446ebcd8bf95d38c8d694205a2d0d9e6.ppt
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Essentials of Biblical Exposition: BE 521 A study of the nature of biblical exposition and principles of message construction. Attention is given to the basic materials of the message, methods of preparation, effective delivery, and problems of exposition. Emphasis is upon the accurate interpretation of the text and its relevant application to a contemporary audience
Is Preaching too “Old School” for Today’s Society? Some things “they” are saying about preaching … • It is anachronistic • It is arrogant And yet still …
Preaching is the means God selected – Romans 10: 14 14 How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “ How beautiful are the feet of those who the preach gospel of peace, bring glad tidings of good Who things!”
From what viewpoint do we preach then? • the preacher? • the people? • the times? • the church?
The Purpose of God!
Therefore, we cannot help but preach because … • It is demanded of us “Preach the Word ” • It is our calling shall go for us ? ” “Who • It is our passion “But God forbid that I should bo b except in the cross of our Lord J Christ ”
The hard truth … Expository preaching is NOT boring PREACHERS ARE!!!
Why the Changing Culture Requires Creativity in Exposition • Loose moral standards • Metal-detector schools • Increased Violence • The myth of “more time” • Advancements in medicine
Why the Changing Culture Requires Creativity in Exposition • Media Message bombardment • Diminishing Christian heritages • Few believe in “absolute truth” • Biblical facts are doubted … even by “Christians”
Reasons Preaching Is In Decline • The loss of spiritual vitality in America’s church • Secularism • Loss of confidence in the truth of the Scriptures • Pluralism and Relativism • Changing roles of the clergy • Television and other mass media • The problem of broken lives and culture
The Two Non-Negotiable Rules of Preaching Be Unashamedly Biblical Be Unquestionably Interesting
The THREE Aspects of Communication Messenger Message Masses
Defining the Task
Primary Purpose: Glorify God Objectives Edify Believers Ephesians 4: 11 -16 Evangelize Sinners Matthew 28: 18 -20
Understanding Our Task: What is Expository Preaching? Hebrew Precedent: “Prophecy” (Deut. 18: 14 -22) (1)“to bubble over, to boil” to explain or exhort or forewarn because the preacher is compelled by an inner drive over which he has no control. (2)More than foretelling, it’s forth-telling “thus saith the LORD. ”
Some New Testament Understandings: (1) Kerusso: most frequent … means “to proclaim” but usually is translated “to preach. ” The idea of a herald who is sent or authorized by someone else to deliver a message. Carries a sense of urgency. (2) Evangelizesthai: to bring good news. (3) Dialegesthai: to dialogue or discourse with another person with a view to persuasion. (4) Didaskein: teach divine truths. (5) Parakalein: to admonish with a view to moving another person to your point of view. (theological)
An expository discourse may be defined as one which is occupied mainly with the exposition of Scripture. It may be devoted to a long passage, or a very short one, even a part of a sentence. John Broadus
Preaching is the communication of truth by man to men. It has two essential elements; Phillips Brooks 2 Peter 1: 20 -21 Truth and Personality
Charles Haddon Spurgeon Sermons should have real teaching in them, and their doctrine should be solid, substantial, and abundant. We do not enter the pulpit to talk for talk’s sake; we have instructions to convey … and we cannot afford to utter petty things
Stephen Olford Expository Preaching is the Spirit-empowered explanation and proclamation of the text of God’s Word with due regard to the historical, contextual, grammatical, and doctrinal significance of a given passage, with the specific object of invoking a Christtransforming response
Expository Preaching is the communication of a biblical concept, derived from and transmitted through a historical, grammatical, and literary study of a passage in its context, which the Holy Spirit first applies to the Haddon Robinson personality and experience of the preacher, then through him to his hearers
Jim Shaddix The oral communication of biblical truth by the Holy Spirit through a human personality to a given audience with the intent of enabling a positive response
Jim Shaddix’s Philosophy of Preaching: The Mode: Oral Communication The Message: Biblical truth The Medium: Holy Spirit/Human Personality The Mark: Given Audience The Motive: Positive Response
Expository Preaching is: The oral proclamation of a properly interpreted passage of Scripture, in the power of the Holy Spirit, by a Godcalled messenger, to an assembled body, for the accomplishment of God’s purposes”
A Reasonable Philosophy of Preaching: Preaching • Preaching is oral proclamation • Preaching occurs only when a passage from the Bible has been properly interpreted • Preaching occurs in the Power of the Holy Spirit • Preaching is carried out by a God-called messenger • Preaching takes place before an assembled body • Preaching has as its goal the accomplishment of God’s purposes
The Heart of Expository Preaching Expository preaching is handling the text in such a way that its real and essential meaning as it existed in the mind of the particular Biblical writer and as it exists in the light of the over-all context of Scripture is made plain and applied to the present-day needs of the hearers
Preachers will be refreshed by preaching’s essentials. WORD. God's Word is a mighty, life-giving blade. It penetrates to the soul and the heart; it cuts; it heals. And those who preach are to be master swordsmen who correctly handle the Word of Truth. (2 Tim. 2: 15) SPIRIT. The mighty sword is to be wielded in the power of the Holy Spirit. We are to seek it. We are to long for it. We are to pray for it so that our preaching is “not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power. ” (1 Cor. 2: 4) JESUS. Both Word and Spirit are to coalesce in one great task - the exaltation of Jesus Christ: To “Exalt Him!” HEARERS. But the preacher must have hearers – ‘He who has ears, let him hear. ’ (Matt. 13: 9) When a church sits under the authority of God's Word preached in the power of the Spirit and lives it out in substantive glory to Christ, the only explanation becomes that God is real. Thus, people with different worldviews can be drawn to the gospel. God's Word, preached in the power of the Holy Spirit, is invasive. There is no heart beyond its hurt; there is no heart beyond its grace.
