We began our church with the expository preaching method exclusively in mind. Expository teaching refers to a communication style that seeks to explain or describe what is happening in a section of the Bible. Many of the great men in Christian history were expositors. Theologians like John Calvin, Martin Luther, Matthew Henry, and Jonathan Edwards took pains to develop Scriptural texts for congregations to give a well-orbed understanding. In recent times, Martyn Lloyd-Jones, John MacArthur, and Steven Lawson have carried this torch. But sadly, this methodology is becoming rare.
On a visit to Stonebriar Community Church some years ago, I was privileged to get some personal time with one of my first influences, Dr. Chuck Swindoll. I related that when people would happen upon our church, they would be intrigued by this method of preaching. Some even said that they had never heard it before! To which Swindoll replied, “Yes, it is so old that it’s new.” This response solidified in my mind the importance of our tac. Not just an exposition of the Biblical text but also the history of faithful preachers and how they understood these particulars.
In Paul’s last words to his disciple Timothy, he commanded him to “Preach the Word!” The term “preach” (κήρυξον) refers to the heralding of a message, always with the suggestion of formality, gravity, and an authority that must be listened to and obeyed. Exposition is essential to this imperative. Please join me over the coming weeks as we discuss Bible concepts, theology, Church history, and pertinent issues of our day.
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