Easter is Not Optimism

Thinking with Luther in the Land of t... The Incongruity of Such an Oblation

Easter is Not Optimism

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For this month’s module of the Iowa Preachers Project cohort, Chris E.W. Green joined to reflect upon his theology of preaching and how to preach the scriptures assigned by the lectionary for Easter Sunday.

Summary

In this conversation, Chris Green shares his journey from a Pentecostal upbringing to becoming a Bishop, emphasizing the importance of a robust theology of preaching and resurrection. He discusses the sacramental nature of preaching, the need for deeper understandings of resurrection beyond mere resuscitation, and the challenges of preaching Easter in a context where congregants may not fully engage with the liturgical calendar. Green advocates for a theology that acknowledges both the darkness of Good Friday and the hope of Easter, encouraging preachers to connect their messages to the lived experiences of their congregations.

Takeaways

Preaching is a sacrament that addresses the congregation.

Resurrection is not merely coming back to life; it is transformative.

Easter hope signifies the ultimate restoration of all things.

Theology of resurrection should shape our preaching imagination.

Good Friday and Easter are interconnected aspects of one revelation.

Preaching should resonate with the lived experiences of the congregation.

Context matters in how we deliver messages about resurrection.

The cross is glorification, not just suffering.

Every sermon should be unique to the moment and context.

We must engage with the darkness and light in our lives.

Sound Bites