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Preaching to a Divided Nation
We live in angry times. No matter where we go, what we watch, or how we communicate, our culture is rife with division and polarization. Unfortunately, Christians appear to be caught up in the same animosity as the culture at large. While our faith calls us to Christian unity, the hard fact remains: our churches are tragically divided across class, ethnic, gender, and political lines. As these social chasms grow--both inside and outside the church--the role of the preacher becomes paramount.
This book issues a prophetic call to pastors to use the influence of their pulpits to promote reconciliation and unity in their churches and communities. Two scholar-practitioners who are experts in homiletics and reconciliation present a practical, 7-step model that empowers faithful leaders to bring healing and peace to their fractured churches and world. The book includes questions for reflection, salient illustrations, and an accountability covenant. It also includes useful appendixes on preaching themes, preaching texts, and sample sermons from three leading preachers: Ralph Douglas West, Rich Villodas, and Sandra Maria Van Opstal.
This book issues a prophetic call to pastors to use the influence of their pulpits to promote reconciliation and unity in their churches and communities. Two scholar-practitioners who are experts in homiletics and reconciliation present a practical, 7-step model that empowers faithful leaders to bring healing and peace to their fractured churches and world. The book includes questions for reflection, salient illustrations, and an accountability covenant. It also includes useful appendixes on preaching themes, preaching texts, and sample sermons from three leading preachers: Ralph Douglas West, Rich Villodas, and Sandra Maria Van Opstal.
- GenresTheology
208 pages, Paperback
Published August 9, 2022
6 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Matthew D. Kim
15 books7 followersMatthew D. Kim (PhD, University of Edinburgh) is professor of preaching and pastoral leadership, holder of the George W. Truett endowed chair in preaching and evangelism, and director of the PhD in preaching program at Baylor University's Truett Seminary in Waco, Texas.
He is the award-winning author and editor of numerous books, including Ready to Preach: An Introduction to Homiletics (Baker Academic, 2026), Becoming a Friendlier Church: A Pathway to Genuine Community (Baker Books, 2026), What's God Saying Here?: How to Navigate Awkward, Troubling, and Bizarre Passages We Would Rather Skip (Zondervan Reflective, 2025), We Follow Christ: Helping Women to Discern God's Call (Baylor University Press, 2025), and more.
He has three books under contract: Preaching with Emotional Intelligence: Reconnecting Pastoral Ministry and the Pulpit (Baker Academic, 2027), Chasing Holograms: Redefining and Reforming Our Christian Identity (Zondervan Academic, 2028), and The Ministry Mentors: Best Practices for Pastoral Leaders (coauthored, Baker Academic, 2030).
He is the award-winning author and editor of numerous books, including Ready to Preach: An Introduction to Homiletics (Baker Academic, 2026), Becoming a Friendlier Church: A Pathway to Genuine Community (Baker Books, 2026), What's God Saying Here?: How to Navigate Awkward, Troubling, and Bizarre Passages We Would Rather Skip (Zondervan Reflective, 2025), We Follow Christ: Helping Women to Discern God's Call (Baylor University Press, 2025), and more.
He has three books under contract: Preaching with Emotional Intelligence: Reconnecting Pastoral Ministry and the Pulpit (Baker Academic, 2027), Chasing Holograms: Redefining and Reforming Our Christian Identity (Zondervan Academic, 2028), and The Ministry Mentors: Best Practices for Pastoral Leaders (coauthored, Baker Academic, 2030).
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
October 13, 2022
How can preachers speak to the splits in our society? In Preaching to a Divided Nation, Matthew D. Kim and Paul A. Hoffman present a seven-step model for promoting reconciliation and unity.
Restoration and Reconciliation
Kim and Hoffman readily admit that the United States aren’t as united as we claim to be. In regards to the actual divisions in our nation, ethnocentrism, widening gaps between economic classes, sex and gender issues, and our toxic political environment are at the forefront of their minds. These issues have infiltrated the church, causing harm to God’s people. Those who herald God’s word can bring healing and hope, restoring and reconciling relationships.
The seven steps are explained with examples throughout the book, and are as follows: (1) Theological, (2) contextual, (3) personal, (4) positional, (5) methodological, (6) practical, and (7) categorical. Looking at biblical texts with this framework in mind helps the expositor understand and examine what the Bible has to say to our modern issues of cultural brokenness today.
