What are the different kinds of preaching?

The Dangers

• Topical Preaching
  • The preacher is never surprised or thereby challenged by the text, but simply ends up studying and preaching on his own favorite topics. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27).
  • Therefore, the congregation never grows past the knowledge or maturity level of the preacher. The unfolding of your word gives light; it gives understanding to the simple (Ps 119:130).
• Anecdoctal Preaching
  • The congregation may go away entertained, but will they go away having been fed on the Word of God? Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matt 4:4).
  • Large numbers may be attracted and entranced, but do the anecdotes have the sanctifying, transforming power that people need for growth in their personal discipleship? Sanctify them by your truth; your Word is truth (John 17:17).

© 2008 9Marks