Characteristics of an Expository Sermon 1. Focused dominantly on one passage 2. Hermeneutics that are faithful to the text 3. Possesses movement and direction … based upon solid exegesis and structural analysis 4. Possesses relevance through situational and relational application
The Importance of the Expository Sermon 1. The conveyance of biblical revelation of God and His will 2. Teaches God’s Word at God’s time 3. Meets human need 4. Directs attention to the Bible 5. “True” Christians are hungry for it (purposeful edification is achieved) 6. Protects against false interpretation
Significant ADVANTAGES of Expository Preaching __________________ 1. More confident preaching 2. Subjectivism is minimized 3. The “whole counsel of God” is preached rather than the preacher’s favorite topics 4. Preaching in context typically ensures appropriate application 5. “Hot Topics” are dealt with naturally and with minimal suspicion 6. Effective Bible Study is modeled
What are the Goals of Expository Preaching? • To present the gospel more effectively • To deepen the congregation’s knowledge and understanding of the Bible (edification) • to meet human need • to declare the Will of God for His church • to motivate the church toward obedience, faith, and spiritual growth • to reinforce doctrine and theology • to honor, glorify, and worship God
Rationale for Exposition The man of God faces the temptation to preach: politics, economics, religious philosophy, topics of personal interest, etc. … “when the preacher fails to preach the Scriptures, he abandons his authority” Haddon Robinson There’s a lot of authority-abandoning going on!!!
Rationale for Exposition * Biblical Preaching EXALTS the Lord of the Bible *Biblical Preaching honors the AUTHORITY of the Bible *Biblical Preaching models the INTERPRETATION of the Bible *Biblical Preaching provides the BALANCE of the Bible *Biblical Preaching encourages a RESPONSE to the Bible *Biblical Preaching clarifies the VISION of the Bible *Biblical Preaching demonstrates the REVELANCE of the Bible *Biblical Preaching defends the TRUTH of the Bible
The Perceived Need of Preachers The “need” to spiritualize or to be spiritual The “need” to perform guessegesis rather than exegesis The “need” to be relevant and seemingly “in touch” Just because something “feels” spiritual, doesn’t mean it is
The “Goal” of Preaching Spiritual Transformation
God’s Ultimate Purpose in Preaching is to change lives… spiritually!! • Not accomplished by the prowess of the skilled preacher • Accomplished by the Power of the Scripture proclaimed
The Preacher’s Desire is to Transform. . . Salvation Romans 10: 6 -15 Sanctification 1 Corinthians 3: 1 -3
Therefore, the preacher MUST have … CLEAR CONVICTIONS about God’s Word
2 Cor. 11: 1 -4 Why we need discerning prayer Why we need diligent study Why we need dedication to exposition Satan’s weapon is falsehood and distorted knowledge
Therefore, since the Evil One is out to minimize the truth of the Bible … the preacher/teacher MUST recognize the following truths regarding the Bible AND DEFEND THEM!!! 2 Peter 1: 21; 1 Cor. 2: 13; Proverbs 30: 5; Psalm 119: 160; John 17: 17; Acts 24: 14
2 dominant opposing forces challenge the effective Exposition of the Word 1. The Erosion of Authority … the rise of subjectivism 2. The attempt to make moral instruction and societal reform the primary focus of preaching
The “Ghoul” of Preaching Spiritual Manipulation
Theology and Definitions of Preaching 3 Prominent Types of Sermons a. Topical: a sermon built around an idea taken from the Bible or a subject outside the Bible taken to the Bible _______________________________________________________ b. Textual: a sermon based upon one or two verses from the Bible ______________________________________________________ c. Expository: two ideas > sermon built on a passage longer than three verses OR a sermon which has substantive exposition for it’s content
Laying the Foundation
The Call of God
A Confirmed Calling From the Lord From the Church
THE PREACHER AND THE CALL OF GOD (Galatians 1: 1 -17) - A Study by Stephen Olford I. THE NATURE OF THE CALL TO PREACH A. God's Eternal Call of Grace (v 15) The preacher's call to preach was laid out for him in advance by a sovereign God. B. God's Effectual Call of Grace (v 15) The eternal call of God becomes the effectual call when the preacher responds to God's leading and submits to the call to preach. Such a one will have a divine commission behind him, a divine summons before him, and a divine conviction within him.
II. THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE CALL TO PREACH A. The Revelation of the Indwelling Son Preaching is essentially incarnational. If we would be followers of Jesus, then all of our preaching should be a "fleshing out" of the pattern that Jesus left for us. B. The Revelation of the Impelling Son Five Biblical tests of the call to preach: 1. Do I meet the biblical qualifications of a preacher? 2. Do I have the witness of the Spirit in my heart? 3. Do I have the gift of the preacher? 4. Does my church recognize my preaching gift? 5. Has God honored my preaching gift?
III. THE PURPOSE OF THE CALL TO PREACH A. We Must Preach the Gospel. The preaching of a gospel by faith and grace alone calls for faithful, fearless, and fervent preaching. 1. We must be faithful in our preaching (w 6 -9). The truth of God always exposes the characteristics and consequences of heresy. 2. We must be fearless in our preaching (v 10). As called servants of God, we must face the challenge to compromise our convictions for power, popularity and position.
B. We Must Reach the People. We must certainly edify the saved people, but we must also evangelize the lost people, obeying the command to `do the work of an evangelist'.
