Purposeful Preaching      
 

by Robert Turner

 

Nathan's subject was adultery, murder, and kindred lusts; but he spoke of a little ewe lamb which a rich man took from the bosom of its owner (2 Sam. 12). The problem was that of application--getting the audience to apply to self the standard by which others were readily condemned. Nathan's audience deplored “sin” and could list many sins. Nathan's courage as a “preacher” was little tested by a rip-snorting sermon on “Adultery”; but when he told the king, “Thou art the man!”--aye, here was his moment of truth. John (the immerser) could decry the awful sins of the times, and call upon people to “REPENT!”--out there in the wilderness--and King Herod be unmoved. But John said to Herod, “It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife” (Mk. 6:18). Several years ago one of “our” ultra-liberal preachers criticized John's direct “approach”--suggesting John need not have “lost his head.” In a sense he was right about that. John could have spoken in generalities, kept his head, and perhaps his “job”--but he would have failed in appointed purpose, and lost his soul. Nathan and John used different ways of teaching their targets; and different means of presenting truth are needed today. But both presented and applied the truth. When they were finished, the audience knew what was wrong, and felt the sting of rebuke. Today preachers speak of “sectarianism” without explaining that this spirit lives in the “party” concept of the church. They cry for “unity” but refuse open discussion of issues that divide, with God's word the final authority. This is hypocrisy.  Tell the people they must Do Bible Things In Bible Ways--and they will love you. Tell them a church-sponsored skating party is not a Bible Thing; and church support of human institutions is not a Bible Way; and you may lose your “job,” but you will have served your purpose as a preacher. Oh John!! Oh Nathan!! Your kind are sorely needed in this generation!        Other Articles by James P. Needham Since We Know the Problem -- What Do We Do About It? New Controversies Being Raised A Change of Attitude Indictments of the Social Gospel Quoting Men The Fickleness of Men Babble in Bible Classes, Piffle and Pablum from the Pulpits     For Past Auburn Beacons go to: www.aubeacon.com/Bulletins.htm   Anyone can join the mailing list for the Auburn Beacon! Send your request to: larryrouse@aubeacon.com