Power in the Pulpit Book

Since its original release in 1999, Power in the Pulpit has become a classic in its field and one of the only credible texts of its kind. In Power in the Pulpit, veteran preachers and theology scholars Jerry Vines and Jim Shaddax focus on helping readers understand how to develop and deliver effective expository sermons: sermons that remain true to the core wisdom of the Bible and which explain Biblical truths to a congregation. Although social values, norms, and historical conditions change, the fundamental elements of expository preaching remain the same. The universal truths of the Bible can be incorporated into sermons that are relevant for a diverse, broad, and changing population, which is why Power in the Pulpit is as relevant in 2017 as it was two decades ago.
Power in the Pulpit is divided into twelve chapters, not including an introduction, conclusion, and appendices. An acknowledgements section details the evolution of the text from its roots in previous work by Vines, who also published A Practical Guide to Sermon Preparation and A Guide to Effective Sermon Delivery in 1895 and 1986, respectively (Vines & Shaddix, 1999, p. 9). Power in the Pulpit builds on Vines’s previous work and incorporates the teachings of Dr. Jim Shaddix, who teaches at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. An introduction by Shaddix refers to the dual importance of personal experience and academic learning, and it is quickly evident that Power in the Pulpit combines both immediate, practical knowledge with the principles of scholastic Bible studies.
Introduction
The motivation for writing A Guide to Effective Sermon Delivery is clearly outlined at the onset of the introduction, when the authors point out that too many modern preachers are “messing around,” babbling without grounding their ideas in scripture (p. 13). Thus, the term “expository preaching” is used to differentiate the more purely emotionally driven and egocentric style of preaching that has become overly common in big brand name churches from a method of preaching that involves extensive studying and preparation. Illuminating specific biblical passages, the pastor or preacher can deliver a sermon that has emotional and spiritual power because its roots are in scripture. Also in the introduction, Shaddix notes that many preachers have misinterpreted key Biblical passages, especially Mark 13:11, which states, “Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” Mark 13:11 is taken out of context to suggest that a preacher should do no preparation and should simply wait for the Holy Spirit to speak through him. In fact, Shaddix points out that misinterpreting or taking the passage out of context has led to a scourge of lazy preaching by individuals who prefer to avoid the hard work of delivering a good sermon. The authors point out that preaching is a calling to be taken seriously, and that preparation is integral to the responsibility that all preachers have to God and their congregations.
Also in the introduction, the authors differentiate between their brand of expository preaching and the “dry, irrelevant, and deadening” effect of preaching that is devoid of the spiritual power referred to in the title of the book (Vines & Shaddix, 1999, p. 14). Expository preaching combines the best of both worlds, according to the authors: the potency of speaking with the Holy Spirit and the intensity of diligent studiousness. Thus establishing the fundamental principles and theories guiding the Power in the Pulpit, Vines & Shaddix (1999) go on to elaborate on the specific means of preparing for expository sermons in the meaty twelve chapters of Power in the Pulpit. Those twelve chapters are grouped into three parts, the first of which is entitled, “Preparation for Exposition.” The first part of Power in the Pulpit basically explains the principles of exposition and how a preacher can prepare for the demanding nature of the work.
Part One: “The Preparation for Exposition”
Part One of Power in the Pulpit contains chapters one through three. Chapter One is called “Defining the Task.” In this chapter, the authors discuss the basic principles of preaching, including offering its Biblical and scriptural foundations, the theological underpinnings of preaching, and how preachers can ground their work in theoretical and philosophical frameworks. The authors point out that the development of modern preaching can be traced to the ancient Greeks, who first expounded on the rules of rhetoric and oratory. However, the ancient Hebrews also had a system of preaching that would become incorporated into the modern Christian model. Prophesy delivery and divine revelations were also at the heart of ancient methods of preaching. The authors dutifully cite from scripture to prove their point, referring to the New Testament translation of the Greek word logos or word, in 2 Timothy. Similarly, the authors refer to the passages in the Bible that relate to the relationship between preacher and audience, which plays a crucial role as hearer or listener to the Word of God, as in Romans 10:14-15. Both New Testament and Old Testament scriptures are filled with examples of preaching, with Paul being the most obvious deliverer of sermons. The purposes of preaching may vary, including uplifting a congregation to offer hope, educating an audience about some theological or metaphysical manner, elucidating the word of God as it appears through scripture, or offering pragmatic advice for deliverance, redemption, and salvation. Preaching also serves an important role as public proclamation, perpetuating the dissemination of the good news of the Bible and fulfilling the will of God. Personal confession occasionally becomes woven into the subject of a sermon, but is not a necessary element. At the end of this chapter, the authors provide a rationale for expository preaching, essentially substantiating the main hypothesis of their book.