Foundations for Preaching The Call of God *Begins with God’s Prompting - 1 Timothy 3: 1 -7 *Ends with Man’s certainty 1 Timothy 3: Regarding the Calling: It is a special calling (vs. 1) “desires” (oregomai) – stems from an inward impulse, not from the object. - created and put there by God - “to set one’s heart upon, desire for, lust after, or covet” “fine work” - the ministry is hard work, too many focus on the word “fine” (kalos) which literally means honest, valuable, and worthy. We need ministers who are not afraid of work and self-sacrifice
The Word of God
Bibliology Key Word and Concept What? REVELATION “The act of God by which He has made known what was otherwise unknowable. ” Apokalupsis – “to unveil, to uncover” GENERAL SPECIAL “God's witness to “God’s disclosure of Himself in Salvation History Himself through (revelation in a person) and in the interpretive word creation, history, and of Scripture (revelation in proposition). ” the conscience of man. ” HISTORY Judges Ruth CREATION CONSCIENCE Ps. 19: 1 -3 Romans 1: 19 Rom. 1: 18 - Romans 2: 1420 15 WRITTEN I Cor. 2: 10 -13 II Peter 1: 19 -21 LIVING John 1: 18 Hebrews 1: 1 -3
Bibliology - Key Word and Concept How? INSPIRATION “The act of God by which He superintended/controlled the human authors of the 66 books of the Bible so that using their own individual personalities they composed recorded without error, His revelation to man in the words of the original. ” Result INERRANCY “The quality of being free from all falsehood or mistake which safeguards the truth that Holy Scripture is entirely true and trustworthy in all its assertions. ” Matthew 5: 17 -18; John 10: 35; 17: 17 Result INFALLIBILITY “The quality of neither misleading nor being misled which safeguards the truth that Holy Scripture is a sure, safe and reliable guide in all matters. ”
Bibliology - Key Word and Concept Responsibility INTERPRETATION “The process of determining the biblical author's intended meaning. ” Resource ILLUMINATION “The work of the Holy Spirit, which assists the reader in gaining both the sense and significance of God’s written revelation. ” John 16: 12 -15; I Corinthians 2: 9 -16 Response APPLICATION “The process of determining the current relevance of Scripture and then actively responding. ” James 1: 19 -27
Jesus’ view of Scripture - Matthew 5: 17 -18 “Do not think that l have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to, fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. ” Paul’s view of Scripture 2 Timothy 3: 15 -17 “…and how from infancy you have known the holy scriptures, -which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is Godbreathed, and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting; and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. ” Peter’s view of Scripture 2 Peter 1: 16 -21 “. . . And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of Man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. ” (vv. 19 -21)
INERRANCY The quality of being free from all falsehood or mistake which safeguards the truth that Holy Scripture is entirely true and trustworthy in all its assertions. Matthew 5: 17 -18; John 10: 35 John 17: 17 – “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. ” INFALLIBILITY The quality of neither misleading nor being misled which ensures that the truth of Holy Scripture is a sure, safe, and reliable guide in all matters to which it speaks. INTERPRETATION The process of determining the biblical author's intended meaning. ILLUMINATION The work of the Holy Spirit, which assists the reader in gaining both the sense and the significance of God's written revelation. John 16: 12 -15
Statements Concerning the Bible • God, who is Himself Truth and speaks truth only, has inspired Holy Scripture in order thereby to reveal Himself to lost mankind through Jesus Christ as Creator and Lord, Redeemer and Judge. Holy Scripture is God's witness to Himself. • Holy Scripture, being God's own Word, written by men prepared and superintended by His Spirit, is of infallible divine authority in all matters upon which it touches: it is to be believed, as God's instruction, in all that it affirms; obeyed, as God's command, in all that it requires; embraced, as God's pledge, in all that it promises. • The Holy Spirit, Scripture's Divine Author, both authenticates it to us by His inward witness and opens our minds to understand its meaning.
• Being wholly and verbally God-given, Scripture is without error or fault in all its teaching, no less in what it states about God's acts in creation, about the events of world history, and about its own literary origins under God, than in its witness to God's saving grace in individual lives. • The authority of Scripture is inescapably impaired if this total divine inerrancy is in any way limited or disregarded, or made relative to a view of truth contrary to the Bible's own; and such lapses bring serious loss to both the individual and the Church.
Expository Preaching and the Bible The major aspect of expository preaching is that it uses the Bible as the source. It seeks to give an exposition of a biblical passage. By contrast, non-biblical preaching presents neither text nor exposition. Although it is possible to preach topical sermons that are biblical, in actual practice they often turn out to be flights of fancy which have little or nothing to do with biblical thought.
Expository Preaching is not just a method, but a commitment … a view of the essence of preaching, a homiletical approach to preach the Scriptures. This underlying commitment is bound to reveal itself in a method in which preachers tie themselves to the Scriptures and seek to proclaim only that which the Scriptures proclaim.
APPLICATION The process of determining the current relevance of Scripture and then actively responding. James 1: 19 27 “. . . Do not merely listen to the word. . . Do what it says. . . [For He who forgets is] like a man looking at his face in a mirror and. . . immediately forgetting-But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this. . . he will be blessed in what he does. ”
The Worship of God
Towards a Theology of Preaching: The preacher must have. . . *true transformation *determined discipleship *a priority of prayer *a confirmed calling *ecstatic ecclesiology *sacrificial service *a grand commitment to the Great Commission
True Transformation There must be an assurance of salvation There must be an awareness of inclination There must be an admiration of proclamation There must have been an explosion of God in your life!!!
What the Powerful Preacher Understands • He must be in touch with God … daily • He must be honest with where he is … spiritually • He must spend time each day in prayer and Bible study … consistently • He does not mistake “busyness” for righteousness … discerningly • He asks what the text he is studying is saying to him … personally
The Preacher and Spiritual Growth A Determined Discipleship … is a must for the man of God We never grow beyond a need to pursue personal discipleship We never arrive
THE PREACHER'S DEVOTIONAL LIFE It is possible that the preacher can become so involved in the mechanics of sermon preparation that he can lose sight of his relationship with God. It is therefore urgent that he maintains his own devotional time. Although methods vary, Bible reading and prayer should be included.
Personal Worship & the Preacher Quiet Times & Daily Devotionals are ESSENTIAL!!! Why? Refreshing from God Confession to God Communion with God His Priority of Prayer
Helpful Habits for Effective Devotionals A Particular Place A Definite Time Something to jot ideas down on Thought-provoking, applicable reading material A Passion for Prayer
The Spirit of God and Preaching It is impossible to properly understand God’s objective revelation in Scripture apart from the illuminating work of the Holy Spirit. No clear understanding of Scripture leading to powerful preaching is possible without the Spirit’s work of illumination
Illumination sheds spiritual light on the biblical text. It is the work of the Holy Spirit that opens one’s spiritual eyes to comprehend the meaning of the text Illumination is NOT the reception of new revelations from the Spirit. It is the Spirit’s application of the truth of God’s complete revelation to spiritual life.