Deep and Diverse Relationships
Step 1, the theological step, looks at the entire arc of scripture through the lens of a reconciling narrative. This calls for a robust view of sin, considering how sin can be active and passive, individual and social. We preach Christ crucified, and his reconciling work reaches both to God and towards man. The four -isms of ethnocentrism, classism, sexism, and partisanism must come to terms with the four great equalizers of the imago Dei, human sinfulness, the vast atoning love of Jesus Christ, and the final judgment.
Seeing scripture in this way prepares the preacher for the contextual step in the framework. The preacher is challenged to develop and employ in himself as well as his congregation multiple intelligences, including cultural intelligence, emotional intelligence, and historical intelligence. As an Asian American preacher, I was challenged to This would encourage an Asian American preacher to build deep relationships in a covenant community (live life together with and amongst the congregation) and also cultivate diverse relationships outside fo my own Asian American church.
How Change Occurs
The book takes an interesting turn in Chapter 4 with a quick study on how change actually occurs. Churches are already positioned based on their theological training and denominational tradition. True conviction comes from the Holy Spirit, and the preacher needs to see himself as a conduit of truth. Churches can still take practical steps together toward cultural change, including becoming more diverse or more socially engaged.
I found Chapter 5 to be most helpful as it detailed core, shared foundations of the faith. Preachers can speak to shared doctrines, shared identity, shared mission, and shared experiences. Empathy can be achieved while cultivating humility, kindness, and charity in the congregation.
One in Christ Jesus
Chapter 6 details pre-, mid-, and post-sermon practices for the preacher. What I found most empowering was to see the different ways a sermon can be purposed, including informing perspectives, providing pastoral care, promoting peace/reconciliation/unity, persuade, and form affections. Preachers must do the hard work of examining the divisions and biases in their own congregation, meeting their needs by giving them the gospel.
The book concludes by providing key texts on biblical themes of classism, ethnocentrism, political divisions, reconciliation, sexism, and unity. After reading this book, I am better convinced that the Bible speaks to our current cultural moment. I am equipped and challenged to preach for greater unity amongst God’s people. And I am hopeful that those who are bonded by the blood of Christ can see that there is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male and female; since we are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28).
I received a media copy of Preaching to a Divided Nation and this is my honest review.
Restoration and Reconciliation
Kim and Hoffman readily admit that the United States aren’t as united as we claim to be. In regards to the actual divisions in our nation, ethnocentrism, widening gaps between economic classes, sex and gender issues, and our toxic political environment are at the forefront of their minds. These issues have infiltrated the church, causing harm to God’s people. Those who herald God’s word can bring healing and hope, restoring and reconciling relationships.
The seven steps are explained with examples throughout the book, and are as follows: (1) Theological, (2) contextual, (3) personal, (4) positional, (5) methodological, (6) practical, and (7) categorical. Looking at biblical texts with this framework in mind helps the expositor understand and examine what the Bible has to say to our modern issues of cultural brokenness today.
Deep and Diverse Relationships
Step 1, the theological step, looks at the entire arc of scripture through the lens of a reconciling narrative. This calls for a robust view of sin, considering how sin can be active and passive, individual and social. We preach Christ crucified, and his reconciling work reaches both to God and towards man. The four -isms of ethnocentrism, classism, sexism, and partisanism must come to terms with the four great equalizers of the imago Dei, human sinfulness, the vast atoning love of Jesus Christ, and the final judgment.
Seeing scripture in this way prepares the preacher for the contextual step in the framework. The preacher is challenged to develop and employ in himself as well as his congregation multiple intelligences, including cultural intelligence, emotional intelligence, and historical intelligence. As an Asian American preacher, I was challenged to This would encourage an Asian American preacher to build deep relationships in a covenant community (live life together with and amongst the congregation) and also cultivate diverse relationships outside fo my own Asian American church.
How Change Occurs
The book takes an interesting turn in Chapter 4 with a quick study on how change actually occurs. Churches are already positioned based on their theological training and denominational tradition. True conviction comes from the Holy Spirit, and the preacher needs to see himself as a conduit of truth. Churches can still take practical steps together toward cultural change, including becoming more diverse or more socially engaged.
I found Chapter 5 to be most helpful as it detailed core, shared foundations of the faith. Preachers can speak to shared doctrines, shared identity, shared mission, and shared experiences. Empathy can be achieved while cultivating humility, kindness, and charity in the congregation.