Chapter Two of Power in the Pulpit is entitled, “Laying the Foundation.” Here, the authors describe the four primary elements of preaching: the call of God, the word of God, the worship of God, and the anointing of God. Being “called” to preach is a prerequisite, according to the authors, who offer passages in 1 Timothy for substantiation. A calling is most simply defined as a desire to preach, but 1 Timothy also offers other qualifications that fall under the general rubric of being called to do the service of the Lord. Being called means assuming a responsibility, which may even sometimes appear to be a burden. The work of preaching is difficult, time consuming, and emotionally taxing, but it is the “good work” of God (Vines & Shaddix, 1999, p. 46). Knowing one is called inspires confidence in the preacher as well as the congregation. Armed with the certainty that one has been called, the preacher is able to overcome and transcend difficulties and rise to the occasion. The authors also refer to the Biblical metaphor of the preacher as a shepherd, drawing attention to the roles and duties of a preacher. For example, a shepherd is responsible for ensuring the flock is well fed; the preacher likewise provides spiritual fodder and nourishment for the soul. The preacher also protects the congregation, shielding them from harm by arming them with scriptural knowledge and the power contained therein.
The Word of God is a broad subject that includes the need for continual inspiration from scripture as well as daily life. Subject matter should always derive from scripture, but can contain material that relates to any other area including psychology, economics, or health. When discussing the topic of worship of God, the authors stress the importance of humility and deference in the attitude of the preacher. Combined with the word of God, the worship of God means that the preacher remains skillfully aware that the sermon does not belong to him; it belongs to God. Praising God in a sermon is a public act, but also a personal one as the preacher undergoes spiritual transformation through the good work of service. Finally, Chapter Two is concluded with a section on the anointing of God, receiving the grace of the Holy Spirit through preaching and spiritual purity. Communing regularly with God, always asking God for help and renewed anointing, the preacher sustains a congregation as a shepherd tends to his flock.
In Chapter Three of Power in the Pulpit, Vines & Shaddix (1999) touch upon the preacher’s personal preparation for serving God. Here, the authors discuss the importance of keeping a healthy body and mind, encouraging the development and practice of dietary and exercise regimes. Health heart refers not just to the physical organ but also to the emotional body of the preacher. Ethics and integrity are critical components of the preacher’s life. Preachers are advised to assume the “gentle manner” exhibited by Paul (Vines & Shaddix, 1999, p. 73). In addition to a healthy heart, the preacher needs a healthy mind. To develop and maintain a healthy mind, the preacher needs to continually learn and study, engaging in all available means of personal and professional development. Occasionally, the preacher may need to obtain more formal education through continuing studies programs. Other times, the preacher learns from books or interacting with others. Studying the lives of excellent preachers and learning from them is a great way to expand the mind and improve communication skills. The authors claim that each and every day provides the opportunity for learning. Even being aware of popular culture and the media are essential components of the healthy mind needed to preach an effective expository sermon. Although preachers are not necessarily associated with healthy bodies, Vines & Shaddix (1999) underscore the importance of good diet and exercise regimes. The Bible teaches “the sacredness of the body,” (p. 78). A healthy body staves off disease and respects the vessel God offered to carry out His work. Rest and relaxation are also important for maintaining a healthy body.
