If there is one book on preaching that every preacher needs to read and apply, it is this one. MacArthur and the other contributors have produced a comprehensive theological resource which equips, challenges and convicts one to labor tirelessly and pray fervently throughout the entire sermon preparation and delivery process.
The book doesn’t merely discuss the mechanics of a sermon, but addresses the godliness of the preacher (character); the ability of the preacher (studying and exegetical skills); the skill of the preacher (moving from exegesis to exposition); and the dynamics of the preacher (convicting and convincing proclamation of his exposition).
The focus of the book is not on the preacher but rather of God and His Word (the preacher’s weapon). MacArthur’s high view of God and His Word influences every page. It is sobering to consider that God “the perfect judge will render perfect judgment on the quality, accuracy, zeal, and effort of the preacher.” It is the preacher’s task “to know and proclaim the mind of Christ,” which require diligent study of His Word. After all, only God can change the sinner, and He does so “by His Spirit through the Word,” therefore the preacher is to “preach the Word.” MacArthur exposes and contrasts the error, danger and utter deception of the “modern approach to ministry,” with those who faithfully study and preach the Word.
This book effectively differentiates between expositional preaching and experience-centered, pragmatic, topical preaching. One way that MacArthur accomplishes this is by providing 10 explanations of what expository preaching is not; and then explains and demonstrates what it is and how to be a faithful expositional preacher. MacArthur shows how expositional preaching is modeled in Scripture, by men such as Jesus, Philip, Stephen, etc.
Every aspect of the sermon is discussed in great detail, such as the title, outline, introduction, conclusion, illustrations, application, the gospel. The various authors who write a chapter on each component also provide many examples and recommended resources to consult in order to prepare and preach expositional sermons for a lifetime of ministry, without being perceived as repetitive. He also discusses the differences in studying and effectively preaching through the many different genres of the Bible, such as historical narrative, wisdom, law, poetry, epistolary, didactic, homilies, etc. And in case the preacher was not convinced, MacArthur provides 15 compelling advantages of expositional preaching, leaving one convinced that there is no other approach to faithful preaching.
MacArthur explains the essential tools that must be employed such as, the text—translating and studying from the original Hebrew and Aramaic (OT) and Greek (NT); sound and consistent literal, grammatical, historical hermeneutic seeking to understand authorial intent and significance in relation to systematic theology, biblical theology, church history, philosophy of religion, apologetics, homiletics, counseling, Christian education, administration, missions, evangelism, contemporary society, ethics, etc. in reliance upon the Spirit’s enablement; and then bridging the gap to the church today and declaring the message to the people.
This book also includes many phenomenal quotes for other expositors—men who loved God and His Word and faithful preached it, such as Baxter, Spurgeon, Flavel, Edwards, Luther, Calvin, etc., whilst at the same time providing us with many treasures through their own writing—MacArthur, Mayhue, Rosscup, Busenitz, Deuel, Dougall, Stitzinger, Thomas, Zemek etc.
These men remind preachers of the privilege and magnitude of this glorious calling, leaving one refreshed and motivated to zealously press forward in God’s strength, for the edification and salvation of God’s people and for the praise and glory of His Name.
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