Hearing the Word in a Puritan Way

Much of what Richard Greenham advocated about the reading of Scripture applies to the hearing of the Word as well. Thomas Watson, one of the most well-known and readable Puritans, offers specific help with regard to hearing the preaching of God's Word.1 As we read this list, we would do well to ask after each item: Am I really hearing the Word of God? Am I a good listener of the pro­claimed gospel?

Every Minister's Decree

Years ago, when I was at college, a professor who knew my theater background offered me an independent study on worship. He offered all kinds of ideas for alternate worship styles including opera, plays, and puppet shows. What he wanted was substitute methods for bringing the gospel that could replace the sermon. While researching the paper, I became convinced of the necessity of preaching. It is through preaching that the Holy Spirit awakens the heart and mind to faith in Jesus Christ's sacrifice.

Preaching Made Practical - The Nature of a Sermon

This book provides practice guidelines around preaching. The first chapter focuses on the nature of the sermon (What is a sermon?). The author defines the sermon as the "official, ministerial, public proclamation, explanation, illustration and application of the Word of God written as it reveals Christ to the church and to the world."

Separating Preaching: The influence of the Nadere Reformation The more recent Reformation

If preaching is exercising the keys of the kingdom, then true preaching must be separating preaching. It separates true believers from unbelievers. This article explains the influence of the Nadere Reformatie or Second Reformation, and how this reformation demonstrates this type of preaching.