Misconceptions about Illumination does not. . . *mean that everything about God can be known or understood *eliminate the need for human teachers - Ephesians 4: 11 -13 *extend beyond God’s Word *eliminate the need for diligent Bible study
An Ecstatic Ecclesiology The preacher carries within an intense love for the church "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. (John 10: 11)
Developing the Preacher
A PREACHER'S INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT The preacher must develop intellectual capabilities to the fullest. Because he is called upon to preach the Bible to others, he must be a student. Formal training should include: • A broad, general education • As much specific education in the areas of ecclesiology and the Bible as possible Deep training in theology, both systematic and biblical • The area of Bible interpretation
THE IMPORTANCE OF PHYSICAL FITNESS Physical fitness is an area often neglected by pastors Exercise Plan regular blocks of time for exercise to recover from the mental labor of preparing sermons. Check with a doctor before beginning exercise programs Proper Eating correctly and maintaining one's weight adds to one's physical well-being. Eating sugars and milk can cause mucus to build up in the throat.
Proper weight control is a testimony. How can a preacher tell his congregation that Christ can give them power over drugs and alcohol if he has no control over his own eating habits? Rest Preachers need adequate rest, especially on Saturday. The preacher's body is God's vehicle for communication. Therefore, he must keep it in good shape.
The Process of Exposition
The Process of Preaching Exegesis = to draw out the meaning Going deep to discover: What the text actually says (or said) in its original context
A Guide to the Exegetical Process Spiritual Qualifications of an Interpreter of Holy Scripture • Born again (John 3; I Cor. 2: 14 -16) you cannot truly understand the Bible without the new birth. • Passion to know and obey God's Word (James 1: 22 -25) • Deep reverence for God (I Peter 1: 1316) • Complete and utter dependence on the Holy Spirit to guide and direct (John 14: 25). “To pray well is to study well. ” • A total confidence in the Bible as the inerrant and infallible Word of God (Matt. 5: 17 -18; John 10: 35; 2 Tim. 3: 14 -17
The Exegetical Process Step 1: Selecting a Text I. Choose a complete text (not a fragment to be used out of its context). Paragraph preaching is an excellent model to adopt. II. Approach the text with a mind that is willing to be stretched and taught by the text. Step 2: Determining the Limits of the Text I. The Aim Seek to identify where a passage of Scripture begins and ends. Look for a complete unit of thought (paragraph or pericope). Remember that chapter and verse divisions are relatively recent additions to the Bible. The original manuscripts had no such divisions. Sometimes they fit, but on other occasions they do not. Try to find the natural breaks in the text. Do not be concerned primarily with cutting the text small enough for you to handle it comfortably. When in doubt, go long!
The Exegetical Process II. The Procedure • Check the paragraphing indicated in the Hebrew and Greek texts and in English translations using paragraphing. The New American Standard Bible, for example, indicates a new paragraph by boldfacing the verse number of the first letter in the new paragraph. The NIV and NKJV also do this. • Consider how what goes before and after your text (context) influences the interpretation of the text. Would broadening the scope of your text by a verse or two in either direction alter your understanding of the text? • Look for literary clues: introductory statements; indications of time, place, or location; and concluding summary statements. These elements often mark beginnings and endings of units of thought. EX: “Finally, my brethren …” • Look for thematic elements that hold a passage together and set it off from surrounding verses. Reoccurring phrases or words are a valuable clue. • Consider the way commentators arrange the text into sections.
The Exegetical Process Step 3: Exploring the Text • Read the passage repeatedly from one of the more literal English translations: the New American Standard, is the best option available today. If you have the ability, you should read directly from the original languages. • Read the passage aloud several times. This will assist you also for the public reading of the word in worship. • As you do these first several readings, jot down quickly whatever observations, questions, initial impressions, and related thoughts come to mind. Do not worry about evaluating them now. Just record them. Think, feels, and imagine. Listen to the text without concern for “getting up a sermon. ” Ask God to speak to you personally from the text. Do not bring in commentaries and reference books yet. Let them wait until after you have spent considerable time exploring the passage yourself.
The Process of Preaching Hermeneutics = what does the text actually mean? NOT what does it mean TO ME!!! Right meaning implies application to a particular audience
Hermeneutics is … ·the Science of Interpretation *concerned with meaning, particularly the Word of God We need hermeneutics because biblical understanding and interpretation is a serious undertaking and is not always easy ØInterpretation happens everywhere, all the time, but it is never easy … (Supreme Court, poetry, music, art, or the problems of life) ØSince interpretation is not easy, we need to learn how to skillfully, soundly, and correctly interpret the Word of God Hermeneutics also is necessary because we have some serious biblical mandates * 2 Timothy 2: 15 – “rightly dividing the word of truth” orthotomeo to make a straight cut, to dissect (expound) correctly (the divine message) * 2 Corinthians 2: 17 – when proper interpretation is NOT carried out, we abuse the Word of God, apply meaning that the Holy Spirit never intended … “many which corrupt the word of God” kapeleuo - to retail, to adulterate, to pedal * 2 Peter 1: 20 -21 – our goal is to find God’s meaning, not ours. We study hermeneutics because the Word of God needs a solid handling and proper interpretation. Our desire, therefore, is to arrive at true, accurate, and sound meaning of the Word of God.
Differentiating “Revelation”, “Inspiration”, “Illumination”, and “Interpretation” 1 Corinthians 2: 9 -14 … three things to notice: . Revelation – the act of God in the Holy Spirit unveiling truth that man in his own intellect or merit is unable to learn or discover. (Vs. 9. ) Verse 10 makes it clear that God reveals (lays open, uncovers) His truth through the Holy Spirit. Where human reason and scientific investigation fail, is cleared up by the power of the Holy Spirit. 2. Inspiration – vs. 13 “these things we speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches …” -the Holy Spirit chose out of the writer’s vocabulary and personality the meaning that he would put down on paper (that exact truth that God wanted him to have. ) -God saw, through the Holy Spirit, that which He revealed and breathed out, was written down without any error. -the original manuscripts were inspired by God and therefore the Bible has absolute authority. It is given in words, not thoughts, so we have an infallible revelation
3. Illumination – (vs. 14) “the natural (unregenerate) man does not receive things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him…” The Holy Spirit enables the believer in Christ to understand the truth that was given by revelation and written down by inspiration. -So Paul teaches that in order to understand spiritual things we need the energy, the help, the enabling of the Holy Spirit Now, here is what we know … -Revelation is God uncovering that which man could not find or understand. (Revelation is closed) -Inspiration is God the Holy Spirit using human personalities to write down and preserve His Word accurately, correctly, and truthfully (Inspiration is closed) -Illumination is God’s method of helping us to wise up to what has been written. (Illumination is open … God speaks to us through His word under the leadership of the Holy Spirit) (Hebrews 1: 1 -2) Can we have clear and perfect understanding in everything in God’s Word?
