Why Johnny Can't Preach
This author has done an excellent work in this book. The main premise is how has the movement away from language-based media to image-based media and electronic media altered our sensibilities and how has this shaped the preaching and preachers of today‘s churches.
The concern is that the Insignificant has become significant because of our media-driven culture and this is dictating the quality and content of the preacher’s message. Too often the Bible is read or studied for “Information”, and not for it’s instruction and training in righteousness. 2 Tim. 3:16,17
This book gives several examples of modern preaching styles and gives instruction on where improvement is needed to fully and precisely convey the redemptive gospel of Christ. T. David Gordon states: “Christological preaching feeds the soul and builds faith.”
The author gives a helpful list 4 common alternatives that are utilized in today’s preaching: Moralism, How-to, Introspection, and Social Gospel/Culture War and explains each and it‘s affect on it‘s hearers. (page 79) He explains how these methods miss the mark and shows the comparison to preaching that is Christological. T. David Gordon’s book is beautifully written and there is much to gleam from the richness of his knowledge in ministry. Excellent. Recommended Reading
Copyright 2009
Publisher P & R Publishing ISBN 1596381167
Read/Reviewed: February 9, 2011