Why Johnny can’t preach (Part 4) Peter Sholl

Point 2 is an interesting one!  Our senior minister has an amazing knack for the apt word, such that I suspect him of not only reading novels, but also… poetry! (I must ask.)

WRT congregational responsibility—do people really congratulate ministers on their use of the Tool of Satan (PowerPoint)?  If I were to comment on something in a sermon, it is likely to be on an idea that has struck me (or, I suppose, if I couldn’t understand what the preacher was getting at!).  I think most people would probably not feel qualified to critique *delivery* of a sermon, apart from audibility and speed.

Hi Ellen,

This is pure speculation, but I do wonder that if we surveyed the reading habits of the preachers we know who have that amazing knack for the apt word, the results would be that they read widely, in all sorts of literature - including poetry (although I’m not sure limericks count as poetry!)

I am glad you comment on the substance or the main point - but I wonder if that is not the normal experience of many ministers of congregation members. When I have been part of feedback groups or discussions about sermons or convention talks, just as much effort is given to discussing style as there is substance. While that has its place, it does have an influence on the listening culture which the congregation forms.

Pete

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Paul is one of the Staff Editors at Matthias Media. He is married to Cathy and has three fantastic kids. He loves student ministry, reading, writing music and playing the saxophone, and is looking forward to meeting Jesus face to face.

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