Suggestions for Expositional Preaching of Old Testament Narrative -- By: David C. Deuel
Journal: Masters Seminary Journal
Volume: TMSJ 02:1 (Spring 1991)
Article: Suggestions for Expositional Preaching of Old Testament Narrative
Author: David C. Deuel
MSJ 2:1 (Spring 91) p. 45
Suggestions for Expositional Preaching of Old Testament Narrative
Associate Professor of Old Testament
The Master’s Seminary
A large and significant part of the Bible is devoted to sections of narrative literature, also referred to as “story.” The advantages of preaching from this type of passage have not been fully realized because preachers have not preached the sections just as they are in the text. Advantages to be capitalized on include the intrinsic interest involved in such stories, the patterned nature of the stories, the timeless truths illustrated in the stories, and the way the stories lend themselves to easy application. Yet certain precautions are necessary in preaching narrative sections. An artificial structure must not be imposed on them. They must not be used solely as a resource of illustrations for the rest of the Bible. They are not just examples of obeying or disobeying God’s law. By observing these guidelines and precautions, the expository preacher can utilize narrative sections to great advantage in his preaching.
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Song titles such as “I Love to Tell the Story,” “Tell Me the Old, Old Story,” and “Tell Me the Story of Jesus” reflect the important role of stories in a Christian’s life. For example, evangelistic efforts commonly include the use of stories, just as Stephen and others told (e.g. Acts 7:2–50). A “testimony” is the believer’s story about how Jesus has worked in his life. It is the essence of the gospel message—Jesus’ story about His exemplary life and substitutionary death. In Christian educational programs, teachers instruct children in one of the most effective ways possible: they tell them stories, both biblical and contemporary. If all the above are true, then why do preachers usually not preach biblical narratives (i.e. stories1 ) as stories? Often expositors use an illustration (i.e. a story) to clarify a point, apply a principle, or
MSJ 2:1 (Spring 91) p. 46
wake up a sleepy congregation. They do this because stories make sermons clear, relevant, and interesting.2 Yet many seem uncomfortable in preaching narrative as story, perhaps fearing to appear ridiculous or sound condescending. Consequently, they either refrain from preaching narrative, or in preaching it, reduce the narrative to the stereotypical, three abstract propositions/points without dealing with the story’s plot or allowing the story to have its full impact on the reader. Either of these reactions is unnecessary. Narrative make...
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