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...

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…