serves as the ultimate demonstration of how to shoulder responsibilities. He endured the most unsavory aspects of ministry. Jesus often kept a grueling schedule of personal interactions in order to gain ministry opportunities. Those opportunities often came with challenges from unruly leaders and lackluster disciples. He carried the weight of the world, and He did so with grace and love.
Mediocre perseverance creates a mediocre example.
Luke 12:48b – For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
4. Avoiding conveying mature understanding and application of the biblical text in sermons by simply reciting a compilation of commentaries.
The delivery of a sermon is only the “tip of the iceburg” in the process of biblical exposition. Many pastors will spend 10-20 hours a week to study for, structure, edit, and refine their weekly sermons. Given the myriad responsibilities of ministers, there is a real temptation to take short cuts in sermon preparation. One of the most common short cuts is commentary recitation. Commentaries are rewarding tools in biblical study, and their information can illuminate the text for the preacher and his audience. Over-reliance on commentaries, however, fosters mediocrity because the minister fails to personalize the biblical message for himself or his people. The personalized application of the Scriptures is vital: no commentary or curriculum can account for the personalities, personal circumstances, or personal histories of the people staring back at the preacher. Use commentaries, but do not rely on them to do the job that you were called to do: feed the flock. As one of my professors once avowed, “I milk a lot of cows but I churn my own butter.” You only have three chances, at most, to feed the congregation each week through your sermons. Make each sermon count.
Mediocre preparation results in mediocre application.
2 Timothy 2:15 – Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Stay tuned for Part 2 in the next issue of Forward Magazine!
Cover Photo:
Historic church in Highland Village
Iona, Cape Breton
Photographer:
Claudine Broussard
Arichat Bible Church, Nova Scotia