Part Two: “The Process of Exposition”
Chapters four through eight are included in the central section of Power in the Pulpit. This section offers practical instruction on expository preaching. Chapter Four is about analyzing a text, Chapter Five about unifying a theme for the audience, Chapter Six about designing the structure of a sermon, Chapter Seven about maturation of main ideas, and Chapter Eight is about building the sermon by writing the manuscript and constructing its individual parts.
Chapter Four, “Analyzing the Text” shows how the preacher starts to work with a source text for each sermon. The greatest number of sermons will be based on Biblical source texts, but the authors also note that alternative source texts can be used as a basis of a sermon so long as the overall subject is grounded in the Bible, and can be supported by specific scriptural references. Human needs issues, such as daily suffering or current events can become integrated into sermons as primary material. Congregational situations can also be used as a source to be interpreted and understood fully through the Bible. Of course, personal experience provides a “wealth of possible preaching ideas,” (Vines & Shaddix, 1999, p. 94). All sermon ideas need to be analyzed in terms of scripture for the idea to be workable as an expository sermon. Exposition can go in one of two directions: from a source Biblical passage and then applying that passage to a real life event, or the reverse in which the real life event or experience is traced to its Biblical dimensions. Some preachers systematically work through the Bible. All require an intensive investigation of the subject, including background study. The authors advise reading repeatedly, prayerfully, and carefully in order to extract the essential truths of the text and creatively and purposefully weave in scripture to provide an expository sermon to the congregation.
After discussing instigation, investigation, interpretation, and implications of a text, the authors move on to address the importance of a unifying theme in Chapter Five. Chapter Five covers important issues to preachers including keeping in mind the intended audience while preparing the sermon, remaining true to the central idea of the text, understanding the text’s proposition, and devising the proper purpose and title for the sermon. The central idea of the text (CIT) is the text’s essence, distilled into its core elements that can be shared with the congregation. Unifying the theme of the sermon may also mean creatively synthesizing material from an abundance of different sources to convey the timeless truths of the bible. The preacher may need to consult commentaries, investigate word origins, contemplate figurative as well as literal meanings, and consider the theological and real world implications of the sermon.
In Chapter Six of Power in the Pulpit, Vines & Shaddix (1999) talk extensively about designing the structure of a sermon. The structure needs to be ascertained prior to writing in order to keep the sermon focused on central ideas and Biblical concepts. The authors begin by outlining why structure is important to sermons, showing how structure keeps the flow of ideas intact and bridges the gap between otherwise disparate thoughts. There are different methods suggested for developing a sermon structure, including the Key Word Method, the Analytical Method, the Sermonic Plot Method, and the Homiletical Plot Method. Each of these methods will be relevant for different types of sermons and different subject matters. Meditation on keywords is recommended for aiding in memorization. However, the analytical method can be effective in breaking down a complex Biblical idea, anecdote, or principle into constituent parts. It is also important to master the art of transitions from one point to another when delivering the sermon. The authors advise against using lazy words like “things” and instead using active words to engage the audience (p. 155). When necessary, the preacher can develop visual aids for designing the thematic structure of the sermon. An expository sermon can be arranged by qualitative categories or any other element that fits in with the overall object of exposition.
In Chapter Seven, entitled “Maturing the Ideas,” the authors discuss amplification and incubation of ideas, processes that lead to effective expository sermons. Still part of the preparatory process, maturation of ideas helps the preacher to master the material so that during delivery, memorization of the core elements comes naturally and flows in speech. To amplify means to enhance and magnify the essential meaning of a source text, while incubation implies the preacher’s close reading and quiet, lingering meditation on the subject. The preacher can amplify by focusing on a single word and how it is used in different Biblical passages, or similarly, by focusing on one issue or problem and how different Biblical actors deal with and solve that problem. Chapter Seven leads directly to Chapter Eight, “Building the Sermon.” This chapter covers some of the most practical advice given in Power in the Pulpit, including how to write a manuscript, outlining its structure and deciding on its individual sections or parts. Creating a permanent copy, a reader-friendly version, makes the sermon useful in the future, or to other preachers. Building a sermon means starting from the firm foundation that has already been established via reading previous chapters of Power in the Pulpit, from where the walls, windows, doors, and roofs rest more surely and securely.