The Process of Preaching Homiletics = How can I say to my audience what the author said to his? Homiletics is the art and science of saying the same thing that the text says … the culmination of applying the principles of hermeneutics and exegesis in an effort to understand a biblical text and communicate it to listeners
The Process of Preaching Exposition = exposing the meaning for the audience The process of laying open a biblical text in such a way that its original meaning is brought to bear on the lives of contemporary listeners
Instigation: Where do I start the process of analyzing the text?
People Preparation The purpose of Expositional Preaching is to communicate a message from God to His people; a message that is derived from the content of the Scriptures in context, and is communicated in such a way that: 1. It accurately corresponds with what God has said 2. It is understood by those hearing it 3. It can be responded to by those hearing it
People Preparation The preacher must recognize that in many settings a congregation is not used to actual biblical exposition. Oftentimes past preachers have fed them a diet of topical encouragement or messages the minister feels they need. The specific purpose of the preaching event, however, is to communicate a specific message derived from a particular text of Scripture, and to call forth the response appropriate to that message.
People Preparation The good news is that is takes very little effort to prepare people to receive true exposition. Typically members of a congregation will be appreciative and encouraged because they are being fed the deeper things of the Word of God. The minister often fears “irrelevance” when he attempts to preach from a pure expositional approach. If done effectively and creatively, this does not have to be a fear or a concern.
Investigation: What does the Scripture say?
Investigation 1. Do a Background Study CONTEMPORIZATION Contemporization is the main task of the expository preacher. He takes what was written centuries ago and contemporizes it for present-day audiences. The Bible is relevant to human issues. The preacher, however, makes God's claims meaningful to his audience today.
The preacher/teacher faces two basic realities: the biblical text of the early century (then) and the context of the present century (now). [Two horizons] [Then] [Now] Was Word Scripture Text Meaning Is World Culture Audience Significance
Context is EVERYTHING!!! • consult commentaries, review Biblical surveys, Bible dictionaries, Bible encyclopedias, Bible handbooks, and study Bibles • determine the author, the date, the place of writing, the occasion and purpose, and the literary genre
Interpretation: What does the passage mean? (a deeper look at sermonic hermeneutics)
1. Minimize the subjectivity … get yourself out of the way! 2. 2. Study the Context … go beyond determining it 3. 3. Examine the structure of the passage … consider dominant vs. subordinate thoughts OR consider the natural movements
4. Do word studies … • consider original language • consider how the writer intended it … (context will determine this) • consider the grammatical usage • consider cultural usage • consider the biblical emphasis of the word
5. Check Cross-References 6. Consider Principles of Revelation Consider … ethnic divisions; first mention principle; full mention principle; proportionate mention principle; repeated mention principle; gap principle; salvation/fellowship principle; threefold principle
7. Consult Commentaries • a balance of critical, homiletical, and theological • look for insights you did not see or consider in your initial study • DO NOT … lift another man’s comments and place them in your message; • Avoid becoming stuck on one commentator • judge commentaries by scriptural truth • Get insights from commentators you may not necessarily agree with
Implication … what does this passage say about God and man?
Unifying the Theme
The Central Idea of the Text This is what summarizes the dominant idea, theme, or thought of the selected passage
Haddon Robinson challenges us to determine the “Big Idea” by asking: 1. What is the author talking about? - and – 2. What is he saying about what he is talking about?
The “Heart” of the Passage At the heart of a paragraph should be one cardinal thought: the “central idea of the text” (CIT). This historical proposition is made up of two components: theme and the thrust. The central idea is sometimes called by other names: “textual thrust, ” “central proposition, ” “exclusive emphasis, ” or the “big idea. ” Components of the Central Proposition Theme (subject or topic) Thrust (complement or assertions) Example: “Paul instructed the Ephesians to stop acting like their fellow Gentiles and start acting like Christ” Theme: How Christians Should Act Thrust: Specificity of how a Christian acts
Identifying the C. I. T. The C. I. T. is the single unit of thought that binds together and gives meaning to all the particulars of a text.
Constructing the C. I. T. It should always be in the form of a full grammatical sentence … usually 15 to 18 words stated in the past tense. Example: “Paul instructed the Ephesians to stop acting like their fellow Gentiles and start acting like Christ”
The Proposition The distinction between the proposition the purpose in the and lies intended audience. Whereas the proposition a truth to all the is listeners, the purpose specific to a is particular audience
P Typically a 15 -18 word present or R future tense application of the O C. I. T. to the contemporary context P Determining the Proposition of the Sermo O We find the proposition of the sermon by S asking and answering the following I question: T On the basis of the central idea of this text, w I does God want my people to understand O N
Probing Question A question asked of the text … not the listener What specifically does the text tell you, the preacher/teacher about the proposition?
