THE CENTRALITY OF PREACHING THE WORD
Paul’s final charge to Timothy was “Preach the word!” For he knew the many duties that beg a pastor’s attention. Pastors wear many hats, but preaching is job number one. And not just preaching anything, but preaching the Word of God. Not politics or philosophy, nor self-help tips, but Word proclaiming, Christ-centered, gospel preaching.
Pastors are to “be ready.” This means they are to prepare. To study and pray, so that they are always prepared to preach. They are to use every tool in an effective communcator’s toolbox to proclaim the Word which is able to lead people to salvation. Their preaching is to be “convincing” (using argumentation and persuasion to convince), “rebuking” (using illustrations and specific references to convict of sin), and “exhorting” (making application to people’s lives). And all this is to be done with great patience and a willingness to teach and explain.
Among all types of modern communication, preaching is unique. For it has the power to call people to repent and believe. Preaching is central to a pastor’s calling and to the gathered church’s worship. Do you support the preaching of the Word?
PRAYER: Dear Father, we love Your Word and we love to hear the preaching of Your Word. For it is like food to our souls. We pray this day for those who are called to preach that they would be anointed by the Spirit and fulfill their gospel calling. We pray that those who hear will be called to repentance and salvation. We pray for revival in our nation as You empower the preaching of Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.