One in Christ Jesus
Chapter 6 details pre-, mid-, and post-sermon practices for the preacher. What I found most empowering was to see the different ways a sermon can be purposed, including informing perspectives, providing pastoral care, promoting peace/reconciliation/unity, persuade, and form affections. Preachers must do the hard work of examining the divisions and biases in their own congregation, meeting their needs by giving them the gospel.
The book concludes by providing key texts on biblical themes of classism, ethnocentrism, political divisions, reconciliation, sexism, and unity. After reading this book, I am better convinced that the Bible speaks to our current cultural moment. I am equipped and challenged to preach for greater unity amongst God’s people. And I am hopeful that those who are bonded by the blood of Christ can see that there is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male and female; since we are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28).
I received a media copy of Preaching to a Divided Nation and this is my honest review.
May 24, 2022
It seems that everywhere I go these days, I see a sharply divided [American] society; which is why I was very curious about a book designed to address this division (or at least how to preach to both sides). Most of what I found was fairly intuitive and somewhat generic vs something with more practical application. It beings with a focus on the reconciling mission of God through the incarnation of His son as found in the Scriptures. I doubt anybody would take an exceptions with this as it is pretty much the foundation of Christianity proper. Then we move into how we as a society classify and categorize our relationships and why that is so dangerous for Christian community (aka the four ‘isms). Again … interesting by not terribly controversial (or useful) … especially without any specific advice on how to get folks to actually acknowledge that they are actually doing that in an atmosphere that takes offense at any such suggestion (there are some example sermons in the appendix that are somewhat more helpful though).
What you do get is an expanded version of learning tact … aka multiple intelligences that helps the preacher understand the audience … in other words, avoid conflict and develop empathy/humility. To be fair … each chapter does offer specific Questions for Reflect and Practical Next Steps that should help you do just that, but not specific examples of how to harness this toward a specific goal (so it remains generic enough to avoid triggering your audience but not how to change them). I guess that is not a huge surprise, given that Chapter 4 is all about not being concerned with results … that is the job of the Holy Spirit … the preacher is just the messenger. While I generally agree with that sentiment, there are problems with this approach … namely that it makes it easy to avoid the introspection needed to understand what went wrong and how to adapt or grow the gifts of the Holy Spirit used. Instead the focus here is on self-development … which is important, but more is needed …
Over all … the book can be summarized by telling us to look up [to God] for inspiration, look inside [yourself] to align with God’s mission, look outside to connect with the community before delivering your message of change/love. Then stand by for heavy rolls and don’t get discouraged … which pretty much seems like common sense to me?
Introduction
- Chapter 1. The Theological Steps:The Sons of Pride and Prejudice
- Chapter 2. The Contextual Step: America’s Past and Present
- Chapter 3. The Personal Step: Facing Our Sin and Acknowledging Our Prejudices
- Chapter 4. The Positional Step: We Are Heralds, Not Heart-Changers
- Chapter 5. The Methodological Step: A Homiletic for Reconciliation and Unity
- Chapter 6. The Practical Step: Pre-Sermon, Mid-Sermon, and Post-Sermon Practices
- Chapter 7. The Categorical Step: Biblical Themes and Texts
Conclusion
Appendix A: Reflections on Critical Race Theory
Appendix B: Sample Homiletical Integrity Convenant
Appendix C: Essential and Nonessential Doctrines, and Gospel Implications
Appendix D: Sample Muti-church Prayer and Unity Service
Appendix E: Ministries Pursuing Reconciliation and Unity
Appendix F: Further Reading
Appendix G: Sample Sermons (on)
-> Classism
-> Ethnocentrism
-> Political Division
-> Reconciliation
-> Sexism
-> Unity
I was given this free advance review copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#PreachingtoaDividedNation #NetGalley
What you do get is an expanded version of learning tact … aka multiple intelligences that helps the preacher understand the audience … in other words, avoid conflict and develop empathy/humility. To be fair … each chapter does offer specific Questions for Reflect and Practical Next Steps that should help you do just that, but not specific examples of how to harness this toward a specific goal (so it remains generic enough to avoid triggering your audience but not how to change them). I guess that is not a huge surprise, given that Chapter 4 is all about not being concerned with results … that is the job of the Holy Spirit … the preacher is just the messenger. While I generally agree with that sentiment, there are problems with this approach … namely that it makes it easy to avoid the introspection needed to understand what went wrong and how to adapt or grow the gifts of the Holy Spirit used. Instead the focus here is on self-development … which is important, but more is needed …
Over all … the book can be summarized by telling us to look up [to God] for inspiration, look inside [yourself] to align with God’s mission, look outside to connect with the community before delivering your message of change/love. Then stand by for heavy rolls and don’t get discouraged … which pretty much seems like common sense to me?