Part Three: “The Presentation of the Exposition”
The final section of Power in the Pulpit consists of four chapters, nine through twelve. Chapter Nine is entitled, “Expressing the Thoughts.” This chapter focuses on stylistic dimensions of preaching: the style of preaching in a general sense and what congregations expect, want, or need from a preacher, as well as honing a personal style. Understanding preaching style means knowing what to do as well as why: leading through example and inspiring through tone of voice and delivery as much as by diction and content. The elements of style are akin to aesthetics: the elements that make a sermon a work of art. Creating effective expository sermons means designing beautiful sermons too, sermons that captivate and ultimately persuade individual members of the congregation to take action on what they hear according to Biblical principles. Incorporation of elements of dramatic style means learning about how successful preachers achieve their goals. Watching videos and attending the sermons of good preachers can help one develop an effective personal dramatic style. Dramatic style should not be confused with acting; although showmanship is integral to effective expository preaching, the goal is to illuminate and educate, not to deceive. Finally, the authors show how preachers can evaluate their own style using tools of self-reflection or recordings.
Chapter Ten of Power in the Pulpit is called “Playing the Voice,” and discusses the central elements of voice as the keynote and cornerstone of dramatic style. Understanding voice means linking the meaning and semantics of a text with the actual sound of its delivery on the pulpit. Mastering the voice requires rehearsal and practice, as with any other art. Improving the voice requires a lifetime of dedication and diligence, tweaking the voice to ensure that it does not become stagnant, and that it remains fresh for new audiences or new generations. Finally, caring for the voice reflects on the principles of physical and mental health to prevent the problems that can diminish the power and intensity of an effective expository sermon.
“Making the Connection” is the subject of Chapter Eleven. Here, the authors cover three topics: visualizing the sermon, vitalizing the sermon, and communicating the sermon. Connecting with audience members requires deft attention and practice. Visualizing the sermon and its delivery improves confidence, which in turn improves the delivery. Communication depends on mastery of the content but also self-mastery. The final chapter of Power in the Pulpit covers the topic “Preaching the Word,” including holding the ear, speaking with the body, augmenting the message, delivering without notes, and proclaiming fro the heart. This chapter addresses the importance of nonverbal communication in sermons, as well as the cultivation of authenticity in the preacher’s communication. A brief, two-page conclusion wraps up the text, which is followed also by a set of appendices and worksheets that readers can use to put the principles of the book into practice.
What was Learned and How it is Applicable
This book helps me to bridge the gap between academic learning and working in the service of God. Through Power in the Pulpit, I learned how servants of God as preachers build on central ideas and communicate essential passages of the Bible in ways that are clear and understandable by audiences. The principles contained in Power in the Pulpit can be used in the service of preaching, including how to interpret primary source texts, how to seek and expand upon Biblical wisdom for crises or current events to clarify concerns a congregation might have, and also how to become an effective and confident communicator of the word of God. Even if I did not become a preacher, I would find the material contained in Power in the Pulpit of tremendous value as a theologian.




References

Bible: NIV.
Fitch, D. (2006). The myth of expository preaching and the commidification of the word. CT Pastors. Retrieved online: http://www.christianitytoday.com/pastors/2006/july-online-only/myth-of-expository-preaching-commodification-of-word.html
McDill, W. (n.d.). Seven qualities of expository preaching. Retrieved online: http://www.lifeway.com/pastors/2014/01/08/seven-qualities-of-expository-preaching/
“What Is Expository Preaching?” The Gospel Coalition. Retrieved online: https://blogs.thegospelcoalition.org/erikraymond/2017/04/18/what-is-expository-preaching/
Vines, J. & Shaddix, J. (1999). Power in the Pulpit. Moody Press.