Asking the Probing Question provides the “Key” or “Unifying” Word … which will ALWAYS be a plural noun The Unifying or Key Word will formulate the outline. Transitional Sentence: “Let’s consider the WAYS Christians can be examples of Christ”
Designing the Structure
SERMON ORGANIZATION DEFINITION – Typically, GOOD ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF THE SERMON INCLUDES AN OUTLINE CONSISTING OF: a. b. c. Introduction Body (main divisions and sub-points) Conclusion PURPOSE OF THE OUTLINE FOR THE PREACHER a. b. c. d. Clarity of thought Unity of thought Orderly development (progress, movement) Aids the memory - both of hearer and speaker
PURPOSE OF OUTLINE FOR THE CONGREGATION a. Clarity b. Retention - We process new information better if we an see its relationship to previous information (Law of Association) c. Persuasiveness d. Pleasure - Easier to listen to when it flows e. Attention - People listen better when the sermon is organized f. Ethos - (character) The listener feels the preacher has prepared and knows what he is talking about
CHARACTERISTICS OF GOOD ORGANIZATION a. b. c. Unity - singularity of purpose (CIT) Order - How the various parts related to each other and the whole Balance - (symmetry, proportion) Give same or similar attention to each point: I. A. B. II. A. B. C. Progress -forward movement, toward a climax. Like development of a novel (ex. . Question to Answer; Problem to Solution)
WHY SERMON OUTLINING IS IMPORTANT? Because … • it is foundational for effective communication • it is helpful for understanding • the human mind seeks unity • the human mind seeks order • it helps us gain a proper perspective on the text we are studying • it helps us discover the pattern, order or logic of the original author • it helps us isolate the main idea of the original author • it helps us identify the main points or thoughts (different from the main idea) in the text and the subpoints which explain and amplify the main points or thoughts
OUTLINING THE SERMON 1. Pray 2. Let your exegesis drive and determine the outline. 3. Have as many major points as the text naturally demands 4. Make sure points and subpoints arise naturally out of the text. Be able to see your outline in the text. 5. State your points in complete sentences. Be clear, concise and true to the text. 6. Make sure your points connect with the CIT and Proposition. 7. Make sure your subpoints connect with the major point they support. 8. Fill the skeleton of your outline with the meat of the exegesis. 9. The sermon should merge all aspects of your preparation with a view of exalting our Lord and edifying your congregation 10. Practice reading your text repeatedly and out loud.
OLFORD SEES 4 ESSENTIALS IN OUTLINE POINTS: 1. They should be biblical. 2. They should be logical. 3. They should be applicable. 4. They should be memorable. a. b. c. d. strive for simplicity strive for limiting the primary points and levels of structure strive to help people hear the outline strive to help people see the outline
What about our focus? The text or the audienc ? Should a sermon be text oriented or audience oriented? To an extent, the question is mute in reference to sermon preparation because both aspects are significant. However, the form of the movements of the sermon (the design structure ) should be audience oriented (this along with the wording of the proposition and main points). The content of the body-structure is text oriented. Audience orientation affects the formal and/or external aspects of the sermon. Text orientation affects the content and internal aspects of the sermon.
TEXT ORIENTATION Sermon relates to the text AUDIENCE ORIENTATION Sermon relates to the audience Statement of (textual)Proposition Purpose of sermon Statement of Sermon Proposition Structure of the entire sermon Sub-Introduction Structure of the sermon’s body Application Conclusion
SOME GENERAL OBSERVATIONS FOR SERMON OUTLINING: 1. Use complete sentences not single words or phrases. 2. Use, when possible, a key word to assure consistency in division statements 3. Craft your points so that they stand alone as universal principles. 4. Remain logical in the progression. 5. Use present tense, contemporary language suitable for the audience you address. 6. State your division statements as sound theological principles which encourage faith in the hearer. 7. If additional development is needed under a particular point, do so but make it simple. 8. Outline the sermon with your audience in mind. 9. Do not let the points stray from the main thesis. 10. Alliteration is O. K. for some, but is not a requirement for effective preaching.
The challenge of preaching: To declare eternal truths that never change and apply them in a world that is always changing. “The men of Issachar understood the times and knew what Israel sh s do. ” 1 Chron. 12: 32 (NIV) “If you preach the Gospel in all aspects with the exception of the issues which deal specifically with your times - you are not preaching all the Gospel. ” - Martin Luther 1. 2. 3. 4. Four stages of bridge-building Study the text. (Exegesis: Investigation, Observation and Interpretation) What does it mean? Find the timeless truth. (Implication: Universal Principle) *Ask: What response is called for by this text? Think of your audience, (Contextualization) their needs, their hurts, sins, pains, etc. Apply the truth to their need. (Personalization)
6 things to know about every audience: 1. Everybody wants to be loved. 2. Everybody wants their life to count (meaning, purpose, significance. ) 3. No matter how wealthy or successful life is empty without Christ. 4. Many of these people are carrying a load of guilt. 5. Many are consumed with bitterness (from past offenses. ) 6. There is a universal fear of death
Why aren’t more sermons built around application? • We assume people will make the necessary connection. • We “leave it to the Holy Spirit. ” • Personal application is convicting and makes people feel uncomfortable. • Because we haven’t applied it in our own lives. • Because it takes more time and effort in preparation. • We are afraid of being simplistic and practical. • Because we’ve never been taught how to do it. • We haven’t realized the importance of it.
The Importance/Process of Exposition Eight Critical Questions 1. What does the text say? (Exegesis) 2. What does it mean? (Hermeneutics) 3. What concerns caused the text to be written? (Context) 4. What do we share in common with: A. those to or about the text was written B. The one by whom the text was written
5. How can I say to my people what the author said? (Homiletics) 6. How can I relate the meaning of the text to my modern audience? (Relevance) 7. What does the text tell me about God? (God’s Nature) 8. What does the text tell me about mankind? (Human Nature)
The Homiletical Bridge T H E N Book Context Prior Context Immediate Context M. O. T. C. I. T. Thesis Proposition Probing Question Unifying Word Transitional Sentence N O W
Sermon Structure The “KEY” Parts Titles for Direction Introductions for Attention Bodies for Retention Conclusions with Intention Invitations with Conviction
Talk about Titles Purpose: Attention/Reinforcement/Memory Tone: Appetite whetting Related Cleverly Concise Creatively Catchy Doable/Deliverable In Good Taste with Integrity
SERMON TITLES Giving a title to a sermon may be something at which you are either good or bad. It may also be something you should or should not do. A good sermon title can be a plus. No sermon title is better than a bad one. A good title will be an attention grabber, and it should be related to the Proposition.
Types of Titles Key Word or Phrase Ways to Significant Faith Imperative Statement Follow an Awesome God! Interrogative Statement Do You Really Believe God will Come Through? Declarative Statement Jesus Really is Lord Thought-Provoking The Yokes on You
Let’s Investigate Introductions Goal: To buy a hearing, the right to preach Purpose: *To gain interest *To set the mood, the tone *To introduce the text *To state the proposition/expectations *To establish relevancy
Qualities of “GOOD” Introduction Appropriate Length Non-Predictable Possesses Relevancy Promise of meeting needs To offer a challenge Appropriate
Someone has said that the introduction t sermon may be likened to the prelude to the preface of a book, poritico a building the to or the preamble to the statement of a case court The prelude introduces us to a poem suggests its method and meaning or mess preface to a book also does that. . . An introduction, then, must introduce.
