives us boldness in preaching for we are not expounding our own fallible views but the Word of God.
Expository preaching gives confidence to the listener that what he is hearing is not the opinion of man but the Word of God.
Expository preaching is of great assistance in sermon planning.
Expository preaching provides the context for a long tenure in a particular place.
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