Questions and Answers
According to the speaker, felt need preaching is first vertical before it is horizontal.
False
The speaker considers expository preaching to be shallow and superficial.
False
John Calvin wrote The Institutes of the Christian Religion when he was over 50 years old.
False
The Institutes of the Christian Religion was written for the King of England.
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The speaker believes that one can know themselves without knowing God.
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The speaker encourages everyone to read The Institutes of the Christian Religion at some point in their life.
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The Institutes of the Christian Religion went through only one revision.
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The speaker believes that expository preaching is first earthly before it is heavenly.
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John Calvin was already an old man when he converted to Christianity.
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The speaker contrasts expository preaching with horizontal preaching.
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Study Notes
Importance of Expository Preaching
- Every reformation and revival in church history has been preceded by a return to expository preaching.
- Expository preaching has been foundational to the works of historic reformers like Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Knox, and William Tyndale, which shaped Western civilization.
- J.H. Merrill Dubinet emphasized that true reformation comes solely from the Word of God, not from mysticism or emotionalism.
Characteristics of Expository Preaching
- Text-Driven: Expository preaching is centered around a specific biblical text and explains its meaning and application, staying true to Scripture.
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Commitment to the Bible: Commitment to expository preaching arises from foundational beliefs in the inspiration, inerrancy, and authority of Scripture.
- Inspiration: All Scripture is "God-breathed" and the Word of God is paramount.
- Inerrancy: Original manuscripts of Scripture are without error as God cannot lie.
- Authority: The pulpit serves as a throne for God's rule, commanding obedience from the congregation.
Key Doctrinal Commitments
- Clarity (Perspicuity): Scripture is clear and understandable; anyone with basic reading skills can access its teachings.
- Sufficiency: The Bible equips the man of God for every good work, providing all necessary instruction for spiritual life.
- Immutability: God's Word does not change or lose relevance over time, remaining steadfast through ages.
Manifestation in Church History
- Philip Schaff highlighted that true progress in church history relies on deep study of Scripture, contrasting humanists’ return to pagan texts with reformers’ focus on the Bible.
- Luther remarked on the transformative power of simply preaching God's Word, which weakened the papacy without any plans or strategies.
Types of Expository Preaching
- Sequential Exposition: Systematic verse-by-verse preaching through entire books of the Bible; essential for comprehensive understanding of Scripture.
- Sectional Exposition: Focuses on smaller sections of a book rather than the entire text, such as the Sermon on the Mount or key narratives.
- Topical or Thematic Exposition: Explores a central theme across various texts to illustrate doctrinal truths (e.g., exploring repentance through different Scripture references).
- Biographical Exposition: Examines the lives and lessons of individuals within Scripture, tracing their journeys and faith (e.g., studying Joseph or Abraham).
Final Thoughts
- Emerging preachers should strive to be committed to the Word of God, as true ministry impact comes through faithful preaching.
- Authentic expository preaching models diligence in studying the Word, being attentive to both the text and its implications for believers today.### Preaching Approaches
- Individual studies, such as on the Twelve Disciples, can be impactful and transformative through deep exploration of biblical figures.
- Expository preaching focuses on in-depth analysis of specific passages, often used during significant events like Christmas or Easter.
- Standalone messages isolate a particular text not part of a larger series, commonly used in unique circumstances like funerals or guest preachings.
Expository vs. Topical Preaching
- Expository preaching is text-driven, starts with the biblical text, and maintains focus on it throughout the sermon.
- Topical preaching often begins with human needs and seeks various verses, which can lead to a superficial interpretation of Scripture.
- Key distinction lies in the origin of the sermon's core; expository preaching originates entirely from the text, aiming to exalt God.
The Purpose of Expository Preaching
- The chief purpose is the glory of God alone (Soli Deo Gloria), with the aim of leaving listeners overwhelmed by God's majesty.
- Preachers should always seek to amplify God's greatness, presenting Him as the primary focus of their messages.
- Jonathan Edwards exemplified this with his method of establishing doctrine and then delivering impactful application.
Historical Influences and Practices
- Figures like Martin Luther, Spurgeon, and Barnhouse embody the principles of strong, God-centered preaching.
- Preaching should carry the attributes of God as its foundation, with techniques learned through close study of theology and Scripture.
- Calvin's "Institutes of the Christian Religion" highlights the necessity of knowing God to understand oneself and implies that effective preaching mandates a focus on divine truth before human experience.
Importance of Preparation and Study
- Authentic preaching results from deep, personal experiences and understanding of God, not rote technique or superficial engagement.
- Engaging deeply with Scripture involves a process that cultivates a closer relationship with God, enabling preachers to communicate more effectively.
- Theology proper serves as the lens through which all biblical narratives should be interpreted, reinforcing the vertical focus of preaching.
Attributes of Effective Preaching
- Great preachers, like Lloyd-Jones and Packer, aim to communicate a profound sense of God’s reality, leaving an impactful impression on their audience.
- Expository preaching conveys both vertical (Godward) and horizontal (human-focused) elements, emphasizing a profound understanding and worship of God.
- Understanding God’s nature is pivotal before discussing human needs or applications, establishing a clear direction for sermon development.
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Description
Explore the key characteristics of expository preaching, which has been a precursor to every reformation and revival in church history. Understand what makes expository preaching effective.
