2 Timothy 4:2 “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.”

The preaching of the gospel is God’s plan for converting sinners and edifying saints. The local church is the primary place for preaching. It is face to face. The shepherd has God’s sheep in front of him, while the Holy Spirit opens hearts to be receptive to the Word.

The Bible is a living book. It is always relevant. The preacher prayerfully studies the Scriptures to prepare the sermon. In the exposition of the text the congregation learns how that text was understood by the people for whom it was first written, but the preacher doesn’t stop there. The preacher explains how the text is relevant for today. He then presents a challenge for people to respond in faith and obedience. 



·      Biblical preaching exposes the condition of the heart leading us to see our need for forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

·      It gives hope and encouragement reminding us of God’s promises and faithfulness.

·      It gives wisdom for overcoming life’s challenges helping us make right choices in line with the Bible.

·      It brings unity to the church encouraging us grow and mature in the fruits and gifts of the Spirit.

Preachers and preaching are God’s gift to the church: Eph 4:11-12 “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:”

The preacher has the duty to humbly preach the Word; the congregant has the duty to humbly receive the Word and personally apply it. 

Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry