“Everything that is written in the Bible comes from God’s Spirit. It helps us in many ways. The Bible teaches us what is true. It warns us when we are doing wrong things. It shows us what is right. It teaches us how to live good lives. As a result, people who want to serve God can know how to live properly. They will be people who are ready to do all kinds of good things.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 The Easy-to-Read Bible)
This is your Monday Short meditation. This week, as most faithful Christians do, you will probably listen to some sermons over the internet or on cable TV. Well, when you do, make sure the majority of the “preaching,” if not all the preaching; make sure it is focused on what the scripture read says in and how it is revealed in the text. The preaching has to focus on these components: (1) What does the text say? (2) What does the text mean?” (3) What does the text mean to me?” You already know that applies to studying the word, but it applies to those preaching the word too.
If the preaching merely focuses on the latter component, the application component, without being connected to the announced text, you need to scroll down to another sermon or change the channel. Preaching is not just a sanctified talk show, aimed at appealing to the ears of the listeners, but it should be centered around three words that can connect all three of the components listed above. The three words are, “In the text…!” Good preaching has substance, and it is centered around those three words, “In the text.” The listening audience will see the value of God’s word over the preacher’s use of volume, various speeds, variation of tone and tempo, when they hear those three words often in the delivery of the sermon. The three words again are, “In the text.” Ears won’t just be drawn to the captivating style of the orator, the preacher, but rather their ears will be drawn to that which is profound, profitable, and perfectly expressed in the word of God.
Remember those three words, “In the text.” Have a great week! Be blessed!
“Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!” (Matthew 11:15 NLT)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King