Introduction
- Chapter 1. The Theological Steps:The Sons of Pride and Prejudice
- Chapter 2. The Contextual Step: America’s Past and Present
- Chapter 3. The Personal Step: Facing Our Sin and Acknowledging Our Prejudices
- Chapter 4. The Positional Step: We Are Heralds, Not Heart-Changers
- Chapter 5. The Methodological Step: A Homiletic for Reconciliation and Unity
- Chapter 6. The Practical Step: Pre-Sermon, Mid-Sermon, and Post-Sermon Practices
- Chapter 7. The Categorical Step: Biblical Themes and Texts
Conclusion
Appendix A: Reflections on Critical Race Theory
Appendix B: Sample Homiletical Integrity Convenant
Appendix C: Essential and Nonessential Doctrines, and Gospel Implications
Appendix D: Sample Muti-church Prayer and Unity Service
Appendix E: Ministries Pursuing Reconciliation and Unity
Appendix F: Further Reading
Appendix G: Sample Sermons (on)
-> Classism
-> Ethnocentrism
-> Political Division
-> Reconciliation
-> Sexism
-> Unity
I was given this free advance review copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#PreachingtoaDividedNation #NetGalley
November 23, 2023
NOT JUST FOR PREACHERS BUT FOR THE PRIESTHOOD OF ALL BELIEVERS
I’m thankful for the work of Matthew Kim and Paul Hoffman because disunity in the church is a critical concern because the unity of the church is inextricably linked with the Good News. Jesus prayed that all believers would be “one” through and in the same way that Jesus and the Father are one. It is through such unity that the world would believe that Jesus was sent by the Father (John 17:21). When you read this book, not only will you gain some grounded practical help for cultivating reconciliation and unity in your neighborhood through their seven-step model, but through stories of inspiration, you will gain a “tenacious hope” that the New Creation God has promised will come about, as we the people of God learn through the God of Peace how to crush Satan and his divisive ways under our feet. While this book is aimed at preachers in the pulpit, what is contained in this book is valuable for all of God’s people who teach and preach on the streets, in living rooms, at café’s, and at pubs. We are all called to incarnate and herald the Good News in contextual ways that help to bring about God’s intentions to our world, and this book will help equip us to do it.
I’m thankful for the work of Matthew Kim and Paul Hoffman because disunity in the church is a critical concern because the unity of the church is inextricably linked with the Good News. Jesus prayed that all believers would be “one” through and in the same way that Jesus and the Father are one. It is through such unity that the world would believe that Jesus was sent by the Father (John 17:21). When you read this book, not only will you gain some grounded practical help for cultivating reconciliation and unity in your neighborhood through their seven-step model, but through stories of inspiration, you will gain a “tenacious hope” that the New Creation God has promised will come about, as we the people of God learn through the God of Peace how to crush Satan and his divisive ways under our feet. While this book is aimed at preachers in the pulpit, what is contained in this book is valuable for all of God’s people who teach and preach on the streets, in living rooms, at café’s, and at pubs. We are all called to incarnate and herald the Good News in contextual ways that help to bring about God’s intentions to our world, and this book will help equip us to do it.
August 9, 2022
A Timely Book Needed for Such a Time as This
Back in April, I was blessed with a pre-release copy of this book and have been eagerly anticipating its release. The turmoil of our day is leaching into the church and causing divisions in the pews from Christians who are at odds with each other and silence in the pulpits from preachers who struggle to keep everyone happy (and keep their jobs).
Kim and Hoffman have put together a guide for thoughtful and healing preaching in our day. The book is full of advice, examples, and discussion questions which would be excellent for a small group of preachers.
Back in April, I was blessed with a pre-release copy of this book and have been eagerly anticipating its release. The turmoil of our day is leaching into the church and causing divisions in the pews from Christians who are at odds with each other and silence in the pulpits from preachers who struggle to keep everyone happy (and keep their jobs).
Kim and Hoffman have put together a guide for thoughtful and healing preaching in our day. The book is full of advice, examples, and discussion questions which would be excellent for a small group of preachers.
May 17, 2023
I am reviewing this book for Stone-Campbell Journal. My review will appear there.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews