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Preaching & Teaching

Why Interpreting the Bible is a “Dangerous Blessing”

Interpreting the Bible can be dangerous business. And pastors enter into the danger every time we preach. How should we proceed?

The Christmas Story Told From Kids’ Perspective

Despite hearing it over and over again, sometimes the Christmas story can be hard for children to grasp--and pastors to share.

4 Great Preaching Themes Through the Christmas Season

What better way themes for Christmas sermons than to encourage our congregation to go deeper in Christ?

2 Great Tips for Thanksgiving Sermons

I don’t know about you, but I find the Thanksgiving sermon to be one of the most difficult preaching assignments of the year.

Unless It’s a Praise and Worship Sermon, Here’s Why We Preach Second

I recently visited a church who prides themselves in always doing their praise sets after the sermon. Unless it's a praise and worship sermon, here's why the order matters.

Abiding Hope – One of Our Greatest Needs

When we talk about hope in everyday language we are really talking about our insecurities: who knows how things will really work out? Biblically, however, abiding hope is one of our greatest needs.

Textual Criticism and Preaching – Finding the Balance

Sometimes "preaching the Bible" presents special challenges.

Speak Up for Life: 12 Powerful Quotes About Pro Life

I think we should take a moment and honor those who have and are fighting for life. Here are some current and historic voices who spoke up for life.

Where Is the Power of God?

In the last sermon Martin Luther preached he identified is that the people were departing from the power of God.

Preachers: Pay Attention to Pronouns

To pay attention to pronouns will help the reader better understanding the meaning of any given passage.

A Guide to Effective Preaching – Introduction. Explanation. Application.

If you're wondering how to have more effective preaching, consider the sermon writing process that I use and teach: “Introduction. Explanation. Application.”

Pastor, I’m Calling You Out on Your Preaching Topics

Scroll through the last 24 months and make a list of what the world has been talking about. We should have no trouble coming up with preaching topics.

What Is Pentecost?

What is Pentecost? It is both a Jewish holiday and a celebration for Christians. Pentecost has profound spiritual and historical significance.

When Preaching Hurts More Than It Helps

In my experience of more than 30 years of preaching the gospel, I have found there are times preaching hurts -- and we do more harm than good with our messages.

Become a Better Preacher: 3 Things Any Pastor Can (and Should) Do

This is the best time in history to learn from other preachers. You have free access to just about any preacher you want—every sermon they’ve preached. You can learn, grow, get ideas and be inspired by the best preachers in the world.

7 Reasons You Should Speak Without Using Notes

I actually prepare notes, but I rarely if ever use them when I speak. So, why should you learn to speak without using notes? Because you can. And because it will make you far more effective.

Should a Woman Be Allowed to Preach?

This is an article of clarification, not one for argumentation. I am simply answering a sincere question we occasionally receive: "Should a Woman Be Allowed to Preach?"

A Sermon From Joel Osteen on Hell? Not Likely

Looking to hear a sermon from Pastor Joel Osteen on Hell? Featured on CBS Sunday Morning, Joel Osteen, pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, TX, told reporter Tracy Smith why he won't preach about hell.

This is No Time to Preach in Neutral

I believe clarity counts for a lot in the arena of preaching as well. Every congregation needs to hear a clear word of truth and a clear call to action, both personal and corporate. We need preaching with clarity.

Preaching Is More Than Exhortation

Many preachers today seem to be reasonably adept at exhortation, telling their listeners what they should do, must do, need to do, etc. That is a key element in the preaching task, but exhortation alone isn't enough.

Rebecca McLaughlin on Whether Christians Can Agree To Disagree About Same-Sex...

Dr. Rebecca McLaughlin joins “The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast” to talk about how church leaders can respond to common arguments that use the Bible to affirm same-sex relationships, the “why” behind God’s design for marriage, and the “beautiful and glorious vision” Christianity has for friendship.

Preaching & Teaching