A good introduction serves two purp First, it arouses interest, stimulates curiosity, and whets the appetite for Second, it genuinely introduces the t by leading the hearer's into it.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE INTRODUCTION It is your first opportunity to connect with your listeners. It sets the tone for your message. It determines whether you gain or lose credibility for the sermon. It determines whether you have the ear of your audience. It guides your audience into the message.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. NO, NOS OF INTRODUCTIONS Don’t waste time and meander around with trivial drival in the pre-introduction. Don’t promise more than the sermon can deliver. Don’t apologize for anything (eg. “I’m sick”, “I was busy”, “I’ve not prepared like I want”). Don’t use humor just to try to be funny. Don’t be misleading. Be careful as to how you refer to the last time you preached. Don’t refer to the last time you preached this sermon. Don’t use material unrelated to the message. Avoid visual distractions. Don’t approach the pulpit with hesitation and the appearance of unpreparedness.
GOALS OF THE INTRODUCTION 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. To capture the audience’s interest and attention. To enhance the audience’s goodwill toward the preacher. To create audience anticipation for the body of a message. To demonstrate the importance of what the Bible says about the subject. To show the Bible’s relevance and answer every listener’s unspoken question, “Why should I listen to this message? ” To make the preacher's intended course of discussion clear to his audience so that they can follow along and not get lost on the preaching journey. To raise an appropriate need. It moves the congregation into the body of the message.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD INTRODUCTION It has high interaction value It is short (usually 3 -5 minutes) It is varied (don't be predictable) It turns quickly to the need(s) of the audience It is appropriate both to that sermon, audience, and occasion It introduces the Proposition It provides a clear and natural transition to the text and body of the message
Developing the Introduction Agonize: Process it, NEVER throw it together Verbalize: Write it out … word for word Criticize: Does it accomplish the intro’s purpose? Editorialize: Make necessary changes Commit it to memory Memorize:
PREPARING THE INTRODUCTION 1. Write it toward the end of sermon preparation. (The exposition should shape the introduction, not vice-versa) 2. Script it so that you have it exactly like you want to say it. 3. Memorize it. 4. Ask the question, “Would this introduction get my attention? The attention of my wife? Children? !”
Types of Introductions Text Dependent, Purpose Driven, with Audience Consideration Shocking Statement: “the NRA is Wrong” Illustration, Story, Personal Experience Burning Question: “What goes on in the mind of a teen-aged gunman” Current Events Shocking Statistic Thought-Provoking Quotation
Jokes are a big risk for the preacher in the introduction. Stories, on the other hand are undoubtedly in. Whereas a joke that fits a sermon well is rare; humorous, intriguing, and appropriate stories can be utilized. Of course, this option is great for anyone who wants to let the laughs roll - an uproarious story beats a one -liner any day. And it's especially effective when it's connected to the sermon. However, the story works best if it fits the tone and theme of the sermon.
Biblical Bodies The Body of the Sermon is NOT built on “good stuff” but “God’s Stuff” Types of Biblical Bodies Deductive Dialogue Inductive Narrative Dramatic Monologue Biographical Media-Augmented
In order to guarantee that your Body is Biblical … make sure your sermon/teaching points flow naturally from the text. The Homiletical Bridge will be extremely helpful with the creation and development of sermon points
What Characterizes solid sermon points? (1) Sentences that are. . . a. complete b. present-tense c. application-oriented (2) Strong, clear relationship to the text (3) Obvious relationship to your proposition (4) Distinct, but balanced - rythmic (5) Memorable - easily adaptable
Considering Conclusions Should be considered a ‘transition to invitation’ Goals of the Conclusion (1) to reinforce the major points (2) to review the relevance (3) to make a transition to invitation
Characteristics of a Careful Conclusion (1) brief (2) clear (3) conclusive (4) unifying Possibilities for a Powerful Conclusion (1) summary/synopsis (2) illustration/moving story (3) life-application
THE PURPOSES OF THE CONCLUSION 1. To conclude, but not just stop. 2. To recapitulate briefly the sermon and it’s proposition. 3. To exhort and make final application. 4. To elevate the emotions of your hearers. 5. To bring the message to a timely and appropriate climax. 6. To ask for a verdict. 7. To answer the question, “So what? ” 8. To encourage, comfort and guide.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE CONCLUSION 1. It is the best time to drive home the main idea of the message. 2. It is usually (should be!) the last opportunity to drive home the main idea(s) of the message. 3. It is the last thing the audience hears.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD CONCLUSION • • • • You finish strong, stronger than you started (crescendo!). It possesses cohesion, drawing the pieces of the sermon together. It has resolution. It should reflect the main points - repeat certain words or phrases that summarize. It should be fitting to the sermon - if on encouragement, conclude with that. . . It should exhibit clarity of thought and expression. It should exhibit brevity - say it politely – Don’t circle the airport several times before landing. It should exhibit the climax of your message - there should be energy in conclusion. Occasionally, it contains an element of surprise. It has a sense of timing. It makes personal application - use 2 nd personal pronoun “you. ” It makes appeal to individuals for a definite response. It reflects the clear teachings of the text expounded. It has a note of preparedness. It naturally flows out of the body of the message.
TYPES OF CONCLUSIONS 1. Summary of main point(s) 2. Specific application/direction 3. Basic appeal: to love, give, obey 4. Contrast: If main thrust has been negative, you may conclude positively 5. Note and respond to potential objections
Understanding the Functional Elements All sermons will contain … EXPLANATION APPLICATION ILLUSTRATION Some sermons will contain … ARGUMENTATION
EXPLAINING EXPLANATION What information won’t my audience immediately understand? THE CONTENT QUESTION Is this information absolutely necessary or extremely helpful in supporting the proposition of this sermon or Bible lesson?
SERMONIC STINGINESS What we DO want in the message? - Only that which amplifies or solidifies what we are proposing - The goal is to limit the explanation to the “pastoral” heart - Too much explanation can be boring or over the heads and hearts of the audience - An ample treatment of the text
SERMONIC STINGINESS What we DO NOT want in the message … - Unnecessary Information - A Scholastic Approach - Too much “geeky” Greeky - Too much boring background - Seminary terminology
Consider what the IMPACT of the text will be on your audience ASK … What will make this/these ideas sink in? What are we facing that is similar to this biblical situation? Who NEEDS to hear or know this? In what ways are my people like the people of this biblical situation?
APPLYING THE APPLICATION The preacher/teacher needs to know as much as possible about contemporary man, but especially about his audience. This is why it is essential that the preacher/teacher make the effort to know the listening audience and the world they live in
APPLYING THE APPLICATION AS WE APPLY SCRIPTURE: • The mind must be educated (edification) • The heart must be motivated (eagerness) • The will must be activated (excitement)
“Application is that process by which preachers make scriptural truths so pertinent to members of their congregations that they not only understand how those truths should effect changes in their lives but also feel obligated and perhaps even eager to implement those changes. ”
1. Sermon application must be based on biblical truths gained by a historical grammatical -literary examination of the biblical text. 2. Sermon application should be related to the author's intended purpose for the text or a portion of the text. 3. Sermon application must relate why the biblical truths are relevant for the listeners in their contemporary lives. 4. Sermon application must include practical examples and suggestions of how listeners can adapt their lives to the biblical truths presented. 5. Sermon application must persuade listeners that they should adapt their lives to the biblical truths presented and encourage them to do so.
The Steps to Application … See Handout
BENEFITS OF APPLICATION • Application fulfills the obligation of “purpose” in the sermon. Listeners are urged to move as a result of hearing the demands made upon them by the biblical truth presented to them in the sermon. • Application helps reach the whole person. It touches the will and moves toward intention. • Application develops Christ-likeness in the listeners. • Application develops moral discernment in an amoral environment. • Application allows hearers to grasp the biblical message as relevant to their contemporary needs.
APPLYING THE APPLICATION The preacher/teacher needs to know as much as possible about contemporary man, but especially about his audience. This is why it is essential that the preacher/teacher make the effort to know the listening audience and the world they live in
APPROACHING APPLICATION Read Widely – various types Go everywhere the people are Read Movie Reviews Keep up with Music Trends Hang around the airport and malls Read books related to the sermon topic
What we are looking for … Theological Implications APPROACHING Timeless Truths APPLICATION Practical Application
APPLICATION: What it is Application is the present CONSEQUENCE of biblical truth Application is the JUSTIFICATION of the biblical text Application provides VALIDITY to the biblical text
APPLICATION: THE BIG QUESTIONS … What? How? Sometimes Why?
UTILIZING ILLUSTRATIONS Purpose: (1) to shed additional light on the explanation (2) to paint mental pictures in the listener’s mind (3) to add clarity, to intensify, to deepen interest, to argue the point, and/or to enhance application
What the average person says about preachers and preaching: • Preachers tend to use complex, archaic/theological language. • Most sermons are dull, boring and uninteresting. • Most preaching today is irrelevant. • Preaching today is not courageous preaching. • Preaching does not communicate. • Preaching does not lead to change in persons. • Preaching has been overemphasized. • Sermons contain too many complex ideas. • Sermons have too much analysis and too little answers. • Sermons are too formal and too impersonal. • Sermons are too propositional, not enough illustrations. • Sermons give no guidance to commitment and action.
BASIS OF ILLUSTRATIONS 1. Biblical There are many examples in Scripture (Psalm 23; the teaching of Jesus) 2. Pedagogical(teaching) – Conceptual truths are made a. b. concrete by illustrations. We process information on various levels of thought. Sermon should move from abstract to concrete thought. 3. Psychological. The brain has two parts (Analytical/Reflective & Emotional) All five senses move first through the emotional part of the brain before they enter the reflective part. Emotional part of the brain is used when an illustration is told
IMPORTANCE OF ILLUSTRATIONS 1. We live in a visual age. We must be vivid and imaginative. 2. Nature of gospel requires use of illustrations. 3. Effective preachers of every age demonstrate the importance of good illustrations. 4. Illustrations help avoid misunderstanding, distraction, neglect, monotony, and apathy. 5. They enhance your own worldview and creativity.
PURPOSE OF ILLUSTRATIONS Instruct and Inform Explain and make clear Assist in identifying (build a bridge) with congregation Memory aid Help to capture and regain attention Motivate, persuade, and convince (stir the emotions) Allow for mental relaxation Make repetition possible without weariness Help congregation see the relevance of text Render truth believable Create an awareness of need in the listener Enhance interest
TYPES OF ILLUSTRATIONS • Biblical Events - but remember, the average congregation is biblically illiterate • Experiences of Others - but get permission first (especially if it is your wife!!) • Personal Experiences • Human Interest Stories • Current Events • Historical Events • Literature - (poems memorized & presented dramatically, etc. ) • Hymns - (quoting a stanza or giving story of the author’s life) • Science and Nature
The Wrong Reasons to Illustrate - To entertain - Because you feel your audience can’t or won’t get it - Because it is an easy aspect of the preaching event
Sources of Illustrations … where to get em’ EVERYWHERE … YOU’RE SITTIN’ NEXT TO ONE SERMONILLUSTRATIONS. COM LEADERSHIP JOURNAL NEWSLETTERS LIKE: BOTTOM LINE PERSONAL
HOW TO ILLUSTRATE Tell a story … it’s what Jesus did Create a Crisis … it’s what we do Utilize vivid details … it’s what they like Make it meaningful … it’s what makes it stick
rywhere!" Here are six tips and suggestions for the search: ndon stale sources one is in the ministry. Buying illustration books is seldom the answer. ons have more useless material than anything. High-priced illustration subscription services are not any and practical exercises. It will help you and your leaders gain the skills and confidence to communicate e an observer of life sucking up interesting stories and tidbits as you go through life. ction - look for the quirks and challenges of life. r teenagers are playing. Watch TV. in the culture (See Damaris Culture Watch) e New York Times bestseller list. views in your local newspaper. weekly (TIME or Newsweek) news websites. agazines and free e-newsletters. you and will be an abundant source of material for illustrating sermons. or untapped sources king. We particularly like books about strange and unusual oddities and peculiarities of history or cultur hold the interest of an audience, even though they are from distant centuries or cultures. See recomme
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