Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 91:364 (Oct 1934)
Article: New Testament Conception Of Preaching
Author: James Thomas Spangler

BSac 91:364 (Oct 34) p. 442

New Testament Conception Of Preaching

James Thomas Spangler

The single object in this elementary discussion is to present the work of preaching as set forth in the New Testament. There has been in the writer’s mind a conviction, of long standing, that the Word has all to say as to the fundamentals of preaching; also the conviction that, since, “in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to have them that believe,” the Word has the last thing to say in relation to the preaching of the Cross.

In the first place resort is to be had to Scriptures that are either regulative, or illuminating, or both, as to preaching. In the second place, there will be a simple study of certain verbs that are employed to characterize the act of preaching in its several phases.

There can be no question as to the prophetic import of Isaiah 61:1, 2. And yet is not the preacher to have the same conviction and the same impulsion? Did not Paul have this conviction and impulsion when he said, “Woe is me, if I preach not the Gospel?” And with this conviction he writes, “Preach the Word, be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine [teaching]. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers [doctrinaires], having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned into fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” 2 Tim 4:2–5.

“Reprove them sharply that they may be sound in the faith.” “These things speak, and exhort, and

BSac 91:364 (Oct 34) p. 443

reprove with all authority. Let no man despise thee.” Titus 1:13 and 2:15.

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God [is God-breathed] and is profitable for doctrine [useful for teaching], for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Tim 3:16, 17.

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth.” The Lord Jesus, in person (αύτος) gave some to be apostles; and some prophets; and some evange...