The Preacher as Last Comic Standing?
Preachers can learn some positive lessons, as well as some cautionary tales, from stand- up comedians.
Seasons of the Church Year, Seasons of Life
I recognized the Light of God shining in the darkest hour of human suffering; and through the wailing cries of grief and silent tears of sorrow, I felt the Presence of God standing in solidarity with those who mourned.
Shaky Knees
I knew I was called to preach the “Good News,” and my knees began to shake. I had Shaky Knees! “Would I be a good ambassador for Jesus? Would I accurately interpret the Word of God, so that others might know and feel the freedom of God’s offering through Jesus Christ?”
Structure It!
I have come to realize that if the structure isn’t well designed, the sermon is hard to memorize and less understandable for its hearers.
A Divine Ensemble: Revisiting the Psalms from the Pulpit
As we know, the Psalter is a collection of praises, laments, thanksgivings and wisdom; all of life’s stations are located somewhere within its one hundred and fifty entries. They speak to us through their metaphorical nature because we have all experienced their underlying truths.
Who Moved My Manuscript?? The Pros and Cons of Preaching Without Notes.
Preaching without notes is not the gold standard in preaching. But it is my choice in this era of short attention spans and visual learning.
In the Wake of Charlottesville… Not Enough
If enough preachers start to discuss white privilege pastorally and prophetically, God’s word will not return empty.
So, when it comes to white pulpits being silent about white privilege …enough is enough. Let’s get talking. Let’s start preaching.
Overcoming Inhibitions
A student preacher writes, “I recently received feedback to ‘let the passion out’ when preaching. Based on this feedback, could you give guidance on removing inhibitions when preaching?”
Preaching Hope
Faith is not blind sentimentality. Faith is not settled complacency. Faith is not resolute luxury. Faith is future-oriented hope.
It Really Does Matter
I am inspired knowing that for every way that I may mess up a sermon, God will let something real come to the surface. I say this not to dismiss formation and
development, but rather to highlight that we, as ministers must take seriously the call to be better, for the world and for the people, but mostly for God.
What to Say When There is So Much to Say: Preaching in the Era of Trump
Pastors must let the Church’s deepest theological and ethical commitments guide what political talk they need to bring into their sermons—e.g., concerns for the most vulnerable in society, for peace with justice, for the equality of all human beings as God’s children, for the stewardship of God’s creation, for love of neighbor and enemy.
A Passion for Easter! “It Ain’t Over till It’s Over.”
We are called and commissioned; sent forward to continue what Jesus began. What would otherwise seem like an ending is actually the beginning of something new.
