Christ-Centered Preaching: Redeeming the Expository Sermon

by Bryan Chapell

Ultimately, preaching accomplishes its spiritual purposes not because of the skills or the wisdom of a preacher but because of the power of the Scripture proclaimed (1 Cor. 2:4–5).

The human efforts of the greatest preachers are still too weak and sin-tainted to be responsible for others’ eternal destinies.

The words are not meant to convey one’s own authority but rather humbly to confess that the preacher has no better word than God’s Word.

Neglect of prayer signals serious deficiencies in a ministry even if other signs of success have not diminished. We must always remember that popular acclaim is not necessarily the same as spiritual effectiveness.

Shaw’s comments remind us what clearing the path usually means: preaching and living in such a way as to make the Word plain and credible.

People may not remember what we say, but they will remember us and whether our lives gave credence to the message of Scripture.

You must know grace to preach it.

Life-situation topics and texts help people know how to live faithfully in ordinary moments so that they will be prepared to act faithfully in extraordinary situations.

A preacher must remain aware of the temptation to soften, recast, or change a passage’s truths in light of a congregation’s situation or sensitivities.

expositors owe no more to explanation than what is necessary to make their points clear but owe no less than what is necessary to prove their points.