tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6417263762627890831.post6867060177303200607..comments2009-02-28T10:37:00.863-08:00rkstanshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06565264748580267076noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6417263762627890831.post-78370109168724669862009-02-28T10:37:00.000-08:002009-02-28T10:37:00.000-08:00It seems like I've heard several people comment on this subject lately. It saddens me that christians (I'm one too) have to be so about us vs them. Unfortunately, the culture we want to reach views us this way as well (judgmental and divisive).<BR/><BR/>I agree that we should be about training and equipping the saints to do the work of the ministry. However, whether preaching does this or not isn't about the style being topical or exegetical.<BR/><BR/>The point is to preach the Word of God; and teach people to read the scriptures, and think for themselves. This can certainly be done when the topic (or the book you work though verse by verse) is decided upon by the leading of Holy Spirit. I'm not suggesting that pop psychology is preaching. I'm saying that the Bible can be taught responsibly in either style. <BR/><BR/>BTW, I think Thomas' points sound wiser than they are. First, if you aren't spending time in prayer about the needs and well being of your audience (in addition to preparing a teaching), I wonder if you should be preaching.<BR/><BR/>Second, the time it takes to hear the direction of the Holy Spirit isn't the issue. That direction is crucial for leaders to seek (this is exemplifed in the life of Jesus). It comes from your prayer time, and from having your finger on the pulse of the people in your care. Besides, a decision has to be made with either style. Simply stating that one is easier or more efficent doesn't mean it is always better. Again if you don't have time...<BR/><BR/>Third, I'm a Dr and a preacher. My experience is that people who read ahead (in church or school) are a very small minority.<BR/>Fourth, teaching people to study the scriptures, think well, and keep things in proper context, is not a function of style. It's about values.<BR/><BR/>So, I encourage you to continue to pursue preaching that values the Word of God and equips the saints. Bravo! But I would also suggest valuing others in the body of Christ who might have a different perspective than you do. Jesus said that outsiders will know that we are his, because we love each other the way He loved us. Not because we are more right than someone else.Michael Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03961384476705743560noreply@blogger.com