Tuesday, August 4, 2015

What Is Expository Preaching? (Dr. Steve Lawson)


I.             the essential terms

 
A.          The Word “Expository”

 ·               According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the word expository means “a commentary, explanatory, instructive, informative, the setting forth of principle themes.”

 ·               Expository emphasizes the kind of preaching that, first and foremost, explains the God-intended meaning of a passage of Scripture and, then, shows its relevance in daily living.

 
B.           The Word “Preaching”

 ·               The word preaching must also be understood. We are not addressing mere exposition teaching, but expository preaching. Those two words—expository teaching—would be redundant, having essentially the same meaning.

 ·               Expository preaching indicates that the exposition must come with a delivery that has a particular authority and passionate tone to it that accompanies preaching. It describes the presentation of the truth that is marked by all that the word preaching involves.

 ·               The word preaching means that the Scripture must be proclaimed in the power and energy of the Holy Spirit.

 ·               Preaching involves all the various elements of proclamation, declaration, confrontation, correction, persuasion, passion, consolation, exhortation, invitation.



C.          The Term “Expository Preaching”

 ·               When these two words—expository and preaching—are brought together, the result is powerful, like the striking of a match and setting it to gas. Where there is expository preaching, a powerful reaction occurs in the pulpit.

 ·               The expository part explains a passage of Scripture. The preaching part exhorts the listeners with the truth to pursue a particular course of action.

 ·               Expository preaching starts with a text of Scripture and stays with the text throughout the whole of the message. It explains its meaning, applies it to the listener, and exhorts with it.


From TMS D. Min lecture notes 
Dr. Steve Lawson