Biblical Preaching
In Biblical Preaching, Haddon W. Robinson explains the development and delivery of expository messages. This fourth edition of a modern classic textbook has been revised and updated throughout by Scott Wenig, professor emeritus of applied theology and Haddon W. Robinson Chair of Biblical Preaching at Denver Seminary. Notably, Wenig adds a step to the preaching method that has been widely accepted and utilized by Robinson’s former students: The Theological Idea.
Meaning and Communication
I was most moved to read about the personal aspect that comes with preaching a sermon—meaning, God speaks through the personality and experiences of a person. Because a sermon must be effectively applied to a specific people, the preacher must also exegete his congregation. He must know them. Practically, this is what gives a sermon meaning to a people.
The definition of expository preaching is the communication of a biblical concept, derived from and transmitted through a historical, grammatical, and literary study of a passage in its context, which the Holy Spirit first applies to the personality and experience of the preacher and then, through the preacher, applies to the hearers.
Subject, Complement, Idea
When explaining the road from text to sermon, the book reminds us that preachers must be involved in three different roles: the ancient world of the Bible, the modern world of the 21st century, and the particular world in which we are called to preach.
This book also gives practical ways to make your sermons better. For instance, I learned to state the purpose of my sermons in measurable terms to make them more direct and effective. What exactly do I want or expect to happen in the hearer as a result of hearing a sermon?
Able to Preach
The book ends with tips on physically delivering your sermon and examining speech. As a lay preacher, Biblical Preaching has given me a deeper understanding of both the spiritual weight and practical craft of delivering God’s Word. It reminded me that preaching is not just about explaining a text, but about faithfully communicating God’s truth through who I am. This book equips me not only to handle Scripture with care, but also to serve my congregation.
I received a media copy of Biblical Preaching and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.