I think their point was simply that when we preach – whether topically, thematically, biographically, etc. – that we can still preach expositionally. We can do the hard work of research, study, interpretation, preparation and STILL allow God’s Word to drive and direct the points and application of our messages.

If you read it, I’d love to know what you think. I sure don’t want to be the go-between! ;)

Helpful review of what looks like an interesting book to put on my wish list.

A few thoughts for the conversation. First I don’t know why it is generally assumed that topical preaching isn’t, by it’s nature, also expository. I think you can do both. Just because you don’t start at chapter 1 verse 1 and work through to the final verse doesn’t mean you don’t preach “the whole counsel of God”. So I think they, the authors are making a bit of a straw man of topical preaching.

The other thing that concerns me, and I can only speak from a UK experience, is that the church has had centuries of expository preaching and for the most part many Christians still fail to grow. Perhaps the often heard call that all we need to do is get back to good old fashioned Biblical exposition isn’t the panacea some people think it is.

I still think this book sounds a message we all need to hear if we regularly engage in preaching and teaching, but I worry sometimes that we, especially evangelicals, can become somewhat one dimensional when we discuss the topic.

Richard’s last blog post..Leaving well: More thoughts about the back door