My notes and comments below based on the content of the book. Available on Amazon.
Aim of the book is to show reasons from the bible why expository preaching is important. 3 specific reasons why this book:
- Increase confidence in preached word of God
- Increase confidence in biblical exposition
- Improve reputation of expository preaching
Ch 1: God speaks
God speaks, therefore we preach. See Romans 10
Isaiah 41-44 God mocks other non-speaking Gods
Preaching = express/reflection of a speaking God
Ch 2: Power of God’s words
Power of God’s words: creates, judgement, commands, heals
Ezekial 37 – Dry bones reference
2 Cor 5:20 – be reconciled to God through the proclamation of his word
Ch 3: Centrality of expositional preaching
Expose the main point of the text. Must be tethered to God’s word
Examples: Nehemiah 8, Luke 24, Acts 2, Acts 7
The pattern is: read God’s word, explain it, call people to respond (apply it)
Ch 4: what preaching does
The message of the gospel is counter cultural, offensive, status quo challenging i.e. sin , judgement, repentance i.e. christian preaching must therefore seek change.
Two main aims:
- Edify
- Evangelise. See Luke 4:43
Isaiah 55:11 – My word will not return empty
Ch 5: what to preach on: mixed diet
Ch 6: Sermon prep
Aim to: understand, explain, apply
Develop exegetical outline (main points in order they occur) then preaching outline
Get to the gospel: biblical theology (history) and systematic theology (doctrine)
Ch 7: structure of sermon
Introduction, exegesis, illustration, application, conclusion
Ch 8: delivering sermon
bring light and heat
Logic on fire
People won’t remember the details but still impacted by God’s word by his spirit
Tone: biblical, humble, clear, convicted, sober, joyful confidence
God is good and gives grace and strength to those who preach his word
Conclusion: Proclaim the only true message of salvation. Declare the glory of the saviour and king Jesus Christ.